I have a 2001 RX300 with 198k. Runs great. RWD only replaced trans fluid one time with Mobil 1 full syn. Had several minor issues along the way which is common. Both valve cover gaskets, cracked radiator ,airflow damper motors changed twice, antenna plastic cord with teeth replaced, Master door window switch, two sensors under intake manifold replaced knock sensors, 1 VVT solenoid for variable timing, oxygen sensors and regular timing belt and water pump replacement at 90k. All these seem to be typical here and i did most myself. My son drives it now. We also have a 2010 Rx350 with 98k and it have been trouble free. And we have two Corollas. Sorry for the long essay but the question is......

What is a good diagnostic code reader that i can use on the 2001 RX and the RX350. also my two Corollas. There seems to be 100`s out there and i don't know the differences in-between. I don't know how i got by this long without one. I was in a bind and a Goodyear dealership today charged me $360 to replace one VVT solenoid i could have done myself. And no, i hate going to Autozone for them to check. Please any recommendations on a good one under or around $80 and why get a $20 one,or what are the differences.

 

I like the BlueDriver a lot:

Some members here use the Torque app and a compatible OBDII reader. It is cheaper than the BlueDriver.
https://torque-bhp.com/wiki/Main_Page

 

Thanks. Saw that one. Looks pretty good!

 

Try eBay and purchase an "INNOVA 3150b" OBDII or later model. I have two of them and they work just fine and easy to use. Cost is around $100.00. Good luck, EJ Dossary, EE

 

It was mandated that vehicles be equipped with OBDII readers in '96 [onwards]. Many manufacturers had their own propriatorey readers before that time and Lexus [Toyota] had their systems in place too. OBDII standards required some [not all] conditions be reported via OBDII. So that allowed the manufacturers to maintain their proprietary protocols and slowly introduce more and more reporting through OBDII port. That also inducted a line of enhanced readers from OBDII reader manufacturer.

At this time there are basic readers and enhanced readers in the market. So as you go through the selection process make sure you get the right reader. Do keep in mind that some readers may allow you to change some settings which may come to haunt you. So be careful as you use these advanced readers.

I am going on a limb here ... for most users, I would suggest get the dumb reader as that will prevent you from making inadvertent changes. Buyers be ware would be my general advice.

Salim

 

I got an Icarsoft's Toyota version a few years ago and think I paid $250 for it.
Has built in display and is not bluetooth.
It's ok but am looking forward to see what others are using.

PS- this was a good purchase on ebay and worth the $ for using handheld style scanner- extends the cable for scanners so it can reach under the hood! Awesome!