[roadtraveler]

Good evening,
I have an 2012 chevy express cargo van 4.8L and I noticed many are using the ELM327 scan tool. I prefer using windows instead of android phone but if need be I’ll go to the android version. I like the ELM platform as I have used it on my 97 Lincoln towncar with forscan. I know forscan will not work for my chevy van. Question is, which ELM327 for USB adapter is best in your opinion? Also, what software will work best for windows USB option. I have noticed many folks are using the torque pro software. I failed emissions and desperately need a decent scan tool.
I like using a windows based laptop usb adapter with hopefully free software which is what the ELM327 provides. The problem is many are clones and the chips are not authentic causing error in the diagnostics .I did see one called the totalcardiagnosticsELM327 which they use their own software and claim their chips are authentic and not clones. Anyone have this one? If anyone can advise on this if they have something similar they had luck with please help.

 

[thegawd]

windows sucks the big one! the lates update has screwed my computer so that it will no longer go to sleep on it's own. I have to force it to sleep. I've been through the troubleshooting steps to show what's keeping it awake and have disabled them. its windows! overrides the screensaver/sleep functions and never goes to sleep! I've fixed this bullshit 3 friggen times! I've turned off windows update and I guess I should try rolling back to the last update that worked. I friggin hate window! screw you bill gates!

heres what I use.... man keep windows away from your truck! it was less than $20 and appears legit. always works flawlessly.


Al

 

[RayVoy]

Typed this yesterday and I guess don't hit the post button

I think torque pro is in the windows store. Chances are whatever hardware you pick, there will be an app in the windows store.

 

[Furious]

This is what is in my scanner collection so far, I need to get a higher end scan tool eventually.

Autel AutoLink AL329

Vgate Scan Bluetooth OBDII adapter, I use the Piston app on android. It is the same scanner as @thegawd just different re-brand. Cost me like $15 if I remember correctly had it for many years now.

 

[exekutive]

get a bluedriver. Its affordable and light years ahead

 

[ElderMetty]

Hey! I'm new here, but I would like to chime in. One option to consider is the Vgate iCar Pro Bluetooth 4.0 OBDII adapter. This adapter is compatible with Windows and Android devices and works with various diagnostic software options.
Another option is the BAFX Products Bluetooth OBDII Scan Tool. This adapter is compatible with Windows and Android devices and works with various diagnostic software options. It also works great with ocr like Smart Engines. I hope that helps!

 

[IanF]

I use both a clone ELM327 and a VXDIAG NANO. The ELM is only a bluetooth scanner (read Only and code clear) and The VXDIAG is a Tech !! clone with many options for very little money. The VXDiag is a USB to Windows bidirectional device that allows you to run many tests and software reloads just like the dealerships do.