Scan tools compatible with 2001 QX4

[atraudes]

Hey folks,

I'm very new to this forum and the QX4. Just bought one used and LOVE it. I'm having a problem with it, though, and was hoping I could find some help.

In a nutshell, I can't find an OBD-II code scanner that will pull a code from my car. The check engine light is on, and I have a quote that Firestone drummed up last year based on some code they pulled from the car, but I'd like to get the exact code and explore my options and see what others have run into with said code.

I bought the Autel MaxiScan MS300 from Amazon, and it didn't find any codes (no surprise). I was able to reset the computer, but the CEL light came back on not too long after.

I also went to O'Reilly and they tried their trusty Equus Innova (top of their line, apparently), but said they couldn't get the device to establish a connection with the car.

I haven't seen any other posts with people having this sort of problem with the QX4, so I'm at a bit of a loss. I have no problem dropping some coin on a good tool, but don't want to waste my time or money trying out a bunch of tools to find out which one works.

Has anyone else run into this? Could you post the model scanner you've used with your 2001 QX4? I could go get it scanned at a shop, but I'd rather put that $100+ towards my own scanner.

Thanks in advance for your help! I really appreciate it

[Slumpert]

My O'Reilly had a hard time getting a link too.. He opened the battery slot and it was full of corrorsion. Went to another location and no issues pulling the codes

Try a different auto parts store and if that fails to link up as well then you likely have a ECU problem.

[Towncivilian]

I have used a generic ELM327 USB ODBII code reader, and currently often use a generic ELM327 Bluetooth adapter with the Android application Torque. Both work fine.

Make sure all fuses are intact behind the coin tray - if one or more are blown, it may also be the same one that controls the ODBII port.

[NioQX4]

iPhone user can DL app called "GoPoint" then order the cable or wireless connector, not sure if iPhone5 is available but my 2001 QX4 OBDII is located underneath dash/steering column next to hood latch, the app does need data service to work and car on/running as app is running, in the app itself "free version" gives you various sensors, temps, RPM, MPG, among other things, App is free and i borrowed cable from a friend that told me about the GoPoint app.

[NismoPick]

I have used a generic ELM327 USB ODBII code reader, and currently often use a generic ELM327 Bluetooth adapter with the Android application Torque. Both work fine.

^^^ This.

$25 for the adapter, $5 for the app... and it's a much better tool than the stupid $100 Walmart, and even the $200-$300 "pro mechanic" ones. I've only had mine for a week, and used it on my QX4, BMW E39, a neighbor's Kia van, and my parents Buick LeSabre (it does more than just check codes).

But for a quick solution, just go to several parts stores until you find someone who actually knows how to use an OBDII scanner... or just ask them to let you take it to the parking lot and do it yourself.

[atraudes]

Well, don't know what was up with the other store's scanner, but I ended up going to another O'Reilly and they pulled the codes, no problem. Third time's a charm, I guess

Thanks for the recommendations as to which one to buy. I've been reluctant to buy a phone-based solution for a few reasons, but it's hard to beat a $30 price tag for something more full-featured than the $100+ ones. I think I'll be getting a bluetooth module off Amazon soon to give it a shot.

Thanks for the help, everyone! You guys rock! I'll be posting a few howtos here soon on some projects I've been through already, once I get a chunk of time large enough