Actron CP9175 AutoScanner Diagnostic Code Scanner with Freeze Frame Data for OBDII (Post-1996) Vehicles

I've owned this unit for 2 years now and I've used it dozens of times on my own vehicles and neighbors vehicles. This tool will pay for itself in one or two uses. It is internet updatable, howoever there has not yet been an update in the 2 years I've owned it. There should be soon. I think their waiting for the CAN information to be released as this tool will read CAN codes also. All vehicles will in the U.S. will be required to use CAN by the end of 2008. You must get the CP9137 update cable also to update the tool via internet.

The hardest part of using this gadget, is locating the connector in your car. (If you don't know where the connecter is, it can usually be found on the Internet with a little search effort.) The unit is very easy to use. "Plug and play." It automatically reads diagnostic codes and (in most cases) also reports the associated problem(s). This is great, for at least two reasons: 1) Often, the "problem" is a temporary situation (like a glitch in emissions due to using one-time gas additive such as injector cleaner, or a temporarily loose gas cap). The unit allows you to avoid a $100 dealer diagnostic test. You use the unit (push one button) to erase the code(s), your trouble light goes off -- and if it doesn't come back on, you're "good to go". 2) If the trouble isn't temporary, you at least have a good idea of what the trouble is, and this helps you decide whether to "do it yourself" or take it to the shop. The knowledge also helps you keep the repair man honest. One use potentially saves the purchase price, plus a good deal of your time. It also gives you a nice warm, confident feeling. What's not to like?

Bought this because Lincoln dealership wanted $195 to run a test scan for a miss in my car. Bought this unit for $100, diagnosed a #1 cylinder miss and bought plugs and wires for another $100. Problem solved for the same price as the cost for diagnosing it. And now every future diagnosis is free. Yahtzee!

The first time used this product was because of a transmission product in one 2002 car. The Actron CP9175 detected a code and named the part of the car the transmission that was malfunctioning.With a little research on internet i founded out the location of the part in the car. It took me no loger than one hour to find and replace the broken part, and, best of all, I did it myself!

This scanner quickly and easily read the problem codes on my 98 Subaru. It also was able to reset them. The unit works well and is worth the money even if you have mechanic do the work. At least you know you're not getting ripped off.