OBD Diagnostics

[Mopar488]

I am considering an OBD diagnostic tool to read codes in the event of a break down, etc.

Any body get any suggestions of what, where, cost of the tool?

Thanks.

 

[FastZilla]

I had a VCA member use this system (Auto Tap) when I was haveing my ETC problems. It pulled the same codes & descriptions as the factory scanner.

I'm looking at one for myself.

AutoTap - OBDII Diagnostic Scanner

 

[dave6666]

I've seen these mentioned here. I think it was Indy Steve.

Actron®

 

[britospeed]

I use autoengunity.
Michael

 

[Martin]

I've used Ease Diagnostics system on my laptop for over ten years now, and am really happy with it. It goes a long way past the typical OBD scan tool, but I think it's worth it. EASE DIAGNOSTICS - THE LEADER IN PC AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMS

 

[Roadrunner]

Remember pre-08 cars are J1850, and 2008 and newer are CAN bus based and require different tools.

That's why the dealer has a DRBIII for Gen I through III, and has gone to StarScan for Gen IV

 

[Martin]

With the '08 and '09 cars, can you do the usual Chrysler key-on-key-off... routine to get the codes through the odometer? That would be the cheapest way to get the codes out of the system.

 

[CitySnake]

Remember pre-08 cars are J1850, and 2008 and newer are CAN bus based and require different tools.

That's why the dealer has a DRBIII for Gen I through III, and has gone to StarScan for Gen IV

So this Actron® pocketscan code reader will NOT work?

With the '08 and '09 cars, can you do the usual Chrysler key-on-key-off... routine to get the codes through the odometer? That would be the cheapest way to get the codes out of the system.

That will show the code, but will it erase it?

 

[dave6666]

So this Actron® pocketscan code reader will NOT work?

Good question. It sez it is CAN compliant.

And what does CAN mean? Googled to no good result.

 

[eagles]

I use the innova 3110 $129 it erases codes. Have not used on Viper but works on other Dodge vehicles.

Eagles

 

[Steve-Indy]

Both of my Actron's read and erase OBD II codes.
CAN stands for Controller Area Network. The StarScan ($4000.00) is falling in favor and no longer sold to aftermarket. StarMobile is wireless($2500.00) and must be used with a laptop. Dealers now starting to use ''wii-something'' wireless to a ''tow r'' then to Chrysler...so it won't work at home.

 

[Roadrunner]

The "three key flip" does work on Gen IV cars... but start from the "on" position.... most other chrysler products you start the procedure from the "off" position.

You'll know you got it right when the odo changes to either "PXXXX" or just says "done". The done alone will show on a vehicle with no active or pending codes.

CAN compliant does not ensure Gen IV compliant... make sure the toolmakers website lists 2008 or newer viper on their compatibility list. The older CAN tools like the one from Snap-On can be updated for newer vehicles to keep up to date.

It appears that the actron is CAN ready, but a simple phone call to them should ensure viper compatibility... or at least make sure they'll let you return it if it doesn't work.

 

[Steve-Indy]

The last time that I checked with Snap-On, their "big" diagnostic instruments such as their Modis or Solus Systems did little more than read OBD II codes on Vipers...as the market was/is so small, Snap-On did not want to pay D-C (it was about 1.5 years ago that I last checked) for the ability to add Viper to their list of program "keys" that are needed for each manufacturer. It did work well on 1998 Grand Cherokee, but couldn't even identify the 2006 Jeep Commander (CAN bus). Needless to say, I "passed" on the $7000.00+ Modis system.

I was told by Mr. Tom Sessions that the 2008 Viper was a "mix"...SO, I plugged my DRB III into our 2008 Coupe and was happy to see that I could read/do many (though not all) things that I wanted to see...at least for tonight.

Looks like I'll be "needing" a StarMobile" in the near future!!