Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)The 3160 is a very useful tool if you have the right vehicle. It provides generic codes and more from many makes but on European, Korean or Swedish vehicles dont expect much more than the generic codes.
I did not research tool enough to realize nearly all of the "adavanced DTC" functions are for Chrysler/Jeep, Ford/Mazda,GM/Isuzu, Honda/Acura and Toyota/Lexus vehicles only. The sales verbiage DOES explain the limitations of the ABS testing to certain makes/models but DOES NOT provide the information that the tools enchanced DTC functions share the same vehicle limitations.
The enchanced functions are described in the owners manual as:
"The "enhanced" mode provides the ability to retrieve enhanced DTCs from most Chrysler/Jeep, Ford/Mazda,GM/Isuzu, Honda/Acura and Toyota/Lexus vehicles. The types of enhanced data available depends on the vehicle make."
"You can also retrieve Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) DTCs. ABS DTCs are available for Chrysler/Jeep, Ford and GM vehicles only."The included software tool OBD PC Link functions but is clunky at best. I could not locate any documentation on this software's features or operation. The 3160 tool still uses a serial port for communications but most PCs being sold no longer include a serial port only USB. It will require an USB to Serial converter if you do not have a serial port on your PC. The live data capture will display in the OBD PC Link software screen and is useful. The report writing function is generic at best.
I tried to update the 3160 internal software from the OBD PC Link main screen and received a message box telling me to download the latest 3130 software. No instructions on where to get software or how just..... download the latest 3130 software.
Since I own vehicles from Audi, Mercedes, Saab, GM, Chrysler, Lincoln, Suzuki and Hyundai it is still useful and has provided reliable data on the vehicles I have tested it on but it would be a more useful tool if enchanced dtc information was available on all makes.
The 3160 does a good job as a code reader and diagnostic tool for the home mechanic. The DTC codes are specific to vehicle make and so far have been accurate pointing to the problem I introduced to check out the tools operation. BUT I want point out possible issues for other buyers like the lack of enhanced coverage mentioned. If you own a European, Korean or Swedish vehicle this tool does not provide everything listed in the sales verbiage.
Update: 08-17-10
I went to test a Yukon with the 3160 today and the display is garbled and unreadable. Technical support confirms unit is broken. less than 9 months old. Sending in for warranty repair and will update when received back.Update 09-07-10
I paid to ship unit back to Innova and they paid return shipping. I received it today so it took a some days to get back and it appears it is my unit repaired but since units do not have a serial # sticker I can not be sure. I tested it a bit, it seems ok. Hope it continues to work.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Equus 3160 Innova ABS + Professional CanOBD2 Diagnostic Code Scanner for OBDII Vehicles with Back-lit Screen and Enhanced Live Data
Equus ABS + Scan Tool is designed to quickly reveal check engine light warnings. It diagnoses ABS codes and retrieves OEM enhanced as well as transmission DTCs. This diagnostic tool features unique patented all in one screen display as well as LED display for quick state emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification. It communicates with all OBD2 protocols and provides enhanced live data.CanOBD2 + ABS Scan Tool•Professional OBD2 Generic Scan Tool all 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, and SUVs – Domestic, Asian and European Import•Diagnoses ABS codes on 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles.•Features unique patented all-in-one backlit screen and LED display for quick State Emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification•Retrieves OEM Enhanced and Transmission DTCs•Communicates with all OBD 2 protocols: C.A.N. (Controller Area Network), ISO 9141, J1850PWM, J1850VPW, KWP 2000 ISO 14230-4•Provides SAE enhanced Live Data - views, records, and plays back* live PCM data streams•Displays Freeze Frame Data•Includes Spanish and French Interface & Definitions (selected by a menu command)•Retrieves OBD2 DTCs: Generic Codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0) / Manufacturer Specific Codes (P1, P3, and U1)•Unit can be flash updated with a standard Windows PC (OBD-PC Link™ software required / included with tool)•Memory / Battery backup for off-car review and analysis •Comes with access to CanOBD2.com RepairSolutions which gives trouble code definitions, a full diagnostic report, probable causes, most likely fix to DTC's, repair costs and more.
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