OBD2 readers - which one?

[boyse7en]

I've got a cheap ELM327 bluetooth code reader that plugs into my OBD port and connects to an app called Car Scanner on my phone.

It works OK, but it only reads engine codes, not ABS or SRS system codes.

What budget-priced scanners will give me better diagnostic capabilities? Its to read codes on (currently) my Saab 9-3, a Mk1 Yaris and a Honda Accord, so nothing too high-tech or modern.

[Scrump]

Watching this with interest as I u;derstamd engine codes are mandated to be common across all manufacturers, hence a cheap reader working.
Other codes, such as Srs, are manufacturer specific and hence only expensive readers can read these codes across multiple manufacturers. There are readers which work with specific manufacturers, I have one for Porsche but it is not cheap.

[Belle427]

Maybe take a look at the Topdon Topscan.

[keeling54]

I have a couple of cheap Amazon code readers which work well, not sure what you budget is but had an icarsoft for a Merc and that was superb. When i sold the car i sold the reader for pretty much what i paid for it.

[boyse7en]

keeling54 said:

I have a couple of cheap Amazon code readers which work well, not sure what you budget is but had an icarsoft for a Merc and that was superb. When i sold the car i sold the reader for pretty much what i paid for it.

I've got a cheap reader, which works pretty well with engine codes, but most budget prices readers won't see ABS or airbag systems.
My budget is a couple of hundred quid ISH, as it cost me £40-50 every time I need to get codes cleared at the local mechanic

[sospan]

Have a look at the Autel range. I have a Maxiscan bought a few years ago that has been excellent though no longer supported for software updates. It does code reading and erasing plus live engine running to check readings from sensors and components.This identified which of 4 lambda sensors was faulty on my Rover V8 engined car.It has a menu to select manufacturer data for the car to access maker specific codes over and above generic codes.