OBD scanner that will read ABS/SRS codes

OBD scanner that will read ABS/SRS codes

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MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Thursday 3rd June 2021
quotequote all
Can anyone point me to a reasonably priced OBD scanner that will read and reset ABS codes, i.e. not a basic device that only does engine codes?

This is for a Mk3 Mazda MX-5 and I'm struggling to identify a good one.

For my BMW I was able to buy a Creator device for around £50 that does everything, but it's proving harder to find one for Mazdas that will definitely do what I need.

(This search was prompted by intermittent ABS/TCS lights coming on, I suspect a bad wheel sensor but need to narrow it down...)

Cheers!

MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Monday 7th June 2021
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Don't all chip in at once!

For what it's worth, this is the most promising one I've found so far, although I was still hoping to spend a bit les...

https://www.autelsale.co.uk/wholesale/maxilink-ml6...

peterperkins

3,151 posts

242 months

Monday 7th June 2021
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Manufacturer specific module stuff like that costs a lot.

Not much in the public domain so you have to buy a decent tool.
The tool manufacturers have to pay eye watering sums to get the car manufactures data.

No cheap option asfaik.

MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Monday 7th June 2021
quotequote all
I guess you're right, which makes it all the stranger to me that my BMW tool does everything for such a reasonable price. Why doesn't the equivalent exist for other brands?

barryrs

4,389 posts

223 months

Monday 7th June 2021
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I have a Foxwell NT530 for my 996 which works well and they list it as Mazda compatible.

It arrives with no software loaded so you download an installation app from the Foxwell website (must be a windows pc) and select your manufacturer to add to the device.

ETA it was £126 inc p&p

Edited by barryrs on Monday 7th June 17:30

Belle427

8,959 posts

233 months

Tuesday 8th June 2021
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I think that Autel website you linked to is for cloned tools, they may work but I personally wouldn’t buy one.
Have a look at the website below to see if something fits your budget, even if you spend a bit more on a better tool with free updates it should see you right for many years and cars.
I did take a punt on an icarsoft unit from eBay last year and it has been very good on the cars I’ve used it on, but I do have a foxwell unit too.

https://www.gendan.co.uk/

MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Tuesday 8th June 2021
quotequote all
Belle427 said:
I think that Autel website you linked to is for cloned tools, they may work but I personally wouldn’t buy one.
I have to admit, I didn't realise Autel was a proper brand that others were mimicking. I don't mind buying a cheap Chinese unit, but I don't like supporting those who are simply ripping off someone else's brand, if that's the case.

Belle427

8,959 posts

233 months

Tuesday 8th June 2021
quotequote all
MajorMantra said:
Belle427 said:
I think that Autel website you linked to is for cloned tools, they may work but I personally wouldn’t buy one.
I have to admit, I didn't realise Autel was a proper brand that others were mimicking. I don't mind buying a cheap Chinese unit, but I don't like supporting those who are simply ripping off someone else's brand, if that's the case.
They are all over Amazon etc, some say they are fine but I wouldn’t take the risk personally.
I’d like to know the truth for sure, I emailed Autel uk back last year and they just stated they were not official tools they would sell.

105.4

4,083 posts

71 months

Tuesday 8th June 2021
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What about a used Snap-On scanner then buy the correct ‘key’ for it?

That way if you change your car, just buy another manufacturer specific ‘key’ for the diagnostic tool.

imck

781 posts

107 months

Wednesday 9th June 2021
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Is ForScan any good for the MX5?
Used on my 2008 Mazda 6 and goes quite deep. Have not used it for a few Years.

App free and only requires a cheap Elm, modified with a switch.
I have a USB one and plugged into a Laptop.
Had to get an OBD Extender Cable to capture data on the go as the Elm interfered with Accelerator Pedal.

MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Friday 11th June 2021
quotequote all
105.4 said:
What about a used Snap-On scanner then buy the correct ‘key’ for it?

That way if you change your car, just buy another manufacturer specific ‘key’ for the diagnostic tool.
Probably still a bit spendy tbh! I'd consider one that was cheap enough...

MajorMantra

Original Poster:

1,296 posts

112 months

Friday 11th June 2021
quotequote all
imck said:
Is ForScan any good for the MX5?
Used on my 2008 Mazda 6 and goes quite deep. Have not used it for a few Years.

App free and only requires a cheap Elm, modified with a switch.
I have a USB one and plugged into a Laptop.
Had to get an OBD Extender Cable to capture data on the go as the Elm interfered with Accelerator Pedal.
Ok this is interesting, not an option I was aware of and it looks like the app plus a suitable adapter could be pretty affordable. Thanks for the heads-up, I'm going to do some more research!

yeager2004

245 posts

91 months

Wednesday 16th June 2021
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I've been hankering after a decent ODB tool for a while. The Autel MK808 looks great, and would probably be my first choice but I'm very wary of grey imports. There seem to be a lot around, and many of the websites selling them (all claiming to be genuine UK authorised Autel agents) get terrible reviews on Trustpilot.

Although it looks a bit dated compared to the Autel, I'm thinking the Foxwell NT680 PRO is going to be a better bet. The Foxwell has lifetime updates too.