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Fri Dec 31, 2021 9:21 pm

I have an older OBDII car that I throw around for fun: first gen MX5. I have a code scanner which, well gives me a code if the CEL is on .... but... I saw a lot of handheld laptop looking OBDII scanner diagnostic tools on amazon (see link below) that SEEM to help diagnose, not just give me the code. I know shops use super expensive ones. I just want one for shade tree wrenching. For instance, if I get a P0171 lean code, I would like a unit that says, check the hoses and do it this way, then check the MAP this way, then if that is not it check the fuel pump, etc. Anyone have some ideas? Again, not a mechanic, just a guy who tries to fix my own car. Thanks

https://smile.amazon.com/s?k=obd2+scanner+diagnost...-doa-p_6_5

Sat Jan 01, 2022 4:53 am

You’ve caught the essence of OBD troubleshooting in your post.

Codes guide to the problem area , but usually not the problem component. People who follow obd diagnostic flowcharts invariably spend boatloads if Ammo firing the parts cannon.

The classic is P0171 which every parts place or scanner will try to sell you an OXS sensor, when it’s usually a vacuum leak.

In short, there is no substitute for sub system knowledge in troubleshooting , and certainly not a scanner that achieves this

Sat Jan 01, 2022 5:35 am

My edge moniter/tuner for my powerstroke goes way further than just a code scanner. The folks on the fte forum recommend something called forscan. You download the app on your device, used to be free for the lite version but now costs like 5 bucks. Throw on a $35 bluetooth dongle that plugs into the obd port. It is only for ford trucks, but maybe something similar is available for your ride.

Sat Jan 01, 2022 7:29 am

I looked at Forscan and actually, Mazda is included, with Ford and Lincoln but since mine is pre 2009, it is pretty much just code reading. That was a good lead though, because of the subcodes it will list (additional fault symptoms). That is along the lines of what I was looking for, but my first gen 1996 is too old.

Its curious, even the expensive ones essentially scan and read and erase codes and provide live data, just like my handheld. The really expensive ones are bidirectional... but that only allows you to activate some components remotely instead of a manual test. Some time saved but not what I was looking for. I imagine one day there will be more to these units. Perhaps I am jumping the gun. No substitute for knowledge indeed.

Sat Jan 01, 2022 10:32 am

I had been looking around for a better scanner than the $35 cheepie I have. Yesterday at a better pawn shop was a brand new innova 5310, it does ABS and SRS (air bag) as well as live data. $79.97 with a 15 day warranty, it's new in the box still sealed. Used it yesterday to make sure it's just an impact sensor I need to change out for my air bag light. It also does stuff like a battery test (tells you to key on, headlights on, start) alternator test, helps complete a drive cycle, and more. stuff that was on $1K scanners just a few years ago now on a $100 handheld. Of course, nothing can beat true dignoisis and understanding, however asking on a dedicated forum what you should check for a certain code goes a long way

Sat Jan 01, 2022 11:12 am

Erik- yes, putting in the code, the vehicle and the word "forum" does a lot indeed, just like what we do here on Samba. No need to reinvent the wheel. There are a lot of common issues to most cars.

I have a scanner like yours that shows fuel trim and live data... cool technology. Very affordable too.

Sat Jan 01, 2022 11:15 am

96, is that obd1 or 2?

Sat Jan 01, 2022 11:24 am

cbeck wrote: 96, is that obd1 or 2?
OBD2 was mandatory for all passenger vehicles sold in the US starting in 1996.