Need recommendation for an ODB-II code reader

[oldtrlrnr]

Now that my Pilot is showing CEL light, I need to pull the codes. Hope someone can recommend a good but not too expensive code reader for ODB-II cars.

Appreciate any suggestions.

Bob

[cofetym]

Found this in the search forum hope it helps.

Amazon

Amazon

http://www.scantool.net/elmscan5-compact.html

http://www.myscantool.com/

SCan Guage Computer

[rclark]

Originally Posted by oldtrlrnr

Now that my Pilot is showing CEL light, I need to pull the codes. Hope someone can recommend a good but not too expensive code reader for ODB-II cars.

Appreciate any suggestions.

Bob

If there's an Autozone near you they will read the code for free.

[RonnieJ]

I have the OBDLink, which is a bit newer than the Elmscan. It works well. You can buy through them, or Ebay for about $85 for the ObdLink, and 50 for the Elmscan.

[cwa107]

Actron makes nice, basic code scanners that are relatively inexpensive. I have this one and it does a good job. No frills, but it can fetch and clear codes. Also comes with a CD that deciphers the codes (although you can just as easily Google them).

Amazon.com: Actron CP9125 PocketScan Code Reader: Automotive

Amazon.com: Actron CP9125 PocketScan Code Reader: Automotive

[samc]

I'd be curious for one as well. Preferably something usb with more then just code reading and removing.

[94eg!]

Here is how you check for VTM light, D light or Check Engine Light codes without an OBD2 or Honda scan-tool (OBD2 scanner can't pull D and VTM codes anyways)...

Originally Posted by 94eg!

Just grab a paper clip and read the codes yourself. Stick the paper clip in the DLC by the drivers right knee (as shown in this picture). Then switch the ignition to the "ON" position and watch all the lights start blinking. Long blinks are 10's & shorts are 1's. Just add them together to get the code for that light. If there is more than one code stored, they will be separated by a break between blinks:



This link has the definition for all check engine light blink-codes:

K20Tuned LLC*::*DC5/EP3 Codes

Here is a link to the VTM light blink-codes:

http://rsgear.com/articles/2006_12.pdf

And here is a link to show the Transmission "D" light blink-codes:

flashing shift indicator

Write down all your codes and come back to THIS thread and let us know.

[rocky]

I have one bought when a Volvo we had was being a PIA showing codes every week or so. Useful to know what the codes were, but since then, the need for it has disappeared. Since you'll never get Honda specific codes on a generic reader, get the cheapest you can, with a wire that allows you to drive the car and monitor whats going on.

[2010exl]

I have the Innova 3160.

Google it or check out eBay. It can be purchased for just under $200 and is great for codes, live data and ABS codes on certain cars (not Honda)

[humanoid]

You guys do realize this thread is over a year old. Hopefully the OP has fixed the problem or has sold the Pilot to make it someone else's problem.

[2010exl]

ARRRG!

I hate when I do that!

[94eg!]

I fell for it too.

[carguy07]

I think this qualifies as brought back to life by spam.


Were any of you brave enough to click on that link? One post one link to??

[oldtrlrnr]

Well yes, I did start this thread over a year ago. IIRC the problem turned out to be premature trans failure. I bit the bullet and had the dealer put in a rebuilt trans - Honda gave me some comp funds, but not as much as I thought they should have. The car has been running fine since then.

I still want to get an ODB-II code reader, though the need is not urgent right now.

94eg!, thanks for the tip on the procedure to read the codes from the blinking pattern. That's the way I read the codes on my '87 Toyota MR2. I'll save that info.

Thanks again, all.

- Bob

[BAlGaInTl]

On my current vehicle, I use a very cheap ELM bluetooth dongle.

Then I use an app on my Android phone to read and reset the codes. I think I paid less than $20 total. It isn't the best, but it works well for the price.