Hi Guys. I do not yet own an OBD2 scan tool. I have been looking around on e-bay and have my eye on one. I have heard that not all scanners will work with Volvos. I am wondering if any of you out there have any advice on purchasing the tool.

What I have in mind is the U581 (http://www.alpha-bid.com/product68.html). It is about $100. If it does what it claims it will extract codes, clear the trouble light and also give you some real time display. From what I understand the tool for Volvo needs to use CAN BUS, ISO 9141 protocol.

I am wondering if any of you out there have any advice on purchasing the tool. Of course I don't want to spend hundreds but I think up to $100 is not unreasonable (will pay for itself in saving 2/3 trips to the dealer!).

Thx, George

 

I believe that one will work.

 

1999 S80 T6

How about this?

http://fcpgroton.com/volvocodereader.htm

Though it is more expensive than the one selected by 'magak2572', I am going for this coz it gives detailed info that can be understood by a noob like me.

And, my dealer charges $120 just to pull out a code and my car is like a random code-generator; I am sure thiswill pay itself in the next month.Since it is sold by FCP-Groton, I am trusting this gizmo.

Thanks.

 

Well, I went and bought it. Works like it should - I think. Gave me the codes I was looking for - cylinder misfire/bad coil. Also gives live data while the engine is running + a bunch more (computer software etc.) I haven't figured out yet. Clears codes as well. For newer Volvos they must be CAN BUS capable.

 

I am looking at Equus 3110 & Equus 3130. The difference between these two is, 3130 can "View and Record Enhanced OBD2 (1996 and above) Live Data".

How is this "live data" useful? Is it worth it to pay $40-$50 more for this feature?

magak2572:
The UIF Tech U581 you bought also has the "live data" feature. Did you try to use it? Is it helpful?

Thanks, guys.

 

It will be very helpful you can make sure the O2 sensors are sweeping ETC.

 

OK, then in that case I will go with 3130 with 'live data'. Thanks for helping me make up my mind.

 

You can check out these guys for obd2 scanner and cables plus connectors:

http://www.carplugs.com/

 

Does the U581 clear SRS/ABS codes on my S80 MY2004?

 

ScanGauge or nothing...

 

I would be interested in knowing this info as well....