looking to buy a code reader, any recommendations?
 

hi there, i'm trying to diagnose a check engine light. i don't want to spend more than $99, hopefully it will save me a trip to the stealership.

Actron makes a nice one in that range:

http://www.actron.com/xcart/files/d_88.jpg

I've got one of these which actually tells you what the codes mean on the device to save you going to look them up.

What parameters does it read? Will it read camshaft deviation live?

I got an ELM on ebay for $18 delivered. Software loads onto your laptop. Its pretty basic but it works.

If you are going to spend $100, may as well bite the bullet and get the durametric for app $250.00, which I understand is the next best thing to the very expensive Porsche dealer computer.

I'll take a look tonight and get back to you. The live mode has about 6 screens of info so it could be on there. Is there a short id for it?

Cheers,

I got a cheap one online for $50, and it is amazing.

It tells you the freeze frame data, live data, engine temp, rpm(I have used it as a tachometer while driving), and more.

It tells you the code and the description of the code.

It has a blue light up screen so it can be read in the dark.

It has the software and usb to plug into the computer for updates and more info, though I have not used that feature yet.

I cannot remember the brand, but I will try to remember to post it later. It is a small one, the same size as the orange one in this thread, but it is gray in color.

you can't go wrong with the durametric. it is more than your $100 limit, but it will be worth it.