Hi, I'm thinking of getting a scan tool, I see them priced from $29 to $249. What do they do different that costs so much different. From what I understand all they do is read codes, reset codes, and read some sensors. For $29 all you get is a reader, what do you get as prices go up?
Thanks

Most code reader will just give you codes, and the ability to turn CEL off. An actual scanner (Tech 2, OTC, etc) will give you live data to see why the codes where triggered. If you just want something to read codes, most of the handheld tuners will do that, and are $ 400-800..

i wouldnt buy one of the cheap ones, there a waste of money. you can go down to the local parts shop and most of them can scan your computer for free. the more spendy scanners 600+ are super handy but also a waste if you are not a mechanic and dont plan on using it often.

I'm looking to buy one too. But I see Scan tools from actron that run around $250 that will monitor data from multiple manufacturers and then I compare that to EFI Live (only the scan not the tuner) which only does GM and runs at $399.

I am curious as to the differences that these provide. Any insight would be greatly appreciated

With the cheaper scan tools you would need to check their functionality, some only scan, some scan and clear. You also need to consider that some of the generic scan tools contain generic parameters - so for left of centre problems one of these may not be able to detect the issue you are having.

Our product is upgradable from Scan to Scan and Tune at any time you want to move from a Scan tool to a Tuning tool. You can also read (and record) live data with FlashScan. FlashScan V2 will have up to 3 hours standalone logging within 3 months. Bi-directional controls, including gear locking for dyno use have been implemented for LB7 and LLY. These features for LBZ are in the works, no ETA as yet.

Cheers
Cindy

With the cheaper scan tools you would need to check their functionality, some only scan, some scan and clear. You also need to consider that some of the generic scan tools contain generic parameters - so for left of centre problems one of these may not be able to detect the issue you are having.

Our product is upgradable from Scan to Scan and Tune at any time you want to move from a Scan tool to a Tuning tool. You can also read (and record) live data with FlashScan. FlashScan V2 will have up to 3 hours standalone logging within 3 months. Bi-directional controls, including gear locking for dyno use have been implemented for LB7 and LLY. These features for LBZ are in the works, no ETA as yet.

Cheers
Cindy

Thanks Cindy -- I appreciate your feedback. I am absolutely not doubting that EFI Live is a great product. I am just trying to educate myself and figure out what suits me best.

Thanks again

FlashScan V2 will have ... Bi-directional controls for LB7 and LLY...

Will the V2 bi-directional controls include the ability to disable individual injectors (power balance test) while the engine is running?

Will the V2 bi-directional controls include the ability to disable individual injectors (power balance test) while the engine is running?
It doesn't today, but it's on the list for implementation later this year. As per EFILive policy, this will be a free software upgrade when the time comes.

Thanks Cindy -- I appreciate your feedback. I am absolutely not doubting that EFI Live is a great product. I am just trying to educate myself and figure out what suits me best.

Thanks again
Your welcome, we know we are at one end of the spectrum and there are lots of other options between us and the $29 scan tools. :) Hope you find one that meets your needs.

Cheers
Cindy

Does EFI system handle the units that will not only scan my 2002 Chev. 3500 8.1L, Allison, but also work like a TechII? I am looking for somethin that will be able to break into all the systems like radio?

Does the EFI system get into changing the stock ECM as when CKP sensors are changed?

"Doc"

Does EFI system handle the units that will not only scan my 2002 Chev. 3500 8.1L, Allison, but also work like a TechII? I am looking for somethin that will be able to break into all the systems like radio?

Does the EFI system get into changing the stock ECM as when CKP sensors are changed?

"Doc"

You can clear codes in all modules, but we only perform modifications and logging on the ECM and TCM. We don't support other modules like a Tech II.

We have hundreds of parameters to change for the 8.1L.

Cheers
Cindy