Guys,

This is a question that is just up your alley. You can weigh in with your opinion or with stories or just free advice.

I've decided that I need to add a diagnostic toy to my tool collection. Specifically, a code reader / scanner.

I really can't justify a Tech II as I have other vehicles that are not GM.

Now considering that this toy would be for occasional use and must be as least as useful as a screwdriver or Hammer, I figured I'd better get your professional opinions on the subject.

I put a budget limit of $275.00 on said toy only because I want to keep the Dmax toy fund at appropriate levels.

After doing some research I was able to find the following scanner that fit the price criteria, (street price of course):

EZ-SCAN 4000
The next generation of automotive scanners have arrived. The AutoXray EZ-Scan is an OBD II scanner including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, allowing for more capability and flexibility to manage the diagnostic process. The CAN protocol is currently being used in a variety of vehicles and will be the mandated protocol in all new vehicles by 2008. Staying current with the very latest in automotive scanning doesn't have to be a complex effort. The CAN-compliant EZ-Scan makes keeping up with the latest a simple matter. Just turn to AutoXray, of course.

FEATURES
Scan Collects Valuable Data from Vehicles On-Board Computer
Supports multiple trouble code requests, generic codes, pending codes, enhanced codes
On-screen definitions of OBD II generic and OBD II manufacturer specific codes
FREE INTERNET UPDATES
Detects OBD-II Freeze Frame Information
Displays Readiness Test Status
Displays O2 Sensor Test
Test Results
Vehicle ID
Set Measurement Units in SAE/Metric
Live Data Stream Monitoring
29 Frame Capture Mode
Set Capture Frame Interval from 0500ms to 5000ms
Reset Check Engine Lights
Quick Step™ Data Navigation
Customize Data Views
Internet Upgradeable

VEHICLE COVERAGE
GM '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
Ford '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
Chrysler '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
Toyota '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
Honda '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
NISSAN '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
All other Asian and European '96 - Current Year (OBD-II)
I found this puppy for about $250.00 shipped to my door. It's software upgradable, comes in a suitcase, PC cable, etc.


The big thing for me is that it will read codes, clear codes, reset MIL, and do real time recording. It also has Manufacturer specific code libraries

I know it won't be completely useful for Dmax issues but I have to have a general all around useful tool. It won't talk to any TCM either. That kind of sucks.

Is this good value for the money? Or, is there a better one out there?

It's OK if you don't have personal experience with them. If you can even relay 2nd hand info it would help.

Thanks guys!

Come on guys, I know you're looking. What do you think?

not familier with it, but I know alot of aftermarket units wont talk to the Trans and miss alot of stuff in the engine. I guess it just depends what your after.

If you want one specifically for the Duramax get the predator. If you want a universal one, any higher end one should do a good job. Autoxray, actron etc. I have an actron and it works good on anything I've tried it on so far. Whatever you buy make sure it is can compatible unless you want it to be obsolete in the future.

This one uses your cell phone.....

http://www.eatonmdtools.com/prod_500_03.htm



SKU Code: VL-KIT-07
Product Name: MD-500 OBD-Rx Cell Phone-Based Scan Tool (Motorola Phones)
Description:
The MD-500 series OBD-Rx is a cell phone-based scan tool that monitors the diagnostics of your car, truck or van. OBD-Rx collects, graphs and stores data about your vehicle to view on your cell phone
Price: 349.99
Contents: Vehicle link adapter (VLA)
Cable from VLA to carVehicle link adapter (VLA)
Serial Data Cable is required (not included in kit)
Minimum Requirements: Use of an approved phone: For a list of approved phones, Click Here
NOTE: Phone not included in package
Serial Data Cable is required (not included in kit)
Features: Only cell phone-based diagnostic tool on the market!
Easily access and clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) using your Java-enabled cell phone
Intuitive to operate with logical text and graphical menus
Data is intelligently saved and stored to a web server for future use and analysis
Ideal for Do-It-Yourself maintenance and repair. Diagnose your car’s problems before they become serious (and costly!)
Web-enabled data logging features allow engine tuners and auto enthusiasts to monitor performance in real time or save this data for later review
NOTE: Works with 1996 or newer model year vehicles.

link for the above info (https://www.roadrangerstore.com/mx/.actraApp?arch_appl=mx&arch_locale=en&arch_sessionid=444&arch_instance=5B4DCAE8754DB48D3FA2E8E1620FF04FE9DF C159&catalogName=EatonTruck&arch%5Fscreen=mxBrowse&classHandle=15186&arch_queryhash=93E3EA4CEF461105955020227FAF33C5745 72897)

Spend about 8k in the snap-on truck and you'll have it covered.

Eric, thanks for your input. I didn't think you would have much to say. You're right of course, it won't do the TCM and it won't handle some features of a Tech II. I knew that was the price for not having all GM specific vehicle.

Max Power, yes I need universal more than Dmax specific. If I just wanted one for the truck, then the predator would be the way to go.

The EZ-4000 is from Autoxray and is software upgradable for future data protocols. That was one of the features I wanted. It will also interface with a PC either in vehicle for more realtime monitoring or will download to a external PC with it's own limited memory.

What model of Actron would you recommend? :help:

Hoot, Thanks for the cell phone thingy. But I don't want or need that much universality. ;)

Burner, thanks for bringing in the Smart A... contigent. ):h Snap-On is like cocaine for the mechanic. It sure is good but the price is steep....

MP, let me know what model you have or would recommend. I'll go study up on the Actron units.

Thanks all, for the replies. You too burner. :D