As a backyard mechanic I was frustrated with the new cars and the check engine light that results in a $60 charge to read at a garage. Now that the price of a reader is less than $80 it makes sense to try the Equus Innova 3030 car reader and I was happy I did. It works great and is easy to use but does have a minor problem I discovered. My Subaru would not communicate with the 3030. The tech support phone line was tied up, but they quickly responded to my email and sent me a new Innova 3030 with a new chip set. Apparently Subarus, Mazdas and Volkswagons tend to have a problem in communication and in this case require a newer chip set in the 3030 which apparently works on all brands (I checked my Honda and toyota OK), so if you have one of the former car brands ask for the newer chip set. The manual has one misprint and the key must be turned to on position before plugging the 3030 into the car. Tech support at the website was great and called back later. I had already saved $60 on reading my codes plus saved $80 labor by installing a failed sensor myself although I think many other codes require a shop manual to actually track down the problem part. In summary a great tool for backyard mechanics to read the codes, fix the car and turn off the check engine light.
Posts tagged ‘Equus 3030’
Delivery of the product was prompt. The reader worked perfectly and instructions were good. A good value.
I did my research and I don’t think you’ll find a better featured OBDII compliant code scanner for the money. Comes with complete instructions and a bonus CD with more information. It plugged right in and ran its diagnostics without any problems. This unit will probably pay for itself after one or two uses to check stored codes if your vehicle’s MIL comes on. Even if you don’t do the repairs yourself, you’ll be in more of a position to know and understand what needs to be done when you take it in for service. Certainly less chance of being misled as well. Highly recommended. Obviously, before you buy, make sure you are buying it for use on OBDII compliant vehicle(s)-generally 1996 and later. Otherwise it won’t do you any good.
The Equus 3030 Innova Diagnostic Code Reader for OBDII was a great buy and saved me a lot of money and time. I was able to replace the O2 sensor quick and easy. No guess work with this item.
It works just as advertised. I used it on a VW, Honda, and Subaru.