My older Toyota Corolla has been experiencing the check engine light quite a few times recently. And unfortunately each place locally wants to charge a minimum of $45 just to tell you what the code is and it’s quite disconcerting that each time, it’s “tighten your gas cap” and having to pay for a code check.
More than likely, the issue is going to happen again and you might as well invested in the Actron CP9125 PocketScan Code Reader which ranges from $49-59. This is the basic unit but the difference from other units is that it not only reads the code, you can erase the code, so your check engine light will temporarily be shut off.
It’s important to note that there are two versions out that you will see in stores. One with orange packing and one with white packaging. Both are the same, but I went for the white packaging because it’s copyright on the box is 2012 versus the orange box which was 2006.
I. WHAT DOES THE UNIT COME WITH
The package comes with the PocketScan CP9125 has instructions and a booklet which features the codes. I highly recommend visiting a site such as OBD-codes[dot]com for more detailed information on the codes. Also, Actron contact card and another card for a third party company.
II. HOW TO USE IT:
1. Make sure you ignition key is on off position
2. Under your steering wheel is a plug/datalink connector. Hookup the Actro CP9125 to the datalink connector and the pocket scanner will take about a minute or more to scan. If it detects anything, it will list the code. So, if you have the check engine light, it will give you a code and you can use the book to look it up or visit the website I mentioned above or type it on a search engine.
To delete the code:
3. Press and hold erase key for 3 seconds and release. A question comes up asking you to erase and once again, you hold erase for 3 seconds. And you should receive the “Done” message.
That’s pretty much it!
JUDGMENT CALL:
For those who just need the basic code and then a way to erase it, the Actron CP9125 PocketScan Code Reader is fantastic for is price and functions. Some people may need a bit more and for $20 extra, the CP9550 PocketScanner allows for on screen code definitions. Spend even more and you can get the CP952 which allows for Internet updates, trilingual menu with code definitions and displays live engine data. Need info. on an ABS or manufacturer specific codes, then you want the more expensive CP9580.
But all I needed is one that reads the code with a check engine light is on and a way to erase (turn off the check engine light) and this is what the CP9125 does.
It’s important to note that this device is for OBD II (1996 and newer vehicles), reads codes, erases codes and turns of the check engine light (CEL) and displays emissions status.
For $49-$59, this device for its price is what most places charge for a one time code check. Save yourself the money buy purchasing the CP9125 (or better device if needed).
The Actron CP9125 PocketScan Code Reader is highly recommended!
