Actron Autoscanner Review : Best Price

For a long time I didnt think they made any new scanners that worked with the original ALDL OBD1 computers. I actually purchased a special Serial cable set up and tried some “free” software for my laptop, but quickly discovered that’s not nearly as practical as this simple portable unit. After reading some reviews I made the purchase and was delighted when it was just as easy as plugging in and selecting the year, make and model of the car. I really like the ability to create a short list of things you need to view, and only wish there was a way to save them so I dont have to create the list each time. Other than that, this was exactly as advertised and it really made setting the TPS a snap compared to using the voltmeter and jumper wires.

This is the best to come yet! I’m selling my Actronscanner CP9145 to a mechanic . With this Upgrade you’ll earn the title as a techician. The Actron CP9185 has reached far beyond my expectations. I used it today for the first time, considering I was curious about the back lit display.
Pior to operating the scan tool I download the firmware update. I didn’t see the back lit display when powering on. Only to view a normal display similar my Actron CP9145. Now don’t get me wrong, this was a great investment & still is . However, the CP9185 Elite superceeds all earlier Actron scanners to my view. With all the features O2 monitors, temp. reading & graphing data, etc. What more can one ask for? For those that can’t make the repairs themselve, knowing whats the problems are intimidates auto repair shops. I gave it a 5 star because its easy to operate, the codes are strait forward. Now remember this the CD is a must have that is included with a New CP9185 Autoscanner. I attempted to purchase one on ebay, I did’nt win the bid. Only later to know that the CD was not included. Without that no upgrade is considered & the manual is included on the CD. In conclusion, all I’m saying is simply this a must have Autoscanner. The name Elite is what it is.

Scanner works great on my 94 Lesabre. I tried a Blue Point(Snap on)OBD1/OBD2 that did not work on my Lesabre. This unit pulls the codes in seconds. Live data output is nice and provides a lot of useful info. Be aware that the USB drivers for the scanner USB cable are not found on the CD. What you have to do is load the software. Then add USB support. The software asks where to look for the drivers. It is not on the CD as would be expected. The USB drivers un zipped and loaded into the directory where the scanner software installed on your C drive.

This device is exactly as advertised.
I have used this on both cars 1999 Mitsubishi and Saturn. Some of the more advanced diagnostics my be passed the weekend DIY but a quick search on the internet and you will quickly be up to speed.

Usb cable is of a good quality, serial cable is heavy duty.
Software update is easy but takes a few minutes to do.
Internally memory is limited, you may need to download often if you use the record feature. My brother is a mechanic by trade and says that $219 my be a little expensive but the construction is durable and it will save you money on the trouble codes versus doing it at a garage.

The unit is pretty thin

Con: I would like this to be a little shorter and it would be nice with a hard case or at least a soft case with a compartment made to hold it securely. The included case is a fabric clam shell (good quality fabric and stitching)

I would recommend this only if you want advanced diagnostics.
This is not for people who just want to search and clear codes, for that I would recommend the 9135 or lesser expensive unit.

Only had this for a day so I have not explored all options, but I’ve used Actron scanners for years now – they are awesome for weekend warriors. They don’t have all of the functionality of the Snap-On, Matco and OEM scanners – but Actron’s scanners are fast, simple and reliable. Perfect for those of us that need a scanner but can’t justify spending $1500-$15,000 on the high end stuff.

I’ve used the full gambit of scanners, and these little orange things do about 80% of what the big boys do, for a fraction of the price.

Keep in mind that no scanner will fix the car for you, if you really don’t know your way around modern electronic controls and automotive service, this will not help you.