[newuser22]

I'm replacing my Airbag control unit and need to diagnose faulty transmission, specifically torque converter. Is there an OBD scanner on the market in $200-350 range that's capable of clearing aibag light codes and diagnosing transmission? Any advantages in having a bidirectional scanner? I'm not a pro. I follow youtube videos and forums. I can't find any specific info on obd2 scanners and crv torque converter. One scanner i looked at by Autel review doesn't mention transmission diagnostic or anything in detail.

 

[newuser22]

While I can not promise this will be the answer, my experience is that returns are painless and simple, just a dropoff to local Whole Foods or Kohls store and the refund shows up instantly.

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT510 Elite OBD2 Scanner fit for Honda Acura All Systems All Maintenance Service Bidirectional Diagnostic Scan Tool Automotive Code Reader ABS Bleed SRS Airbag SAS TPMS TPS EPB Oil Reset CKP : Automotive

Buy FOXWELL NT510 Elite OBD2 Scanner fit for Honda Acura All Systems All Maintenance Service Bidirectional Diagnostic Scan Tool Automotive Code Reader ABS Bleed SRS Airbag SAS TPMS TPS EPB Oil Reset CKP: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

It's cheaper than a similar Autel i looked at. Bidirectional which i read is good to have but i'm not sure i'll ever use that function. Lifetime update. Small screen but as long as i can output to a PC should be good. How's their customer service? I'd want to keep it if it does what i need it to do. ...just noticed it's only limited to Honda/acura
I need something universal.

 

[newuser22]

IMHO, I’d buy a scan tool that advertises “all systems” and “bidirectional control”. The more modern the car is, the more computers there are in the car, the more benefit you gain from a higher end scan tool.

Other than Foxwell, there is also XTOOL and ThinkCar that are offering all systems, bidirectional tools in the $300-$500 range.

I've looked at those brands. I remember many advertising "all systems" but some reviews said they failed to scan certain modules which were advertised. I don't know if i'll ever be able to afford a new car again and if i will, i want electric. I don't know if any of these scanners are compatible with EV. I can't plan long term.

 

[newuser22]

I think the saying goes “The only scan tool that does everything is the factory scan tool.”

Last I checked, the Honda I-HDS system needed a laptop, a $1500 Denso VCI, and a $30/day software use subscription.

Expensive. If i was married to honda and had a garage at home, or a home. Is there a less portable solution like an interface that connects to a laptop that's more capable than portable expensive scanners? But then $30/day subscription is not an option for me. If maybe somehow i could get free software.

 

[newuser22]

You are dreaming if you think you can reset SRS module or find free software, and you never replied in your other post as to how high were the flood waters, the impact sensors by the bumpers probably, since any other sensors are dash and upper seat level. Replace the lower sensors and reset the airbag module properly.

Instead of chasing obdii scanners for $200-350 spend the $95.🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

Take it to the dealer to verify which sensors are triggered, otherwise you will just trigger the new SRS unit.

Front impact sensors $25 x 2.
77930-T0A-A11 - Genuine Honda Sensor Assy,Front (hondapartsnow.com)

SRS $511 from the dealer
77960-T0A-A11 - Genuine Honda SRS Unit (hondapartsnow.com)

Water level was just above the airbag control unit. I don't think/know if any of sensors are damaged. I already bought a brand new unit from the local dealer. I found one online for $480 and asked to pricematch. I asked the dealer if the control unit is VIN specific. Dealer said it's not. I just want to install and clear the airbag light and what ever else codes need to be cleared when installing new replacement unit. Dealer charges $140/hr for anything computer related diag.

 

[newuser22]

I doubt any consumer can buy a scanner that will clear critical safety codes such as airbags. Too much opportunity in the used vehicle market for abuse... selling vehicles with defective SRS systems in them simply because the seller can remove the codes.

Same can apply to any component, not only airbag. So you're saying there's no scanner on the market in that price range for non-pros that's capable of clearing SRS codes and diagnosing transmission faulty torque converter?

 

[newuser22]

For SRS no, for trans or torque converter maybe yes. If the transmission was flooded how to you propose to trouble shoot, the wiring and controls are shorted out, you are not going to reset anything. How about the AC compressor and alternator, are they flooded as well?

No, trans wasn't flooded. Car is fully functional. Faulty TC is pre-existing condition. I need to diagnose and get codes first before i can do anything. TC and transmission have nothing to do with the flooded airbag control unit. I just need a scanner that's capable of diagnosing. I'm new to expensive scanners or more expensive than a BT dongle and torque pro app.

Sorry, I missed the background story since there appears to have been another post that I did not read.

Have you made the diagnosis that your SRS module is bad or is that a “best guess”?

I can see a scenario where you replace the $480 SRS module, clear the code, and the airbag light comes right back on. You clear the code again, and the light comes right back on again… because the actual problem was not the module itself.

The SRS self checks every component for faults every time the car is turned on. Any scanner you buy, whether it be a $350 scanner or a $16,000 Snap on scanner or the i-HDS will not turn off the airbag light if the actual problem is not fixed.

It's likely the module. It got flooded. I opened it up and visually inspected. Everything was intact but when i reconnected (dry, not wet) i smelled slight burning odor. I'm not a pro i don't understand how it can't be water proof. No matter what got damaged besides the SRS module, it had to be removed and replaced. Airbag light came on after the floor while the module was still connected. Someone advised not to drive with a damaged SRS module because it can accidentally trigger airbags. I removed it. When i went to a dealer to get a quote service advisor said it wasn't necessary to remove the module. She never heard of accidental bag deployment.

I want some kind of scanner that can at least read SRS fault codes so i at least know what needs to be fixed. If such scanner exists in my price range $200-350.

 

[newuser22]

Do you really know what you are doing. How high was the water inside the car. If the trans wasn't flooded, how would the airbag module be flooded. Its under the shifter console, which is higher than the transmission. Just drive it with the SRS red light.

I think i do. SRS module is right where you said it is but on the floor. '14 crv. SRS light means there's a fault. It's my first time replacing this module. I don't know if after installing brand new module it'll initialize and clear itself or if the light stays on i'll buy a scanner that can read SRS codes. My only concern is bags need to deploy in case of an accident.

 

[newuser22]

From the above link, how to initialize ODS

A new (uninitialized) ODS unit installed with a faulty OPDS sensor (DTC 86-1x or 86-2x) can cause DTCs 85-71 and 85-78. If the SRS has a hard DTC 86-1x or 86-2x, troubleshoot the DTCs completely before replacing the ODS unit.

Thanks. Looking at it now.

 

[newuser22]

Correct. SRS is a critical safety system, so it makes complete sense that it requires licensed professionals to alter them (including erasing codes), repair them, etc. Does not mean you cannot find some unlicensed person to do it for you, just that you are breaking the law by doing so. But hey... your SRS, your risks.

Many other Honda specific codes and code clears are available in higher end scanners. People just need to do a little research and they can find plenty to choose from. Personally, I use BlueDriver.

I've heard of BD. I don't think it's high end. I think it requires subscription? If so, it can get very expensive. That's why i want to spend around $300 +/- with free lifetime updates. Which means it won't run on outdated android 7-10, may not be touch screen or have wireless bt dongle.

 

[newuser22]

The uninformed consumer can be their own worst advisor.

BlueDriver

BlueDriver is the easiest way to scan and understand your vehicle, all from your driveway.

us.bluedriver.com

- BlueDriver does NOT require a subscription.

- BlueDriver does include Honda specific OBDII codes (and many other brands specific codes as well)

- BlueDriver includes lifetime free firmware updates.

- You can, unlike some other OBDII readers, use it on multiple vehicles, and access brand specific codes of each vehicle, AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE

- Retail price on BlueDriver is ~ $120 as of this posting.

Good luck with whatever choice you decide to pursue.

Do you find bluetooth connection fast enough for some data? If it can give me transmission/torque converter fault codes and SRS codes i'll try it.

 

[newuser22]

+ 1, I've been using BlueDriver for 6 years and use it far more often than my much more expensive scanners. Best bang for your buck out there.

I assume it's not compatible with any other mobile apps like Torque pro?

 

[newuser22]

I purchased a Foxwell NT650 Elite. My wife's 2012 CRV AWD had a throttle body needing to be reset. This is a two way device and there is a 10% coupon if you purchase through Foxwell. It quickly read all the data on the 2012 CRV and noted the position of the throttle body. I reset it using this device and it was easy as pie. Also checked out all other systems to make sure everything else was ok.

Also used it on my 2015 F150 that had an airbag trouble light show up. I hooked it up and pulled two codes, tool a picture and brought it to my Ford dealer. They got the same exact error code and repaired it. Bottom line this is a quality two way device that easily can determine any problems. It is not the top but does many functions.

Foxwell NT650 Elite OBD2 Automotive Diagnostic Scanner Updated Version of NT630 & NT630 Plus

Foxwell NT650 Elite Is Upgrade Version Of NT630 & NT630 Plus. Note:Foxwell NT650 Elite doesn't support control module coding and programming.Foxwell NT650 Elite doesn't support key programming. Foxwell NT650 Elite supports abs system and srs/airbag system diagnosis. Benefits and Features of...

www.foxwelldiag.com

It doesn't seem to diagnose transmission, other than some limited CVT function.

 

[newuser22]

While I can not promise this will be the answer, my experience is that returns are painless and simple, just a dropoff to local Whole Foods or Kohls store and the refund shows up instantly.

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT510 Elite OBD2 Scanner fit for Honda Acura All Systems All Maintenance Service Bidirectional Diagnostic Scan Tool Automotive Code Reader ABS Bleed SRS Airbag SAS TPMS TPS EPB Oil Reset CKP : Automotive

Buy FOXWELL NT510 Elite OBD2 Scanner fit for Honda Acura All Systems All Maintenance Service Bidirectional Diagnostic Scan Tool Automotive Code Reader ABS Bleed SRS Airbag SAS TPMS TPS EPB Oil Reset CKP: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

I contacted foxwell about this model. It won't do what i need but they recommended Foxwell NT530 OE-Level & Bi-Directional Scanner Upgraded Version Of NT510 Elite & NT520 Pro
It should do everything i need to do and is less than i wanted to spend. I'll give it a try.

I wouldnt have thought that it would be such a problem finding a scanner that can do SRS. If there was some false advertising on some of the larger market brands (such as snap on, Autel or launch), I would have thought that there would be plenty of internet angst and anger. I’d say Foxwell has been around for a decent amount of time now too. However, Thinkcar and xtool are relatively new brands (And thus they seem to be trying to compete in the market base on price).

Were you looking for hands on experience with a particular scanner? I can say that the Launch x431 Diagun IV can do SRS, I can say that an Autel S509 can not. Both are older models that are no longer made.

I'm just looking for something reputable reliable that can also do SRS and Trans (torque converter). Not familiar with any brands. Just learning now.

 

[newuser22]

Why not the newest version for about the same price.

2022 Newest FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS,Check Engine Code Reader with Airbag Scanner, Transmission

Funny how you eventually came back to the first reply from @hondo in reply #2.

Do us a favor and give a review of it when you use it.

I've decided on Foxwell NT680 Pro Automaster Pro Scanner All-System Diagnosis With 26+ Special Service Functions Updated Version of NT644 Elite It's ALL SYSTEMS and lifetime updates. It's not bi-directional and doesn't do active tests but after reading reviews for different bi- tools, not all functions are available for all makes and models, and probably same for active tests. I don't even know if i'll ever reach bi-directional and active test skill levels. I'm a youtube/as needed mechanic. Step by step instructional video and whatever i can do without causing too much harm to myself and car. I should have it on june 4th. Coming directly from china. $323.10 no tax. I didn't even see this model on amazon sold directly by the manufacturer at this price. It's my first expensive scan tool. 530 is not all systems and only one free brand. Up to 30-40 brands can be loaded but that would be very expensive for a limited capability tool. If i want to load more it's around $60-80/brand. I like to help people if i have a good scanner and they have other brands cars i'll scan them for free.

BTW i installed a brand new SRS control unit. Airbag light went away. I just need to scan for fault codes if there are any. Then i'll do transmission/TC and then a full scan. Will update as i use it. I can do a full scan and upload or screenshot in PC and upload here for all to see what it does for '14 crv.

 

[newuser22]

Just wanted to update when i was inquiring about their scanners they replied fairly quickly. Once ordered and received, support is dead. I asked if i can have the scanner connected while driving. Other questions about transmission. I ran a scan. No fault codes for transmission. I know something's wrong with TC. I can't figure out how to make saved data appear in their app. The manual says printing is possible. If i remove the sd card and put it in PC it's just text which doesn't make sense until it goes through their windows app. May as well go for a cheaper bluetooth reader/scanner and a mobile device. I think this model is overrated. Also very bulky.