I bought this tool because I needed both OBDI and OBDII capabilities for my cars. For my older pre-1996 OBDI cars this tool not only reads diagnostic trouble codes but also streams live powertrain data (PID) such as throttle position, rpm, manifold pressure, coolant temperature, closed vs open loop mode, oxygen sensor voltage swings, short and long term fuel trim, and so on. Most tools will show these data for OBDII but this tool also shows these data for OBDI, which sets this tool apart in my opinion. I am waiting for the add-on SD cards to be released so I can retrieve enhanced (manufacturer specific) data streams (PID) for my OBDII Honda, not just the EPA-mandated generic data streams. Even without the SD card it shows enhanced (manufacturer specific) diagnostic trouble codes and generic stream data for import vehicles. So I think this tool shows great promise in terms of flexibility and upgrade-ability, and it has performed well on my cars so far. The boot code and program firmware can be upgraded over the internet through a USB cable to the PC using the recently released "Scanning Suite" software, which can be downloaded at no additional cost. I had trouble updating the firmware at first, getting the message "cannot connect to device" and had to call the SPX helpline. They were extremely helpful and solved the problem. It turns out that after you put the tool into "program mode" in prepration for the firmware update, you need to press ENTER. That causes the tool to power down. Then when you turn it back on, it boots up in program mode and the firmware upgrade can proceed. The tool and assorted cables are sturdily built, and would stand up to professional use I would think. Successfully captures and displays approximately 40 frames of OBDII engine PID data from my Honda.UPDATE: I assembled myself a new computer based on the Windows 7 64-bit operating system, and found that I can't update the scan tool using the Autoxray PC software "Scanning Suite" because they do not yet have 64-bit drivers. However, they told me they are working on this (maybe as part of updates to Scanning Suite?).
UPDATE Aug 27, 2011: AutoXray has canceled development of the HONDA enhanced OBD data flash card for this tool, which is dissappointing considering how many HONDAs are on the road. Bad business decision. And here it is almost September 2011 and AutoXray still has not released Scanning Suite drivers for Windows7 64-bit operating systems. SPX: This could be a great scan tool if you would only INVEST in it's development at the level it deserves.
UPDATE Jan 31, 2012: AutoXray has obviously abandoned this tool. It is still available, but even if at a discounted price it is not worth it because it has been made obsolete. Any mp3 player can communicate with Windows 7 64 bit operating system so what's the problem with SPX and this scan tool?
Below is my unedited original review. Since written, they have released a software update that addresses a lot of the issues I had experienced. There is now most of the GM enhanced data available, but there are still a few glitches here and there. Freeze frame data from GM vehicles does not work. It will provide the correct code on the FF, but the captured data values are non-sensical. The TCC duty cycle % is not right, the PCS solenoid duty cycle % is not right, and a few others. Most of the data is valid, but keep in mind that this appears to still be "beta" class software on the tool.
ORIGINAL:
This unit does not include the GM enhanced data for OBD-II you can only see the generic OBD-II info, which does NOT include the transmission parameters, misfire data, or TCC PWM data.
I have been in contact with their support dept, and was advised to try a different year of vehicle none of which worked. The tech also stated that there would be a software update released in the next few weeks; I do not know that I will wait that long.
The vehicle I am working with is a 1997 Olds Bravada. Not exotic, but simply a gussied up S-10 Blazer. I have ran it as both an S and a T series truck with no luck as the Bravada is not listed specifically. Likewise selecting, as advised by the techs 1996 and 1998, I either get an error with no data, or the same garbage data when 1997 is selected.
If I select the manufacturer specific data, I get info in line with the other reviewer with the 454 in the 99 truck. My cam retard was like 6700 degrees. The ignition voltage is 10.6v when running or not, also stays rock steady at 10.6V even during cranking. Any tech would be able to tell you if voltage @ rest is 10.6, it will drop below 10.6 while cranking. ECT is 103 degrees no matter what. The throttle position is set at 2v or 41.8% no matter what you do. If you select the vehicle as generic OBD-II you get correct voltages, temps and TPS values, but as stated above, you do NOT get transmission or other enhanced info.
Enhanced GM specific info is the reason I bought this tool. At this time it cannot deliver on the advertised promises.I purchased this unit as a mid-range priced scanner/code reader. I was disappoint with the unit and it was returned to Amazon.
Reasons:
You can not print output from scanner as featured. Print option software has not been released by AutoXray
There are no updates available past 2006 models for the base scanner or for the optional SD cards
There is no printed manual with the unit. There is a quick-start guide but you most download the users manual from AutoXray's website. If you print it out it is a book!
I expected more out of SPX/AutoXray, disappointed with this product as currently supported.Well. I bought this item on Amazon and that transaction went great. I love Amazon.com. When I received the scanner and used for the first time it kept freezing up. None of the buttons worked. I had to disconnect and star over. I contacted Xray tech support and he recommended installing batteries. This did not make sense to me since the unit gets power from the car. I went along and did it. No help. He them recomended reinstalling software. A poduct out of the factory already needs software update? whatever, but I'll go along with it. Problem is I run windows 7 and they are not geared up for win 7. In other words I can't do an updated. nice... I send it back. I am very dissapointed. This scanner is not a good tool and I bought their top of the line scanner the 7000. I am saving up my money and I'll buy a scanner from Snap on tools or Matco. They cost more but they'll work. This Xray, in my opinion, from my experince is JUNK.I needed a scan tool to set timing on a 1996 GMC Yukon. This tool worked great for that purpose. That is where the tool stops being a future winner. i have had this tool for over a year now and still have not seen any tool updates that would correct the numerous issues that i have passed on to tech support personnel. The print capture program in the software does not work properly. If you own a computer with Win7 64bit your out of luck getting software to install. Autoxray will tell you to go to the Actron site and load the 64 bit usb drivers from there and use them. Ya right, still no install. I work with computers and will tell you the install package never installs the programs in the correct folder in Win7 64 bit to work. As for tech support, these poor guys cringe when you call for help. They can only answer simple questions. As for SPX, they should be ashamed of their customer service and support for this tool. This tool is obsolete and i would not recommend it to anyone who is looking to the future. When i find a resonable tool to replace this piece of crap, then look for my tool on e-bay.
Summary is as follows:
Good for scanning on most OBD-II vehicles
PID data cannot always be trusted
Forget getting a could print capture
Forget getting it to run on 64 bit windows machines
SPX does not give a crap about supporting this tool
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