OBD Scan Tools - Automotive Diagnostics

OBD scan tool digital readouts with graphs showing RPM and ignition advance for automotive diagnostics with software and computers for cars and other vehicles.

WELCOME TO SOFTWARE FOR CARS - premium automotive OBD diagnostic equipment

Henry Crichton, Software For Cars Greetings, I'm Henry Crichton, Chief Mechanic and owner of Software For Cars. After accumulating over 25 years of automotive diagnostics, repair and performance tuning experience, we are announcing the sales of OBD scan tools (developed and manufactured in the USA). Scan tools are very useful instruments that connect to your on-board vehicle computer, revealing pertinent information about the operation of your car. They are easy to use and will help even a novice to understand where problems might be occuring. Have a look at scan tools below that can help you peer into the inner workings of your vehicle, starting at under $60:

Actron PocketScan OBD II Code Reader
First Time Diagnostic Tool Buyers will find the PocketScan Code Reader is the Right-Sized Tool - at the Right Price, under $60! PocketScan Code Reader CP9125 is an easy-to-use tool for novice and light-to-moderate DIY customers. It enables the user to read OBD II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the on-board computers of 1996 and newer cars and light trucks. This gives the user the ability to quickly determine the cause of the "Check Engine" light coming on. Once repairs are made - the PocketScan allows the user to clear the trouble codes and turn off the light. Reads and erases Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and turns off check engine light Enables user to quickly and easily link to their vehicle Compact tool - fits in your palm Includes CD software that contains an additional 3,000+ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their descriptions Tool is updateable - accommodating future vehicles Attached OBD II 16-pin connector cable provides both data and power connections 1 year warranty, assembled in the USA. To learn more, click for more details about the Actron PocketScan OBD II Code Reader

Why buy a scan tool? Read our Journal section about engine repairs on a 98 Dodge Ram pickup and you'll see how it could save you thousands of dollars in repair costs ...

In the '70's the first electronic monitoring systems for cars were installed to help reduce atmospheric emissions. The original American system, called OBD-I (On Board Diagnostics I) later evolved into OBD II (1996) as the digital electronics improved. We have a full complement of electronic scanning equipment required to read this information, as well as years of experience analyzing and interpreting the data results.

Check out our Products section and see how easy it is to get your own scan tool and start doing your own monitoring ... you can increase your mileage, reduce fuel consumption, save on repair costs and help keep the environment clean. We have a range of products, from software based scan tools to gas analyzers, to suit both the backyard mechanic and professional service shops.

Henry with laptop OBD scan tool connected to 97 Chev Astro Van, retrieving DTC engine data for graphed output on PC

Henry plugs '97 Chev Astro into laptop

Or, if you prefer driving an older car, take a look at my '56 Chevy; we can't plug computers into it, but it's fun to work on (and drive).

If you enjoy studying the latest trends in the auto industry, keep your eyes on our 'Future Now' section for some insight into the latest technologies being deployed in the automotive industry (including the new Toyota Prius and Honda Civic hybrids). We are keeping a close watch on the new releases of hybrid vehicles that promise very high mileage and Ultra Low Emissions (ULEV).

More interested in an affordable luxury sport coupe? Have a look at our article on the Toyota Camry Solara and see how our OBD scan tool can be connected with some real data being displayed.

Are you a compact SUV fan? Read our article on the Subaru Forester and see how our OBD scan tool can be used to analyze the data stream ...

And if you're Aquada amphibious convertible really bored with current offerings, take a look at the new Aquada amphibious vehicle or the Qpod three wheeler. The Aquada drives like a convertible sports car and, yes, planes across the water at 30 mph! unlike the Amphicar product of yesteryear, this baby really moves on land and water. The Qpod is the ultimate 'smart car' ...

I hope you enjoy our site and invite you to give us a try when you need help - you've got my name on it when you do ... SayHenry.com!

Regards, Henry

OBD scan tools for cars and other vehicles - automotive diagnostics