Cool Design and gadgets Lastest news*: Overall, it's a fantastic device. Everyone who drives a new car

First of all, I must state that the scan tool worked well for my cars. Once connected it will:

- display diagnostic codes
- erase ALL codes
- retrieve I/M readiness status
- display the VIN number on 2002 or newer vehicles
- rescan

The MS300 supports the OBD II or OBD2 (On-Board-Diagnostics II) system and it understands all OBD2 protocols that a car may use: PWM, VPW, KWP2000, ISO9041, EKWP2000 or CAN. Once the proper protocol is detected, the MS300 is ready to display whatever Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) the car computer's memory may be holding.

It should be noted that:

# it only retrieves codes already stored in the computer
# it does NOT provide any 'real-time' monitoring
# it is completely stand-alone and no Web-updates are possible
# it does not have printing capabilities
# it is powered through the car's own DLC (Data Link Connector)

The manual while not completely accurate does offer sufficient information to successfully connect and operate the device. It also includes a printed list of over 1000 generic Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) definitions. 8000 more manufacturer specific DTCs can be found on the CD with more information at the company's own Web site.

In my case, I was able to diagnose within minutes the source for the 'Service Engine Soon' warning on my dashboard:

P0442 - EVAP Emission Control System Leak (Small)

I erased the codes and, if the warning reappears, I will know EXACTLY what to tell the technicians.

Given that I purchased this during one of Amazon's lightning deals, the price was right and I feel that I am getting a lot of value out of this little tool. The manual's small shortcomings do not compel me to subtract a star so, it's a 5-star device for me. I am happy I ordered it.My 2004 Nissan Sentra failed smog because of an error code related to the thermostat and "service engine light" was on. The technician wanted $85 to diagnose it and who knows how much to fix it. I imagine the entire job would set me back around $150 at least.

I googled the error code on the smog test print out and found out it was most most likely a thermostat issue. I also learned that I'd need an OBDII scanner to read and erase the error code. I bought a thermostat at the auto part shop for $14 and this scanner for $18 shipped (amazon prime). I googled instructions on how to replace the thermostat. Unscrewed the housing, popped in the new one, screwed it back on, drove the car around for 20 minutes (service engine light was still on) and then parked and turned it off. Then I followed the instructions, which was to attach the scanner to the OBDII connector under the steering wheel. It fired right up, then I turned the ignition on (but didn't start it) it read everything and said there were no errors. Then I used it to erase the existing error code. BAM, service engine light went off and stayed off. Because I erased the computer data to wipe out the service engine light, I had to drive the car around a bit and wait for the self-diagnostic tests to run and build up data. This took about 45 minutes of driving time over the course of 2 days. The scanner was able to tell me when the tests were ready so it could be taken to the mechanic to re-do the smog test. Car passes smog, and I saved at least $100 and peace of mind knowing that I didn't get ripped off by a shady mechanic.

I don't know what else the average do-it-yourselfer would need from an OBDII scanner, but this is all I will probably ever need. It worked perfectly and exactly how the instructions said. I'm not sure if they changed the instructions or if other reviewers were reading their manuals wrong, but the instructions I got said to do exactly what they all said, however they stated that the instructions were differet. Shrug. It's pretty easy. Just stick it in the car, wait for it to be ready and then turn the ignition on without starting it.

Overall, it's a fantastic device. Everyone who drives a new car should have one. Between this and google you can probably solve a lot of small but costly problems with your car. I think the mechanic was pretty pissed that I went and bought this and did it myself for less than $40 total

Cool Design and gadgets Lastest news*

11/11/2012

Overall, it's a fantastic device. Everyone who drives a new car

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