ECU Fault Code Readers - OBDII

Horizon81

I'm wanting to purchase a fault code reader and am looking for recommendations. I don't have a laptop so just buying a cable and software isn't an option. I need a handheld reader which can read and delete codes.

I found one online (MaxiScan) but reading the instruction book put me off as it said that deleting the codes can also delete 'freeze frame' information that the manufacturer puts on there and may cause a problem.

I see Argos have a very basic RAC one for £80 but that's well overpriced. Has anyone got one they'd recommend that works ok?

thescouselander

I bought a generic U381 code reader off ebay - it was only about £20 IIRC. Seems to work well enough and I've used it on a few cars.

johnnyroper

Depends what you are after really as most only do the engine unless you get one specific for the make.
I have got an autel Geniscan gs400 that is for engines only and found it to be very good.
http://www.scantool-direct.co.uk/product/Geniscan_GS400_gs-400

I have also got an autel specific for VAG
Cars again found it to be very good as all systems with this can be checked.
http://www.auteltech.com/vag405.htm

They cost about £40-50 off the fleabay but with one use they have they have been paid for when you compare dealer diag charges.

pulliptears

I have this one:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270703923403

Works a treat and as johnnyroper says, has already saved me 2 lots of dealer charges.

colino

Before buying one be realistic about how many cars you're going to look after. If not many, lots of cheap generic tools around.

Horizon81

I've come across this one. A slightly different model number to thescouselander's but looks like it'll do the job.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/LATEST-UNIVERSAL-CAR-FAULT-CODE-READER-U480-OBD2-UK-/110435257313

jase1

There are a load of them on ebay -- all much of a muchness -- starting at around a tenner if you buy from China.

As long as they have read/clear I don't see the point in spending any more unless you want one of the ones the hook up to a laptop.

On some cars you can short two of the pins to get a readout direct from the dash -- might be worth checking out. For example on Nissans if you do this then turn on the ignition the ECU light will flash the number of the code back to you. You won't be able to delete the code this way but you at least do get the readout.

The one I have is a black one by "UIFTech" (who seem to make most of the budget readers) and cost £9.80 a couple of years back. They're still up there -- although for some reason my one is listed as being for VW cars even though they don't use OBD2 do they?