Scan Tool and Software Recommendation

[d&p'svette]

I have just purchased A 1996 LT1 Collector Edition. Any recommendations and testimonials on a good scan tool and software. Also, offer recomendations on the pro and cons of a scan tool with software, as opposed to a link to a Laptop with software. Thanks.. David

 

[Toms007]

First off Welcome to CAC the 96 CEs are very nice cars. Well, all I can tell you is that you have the first year of OBDII. My 94 had a "hybrid" OBD system. I purchased an AutoXray 6000 to do my scanning. The reason for that is, that this model has the connectors and software to read OBDI and II all makes and models. It wasn't cheap, but not that expensive either ($350). It has worked well.

 

[d&p'svette]

Thanks for the info. I'll check it out.

 

[Hib Halverson]

The AutoXRay 6000 is a great choice.

That said, if you are on a budget and you're only going to use the tester on that car or other newer models, another good choice--made by the same company but sold under a different brand--is the Actron CP9180.

One thing to remember is that the majority of consumer-grade scan testers on the market only support engine controls for MY96. They will not connect to the chassis or body computers on that car. If you want full diagnostic capability, you need to consider a higher-end, professional-type tester or pro-grade diagnostic software such as EASE.

 

[toptechx6]

The AutoXRay 6000 is a great choice.

That said, if you are on a budget and you're only going to use the tester on that car or other newer models, another good choice--made by the same company but sold under a different brand--is the Actron CP9180.

One thing to remember is that the majority of consumer-grade scan testers on the market only support engine controls for MY96. They will not connect to the chassis or body computers on that car. If you want full diagnostic capability, you need to consider a higher-end, professional-type tester or pro-grade diagnostic software such as EASE.

Another option Hib is one of the many used Tech 1's or Tech 1A's now for sale on Ebay for about the same price as consumer grade scan tools. Much more functional as you say since they can access ABS, CCM, SIR and other controllers as well as the PCM. They are also bidirectional while most of the consumer tools are not. For 96 they do require the VIM adapter to read OBDII data, but even adding that and a Mass Storage Cartridge they usually cost less than the professional scan tools.