Does anyone know where I can find an inexpensive code scanner for a 2002 Maxima? If not can codes be read with a light or multimeter?

 

I bought one from Autozone for 100 bucks or 150 I can't remember but anyway I returned it the next day the guy at the counter said you can't return this I was like **** off this thing doesn't work on my 96 Alfa Romeo hahahaha (I don't have an alfa)

 

Inexpensive is relative, but if you have a laptop or PDA you're better off purchasing something like OBDScan (http://www.ghg.net/dharrison/obdscan.html) than one of the all-in-one handheld units such as the Actron scan tool that your local parts store might carry. The laptop/PDA-based tools are far more flexible and do a lot more than just return the error codes and reset the light.

 

Linky no worky, but hooking a laptop up to one's car is definitely a lot cooler than the handheld devices Even hooking it up to a PDA is cooler!

 

Yeah hooking up to a laptop would be nice but for $400 I could do without. Right now I just want to be able to scan for any codes when light comes on.

 

Ooops. Fixed the link -- sorry 'bout that (left off the trailing 'l')

 

I'm not sure where you came up with $400, but the tool I linked too is as inexpensive as $117 shipped and is actually cheaper than the held-held units.

 

I got a kit from scantool.net, but if you are not into building your own electronics you can get a pre built one for $85 with the cables. Reads the error codes and sensor data.

http://www.scantool.net/elmscan_iso.htm

 

Both sears and harbor freight sell them for under 50 bucks.

Or just go to Autozone and have it done free.

 

"Both sears and harbor freight sell them for under 50 bucks."

Any chance you could list the part# I looked at both and had no luck finding one cheap that said it will read 2002 codes.

Also Stephen the Scantool doesn't list a 2002 compatibility deos it still work on one?

 

The Harbor Freight one doesn't specify if it does 2002, but it does say 96 or newer.

Harbor Freight

Same story on Sears....no details but I'd assume it works

sears


They have some higher end ones too

 

Yeah the one at harbor freight says its for 96 with a 16 pin diagnostic socket for OBDII protocols SAEJI850 PWM, SAE JI850 VPW, ISO 9 141-2.

I guess now I have to see if the 2002 uses one of these. Thanks for help.

 

Your 2002 uses ISO-9141 like most asian and european autos. If you do purchase one let us know how it works. Harbor Freight is one of those places where you need to be careful what you buy. Some items work pretty well even though the prices are rock bottom, but other items are nothing but junk.