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OBD2 Scan tools for Programable Module Installations

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Old Jan 3, 2025 | 12:18 PM
  #11  
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I do see the PSCM (Power Steering Control Module) in your screenshot, and it looks like we have the same parameter for that module (013A) or whatever it is. It seems to me like that data should be more complicated. I can't believe that I can only see four digits (013A). It must be a type of nomenclature for a whole program or whatever. Like I said. IDK.
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Old Jan 3, 2025 | 03:36 PM
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You could go look at some of the spread sheets the members have put together and maybe that will help you figure things out.
I suppose that number could represent a software program, but i don't think so.
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Old Jan 3, 2025 | 05:19 PM
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https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/i6gdk...=00s72yce&dl=0
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Old Jan 4, 2025 | 01:06 PM
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Originally Posted by BrodieM
Yes. Have you used it? Is it subscription based? How much does it cost?
Originally Posted by Newbie 5
I don't remember the exact cost for Forscan. I think it was $20 a year.
FORScan is free to download and use.

All you need is a compatible adapter. The
OBDLink MX+ OBDLink MX+
(wireless) and
OBDLink EX OBDLink EX
(wired) are probably the most popular.

To program, you do need a license.

You can "renew" the 2-month extended license for free as often as you like.

Until just recently, you could purchase an optional 1-year subscription, but that is suspended right now. There is no difference between the optional subscription and the 2-month extended license -- it just saves you from having to return to the forscan.org web site every ~2 months and get a new extended license.

Last edited by roadPilot; Jan 4, 2025 at 01:11 PM.
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 09:11 AM
  #15  
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Originally Posted by Newbie 5
Yes I use Forscan with the recommended cable to my laptop.
I don't remember the exact cost for Forscan. I think it was $20 a year.
That for me is cheaper than the $400 to upgrade the software in my Innova meter. (I don't do that much repair work anymore)
Hey Newbie 5,
I have an OBDII scanner that has been adequate for looking for DTCs on my truck and car. I am considering getting an
Innova 5610 Innova 5610
.
I am interested in being able to observe real-time data and being able to do component resets and tests.

You know more about OBDII scanners than I do. You mentioned an upgrade fee. On this 5610, they have this in the FAQ:"Q: Are there any subscription fees? No, there are no ongoing subscription fees. There are also no update fees. The app is also completely free with a few optional in-app purchases."

My question is: given that I'd like to have the extra functionality mentioned above, and that this Innova model seems to have no subscription fee, do you think this scanner is appropriate for an amateur mechanic, at $350?

Thanks,
Ultramaroon
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 03:09 PM
  #16  
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Yes it is a good scanner and can do more than I'll ever understand.
My gripe (and my fault) is that I thougIt I was entitled to updates or up grades to keep up with the vehicles I guess.
It was a long time ago but I belive I wanted to or needed to do something on a foreign car, so I went to the site to download some software and it was $400. The amount I had paid for the unit as I recall.

It works great and it does everything I need it to do.
That said you should go on their site and confirm it will do what you want on the brand of vehicles you have.
I looked at the Amazon site write up and I see small fine print that you should read and understand.

Just me personally but I would price it from Innova website or from their site see who is a local seller.
I tend to shy away from Amazon on big money stuff if I can.
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 09:36 AM
  #17  
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Originally Posted by roadPilot
FORScan is free to download and use.

All you need is a compatible adapter. The OBDLink MX+ (wireless) and OBDLink EX (wired) are probably the most popular.

To program, you do need a license.

You can "renew" the 2-month extended license for free as often as you like.

Until just recently, you could purchase an optional 1-year subscription, but that is suspended right now. There is no difference between the optional subscription and the 2-month extended license -- it just saves you from having to return to the forscan.org web site every ~2 months and get a new extended license.
roadpilot,
The ForScan with the OBDLink cable are exactly what I need, and the only cost is for the cable, $60. The software even displays real-time data, has an oscilloscope and you can do configurations and programming, if you're up to it.
Thank you! You saved me about 300 bucks.
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 01:08 PM
  #18  
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Keep in mind Forscan (which I use also) is for Ford vehicles only I think.
Still it's a good software.
I prefer the cable vs Bluetooth. (just me)
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Old Apr 16, 2025 | 12:19 PM
  #19  
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Originally Posted by Newbie 5
Keep in mind Forscan (which I use also) is for Ford vehicles only I think.
Still it's a good software.
I prefer the cable vs Bluetooth. (just me)
OK, I just bought the OBDLink EX FORScan OBD Adapter (USB); be here in a couple of days. I will have to wait until the weekend to fire up the laptop with FORScan.
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Old Apr 16, 2025 | 12:32 PM
  #20  
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Originally Posted by Newbie 5
OK, so did you download your as built data sheet from Ford to have a hard copy?
The vlink is foreign to me but I do see one line of code at the top versus a blank page.
That may be all that there is, I'm not sure.
Have you tried reading a different module as a test?
Also be sure to back up all or any modules you plan to work with.
One of my as built pictures.
Note the steering module.
Newbie 5,
I did get the as-built data sheet from Ford.
For those who don't know how to get it (I didn't!), I've attached a Word doc about that. It took two tries. The first time, I waited 30 minutes and no dice. The file name is [the VIN] .ab.
I learn something every day here.
Attached Files
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