[Supras] OBDII recommendation

[Hacker J]

Bernie,

Like all things, its complicated. Besides the longstanding differences between GM (VPW), Ford (PWM), and everyone else (ISO), starting in 2004 CAN has started to be used as well, and will be required for all 2008 models.

So, if your target vehicle is unknown, or you are looking to future proof your scanner, you will need to support all of the above  protocols.

If you want to venture beyond the  basic OBD-2 codes and get into manufacturer specific codes, or talk to the other systems in the car, then you typically need to buy a more sophisticated scanner (usually running on a laptop) that comes with packages specific to the target car.

I currently use the following scanner, www.obd-2.com but the software is a bit clunky and navigating the web site is very tough.

I am giving serious thought to buying a scanner from these guys for my CAN equipped Sienna. www.autoenginuity.com  Its a little pricey, but they do offer packages for a lot of manufacturers. I've still got a few years left on the warranty, so haven't had a great sense of urgency to get it yet.

Here's a good summary of theirs versus some of the competition
http://www.autoenginuity.com/dloads/Product_Comparison.pdf

There are some truly awesome scanners for specific manufacturers that duplicate the factory scanner capabilities for specific testing and setting of systems throughout the car. For example, there's one for VW/Audi but I forget the name.

Jon
90T



----- Original Message ----



Well, we finally are replacing our 92 Maxima mule car with something
newer, and this is my first venture into OBDII, which NJ checks.  Any
recommendations for the best scanner, which hopefully will also cover the
transmission and air bag would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Bernie







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