OBDII Reader/Scanner Recommendations

[longliveSHO]

Hi all,

I'm currently working on my 2011's HVAC system and need to be able to read the special (B, C, and U) codes stored in the PCM and other associated modules.

Anybody find a good deal / have any recommendations for a standalone scanner? I'd like to invest in a unit that can read non-Ford vehicles as well; the SHO is no the only vehicle in the fleet

Looking to keep the budget down to a couple hundred max if possible.

I've heard a few names flying around here but am curious as to what each of you guys use. If FORScan really is the best option i'm not ruling it out, but it would be nice to get something more universal.

Thanks for any input!

 

[SHOrod]

I have an Autel MS906BT that does everything I've ever needed to do and is not brand-specific. For the capabilities it's one of the least expensive but it's still more than "a couple hundred" new. When purchased new it includes 1 year of updates and updates are frequent. You may be able to find a used one for a few hundred, but keep in mind that to buy updates will run between $400 and $600 so consider that if buying used. You don't need to buy the updates to continue using the tool, only if the installed files are not compatible with a vehicle you need to use it with.

I previously had an Autel DS708 and used that with my 2011 SHO. It was slower than the MS906BT but had pretty much the same functionality. I sold the DS708 after I upgraded to the 906 because the DS708 was going to be no longer supported by Autel. Since they can no longer be updated, you may be able to pick up a 708 for a hundred or so.

-Rod

 

[longliveSHO]

I found an apparently complete Autel Maxisys Mini (MS905?) for $300 locally, the listing says it needs an update but it looks like these were released around 2016, so the 2011 should be supported. Think that would fit the bill?

There is also a lising for a MS906BT, they want $1k. That may be out of reach for now.

Thanks for the info!

 

[Jeff2017]

I bought a BlueDriver that will work on any make and model. I like it.

 

[David Miller]

FORSCAN, software is free so far, just get a corded OBDII. Can read all modules so far that I have tried on my 18 SHO, 12 F250 and 97 F150.

 

[SHOdded]

I like the OBDLink MX, but if you are only scanning codes, resetting modules etc., it is way overkill.

 

[SHOrod]

I found an apparently complete Autel Maxisys Mini (MS905?) for $300 locally, the listing says it needs an update but it looks like these were released around 2016, so the 2011 should be supported. Think that would fit the bill?

Yep, that should fit the bill. Even if due for an update, the previously loaded files will still work. You'll likely have to click "Ignore" or something every time you power on, as they like to remind you that you are due for an update.

-Rod

 

[Sho down]

Unless you just wanna blow money just to have a scanner dont bother. Like stated forscan is completely free and almost up to par with a ford dealer scanner. You really cant beat that. Get torque if you just wanna be able to scan basic codes on other cars then your in it 12 bucks for a obd adapter vs hundreds for a scanner most people will almost never use

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[longliveSHO]

That Autel MS905 turned out to be too good to be true - the needed update was due to the scanner software becoming corrupted. Apparently the only way to remedy that issue is to flash an update onto the unit, which requires the $500+ subscription. Not sure that's going to be the route I take after all!

I guess I didn't do my homework properly - I was not aware the windows version of FORScan was free What are you FORScan guys running for an adapter? Roll the dice with a ELM327? Where is the best place to get a legit adapter?

 

[longliveSHO]

Worth the risk for $12?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-Modifi...509556?hash=item2155bf1f74:g:aOMAAOSwrx1cmdYR

All I really need this for at the moment is to pull HVAC codes.

 

[Sho down]

Get a cheapo I literally just got that one above but in wifi for about $12 and it worked great today. My other two blutooth cheapos work great just dont have a hs/ms switch which u will want. Corded is of course more reliable just harder to deal with cramped in a car. I got wifi so the head unit in my truck will connect to it to run torque tho.

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