Can these scan tools/code readers be used for various brandsa of autos or just limited to a particular segment of auto makers like japanese only? How do these scan tools compare to what dealer has?

thx
SY

 

They can work with almost all cars, but sometimes the codes are not descriptive.. A dealer scanner can tell exacly what the problem is and what to do to fix..
These scanners may just say vaccum leak, or something like that..
But ussually you can tell what it is after you read the code..

 

^^Thats exactly correct, the cheaper ones will only tell you the CEL code, but the more expensive you get (Snap-On scan tool readers go from $500-$1500), and have more features. A standard one is pretty cheap and you should be able to search for the thread that describes all the error codes. I also have a PDF file of the Helms manual if you need it. I can email it if you'd like.

 

I will be at the Milpitas meet next-next week, I have a scanner & can help you get the code.

 

All of the code readers and scanners will give you a code number, but not always a good description of the problem. However, if you have the service manual for your car, there should be a list of codes with their meanings and a sequence of steps to diagnose each one.

 

Thanks guys. I'll probably will bring it to a mechanic though to be safe.

 

lol

 

heres my scanner..

 

snap on... sounds fun...
(-_^)V just kidding!

 

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