I need to be able to read the fault code on my 2003 STR. I am afraid to drive it and considering that it might be handy to have a code reader. I don't want to break the bank, but want something that is reliable. I saw a few on eBay or other sites below.


Jaguar New EOBD OBD2 OBDII Scanner Diagnostic Live Data Code Reader for $89.25


JAGUAR FAULT CODE READER ENGINE SCANNER DIAGNOSTIC RESET TOOL OBDII EOBD $40.00


Anyone have experience with these or any suggestions on where to get a good reader for a small budget?


As always... Thanks

 

With a small budget get any ELM327, just get the kind that suits the device (laptop, tablet, whatever) you have. From about $5 upwards.

However, on a small budget SELL the STR. They're good cars but unsuited to a small budget not least due to fuel consumption, cost of tyres and so on.

 

I have a Maxiscan which works perfectly but I would suggest buying a more sophisticated version (with graphics).

 

BTW, I wouldn't get any that failed to have live data.

 

Search is your good and faithful friend!
269 hits on "OBDII" and this gem on about page 5: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...oftware-67923/
227 hits on "code reader" and 381 on "scanner"


Your first decision is whether you mean to read ALL codes your car can produce or rather will you be satiated with only Powertrain codes? If "ALL" then your decision tree is a WHOLE LOT SHORTER!!! with only 3 or 4 systems total that have the capability. Doesn't square with a small budget, though, as I think you are into the $250-$500 range and up. On the other hand, if you have an android phone or tablet, you can get TorquePro app for about $5 and an ELM327 adapter for $10-15 and record all manner of live Powertrain data as well as read and clear P-codes. OR...you could plunk down $25-$30 for a more traditional hand-held scanner with a wire hooked to a small LCD display that will show you the codes and clear them, nothing more.

 

Thanks to all my friends.


I appreciate the small budget comments. I have thought about selling the car. I bought it 7 years ago during a more prosperous time. I certainly understand the costs involved with owning. Fortunately, Prosperity seems to be returning and I am glad to still own this wonderful car. I had a buyer lined up only a few weeks ago and then this problem hit. I guess we will see if that was a blessing or not.


I decided to pick up a Actron Trilingual OBD II & CAN Scan Tool for $130.00. It reads all make 1996 and newer. It reads codes; erases codes and turns off CEL; displays emissions status; on screen code definition; displays live engine data; internet updateable; Trilingual menu and code definitions; Manufacture specific code definitions. It doesn't record and play back data; graph data; component locator indicating location of part; Auto ID vehicle being scanned.


Hopefully this will work for what I need. Thanks again.

 

I have one that I use all the time pocket size cost $39.00 and it works well for the general “P” codes. If you are looking for a more elaborate system you can start with Torque for your phone or tablet and get a BlueTooth OBDII unit. I have both! It all depends on what you are looking for.