Has anyone got any opinions on the ebay scan tools?

I know that spending $3000 on a snap on unit is the way to go. They read everything and work really well. $3000.00 is a bit much to little old me.

They all seem to float around the AUS$150.00 and all seem to have similar features.

I only really want it for the VZ dunnydore since our local worksop doesent carry a scan tool, going to Perth just to see what the error codes are is a pain. I know that the VZ is OBD II compliant so that makes it eaister.

We dont have ny now, but we had some dramas a while ago, and whilist now fixed (bad earth), it dont want that hassle again.

Any opinions or expereinces on whats available?

It doesent have to be new, 2nd hand is fine. Currently watching a CARMAN VG PLUS 64 DIAGNOSTIC SCAN TOOL, but thats already at $500, so its getting out of my reach already.

It wouldnt have to be an all in one unit as I can donate an old laptop to the cause to run the software with a cable if thats a better optoion

theres an app for phones, and a blutooth adaptor, awesome value and works a treat so I'm told..


PLX

very cool. although I dont have a smart phone, maybe its a good excuse to upgrade...

any other opinions?

I bought one from Repco for one of our boys 2 weeks ago for $168

Bearing in mind though... that it only does certain vehicles
You can get cables to do others... but then you need the software for that too

Another good reason to get a smart phone:

http://www.adyno.net/

This program is great, HD video recording, displays acceleration, speed, g force, etc.

There are 3 common things that cause check engine to come on.
Oil pressure switch. Hole in the vacuum hose near throttle body and the oxygen sensor.
If engine is showing really bad behavior then I'd take it to a mechanic.

I have PLX wireless thing and iPhone.

when I did work experience at holden a common problem was the o2 sensors in the exhaust that we replaced under warranty when we plugged in the obd 2 scanner it would show wrong volt readings at closed and open loop this indicates it isnt functioning and would display an engine check light.