OBD II PC Software

[Joseph M.]

Hello,

While I have an OTC SPX Monitor Elite professional grade scan tool, it is only good up to 2001. I was considering getting a PC based OBD II software application that will work on 1996 and up vehicles so could you possibly recommend a vendor that sells this type of application? Also, I'm looking for an application that will do more than just check codes. I would like to get one that can also clear codes, review live data, and may have some integrated diagnostics tests built in.

Thanks!
Joe

[Jack H.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

Go do a Google search on OBD2 or OBDII scanners. You'll find there are MANY to choose from with quite a few being built in the Far East at very low cost. The main differences are:

(1) Simple read/clear fault code operation.

(2) With or without scanner code translation of the fault code(s).

(3) Scanner's data base updatable via internet download or not.

(4) Has enhanced features for going beyond read/clear to allow real time or 'freeze frame' data while the engine is running.

(5) Then, if #4, can scanner accept a battery to preserve the real time data (from, say, a test drive) for after engine run replay analysis.

The bottom end scanners sell for as little as $30, while the top end machines can get pricey especially if they're marketed by a reputable US source with a solid reputation of being around to honor service/updating. There you can climb into the $1000+ range pretty fast.

But, you can get a reasonably full functioned scanner for $100 or less if you're willing to buy from China...

[Dick W.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

You can pick up the Snap-On "bricks for a few bucks on ebabes. Just make sure what version of the software comes with it it. I am not sure when they quit updating it

[Terry M.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

I think Joe was looking for recomendations for PC based software.

OBDII will soon end. The next evolution, which has already begun, will be CAN (Controller Area Network). All C6 Corvettes use CAN.

http://www.aa1car.com/library/can_systems.htm

Soon the OBDII equipment will be readily available for cheap. Ain"t life wonderful.

[Joe R.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

Diacom Automotive Performance Software

Rinda Technologies Inc.
Chicago, Il.
1 312 736-6633

I have an older version. Works very well.

JR

[Jack H.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

Most all of the currently available OBD2 scanners being offered are advertized as being CAN compatible...

[Fenwick B.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

I've been using Auto-Tap for a long time. Kind of pricey if you get a lot of the optional software. It comes with a USB and a serial interface. The hardware with the basic version of the software for all cars sold in U. S. A. is $200.00. Here's the link http://www.autotap.com/

[Paul J.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

Joe, we've used AutoTap from B&B Electronics for the last 6 or 7 years. It does all of the things that you're talking about, but it also gives real time readings for the sensors. This is a real help in finding a problem or a sensor that is slacking off.

I'll admit that I've had problems from time to time with the program with progressively newer model cars but the B&B helpdesk people have always gotten me back up and running and they've very prompt in answering my e-mails.

And Fenwick's right, it ain't cheap, especially when you factor in a computer for the shop.

Paul

[Floyd B.]

Re: OBD II PC Software

Why not try the freeware first? Try this site and see if you can find what you need:

http://www.scantool.net

This site is a handy portal to OBD resources. You'll find links to sites that describe every known error code, etc. Along with links to available software.

There are plenty of free obd-II software choices available. In my opinion they are all about the same. You can monitor real-time system performance view any error/diagnostic info being logged by the pcm, reset errors (e.g. turn off "check engine" indicator), etc. It really comes down to what has been exposed by the firmware in the pcm. As you would expect, newer models of automobiles provide more access/control via the obd-ii interface.

The software can be obtained for free, however you will need a piece of hardware too. OBD is a synchronous communications protocol that requires a dedicated data-com processor. The serial ports (COM, parallel, USB) and their UARTS on your PC can't keep up so you need a device that manages the communications with the obd port on the car and converts it into an asynchronous conversation with your PC. I have been using the ELMSCAN referenced on the above site for years without problems and it's fairly inexpensive.

Just a note: you need to pay attention to the interfaces supported by your software. obd-II is mostly an electrical (the shape and pinouts of the plug, electrical signals on the pins, etc.) and low-level communications protocol. This is standard on all cars sold in the united states since 1996. The message/command definitions are not standardized industry wide so there are differences between manufacturers. As always there are emerging standards and it takes time before one wins and becomes THE standard. It looks like CAN is gaining steam. This is much like Beta vs. VHS, HD-DVD vs. BlueRay, etc. Look here if you want the technical nitty-gritty:

http://www.obd-codes.com/faq/obd-ii-protocols.php