After seeing all the posts here about CELs (Check Engine Lights) and "throwing codes", I was wondering if people ever buy Code Readers to see what the problem is, and, (this is a benefit I was unaware of), clear the CEL if you want to. Seems potentially handy.

Article from Car and Driver below....

"VEHICLE CODE READER: Since 1996, the electronic systems of new cars sold in this country come with what’s called OBD II (onboard diagnostics, second generation). It is how technicians, once known as mechanics, communicate electronically with modern vehicles. Cars today inform their owners by setting off the “check engine” light on the dashboard when something goes wrong. However, that message does not go any further in explaining the nature of the problem. Of course, a technician at any dealership could easily run down the failure, but that could cost you time and money. Which brings us to the AutoXray CodeScout AX1500 (www.autoxray.com; 800-228-7667), which costs $130 plus shipping. Plug this phone-size device with a read-out screen into the OBD II port, usually found in the driver’s footwell, and the cause is identified. We scanned a variety of vehicles in which the check-engine light had been triggered. For example, the CodeScout detected overheated intake air, a misfire in the second cylinder of a four-banger, and something called an evaporative emissions warning. The last item most likely involved one of us failing to tighten a gas cap adequately after a fill-up. That is where the CodeScout pays for itself. Most importantly, it lets you clear the check-engine light after the problem is dealt with, and in many cases, it eliminates the need to set up an appointment at a dealership."

 

I have a CREADER. It comes in handy when you're modifying your car. This one is pretty cheap. I got it for around $50. It tells you the code, and you can reset the code.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Launc...QQcmdZViewItem

 

Keep it in my car at all times.

 

whoa that nice!

 

i bought one off the mac tools truck for $60 bucks. it has a seperate disc for the manufacturer specific codes as well as obd 2. it is accurate cause at work i use a tech2 and the code reader was dead on. it will clear codes, snapshot, and a couple of other things. neat for cheap. too bad it doesn't read obd1. you can probably get a better one now, i've had mine for a while.

 

I use a program call scantech on my laptop with the tactrix cable but not sure if the cable is compatible with the new evo X

 

Off course I do, in fact I just use it today to do a repair and clear a code on my Saturn. I think everyone should have one, it saves you a lot of hassles.

Carlos

 

I wish this car was like the SRT4 if you cycle the ignition 3 times and leave it on without turning on the car, it would tell you the codes.

 

Got mine from Northern Tools for about $40 Still have not had a CEL on the EVO X "knocks on wood" but used on my IX.