Never owned an OBD scanner as my 95 Concorde and 94 Explorer didn’t have the port.
I am going to buy an OBD2 scan tool, but I am not sure what brand or model. I might have to buy two as explained below. I have a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo (GC), 4x4 auto trans roughly 6k miles and no problems since purchase.
Right now and if I have a problem, I just need to scan for codes and then have the repair made under the factory warranty. Maybe even sometimes just checking for codes like checking fluid levels. However and once the factory warranty ends, I need a scan tool to help repair the car myself. Have been working on cars for decades.
I am considering buying a better unit but short of the $500, $1,000+ professional units. Bi-directional would be nice but optional, but the unit should have multiple functionality for different systems in the car.
Been looking at some OBD2 scanners, but as the car is so new I imagine that the software either completely won’t work or won’t allow the full advertised functionality for the 2021 GC. Maybe in a year a software update would be available offering full advertised function for the 2021 GC.
I guess my question is would even the average $30 scanner pull down the codes now and then I would need to buy a second unit in a year or so with better functions. The alternative would be buying the better unit now to pull down the codes, but be limited to that basic function while waiting for the software update granting full advertised functionality. Maybe even the basic $30 units wouldn’t work at all.
I might call around and see if local auto parts stores have loaner OBD scanners to test for functionality.
Thanks
See below for scan tool recommendations: I would bite the bullet and invest in a comprehensive system scan tool now.
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/postid/186466/
I was reviewing info on a couple Foxwell, Autel and Innova units. Did a read of your posts and will revisit those posts and products. Thanks.
Saw the BlueDriver and Xtool models. Why it may be an option I would like, I don't want to use of my cell phone is a primary display as BlueDriver requires. As when first reviewed, will keep the XTool in mind. Thanks.
I just ordered the D8 version. Wife is going to kick my butt, I'm sure. But my previous scan tool, which was a sub $100 one indicated that I needed a throttle body position sensor and an O2 sensor. So of course I ordered the TBS and all 4 O2 sensors. I later received the BlueDriver (which you can use on an IPad, not just your phone), I cleaned the throttle body in accordance with Scottys video, cleared the codes and have been through about 10 full drive cycles. No more codes. I just wasted $400 on replacement parts that I don't need, but CAN return as they are unopened. Since I've got 5 vehicles in my household....$700 for a good scan tool might be a good investment, plus I may be able to earn some extra money on the side reprograming key fobs and stuff. Who knows?
Regarding the BlueDriver, I don't have a tablet or IPad, etc. If I spend money for that, I should kick in for the scan tool. The D7 is interesting and I hope the D8 is great. Concerning your wife, maybe she could choose between the scanner and some evenings out / added vacation time or paying the dealership / mechanic.
Anyone have experience with Launch OBD products? I found some units, but when I searched for the manufacturer's page found an LaunchX431 site and a UK site. Don't know if the same company or whatever.