any good OBD II readers that allow you to plug your laptop in?

[kkthind]

looking for a OBD reader that i can plug into my laptop instead of going to mechanics to get the codes checked out

[Lomac]

Does it have to plug into a laptop? Pretty much every OBD2 scanner has a display that tells you what code your engine is throwing, even the cheapest Princess Auto ones.

[Titanium1.8]

these are the cheapest now

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Super-Mini-ELM327-V1-5-Bluetooth-OBD2-OBD-II-Car-Auto-Diagnostic-Scanner-Tool-/370770130822?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item56539f3786&vxp=mtr
all standards (ie. all makes) and bluetooth connect.

Got one and works well.

[godwin]

Do realize standard OBD2 readers cannot read certain manufacturer specific protocols, eg those that utilizes CAN bus nor they can do programming.

If you just want a reader that read codes and reset OBD codes, you really don't need one that connects to a laptop. But if you want to program certain things eg BMW, VW etc.. or read non engine sensors eg brake, AC etc then you probably better off getting a diagnostic reader that is tailored for your make. Most of them would require you to connect to a laptop (usually a very specific model too if you are not purchasing from the OE).

[Titanium1.8]

I do agree with godwin. But for $12 you can't go wrong. VW cable is 150+ and hondata is 400+. Don't know about others, but manufacturer specific is going to be more than $12 for sure.

[kkthind]

i actually do want one to program stuff too

[godwin]

Then you have limited choices and it depends on what car you have.. pretty much each make has its own cable.

Originally Posted by kkthind

i actually do want one to program stuff too

[a00755836]

i have a elm327 bluetooth. then download from google play store called torque and pair with your phone. i think if you buy the full version of torque, you can do some 'jailbreaking' stuff in your car's ecu. but obviously, you do that on your own risk.