I'm looking to purchase an OBDII reader. I know that I want it to read and clear codes. When I read codes I would like it to say "Lean at Idle" rather than just saying "P-708" or whatever. Are there any other features that I should be looking for? Any recommendations for a good unit at a good price? I used to just pop into the local Advance Auto Parts and borrow theirs but apparently they don't loan out code readers anymore....it was probably time for me to get my own anyways.
I bought this one a few years ago. It checks monitors and has live data capability. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00835VVXY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00
I'm sure there are equivalent scanners for less money now.
They can be as cheap as $14.95, but I would buy the best one you can afford/justify.
There was a thread not that long ago about smart phone based readers that are Bluetooth enabled. You download a app, like Torque and use the reader to pull the info. They are all over Amazon for 30-50$ and are surprisingly capable. Just seach for bluetooth obd2 scanner. Can't remember what one the hive reccomeded though. There's one from BAFX with 5,800 some reviews...74% of which are 5 stars. It costs 23 bucks.
I got the BAFX one, but none of my cars have thrown a code yet. I found a video of someone using it (with the torque app) to check and clear codes,and it gives you the code but also has a link to view what that code means as long as you have an internet connection.
https://youtu.be/SKAM8XupICU
I have the ELM327 bluetooth dongle from Amazon.
I just wanted to add that I've stopped using Torque, I like the setup, overlaying graphing abilities, layout, etc much better with OBDFusion so check it out as well.
And yes it reads full code descriptions and can clear them if they're not active(it will just come right back if so... That goes for any scanner though).
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