OBDII codes reader vs. Porsche system tester

[bet]

My 996 has tripped the CEL a couple of times in the last couple of weeks. I went to an independent shop today to get the codes read. They inform me that the Porsche System Tester should be used because it gives more information with regard to Porsche than a regular OBDII reader. They claim OBDII reader just gives generic codes while the PST2 gives more specific and detailed information regarding the codes. Of course there is a substantial increase in cost to use the PST2 (only one guy uses it) vs. an OBDII reader. Is true or am I being upsold something that is really no benefit? There was no one at the local stealership to confirm or deny this information (Porsche guy was on vacation). Any experiences?

Thanks,

Brian

[Jinster]

My 996 has tripped the CEL a couple of times in the last couple of weeks.  I went to an independent shop today to get the codes read.  They inform me that the Porsche System Tester should be used because it gives more information with regard to Porsche than a regular OBDII reader.  They claim OBDII reader just gives generic codes while the PST2 gives more specific and detailed information regarding the codes.  Of course there is a substantial increase in cost to use the PST2 (only one guy uses it) vs. an OBDII reader.  Is true or am I being upsold something that is really no benefit?  There was no one at the local stealership to confirm or deny this information (Porsche guy was on vacation).  Any experiences?

Thanks,

Brian

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

It's true. Certain codes such as the ABS subsystem, can only be read with a PST2.

[ar38070]

I believe a generic OBDII reader can read all the codes but may not give the correct definition of the code. So the reader will tell you if there is an active code but you may have to check the meaning of the code with the Porsche OBDII manual.

There are certain functions that only a PST2 or PIWIS can do however, such as opening the valves for the ABS/PSM systems, clearing the airbag light, etc.

[Richard Hamilton]

The PST2 will give you extra information about the frequency of the fault, but ar3870 is right, you need to check the Porsche OBDII Manual for details of what to check. Unlike the code reader or scanner, the PST2 will also interrogate all the other control modules.

[magcuda]

The Baum scanner will also read those other systems, and give the factory codes

[Loren]

The Baum scanner will also read those other systems, and give the factory codes

With all due respect please note the Baum scanner with the Porsche option is about $4000. About the same price that you can pick up a used PST2. I'm sure both will do a great job and both will test/report much more than the $100 generic scanners.