mgaither0

I was just trying to get some suggestions on a good scan tool that does read codes and also gives descriptions. Not looking for the cheapest one and I want it to be a good one. I'm planning on using it on the f150 and also on a wrangler. Just don't want to buy a $350 one either. Thanks

jp360cj

Go with either a USB or bluetooth OBD adapter. If you have a Windows PC (or tablet with full version of Windows) then you can use it with Forscan (a free software for Fords) for the F150 and you can use other programs for the Jeep. If you have an android phone or tablet, you can use it with the Torque app.

The OBD adapter will not only let you read the codes, but depending on the program it will give you a description and will also allow you to view all of the sensors/PIDs which can be helpful for troubleshooting. If you go bluetooth, I would recommend the OBDlink MXlink dongle (but be careful, as there is a wifi version also). They run around $70-80 but will do a lot more than than the cheap knock offs. You can get a decent USB adapter with an MS/HS-CAN switch for around $30.

1968dave

I have this on my 2011 f150. it is pretty cool. It hooks up to your OBD port and stays on permanently. you can change colors to match your dashboard. It reads codes, mph, water temp trans temp etc. Look it up to see all its' features. It is under 200 bucks. will eventually get one for my 98. It is called scangauge2

https://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/server1...0.1280.jpg?c=2

1968dave

https://www.walmart.com/ip/ScanGauge...&wl13=&veh=sem

They sell them online walmart

mgaither0

The scan gauge looks good the only thing is I want to be able to use it for multiple vehicles and one of the vehicles doesn’t have blue tooth. Of course asking about a scannner my truck got scared and popped on the check engine last night after I asked.

jp360cj

Whether or not the vehicle has bluetooth is irrelevant as far as the OBD adapter is concerned. You aren't connecting through the vehicle's BT. The OBD adapter connects to the vehicle by physically plugging into the OBD port. Then you connect the adapter to your computer/tablet/phone via BT. This BT connection is directly between the adapter and the computer. No vehicle that I am aware of will allow you to connect directly to the OBD via BT without using an OBD adapter.

jhanna

If you just want a basic reader, I got one from harbor freight, about $40. Reads, resets codes. I've used it on our 5 vehicles and loaned it to many neighbors/friends.

Usually get the code and go google it for the specific vehicle for recommended causes/fixes.

It's payed for itself many many times over.

I've got my f150, Wrangler, Tahoe, Camry, RAV4. Seems to work on any make/model.

Pickupman66

$25 on amazon I got a bluetooth adapter. I can use Forscan with my windows PC or the Torque app. will allow for code reading, lookup and also resetting.

BadFish523

I have used this for years now with no problems. I haven't tried it with a computer but it has worked great with 4 or 5 different Android devices. Also as said earlier the vehicle does not need to have bluetooth. The device will send out the bluetooth signal to the device receiving it.

Blondie70

What is the range of the signal from the Bluetooth adapter ? Can one be parked in the yard and pick it up on the PC ?
Thanks, Pete