OBD2 Scanner

[ajv00303]

Looking for recommendations for OBD2 scanner software I can use on my laptop for home use.
Specifically, to clear existing codes then read for current code on my son's 2016 2500 RAM w/ 6.7L Cummins.

 

[04fxdwgi]

For just doing code scan and clear the CEL, most any cheapo OBDII plug in module will work, but they usually do it with android or iOS apps. Problem is, they aren't usually good for much anything else.

PC OBD software is generally pretty expensive, unless going with AlfaOBD for the Mopars. The software is pretty powerful and you can do a ton of things with it, up to and including completely hosing your computers configuration, if not careful. The gotchya is you still need the OBDII module. OBDLink MX+ is a powerful OBDII bluetooth module that gets access about every electronic module on the vehicle, where the generics / cheapies only look at codes in the ECM, usually.

Lots of folks, me included, use the AlfaOBD software (it can be registered to PC, or Android phone) and the OBDLink MX+ OBD module. The OBDLink comes with Android software for doing vehicles other than Mopar, too.

 

[CanRebel]

Looking for recommendations for OBD2 scanner software I can use on my laptop for home use.
Specifically, to clear existing codes then read for current code on my son's 2016 2500 RAM w/ 6.7L Cummins.

I use OBDLink MX+ for OBD2 scanner.

It does have windows based software, as well as iOS, Android

You can do basic reading/clear codes with it. I use mine with AlfaOBD, gives you way more options.

Since you have 2016, you don't need the security by-pass.

 

[ajv00303]

Thanks guys.
So, the OBDLink MX+ is a Bluetooth plug in and the AlfaOBD software is just for MOPAR?
The OBDLink MX+ works with the AlfaOBD software? You need both?
Sorry for the ignorant questions........
Your help is greatly appreciated!

Had another question re: R&R of the same Turbo Actuator: https://www.ramforum.com/threads/r-r-turbo-actuator.206386/

 

[buckeyexx]

If you have Amazon look up blue driver. You can read and clear codes on any obd2 port. I believe it’s around 100 bucks but works well. Just have to download the app on your phone which is free.
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android https://a.co/d/3vJ7CF4

 

[04fxdwgi]

Thanks guys.
So, the OBDLink MX+ is a Bluetooth plug in and the AlfaOBD software is just for MOPAR?
The OBDLink MX+ works with the AlfaOBD software? You need both?
Sorry for the ignorant questions........
Your help is greatly appreciated!

Had another question re: R&R of the same Turbo Actuator: https://www.ramforum.com/threads/r-r-turbo-actuator.206386/

Yes, the MX2 is a bluetooth dongle and AlfaOBD is taylored to work with Mopars and is almost as powerful as the dealer's software. Yes, both are needed, unless you just want to do rudimentary code and CEL's. Then any cheapo Elm32 dongle will work with a basic app..

I can not reply on the turbo actuator, but the AlfaOBD does have screens for recalibtations and initializing new parts.

 

[GTyankee]

I was uninformed when i went hunting for a Scan Tool.
I will not be working on anything that will have me laying on my back, i am way over the hill.

I just wanted a good code reader & something that will check the Emissions Readiness Monitors

I ended up getting an older model of this

Autel OBD II scan tool - the next generation - SMOG check at HOME

Exact Product link - https://amzn.to/2uzHAfrIf you like my content you can support my channel for free by visiting the amazon affiliate link below at NO COST...

www.youtube.com

Many people want a program modifier & all the best to them

 

[DILLIGAF]

This is what I use for my vehicles

OBDLink MX+ & Alfa ODB
KINGBOLEN K7
HP Tuners

 

[HEMIMANN]

I was uninformed when i went hunting for a Scan Tool.
I will not be working on anything that will have me laying on my back, i am way over the hill.

I just wanted a good code reader & something that will check the Emissions Readiness Monitors

I ended up getting an older model of this

Autel OBD II scan tool - the next generation - SMOG check at HOME

Exact Product link - https://amzn.to/2uzHAfrIf you like my content you can support my channel for free by visiting the amazon affiliate link below at NO COST...

www.youtube.com

Many people want a program modifier & all the best to them

I also got what GT uses, because we have a concoction of vehicle brands here. It is an Autel $880 tool - diagnoses a fair amount, but of course not what the full-up OEM $6,000 tool does.

I probably would have gone MOPAR-specific AlphaOBD if that's all we had.

 

[bubba5xx]

A cheep scanner with read the codes but it takes a good scanner or diagnose problems

 

[truckingrepair]

A scanner I can recommend to you is this one. Works great and I never had any issues with it. I love it and use it whenever I need instead of going to the mechanic all the time. https://dieselscanners.com/products/diesel-diagnostic-laptop-scanner-tuner-truck-repair

 

[Wild one]

A scanner I can recommend to you is this one. Works great and I never had any issues with it. I love it and use it whenever I need instead of going to the mechanic all the time. https://dieselscanners.com/products/diesel-diagnostic-laptop-scanner-tuner-truck-repair

Might be a good scanner,but i highly doubt a home based mechanic is going to spend that much on a scanner.
This is the second time i've seen you post this,makes me wonder if you work for the outfit.

 

[truckingrepair]

Might be a good scanner,but i highly doubt a home based mechanic is going to spend that much on a scanner.
This is the second time i've seen you post this,makes me wonder if you work for the outfit.

I just use it a lot, I regret spending 8k on a scanner a few years back and all the softwares expired. Would rather help anyone I can.

 

[Wild one]

I just use it a lot, I regret spending 8k on a scanner a few years back and all the softwares expired. Would rather help anyone I can.

It's still well out of the reach of the majority of home based guys.

 

[RamDiver]

I spent about $50 on AlfaOBD, $75 on a USB interface - OBDlink SX, and about $50 on a KaodTech Security bypass harness (any Ram truck from 2018 to about 2022 IIRC requires this). These are Canadastan prices, likely cheaper in the USA.

And, I use a modified OS on a Windoze PC because I believe the Android OS is very poor and risky for anything important.

I'm not interested in spending any more money because this setup works great for my use. And, if I had several thousand dollars to blow, I'd find something for scuba or kayaking.

.

 

[Hm710]

Hey All,
Good information. My 2019 is showing ABS, traction control, 4wd not available, check towing package faults. Just want to confirm how I an read code to start the repair process:
1. OBD link for android or pc
2. AlfaOBD
3. Kaodtech connector cable.
I've already got a scanner and looking to get it hooked up to the RAM. All parts are available. I see the connector cable also available on ebay for <$20. This the same as the $50 Kaotech cable?
Thanks,
H

 

[Wild one]

Hey All,
Good information. My 2019 is showing ABS, traction control, 4wd not available, check towing package faults. Just want to confirm how I an read code to start the repair process:
1. OBD link for android or pc
2. AlfaOBD
3. Kaodtech connector cable.
I've already got a scanner and looking to get it hooked up to the RAM. All parts are available. I see the connector cable also available on ebay for <$20. This the same as the $50 Kaotech cable?
Thanks,
H

If you still have the original battery,buy yourself one of these and load test the battery as your first test.

100 Amp, 6/12V Battery Load Tester

Amazing deals on this 100 Amp 6/12V Battery Load Tester at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[Hm710]

probably wouldnt hurt to have one in the tool crib....

 

[Wild one]

probably wouldnt hurt to have one in the tool crib....

Alot of electrical issues can be traced back to a battery thats not quite up to par.You have enough codes,i'd start with a battery load test as my first test

 

[04fxdwgi]

Caution: Once you make your 1st connection, do a full backup of the configuration in the BCM BEFORE you make any changes.
Can't stress that enough. If you bork something up and can't remember what you changed, the back up will show what is supposed to be there. The AlfaOBD software is very powerful and things can get really screwed up if not careful.