My OBD2 scanner can't connect to ECU, but Autozone's can

[edcosta]

Hey guys,

I bought a cheap (maybe this is the reason) OBD2 scanner to read my 2003 Explorer codes but it can't connect to the ECU. I took the car to autozone and they could easily read the codes. Is this because mine is as $19 Walmart device? Is there something that I can do besides buying a more expensive model?

Thanks

 

[bizzs]

Hey guys,

I bought a cheap (maybe this is the reason) OBD2 scanner to read my 2003 Explorer codes but it can't connect to the ECU. I took the car to autozone and they could easily read the codes. Is this because mine is as $19 Walmart device? Is there something that I can do besides buying a more expensive model?

Thanks

I think you pretty much answered your question. Check out Forscan software and the compatible adapters. The software is free and it offers many test functions that are in range with my Snap on Solus..

bizzs

 

[Number Twelve]

The first time I used an OBD reader, I didn't know the ignition switch had to be "on" before I plugged the scanner in. (If the car isn't on, it doesn't know it's being interrogated.)

 

[edcosta]

Thanks for all your help! I will be looking for a more professional tool.

 

[zerodevil]

+1 on FORScan. I picked up an ODB2 to USB cable off of amazon for ~$20, downloaded the software and was rolling. It didn't help my problem but it offers much more features FOR FREE than my $350 handheld scanner.