216 posts
2001 Infiniti Qx4
Huntington Station NY
12-27-2008
OBD cable for laptop?
9:47 AM 1/25/2009
Hey guys, does anyone know if I can buy a cable that will let me read my codes through my laptop? (sorry if that's a dumb question... just a thought) If not, what's a good place to get a reader that will get the job done, for as little as possible? I've seen them for around $50 from harbor freight- any other suggestions? Thanks, -Nick
You can buy a cable to connect an OBD-II port up to your computer but then you have a buy the software to read it. I think in the end, you're out around $125 or so. Not much cheaper than a code reader.
Also depends on what you want to do with it. If you just want codes, get the most basic one. If you want all the bells and whistles, a ScanGauge II is considered the best.
It's not a QX4, it's a QX$ cuz it does nothin' but cost me!
AutoTap is one brand. Goes OBD-II to USB. I've got one, it works, though it misunderstands the meaning of codes P1000 and up (manufacture specific). They have some neat add-on stuff for Ford/GM/Chrysler, but not for Nissan or Toyota (though they've hinted at that).
The AutoTap will read out the freeze frames which tell you what was happening when the problem happened. That let me figure out what NOT to do.
I had bought a usb OBDII reader locally here in Canada and it came with the software. I cost me $40 CAN. Thought it was worth the try and it works just fine.
It reads the codes and gives the description of the error code. I can clear the code, also has the ability to monitor different components while the engine is running like engine temp, coolant temp, O2 sensors voltage readings, actual RPM, etc....kinda interesting.
But yea, they are available and can be a cheap alternative if your a DIY mechanic. Worth every dollar spent as I check MIL when they come on, research the code and repair and clear the code and everything is good to go.
2000 Infiniti QX4 HID Headlights, Mesh grill, 20" Chrome Rims, Painted calipers and drums, Drilled Rotors, Custom Magnaflow dual in dual out exhaust system, 2 - 10" JL Audio, 2 - JBL Amps, 2 - 6x9 JBL 3-way speakers, JL Audio speakers are in all doors each with component tweeters, 7" in dash dvd/mp3/divx/sd/ipod/usb player, LED interior lights, LED underlights, Bosch iridium 4 spark plugs, 2 way lcd alarm with remote starter and much more.....
the 20's are off for the winter and its very dirty from the crappy weather, but the Qxxx4 now resides in Burlington, ON and will be rolling through town exactly like in this photo HARRRRD and in style this spring!!! CANT FREAKIN WAIT.
Not from ebay, Im not being stereotypical, but from an asian guy in T.O., Chinatown to be specific. I got this about a year and a half ago, I'll see if I can find a card or something for him and I'll link you guys up with that.
I got this one a few years back, and it works 100%, can clear codes etc, test temps / speeds / rpms etc, can do quarter mile, 0 to 60 times and other bs.
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