Where can I get one and about how much for a good one? Not a mechanic so I certainly don't need the most expensive one made. Just want one reliable enough for a homeowner.

Only 57 and I'm gonna die owning an old Ford F150! Hopefully the one I've got!!

 

I have this one:


I also got the extension cable which is necessary for one person operation, especially when running the diagnostics routines:

The cable is a bit expensive - costs as much as the code reader. You could probably make something that would work for a few $.

Here is the cheaper one that has flashing light + audio instead of the digital display. Though you might as well use the CEL method. See sticky at top of this forum.

 

Go w/ this one. Digital Numeric Display w/ Memory & great user manual. Also, cable is optional, not required but definitely easier (It does allow you to read the codes while sitting in the drivers seat):

 

I use a paper clip. Cheap and effective.