Autel MaxiScan MS409 Money well spent- er saved that is

Picked this code reader for it gives a brief narrative discription of what's wrong with which system- generalized information but good to know when you have no reference materials available to look up a code... The last time I needed to know what a code number was indicating was on a Dodge van when I was back deep in the NC mountains. Drove that van 400 miles home before I knew what the code indicated. That van blinks out code numbers.

Received this device yesterday. Read the code on a Lincoln/Ford product with the "service engine soon" light on last night, then, did some research on the Internet last night and looked at a DVD factory service manual I have for the vehicle... Picked up a $32.00 EGR pressure sensor at Auto Zone, installed it, cleared the code from the car's computer and now the vehicle is back in business running properly without the service engine soon light lit up.

Around here, would likely have spent significantly more for someone competent to fix the car for me than I spent on this code reader and the part. Can figure on $100 minimum at a dealership even with no overpriced parts... Am giving it five stars for it suits me just fine. It's sturdy/not cheap looking with a good nylon carry case and a USB cable for updates via the Internet. When I take that vehicle out of town next time, this device will likely be on board. May just keep it in the vehicle.

Harbor Freight tools sells an identical code reader for $100. (their regular, non sale price- saw it marked at $90 in a local HF store one day). So, the $80 I paid must be about right/reasonable for this unit. Folks that have a little know how under the hood would likely benifit from a code reader. They start around $40 for the cheaper models it looks like. Where I live, many repair shops will price gouge people that just don't know...