So my 2008 Chevy Silverado HD (Duramax) has decided that it wants to run in Reduced Power mode. No check engine light, just no power, no power at all.
I need to pull whatever codes there are and really don't want to wait for an online vendor. Figure that I will hang onto this for a while, so am OK spending around $200. Prices seem to go from $160 and then jump to nearly $300 for stuff in town.
Here is what is in stock. There are less expensive Innova and Zurich readers in stock as well, but I am figuring a bit more expensive (might) be better.
1. Zurich ZR13 OBD2 Code Reader with ABS/SRS/FixAssist $159.99
2. Innova 5310 OBD Code Reader $159.99
I have read that the Innova will only allow 3 VINs and then you have to buy more licenses. Not crazy about that.
The online reviews I can find seem similar, but I trust all of you - any thoughts/experience with either?
I will buy one of these or their lesser brethren tomorrow, unless someone has a magical solution to the Reduced Power mode problem...
Do you have an Autozone near you ?
They have a scanner , plug it in your truck for the scan and then they plug it in the computer in the store,
its free
I have an Innova, forget the model number but it does ABS and SRS as well. Works well, and does what it should. I wouldn't go buy one if you are only planning on using it just for that. A local auto parts store or a fellow member in your area I'm sure would help you out.
So I ended up buying the Zurich ZR13. It has both ABS/SRS and was available.
I didn't give you guys the Rest of the Story on my first post. The truck decided to go into low power mode while going up my neighbor's fairly steep driveway. Absolutely would not make it up to the top, let alone drive to the parts store. Pulled off to the side of his drive and parked. Although I have a tow strap, there was no one around who had a vehicle big enough to pull it out.
When I got the scanner connected, the truck had multiple codes stored, even though the check engine light never came on. The codes were imminent glow plug / controller failure and a MAF issue. Cleared the codes and was able to drive the truck home, where it promptly threw the codes again. What is weird is that it was running great right up until the time it wasn't.
Since the truck has close to 130K miles, I decided I didn't want to deal with replacing one or two glow plugs at a time so ordered a complete set of AC Delco plugs. Will go pick up some MAF sensor cleaner when the parts arrive and will see if the cleaner fixes it or I need a new sensor as well. From what I have read, glow plug controller failure is unusual at this mileage, so passed on those for now.
I also received a message on the dash after I got home I had never seen before, the exhaust filter needed to be cleaned. I didn't even know that it had an exhaust filter (!) The fix on the filter is easy - just drive the truck at 20 mph or more for at least 30 minutes.
I'm going to try the ZR13 on our 2012 Volvo XC60 and my granddaughter's 1998 Beetle and will report back.
Glad to hear the feedback on it.
On a similar note, does anyone have any feedback on the Bluetooth "dongle's" for OBD II? At one point it was looking like they were going to be the way, but I never got around to getting one.
In reply to 03Panther :
I've got one. it works well for basic codes. I don't believe it will pull anything from body control modules, abs, etc though
In reply to 03Panther :
For Bluetooth dongles, I have followed this article...
http://priusapp.com/obd.html
I then bought the PanLong version with the included coupon code getting it near $10.
I use that with the $4.99 (one time charge) for Torque Pro app for Android. It does not read abs or airbag but does code very well for my needs. I have used it on Toyota, GM, Ford and more. I have reason to believe it won't work with all models.
