ODB2 to USB to Laptop code reader

[ched999uk]

I have only just got my 2003 C230K Coupe but would like to be able to read codes should they be triggered.
I have seen normal odb2 readers that display the codes directly on their screens but I have just seen a odb2 - usb interface with software for about £25 on ebay and wondered if anyone had ever used one?
Here is the link USB OBD II ELM327 Diagnostic Cable for Mercedes C class on eBay (end time 28-Sep-10 16:32:57 BST)

I realise its no Star and for that I will pop over to Ian of 124works as he is only a few miles away. But to just check the codes it might be handy.

So has anyone ever used one of these and are they any use at all?

Cheers

 

[Stratman]

You can get one cheaper than that.

I have one, and they are as good as the software you use. There is plenty of free stuff on an internet near you.

I use EasyOBDII. The free version has some functions disabled, but you still have the fault code reader, engine reset light, fuelling and temperature information and a virtual dashboard available.

When Mrs. Stratman came home the other day and said "There's a light on my dashboard" I leaped into a phone box and changed, then plugged the device in to the OBDII port. Up came the fault which decoded as a faulty coil pack. As the car is still under warranty I called up the dealer, told them the fault code and arranged a repair. They didn't have a coil pack in stock but thanks to the reader they could order one and be ready.

I didn't reset the engine management light which was just as well. The light went out of its own accord, but was stored for the Fiat garage to find.

It talks to my '04 W203 diesel, SWMBO's '09 Panda, it finds but will not communicate with my son's '04 Seat. I'll try some other free software to see if it's the ELM327 or the software that's the problem.

If nothing else they will read fault codes, reset the EML, give you fuelling information and pretty pictures.

 

[Mad4Coupes]

Saw a few of these on ebay yesterday and was thinking bout getting one for Saab / Vauxhall to cover my lads Cav and my Cally DTM. 99p +15 quid postage. Allows resets to fault codes too which I cant do with a paperclip

 

[ched999uk]

Stratman: Thanks very much for that. I was assuming that the one I had linked to was for the specific merc type socket as I have read people talking about 38 pin and 16 pin connectors.
I didn't know if I would need an additional cable for the one you suggested?

 

[ched999uk]

Just bought one from ebay for £15.90 delivered. I will report back on what it can do when it arrives.
Thanks.

 

[Stratman]

The one I bought (and linked to) has an integral USB lead long enough to easily reach the passenger seat.

The OBD2 connector on the interface plugs into this connector in your car.

 

[ched999uk]

Cheers again Stratman. The one I have ordered looks exactly the same. The only reason I didn't buy the one in your link was that they only stated UK as their location, that always worries me a bit. I hadn't realised that that was actually the one you had bought other wise I would have bought that one.
It does look identical. I am just about to get the EasyOBDII, cheers for the tip.

Do you have any good tips to get it working or is it nice and easy?

 

[Stratman]

Other than plugging it in in the correct order as detailed in the instructions, just let the software get on with it and accept the defaults unless you have a good reason not to.

 

[ched999uk]

Great, thanks very much. I cant wait to have a play.

 

[ched999uk]

Well my ODBII box of tricks has just arrived Ordered late Friday night and as usual Royal Mail stock pile our parcels and then deliver on mass.
Anyway it arrived and I installed the downloaded software that came with it (ProScan 5.9) I had already installed EasyODBII as per Stratmans suggestion. Plugged box (ELM327 interface) into car and then USB into same port as I installed it on. Clicked ProScan configured comms as per supplied instructions and bingo data!!!!
No fault codes I know its no STAR but at least it looks like main ones are all fine
Live data is quite comprehensive, fuel pressures, engine temps, inlet pressure temps and tons more.
I also had a brief play with EasyODBII and that was even easier. Again no codes and nice simple interface.

I think its £16 well spent. Hopefully I will never need it
Cheers StratMan

 

[drivebyabuser]

i got one of fleabay

CAR DIAGNOSTIC CODE READER ELM 327 USB 1.4 OBD2 ii CAN on eBay (end time 19-Oct-10 20:21:09 BST)

very easy to set up and did the job. Gary who sold it to me supplied software and the helped me set it up - highly recommended. even if you dont need one now it will save you money in the future.