Scan tool that won’t break the bank

[Lsujker]

Looking for an affordable scan tool for my 2018 ram 2500. Would be nice if it could read my 1998 gmc as well. It will need to have an ABS bleed function. The shear volume on Amazon makes my head spin.

What brand/model do you guys prefer?

 

[danielmid]

OBDLink MX+, Android phone/tablet, AlfaOBD

 

[GRKN]

If you just want to read engine fault codes, can’t beat the price on a simple android Bluetooth scanner like this

https://www.amazon.com/Mestart-OBDII-OBD2-Bluetooth-Car/dp/B01HXGX8V6/ref=mp_s_a_1_19?crid=1Z7059VZ55RYK&keywords=android+obd11+bluetooth+scanner&qid=1680029397&sprefix=android+obd11+bluetooth+scanner%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-19

Alfaobd is really nice if your going to be modding your truck but it’s nearly $200 in total and much more in depth then most people need.

 

[DILLIGAF]

OBDLink MX+, Android phone/tablet, AlfaOBD

This x 100 if you're looking for basic scan tool that lets you stay far away from steale****s. and at the same time let you adjust your truck to your likings.

 

[danielmid]

If you just want to read engine fault codes, can’t beat the price on a simple android Bluetooth scanner like this

https://www.amazon.com/Mestart-OBDII-OBD2-Bluetooth-Car/dp/B01HXGX8V6/ref=mp_s_a_1_19?crid=1Z7059VZ55RYK&keywords=android+obd11+bluetooth+scanner&qid=1680029397&sprefix=android+obd11+bluetooth+scanner%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-19

Alfaobd is really nice if your going to be modding your truck but it’s nearly $200 in total and much more in depth then most people need.

The Android app for OBDLink is a great code scanner on it's own and will work without Alfa, but having the OBDLink will set you up for later if you change your mind later.

 

[Lsujker]

Man you guys are quick.

With the OBDLink MX+, plus alfaobd software allow me to cycle the abs?

 

[Choupique]

You will also need a security module bypass harness to perform the ABS brake bleed on that truck.

 

[Lsujker]

Ok ok, what about the 2017? Misspoke in my original post. Do I still need the bypass?
These manufacturers make is so difficult to perform your own maintenance.

 

[Choupique]

I think 2018 was the first year for the security module but I'm not 100% sure. Order the OBD link and alfaOBD and try it without it. If it doesn't work, order the bypass cable. When it doesn't work Alfa will allow you to initiate the bleed process, but the pedal doesn't go to the floor, it doesn't ask to open any bleeds, and eventually you get an error message saying proceedure failed.

 

[A_mod_too_far]

The Android app for OBDLink is a great code scanner on it's own and will work without Alfa, but having the OBDLink will set you up for later if you change your mind later.

What's the advantage of obdlink? I bought a generic bluetooth dongle for 1/5th the price and have had no issues

 

[Lsujker]

I think 2018 was the first year for the security module but I'm not 100% sure. Order the OBD link and alfaOBD and try it without it. If it doesn't work, order the bypass cable. When it doesn't work Alfa will allow you to initiate the bleed process, but the pedal doesn't go to the floor, it doesn't ask to open any bleeds, and eventually you get an error message saying proceedure failed.

Thanks!

 

[danielmid]

What's the advantage of obdlink? I bought a generic bluetooth dongle for 1/5th the price and have had no issues

So that later on you can add AlfaOBD and you already have the compatible hardware.

 

[18CrewDually]

So that later on you can add AlfaOBD and you already have the compatible hardware.

You do not need obdlink for Alphaobd, it is only recommended. I use a generic elm327 OBD BT with no issues.


Yes you can do ABS brake bleed with Alphaobd under ABS Function.

 

[A_mod_too_far]

So that later on you can add AlfaOBD and you already have the compatible hardware.

I'm using alphaobd with the 20$ elm dongle, havent explores all the features but so far it hasnt given me any issues. I was just wondering if its pinned differently and can do something more than the cheap one

 

[danielmid]

I'm using alphaobd with the 20$ elm dongle, havent explores all the features but so far it hasnt given me any issues. I was just wondering if its pinned differently and can do something more than the cheap one

As long as it's working for you, if something doesn't work the unsupported dongle will be brought up by the developer during troubleshooting.

 

[ExpressRules]

I have an Actron 9690 scanner that can do both OBD1 and II. May be a high cost then your looking for but it works great including being able to log data. Need both 1 and II because I had a 91 and currently have a 95 that use OBD1. In the last few years it has come in handy with my 1 and II vehicles. Well worth the cost.

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[PaleFlyer]

OBDLink MX+, Android phone/tablet, AlfaOBD

You can do this with Torque, and only pay $5, versus $50. (I don't remember if the "free" apps on either app let you scan/reset anymore.)

 

[danielmid]

You can do this with Torque, and only pay $5, versus $50. (I don't remember if the "free" apps on either app let you scan/reset anymore.)

Yup I use Torque also, but the AlfaOBD is a different animal than just code reading. The free OBDlink app lets you read and clear.

 

[Scottly]

Case of Busch latte's....$21 Having a friend with a Snap-On Zeus+, priceless.....

 

[Canadian-Hemi]

Looking for an affordable scan tool for my 2018 ram 2500. Would be nice if it could read my 1998 gmc as well. It will need to have an ABS bleed function. The shear volume on Amazon makes my head spin.

What brand/model do you guys prefer?

I use a tool I bought off Amazon called a "ELM 327 Mini" and any smartphone app. I've used Torgue - AlfaOBD - Auto Doctor and CarSys