Scanner for Boxster ??
 

Could someone recommend a good scanner for use on my 99 Boxster . Don't want to spend big bucks but would like to get an idea of what is going on when that dreaded light illuminates.

Please let me know the brand , model and required accessories...... and the ballpark price .

Thanks, and Good Luck

Are you asking about an OBD reader?

I have the Actron that sells for $120 at Pepboys.

It lists codes and definitions.

They also sell the pocket one for $80 that doesn't display code definitions.

Mac Tools has a REALLY nice one that has all sorts of information.

I used to keep a printout from Renntech.org of all the codes in the rear compartment.

Picked up my Actron on Ebay saved like $50.

make sure you get the OBD II

I am looking into getting one as well...but don't know anything abot it..

Could someone enlighten me on OBD II readers, where do you plug it in? etc..

thanks

you can also buy software to plug your laptop or palm into the diag port of the Boxster.

http://www.autotap.com/orderonline.html

as far as OBD II scanners its pretty simple. Plug it inot the port under the dash nearest the driver side door. The computer links to the scanner after about a minute it displays the error code that triped the Check Engine Light to come on.
It can be a great stress relief to find out where the problem is coming from quickly,
like the dork that didnt screw on my gas cap all the way (short of 3 clicks) no self service allowed here in New Jersey. Filling up while the engine is running can trip the CEL light as well. Turn the car off take off the gas cap screw it back on (at least 3 clicks) and the CEL light should stay off. The OBD II will allow you to erase the code and the CEL light will turn off.


If the CEL is blinking you've got big problems and should park, turn the car off ASAP and call Triple AAA.


The scanner, a print out of the error codes and a small fuse checker(with some spare fuses) are great tools to have in that rear compartment.

thanks
 

THanks PErfectlap...

I might have to pick up one of these babies...I assume they are compatible with all 986..?

yeah all boxsters

check ebay you'll save some dough

I bought a new Actron Pocketscan for $50 shipped to my house off eBay. Can't complain it does its job,and fits in my pocket,hence "Pocketscan".

I have the AutoTap too and love it, but would like to have this one http://www.durametric.com/modelfeaturematrix.php instead since it can also clear the airbag light (a common waste of $60+ when it comes on).

so the durametric is Porsche specific? is it widely used in Porsche world?
$300 doesn't sound too bad.

p.s.
My CEL came on for the loose gas cap and I pulled into a Pep boys to see if they could scan it (didn't have the OBD with me, DOH!) and the guy at the service desk said I had to leave the car...ppffft. :mad:
I thought about buying one of their scanners checking the code and returning it but before I did this spiteful act a guy saw me looking at it and told me he was a tech and had one of those expensive ones in his car. I offered him a couple of bucks to read my code and he agreed. Guy charged me $20 and said he normally charges $60! :D nice business.