In several of the posts that I've read, they say to use a scan tool. While they can be pricey, it's one of those things that, at some point, may really pay for itself. At this point, I only have a code reader, but it has paid for itself. What scan tools do you people use? What are the features that I should definitely have? Any other suggestions?
Scan Tool
- Thread starter wedge1
- Start date
Some folks have higher-end Actrons. Search for that word. If you have an Android smartphone or tablet with bluetooth, the Torque app is the hand-down price/performance winner. Or the Scangauge II.
meerschm
Member
- Aug 26, 2012
- 1,079
I got mine here:
ScanTool.net LLC - Scan Tools, PC, iPhone, & Android based OBD-II (OBD2) Interfaces, OBD diagnostic software
( went for the wired one, usb connector with free software, OBDlink SX. gets the basics and trouble codes, I used also to log and display some strange behavior of my trans, which turned out was not enough fluid.)
went back for the ScanXL software with the chevy package.
I wanted this to monitor a few AC parameters. turns out it still does not monitor all the actuators you can get with the real GM software, but that stuff is multiple $k
others can chime in.
do you want to use with a laptop, or your smart phone?
ScanTool.net LLC - Scan Tools, PC, iPhone, & Android based OBD-II (OBD2) Interfaces, OBD diagnostic software
( went for the wired one, usb connector with free software, OBDlink SX. gets the basics and trouble codes, I used also to log and display some strange behavior of my trans, which turned out was not enough fluid.)
went back for the ScanXL software with the chevy package.
I wanted this to monitor a few AC parameters. turns out it still does not monitor all the actuators you can get with the real GM software, but that stuff is multiple $k
others can chime in.
do you want to use with a laptop, or your smart phone?
DDonnie
Member
- Mar 26, 2012
- 2,631
I've only heard good things about this one...
UltraGauge Automotive Information Center and OBDII Scan Tool
UltraGauge Automotive Information Center and OBDII Scan Tool
nopaybob
Member
- Apr 3, 2013
- 97
Does anyone know of any other software that I can get for free that will work with this ELM327 OBDII
New ELM327 OBDII OBD II OBD2 USB Interface V1 5 Auto Diagnostic Scanner | eBay
It came with a free version of scantool.net v1.13 but of course you have to pay to use all features
For 12 bucks it was a cheap option for me when I first got my trailblazer. The free version of software did allow me to read and erase codes, It also showed some live data.
New ELM327 OBDII OBD II OBD2 USB Interface V1 5 Auto Diagnostic Scanner | eBay
It came with a free version of scantool.net v1.13 but of course you have to pay to use all features
For 12 bucks it was a cheap option for me when I first got my trailblazer. The free version of software did allow me to read and erase codes, It also showed some live data.
Of course. Surely you're not saying all useful software should be free.nopaybob said:
See my avatar.
meerschm
Member
- Aug 26, 2012
- 1,079
for reference, i needed one of these for my VW jetta.
Ross-Tech Store: VCDS
transmission fluid change on that car requires the computer to monitor fluid temp, then drain to the correct level using an included snorkel. also used to cycle fuel pump when changing fuel filter every 20k
( point here, is that the cable and software is $250. it has paid for itself. most of the options discussed above for a GM product are less expensive.)
Ross-Tech Store: VCDS
transmission fluid change on that car requires the computer to monitor fluid temp, then drain to the correct level using an included snorkel. also used to cycle fuel pump when changing fuel filter every 20k
( point here, is that the cable and software is $250. it has paid for itself. most of the options discussed above for a GM product are less expensive.)
nopaybob
Member
- Apr 3, 2013
- 97
Your saying that scantool and complete software should be worth more than 12 bucksthe roadie said:Of course. Surely you're not saying all useful software should be free.
See my avatar.
I'm just fishin for another program to try out with this toy, If its available..
Boricua SS
Member
im new to the smartphone world.is there a specific torque app or are there different ones to download?
There's only one Torque app, but there are free-limited-feature and extra-feature paid-for ones. Recommend paying for it.
Boricua SS
Member
oh05ext said:
you could just do like I did... just order the BT device online, then use the free Torque App... see if you like the screens, gauges, what it monitors, etc... (realizing it doesn't have all the features of the paid Torque App version) and if you like it, then spend the $4.99 and buy the app.. best money I've spent on any app to date...
TangoBravo
Member
- Dec 5, 2011
- 208
Boricua SS
Member
oh05ext said:
here is what the app looks like that I got for free first...
and here is the BT device I bought on ebay...
TangoBravo
Member
- Dec 5, 2011
- 208
Has anyone used Torque with a 9-7x? I've heard it's limited, but some first hand experience would be great. The BT adapter is high on my want list.
Boricua SS
Member
Thank you for all of the information. I'm not sure when I'll be able to get one, but this gives a good basis for what is out there. Wedge
Wooluf1952
Member
Wooluf1952 said:
Yes. The app uses the phone's bluetooth to connect to the module and some features require GPS but no part of the application requires an active data or voice connection.
I personally use a decommissioned Verizon phone circa 2010.
Wooluf1952
Member
