[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by sab69

Hi All,
I am writing from Scotland where my 2003 3.2S has just illuminated the CEL for the first time. Don't suspect anything too serious. Probably a misfire / coilpack etc, but obviously need to download the codes for remedial attention.

Reading various other threads the favoured scanner in U.S. appears to be Actron 9180. This is not readily available in the U.K. and looks infinitely superior to other cheaper alternatives available through Ebay UK etc. Any comments or recommendations before I source from U.S. at approx $130 + $ 45 shipping.

Thanks for your help. Stuart.

Actron is a quality product and well supported. Their later models even have "web upgrade" capabilities, which is a nice feature. That said, you need to recognize that all cars, including Porsche, have multiple “protected code” areas in the DME which any aftermarket scanner, including the Actron, can see, but cannot clear. These include areas such at the airbags, ABS/PSM, etc. For those you need either the factory PIWIS or the Durametric system. The Durametric system is Porsche specific (does not work on other car brands), and is limited to three different cars unless you go for the “pro” system, which is much more expensive.

For general use, the Actron is probably the better value because of its universal applications.