i was wondering if someone would reccomend a good code scanner, the one i was looking at i believe was an auto x-ray. never owning one of these i'm not to sure whats good or bad

also if i understand correctly obd-2 (96+ cars) scanners are universal so after i use the scanner on my gf's ford (no flames please i already know how bad it sucks ***, 50k mi. and already more problems than my teg w/ 110k mi.) i will be able to use it on my car -- if i ever need it.

thanx -- peace out

 

Bump cause I'm kinda interested, too.

I think it should work for all OBD-II cars, but the mfg-specific codes will be identified only by number. If you have a Helm manual you just look it up by # anyway...

 

Yup. the standard OBD-II codes will be explained by the scanner, but for all others (manufacturer specific) only the code will be given. Helms manual, calling and asking the dealership, or I'm sure places online can tell you what the codes mean.

 

There are three different protocals used to access OBD2 information for US cars. Ford and Honda are different. Most scan tools will cover them all, but there are some that only work on one protocal.