Code Reader / Scanner

churaw · Post by **churaw** » 20 Dec 2007, 11:10

Is there general consensus on who make the best Volvo specific Code Reader / Scanner. One that is Volvo specific and allows access to Manufacturer specific codes. A software (laptop) product would be fine or handheld device. I have a good DTC reader for all generic ODB-II stuff but not one that is Volvo specific.

I have a 1997 850 T-5 Wagon with over 250K miles and, much to my wife's frustration, have decided to keep my beloved auto going myself and would like to get at some of the data my, now slightly overpriced, mechanic once could get to.

Thanks in advance,
Chuck

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 20 Dec 2007, 15:59

The choices are very limited. There is always a Volvo Scan Tool ($$$$ - gasp - thud) and I found this one in the UK but it is still pricey, particularly with the dollar as it is.

http://www.ilexa.co.uk/content/view/35/2/

There are some OBD differences between the UK cars and US cars so it would certainly warrant an email to make sure it would work.

Some of the other very high end scanners take software packs and a few are Volvo specific.

...Lee

waynej · Post by **waynej** » 20 Dec 2007, 20:30

This one reads all Volvo codes but it's pricey.

http://www.pcretriever.com/index.php

bobsnow100 · Post by **bobsnow100** » 21 Dec 2007, 08:37

For how infrequently you have to pull codes, is it really worth it.
I have a $100 reader and when I get the codes that I can't find in the book ,I just goggle it. I'll type in Volvo code P #(whatever the # is) and it will tell me what the code is.

ignatz · Post by **ignatz** » 21 Dec 2007, 16:19

I got my Innova 3100 at Wal-Mart for $99.00 and its been a big help for my 98 T-5.

adollarwodbnice · Post by **adollarwodbnice** » 21 Dec 2007, 18:42

what about my 93 850 GLT..., I guess that's OBD I right?? Is there a scanner I can get for mine or no?

Larmor · Post by **Larmor** » 21 Dec 2007, 18:57

'93s, '94s, and early '95s have codes that can be read directly from the diagnostic module a few inches behind the passenger headlight - no additional accessories required. Most engine codes are read from socket A2.

adollarwodbnice · Post by **adollarwodbnice** » 22 Dec 2007, 01:23

Yeah, I used that before I thought there's a scanner you can use though too? I had problems with clearing my codes and checking for them alot on some of the holes. I know obd2 cars you can goto autozone and they'll hook it up for you. Didn't know if I could do something like that on my 93....

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 22 Dec 2007, 05:14

Sorry but a '93 doesn't have both the diagnositc boxes and a OBD plug.
For some who have '95's (and apparently some late production '94's) there were both.