Best Fault Code Reader

ICE, Equipment, Options
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kaylan731
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Qashqai Model: Mk.2 Qashqai Facelift - J11b (2017–2021)

Post by kaylan731 »

There is a lot mentioned about fault codes and readers on the forum with eBay and Aldi offering bargain prices ones to purchase .
It would appear that nowadays it is a must have to look after your pride and joy.
I want to buy one but I am confused by all the various options available.
Obviously main dealer quality scanners would be financially out of my price range, but are the £20 cheap ones worth the money?
Which one and from where to buy?
From your own experience, what are the good and bads ones please
Nissan Qashqai Tekna Ink Blue 2018

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calnorth
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Qashqai Model: Mk.2 Qashqai Facelift - J11b (2017–2021)

Post by calnorth »

I have had 3 different makes ranging from £20 to £60 (ELM and OBDLink) and have solved one problem easily. The software gives a number of function indications like virtual speed/rpm clocks/dials etc as well as errors. I tend not to use ELM because of its large Fake legacy.

Where emissions related faults occur its likely that these cheaper scanners may not remove the error code and dash warnings. There are procedures that have to be undertaken first to facilitate clearing such errors. Only the specialised CONSULT tool from Nissan can do that.

The scanners can be classed as either one way or two way devices. One way...in that you receive data. Two way means receive and able to transmit data and commands. The two way device will attract the highest prices of course and dependant on functionality with access to manufacturers IP information.

That said the Aldi one seems a reasonable place to start. And you can easily return it.
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gloucester
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Post by gloucester »

I have this one - bought from Aldi for £14.99 in late 2018

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Auto-XS-OBDII-Vehicle-Fault-Code-Reader/283669629733

That was after I'd sold my Qashqai but I can confirm it readily connects to my Ignis. But I haven't had any problems necessitating it's use so can't say how effective it is.

Previously I'd purchased a cheap Newnow OBD II Scan bluetooth dongle but couldn't get it to connect fully from my Fabia vRS to my phone.
(2015 Nissan Qashqai Tekna DIG-T 1.2 sold 15/6/18) ~ 2018 Suzuki Ignis SZ5 - 2018 Yamaha MT-07 ~ (2024 Volvo EX30 ordered)
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kaylan731
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Post by kaylan731 »

Thanks Calnorth, that is handy info, appreciate your advice
BTW I love your red nose reindeer, is it a seasonal avatar or a permanent feature?
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calnorth
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Post by calnorth »

kaylan731 wrote: Fri Jan 24, 2020 11:00 am Thanks Calnorth, that is handy info, appreciate your advice
BTW I love your red nose reindeer, is it a seasonal avatar or a permanent feature?
In an effort to disguise my identity online its something I simply came across...useful at Xmas though.
Mk2 Qashqai Facelift - J11b (2017–and onward)
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kaylan731
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Post by kaylan731 »

Thanks gloucester, notice many have mentioned the Aldi ones in a positive light.
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calnorth
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Post by calnorth »

As an after note I suspect the Aldi device is the ELM chip (ELM327 IC series). Massively faked by China...of course. Various incarnations of it have caused problems ranging from DOA to connectivity problems. The link details the vehicle SAE/ISO DTC standards that are supposed to be covered? Some vehicle makers don't fully adhere...and are not mandated to do so. Hence certain scanners will not pick up specific DTCs or worse mix them up.

https://www.elmelectronics.com/products/ics/obd/

I have been involved in tracking down fakers in China on another popular chip. The Prolific 2731 which is commonly used for Serial to USB conversion - Windows stuff primarily. We didn't catch anybody but cut their game off with an embedded microcode addition at production.
Mk2 Qashqai Facelift - J11b (2017–and onward)
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kaylan731
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Post by kaylan731 »

Thanks for the additional info Calnorth, interesting stuff.
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igerry
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Post by igerry »

I have a 2011 model.
Does anyone have a OBD2 reader recommendation?
I believe the engine check light is staying on longer than it used to and would like to check if there are any fault codes being reported. I am not looking to reset/write to the ECU.
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