Can anyone recommend and inexpensive code reader for 2003 diesel truck and or scan tool? Thanks Harry

You could check on the Actron. Sears sells them and most auto parts stores. They are around $100+. Then there are the more pricey ones, like a Predator (tuner) $300 new, EFI Live ($700 new), etc. Then there is the Tech II that GM dealerships use about $3k new, cheaper on ebay.

The free ones are, go to Autozone and they will read the code and clear it for you if you want them to, and it's free. Matter of fact I think they use the Actron!

Check out www.kennedydiesel.com (http://www.kennedydiesel.com)

I have an Actron CP9145 Super Diagnostic AutoScanner with cable, case, and instruction manual that I'll sell you for $75 + shipping. I paid $184.99 for it six years ago. It will work on your 2003, but it does not work on my 2011 because it does not have the new CAN protocol.

Can you see the balance rates with CP9145?

moved to shop

Ultragauge is awesome. I have one on my truck and it does DTC's and shows you all the information the ECM makes available through your OBD2 port.

Sent from my DROIDX

I use Auterra on mine (had the Palm version for a while now and it works great).

http://www.auterraweb.com/

mtl_dmax, Does the Auterra read injector rates along with all the other pertinent sensors typical shadetree mechanics need? I really like tha price on the program.

mtl_dmax, Does the Auterra read injector rates along with all the other pertinent sensors typical shadetree mechanics need? I really like tha price on the program.


I have an older one that was before the CAN bus protocol it does not have injector balance rates on there but the newer Auterra models like the A-301/A-302 (PC based) and the A-500/A-501 (DashDyno) also have an Enhanced OBD II software available which allows access to the following:

Engine EFI
ABS (Antilock Brake System)
BCM (Body Control Module)
Airbag / SRS
IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)
HUD (Heads Up Display)
Radio
Immobilizer


http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/auterra/GMEnhancedUserGuide.pdf

This is obviously alot of the stuff traditionally you needed a Tech 2 to access but I'm not sure to what extent the software can run tests like the Tech 2 can or if it can just see the status of items (that's a question for Auterra tech support). This tool will not do what EFI live does though, that I am sure of (ie won't give you access to fuel mapping, etc).

Overall even my older version works fantastic and I definately would recommend it to someone looking for better access to the various vehicle systems for repair and maintenance.