Too cheap to be any good?

[geoff]

Got this in email from Harbor Freight (you either love their stuff or you hate it!) - http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/emails...32_retailB.html

Has anybody tried the $35 OBD2 reader and have an opinion on if it's any good or not. I know it won't read or clear Porsche specific codes, but I figured for $35 it would be worth it even if I only use it once or twice.

Is there any chance this could damage any of the electronics on my car?

[mikefocke]

For a P-car, there are 3 classes of code readers with varing degrees of capability between them.

1. PST2 reader. Used hundreds of $. New thousands. Need a multi-volume repair manual and other specialized tools to really use it to diagnose many things. What the dealer should use. Reads/resets codes, sets options.

2. Durametric software that runs on a laptop. Less capable than #1, better than #3. Reads/resets codes, sets some but not all options. For example, can reset airbag warning light but can't turn on OBC like #1 can. Not keyed to repair manual proceedures.

3. Code readers. Actron, etc. Reads/resets codes, sets no options. Displays generic meanings. Need Porsche list of codes (available here on renntech). Not keyed to repair manual proceedures.

I have an Actron CP9135. Class #3. $80 if I recall. Does what it says it does but is no help in really getting in and letting me find out what is really what is wrong like an experienced mechanic will do using the PST2, specialized Porsche tools, Porsche repair manuals and experience.

For the occasional reading, go to AutoZone or other repair shops where they will read for free.

Just because you have one of these CLass #3 devices, don't think it is really going to help you diagnose the hard ones (see the posting on the P0507 code today). One code can mean many things and there can ve doxens of diagnostic steps before you solve the problem.

No, it won't hurt.