Okay guys, what, in your opinion, is the best, relatively inexpensive OBD2 code reader for my '00 WJ? People around here are getting nervous about clearing codes because they say it's against New York State law unless you've done the work. They say disconnecting the battery for 20 minutes will do it. Will it? I need to get a reader for my own anyway. Suggestions please.

 

Dave I use an Actron auto scanner plus with live data feature. Do I like it? Its ok a little combersome fiddling through menus but it gets the job done. I think I got it on sale for under a $100. As for the question about the battery no in most cases it will only turn off the mil but the code remains stored. As a matter of procedure its not really good practice to keep trying to clear codes by removing battery power it could keep sending the vehicle into relearn mode. That of course is only if you're lucky enough to clear the charge out of the caps on the main board. No guarantee that will happen in 20 mins. I get into a lot of arguments with folks over that when they are actually trying to clear out the keep alive memory (KAM). Hope I helped.

 

The best code reader is likely in your pocket--your smartphone.

I have one of these..


And I run the Torque Pro app for Android.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...g.prowl.torque

It works fantastic. You can view realtime data from the ECU, view codes, run factory OBDII diagnostic scans, and of course, clear codes. All for around $15!

 

Sorry, but I've got a Dumb Phone. It sends and receives voice and text messages. That's all I need at present. I'm so far behind on technology, I'll never catch up. My new computer runs Windows 7 and I'm still learning that. I had XP finally figured out and they stopped supporting it. I know I'm an old man, but I'm a PROUD old man. Can you rebuild a carburetor? I can.

 

I cannot, but I hope that I will be able to one day! Maybe you have a family member or somebody that may have an old smartphone lying around that's not used anymore? Anything with Bluetooth, and you'll be able to use it. Doesn't need cell service or anything special.

 

Hey fishbone. I researched the Actron Auto Scanner OBD II Code Scanner. It seems to have all the features I need and is on sale at Advanced Auto Parts for $99. (P/N CP9575) What do you think?

 

Iooks good to me Dave. Its got all the same features as the Actron that I own. I say yes. Pretty good deal.

 

Thanks for the advise. I'll nail that one as soon as I can afford to, IF it's still there.