Which Code Reader??

[T_Aggie03]

I have a problem with my check engine light coming on on long trips. I think it is either the O2 sensor, FPR, or the throttle pos. sensor, but I want to purchase a code reader to make sure. Does anyone know if the ones at walmart (30.00) will get the job done? I really dont feel like getting a 200.00-300.00 device.

Also, does anyone have any kind of idea on how to change either one of the three sensors? Are they a pain or a fifteen minute fix? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Alec]

You have an early model X, so the cheapo code reader will work. That one is designed for OBDI computers, which your truck has. All three of these items are fairly easy to change. The harderst part of replacing O2 sensors is crawling under the truck, the go quickly. The FPR and TPS each are a little more involved, but usually do not take more than an hour. If you don't have a shop manual (Haynes/Chilton) I'd get one and follow the instructions.

Good luck, and have a good spring break. You don't by any chance know Paul Rosin, do you? He's a junior in Aggieland.

 

[mdrut]

That's the one I have..Works ok, it will point you in the right direction..Let me know if I can help you further.

 

[aldive]

I want to purchase a code reader to make sure. Does anyone know if the ones at walmart (30.00) will get the job done? I really dont feel like getting a 200.00-300.00 device. [/B]

I too have interest in a code reader. I do not want a cheap one, I want a quality unit. Any suggestions?

Further, how does one use this device; I have no clue.

Thanks in advance....

 

[Robert]

aldive,

You will need an OBD-II scanner since yours is a '99. I have the AutoXray Pro-Pak. It costs $349 at Checker Autoparts (CKS Auto). It will read the codes for all OBD-I & OBD-II vehicles as well as give you a one sentance description of the code. It will also perform O2 sensor tests and has a real-time monitor mode where you can see the outputs from all of the Generic OBD-II sensors (MAF, O2, Fuel trims, TP sensor, Load value, Speed, ect). AutoXray is also coming out with an update this spring to add Enhanced OBD-II support. That will add support for all of the testing and manufacturer specific codes that you can't get with a Generic OBD-II scanner. The software update is supposed to run about $100. They also have a software package that will let you track and graph your results. It costs $79.95 to registered users. The software package will also let you download software updates to the scanner throgh the Internet rather than sending it to them for updates. I haven't seen any updates on their web-site (www.autoxray.com) though but I don't know if they are only visible though the software package. I am waiting for the enhanced OBD-II support to get released before I buy both. They also offer the same scanner but in an OBD-II only version for $249.00. You can then select if you want OBD-I for various manufacturer's for about $39 each. If you don't have an older vehicle, it would be a better choice.

Actron also makes a scanner taht will read the code only. You will then have to look up the code in a book. I think it also has some basic tests, but I'm not sure. It can be purchased for $139 at Summit Racing.

 

[Keith]

You might want to take a look at http://www.obdii.com/. I have been looking into the AutoTap http://www.autotap.com/. Anyone use this?