Every Vehicle Owner Needs One Of These! Empower Yourself With Information About Your Car/Truck!

[@MrSubaru1387]

TopDon Topscan $54 Black Friday Deal - amzn.to/3ZlK0NC GearWrench Smart BT Pro $122 - amzn.to/3Z6JmCf

[@happycamper137]

Yep, and I do believe every car with a computer should be able to give you the info of what's wrong. Why? Because you paid for it!! It will also help to protect the consumer from bad mechanics.

[@MrChris37280]

Every car does give you this information. If you wanna know what it is then buy the tool. If you want to know what to do with that information then get the skills. Codes don’t tell you what’s wrong or how to fix the vehicle.

[@jptrainor]

The all support generic OBDII so any cheap scanner will give you the basic codes.

[@harveyadams5453]

Beware of people on the internet trying to pretend that they know what they're talking about and they don't... GM got rid of Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Saturn... And others to take the money and reinvest it into other things primarily adventures overseas.. it had nothing to do with sales.. NGM was never going bankrupt.. that was a ploy to get from out under the UAW contracts

[@djb1634]

Are you implying that this information isn’t available? If so you are wrong. All the information is available. Technically all of the raw voltage is available to anyone with a volt meter. It sounds more like you want someone to interpret the information for you for free, which is not going to happen. You can take the time and learn it yourself, you can trust a random forum user, or you can pay someone to do it.

[@decdragon]

Right to Repair isn't a law in the majority of US

[@Fingerprintguy]

This week my 2019 outback lit up the dash. Pulled out my elcheapo OBD2 reader and pulled a code. Drilled down the issue to ABS. looked at my abs unit and found a loose ground. Cleaned it and tightened the screw. Lights went out, and I was back on the road with $0 spent

[@kenweller2032]

Outstanding!!! I intend to do regular, 30k CVT fluid changes on my 2020 Forester. I watched your very informative video on the subject but winced at needing a $500 scan tool. This Gearwrench looks like just the ticket. So glad I joined your channel!

[@aldepcs]

You don't need any scan tool for the CVT fluid change. Only if you plan to change valve body or other major repairs.

[@dangleason2433]

Bought the 149.00 gearwrench for 123.00 on amazon my first new scan tool since 1995. Ive owned 30+ autos and my advice buy old toyota and Subaru low miles cars. Thanks for the great videos.

[@pauljennings4248]

I agree we need the scan tools. I own a large one. One of my sons had some major problems with his vehicles so I bought it. I also have 2 Subaru's and a handicap mini van that I try to do as much as I can to repair them. Thanks for keeping us informed.

[@grandtheftavocado]

Saved this video for the future. I have a 2012 Outback and changed the CTV fluid at 60k and will continue to change every 30k. If I need a valve body or new torque converter, I'll grab one of these. I have a cheapo $10 scan tool that still gives me the CVT transmission temp for a fluid change.

[@donguaren]

Hi, do You have the link to that scan tool? I have the cheap Bluetooth dongle (the blue one, most common) but it doesn't get into from the cvt

[@Abucody]

Another free and beautiful information from Mr. Subaru. Thank you Mr. Subaru.

[@m3rdpwr]

I bought the topdon during prime Day, because I recently bought an Outback touring XT. Makes me wish I had waited for the new gear wrench, as it does the CVT learning. My 2014 ram 1500 had a problem with the air suspension, the deal quite me $4,800. I went out and bought the MX+, plus alpha ODB for a total of about $160. It told me there was a bad temperature sensor in the air pump. I spent $40 on the new sensor and it fixed my problem. So for $200 I fixed my air suspension, not including the dealer charging me $180 diagnostic fee.

[@ElectroAtletico]

Preach!!! Amen to everything you say. I have the Launch Creader Elite v2.0 (Toyota specific). Got it on sale for $130. The only drawback, and this is not a deal breaker whatsoever, it lacks Bluetooth thus I have to use a dongle. No biggie.

[@rickhansen1753]

Dude. You hit the nail right on the head. I see posts like what you described all the time. A basic code reader is a must have for any car owner these days. Even the $20 units that are just code readers and not bidirectional. A lot of people don't realize that when they get a check engine light, they may not be able to go to auto parts store without a tow. The days of relying on the dealer or on the auto parts store to read codes should be over. People need to do this themselves.

[@markevans506]

Oh boy!! I’ve seen LR time use a similar system with their phones with their Landrovers. I am so glad we have similar here. Thank you for creating a video around this. You just sold two products!

[@OnkelPHMagee]

Mr. Satellite, to figure out what my 1970 Plymouth is doing, there's no substitute for a good Ouija board. 🤣

[@chynaman04]

Have both…. Definitely prefer the gearwrench one if affordable.

[@swkohnle08]

Great Video. I think that even if you don't DIY your service and let the dealer or independent shop service your vehicle, knowledge is power. You should have one of these to verify why a particular warning light is on. When you take it in for service, you can tell the service tech what code you saw and they can begin diagnostics.

[@ScottPlude]

I just picked up a TPMS relearn tool. I needed new sensors and the tire shop replaced them but (they are idiots) now they can't pair the sensors to my car. After learning that the relearn needs to be done after tire rotation as well, I figured I should own the tool. So yeah, the average car owner needs to own at least the code reader but I would also suggest the DIYer pick up the TPMS tool as well.

[@toma5153]

Scott, do you have a recommendation on the TPMS relearn tool?

[@J.R.F.23]

Thank you for posting this! Based on the included lifetime software updates I just ordered the GearWrench Professional for 123.36 off AMZ…

[@craigburns7618]

We just need a world 🌎 wide E M P 🎉🎉🎉 Bring everything back to simpler times 😊🎉🎉🎉

[@brianzimmer5532]

That’s why my second car is a 68 Beetle. No computers, no radiators, very little to go wrong!

[@xnihilo64]

@@brianzimmer5532 When the Big One drops, all that will be running are cockroaches and VW Beetles.

[@brianzimmer5532]

@ yep!

[@alwayslearning8365]

I have a scan tool as it saves time. I can usually track down an issue myself through a process of elimination, but a scan tool can find the issue in a couple of minutes.

[@yevgeniynosov778]

I know what I want for Christmas 😊

[@projectmustardseed857]

Thank you for sharing, I have learned to trust your opinions. Finding Mr. SUBARU on KZbin helps keep mechanics honest. You are the go to guy.... even if you are relying on the dealerships for service. You are not taking business form SUBARU dealers you are encouraging them to treat their customers with respect. The auto industry is no longer a after market grease monkey hands-on try this or try that, cars are too complex and expensive with too many proprietary third party systems that sometimes only dealerships can get help with.

[@happycamper137]

I just bought the pro version of Amazon for 120 dollars. Thank you for the info, as always very helpful!!

[@bruanne6367]

I bought 3 of those type thing a few years ago and they have helped my kids and I diagnose codes perfectly, I bought $10 ones and they did the job, mind you they don’t do the cvt stuff

[@goodmorninggilw2836]

Hellya, the "smart" car computer should not only give you the codes on the fancy screen, but what they mean. Short of that, I agree about the code reader.

[@lazlonemeth9931]

Great tool for buying a used car also.

[@decdragon]

Wish I knew this video was coming out before purchasing my Topdon scan tool. Would have saved $150

[@SamAtman7]

The gearwrench bi-directional scantool is $116.99 at summit racing right now. (11/24/24)

[@StephenKirker]

I bought a non bt one some time ago. Absolutely must have - I diagnosed a failed oxygen sensor on my Forester with it and was able to monitor coolant temperature on my wife's Renault when we had an issue with that. I've used it to reset warning lights on other cars too. It would be great if manufacturers did integrate diagnostic information into the MFD. Unlikely! Maybe a business opportunity for the tech savvy creating a pathway plug in for OEM systems to do that.

[@Dakiraun]

As per your ask, yeah, I think it should be something that is included with cars, but... also to your point, yeah, they're very unlikely to ever do that because they don't want you fixing it. I did find a way to get codes though on a 2003 Dodge Dakota I once had: If you put the key in and then, three times, turned the key to power/acc mode and back (not all the way on) within 5 seconds, the transmission gear display would then show whatever codes were stored. You are SO right though; without a scan tool you are blind to what's going on in the car. Even a basic one at least gives _some_ idea of codes being tripped, and they're so cheap today, everyone should have one. Heck, you can even get bluetooth dongles and there is free, open-source software out there to do it. The problem I run into a lot of the time when I try to tell people this is not the cost though, it's apathy. Most people just say 'eh, I'll just take it to the dealer/mechanic". Sad.

[@patriot3431]

I have an Actron CP9690 for my OBD1 94’ Oldsmobile and Autel MK808BT pro for my daughter’s 19’ Outback with the EPB.

[@RobertLupo]

I think many of us would love to see a video on which code readers read CVT temp. I have contacted several companies and many of them were not sure what their readers really read. I understand these two do read temp, but are their other reasonably priced readers that do? For many of us this is probably the only real data we need from a reader. Tks for another great video.

[@jeffdiggs6318]

I've had the Blue Driver dongle for a few years now, and find out very useful. Bought an Innova as an upgrade... :-) Having said that, yes, this would help vehicle owners, today. HOWEVER... You can't fix 'stupid'. Since will submit not grasp what the tool is trying to relay. It will be no better than an idiot light to them and they'll need to call a friend for help. Or... They'll just reset the code and continue to ignore a potential issue.

[@darrylpoovey9125]

Just ordered the Gearwrench dongle. Might get it before the year is over!

[@JP-hr3xq]

I've had a bluetooth dongle on my Subaru for 8 years. And an Android head unit I can run Torque on. It's alerted me to high coolant temps on a bunch of occasions now. (Subaru's temp gauge doesn't go above the middle until it's way too late for some reason). And the app has a scan function for standard OBD2 codes which it will actually read out to you in a robotic voice if it finds something. It's really neat. But the best bit is that I can create custom gauges for all sorts of things like boost pressure, fuel consumption, coolant temp, air fuel ratio, etc.

[@happytrails7179]

Another awesome video!!

[@wylde780]

Mr Subaru, What would you recommend for odb2 devices that will allow me to alter the settings of my 2024 Outback every time I restart? For example, I want to disable the driver monitoring system and enable auto vehicle hold. I'm sick and tired of my settings being reverted to defaults every time I restart my car. Any guidance would be appreciated.

[@stuartsmith5146]

09 OBW XT, 1800 mi road trip and the engine light comes on crippling autonomy with Christmas on my dashboard. $40 trip to Oreiley’s and I found I had temp sensor issue. Reset it, made it home, took care of issue. ✔️

[@JenniLudes]

I've got an older reader...should probably update it as it's missing some modules. Yes, the manufacturer should include the reader in their software. I mean, they've all got big displays they could use to show the codes and whatever detail. Would be a nice sales tool for them...and could also be helpful to their own mechanics. Heck, I'd even pay a little extra for it (within reason...though I hate subscription models for data). But either I'm totally clueless or looking in the wrong place, but I can't find the links to the products. Links to your Amazon store, etc but those haven't been updated in a long time. Thanks for all you do for us crazy subie nuts!

[@DanielThomas-q5w]

My next car is a 50's vintage chevy. sit in the engine bay to work on it.

[@Becca-k4h]

I have a Blue Driver that works well. Also, my 05 Outback has a way to pull up the codes in the display.

[@moomae1]

Cars are basically subscriptions now. I may just lease for the rest of my life, if I must have a car.

[@BIG_CHEVY_BOWSKIE_MIKE]

I have the old school code reader that allows me to emission delete my Duramax LOL

[@turtle1723]

With every car having a computer and monitor a built-in diagnostic tool should come as standard equipment.

[@JP-hr3xq]

Right?

[@tpaktop2_1na]

I would like to see a video about the TPMS on Subarus on FYI, tips etc.

[@manhoot]

Great vid

[@andrewsherman2398]

Warning lights don't always mean there's a problem with the vehicle sometimes the only "problem"is a bad sensor I've known people that drove their cars with those lights on the dashboard forever running just fine they're called idiot lights because only an idiot pays to fix something that isn't broken

[@DW-HOOB]

Scan tool is a must. I’ve got a 19 Impreza. I get a rough idle when in D and brake is pressed. I thought vacuum booster but I don’t hear a leak, I haven’t smoke tested yet. The roughness stops in park/neutral, it also stops when foot is off break in D with e-brake engaged. The weird thing is looking at the data, my ignition advance is 6 deg in D and N, but when the brake is depressed I drop down to 2 deg. I thought 6 deg was low and 2 is definitely low. Could it be timing and or brake booster vacuum leak? Also, besides the rough idle while the brake is pressed, the brake feels normal.

[@VoodooZ]

I agree. humanity is getting dumber.. I find doubting everything/everybody helps protecet yourself. Just read up or pay up... I got the bluedriver BT one and it helps avoid stupid swap changes and keeping an eye on your car's vitals.

[@CemeterySaint786]

Hey MrSubaru, can you do a demo or short video on the Gearwrench GWSMARTBT? More specifically the CVT relearn function. I would like to know if it's on par with the TOPDON scan tools.

[@sw7366]

I keep a reader and old phone in each vehicle for diagnosis purposes.

[@scottrhoades9056]

Mr. Subaru, what device would you recommend for resetting the TPMS on Subies? Thanks, this is a great channel!

[@jp2246]

I'm assuming the GW will do CVT temp as well? If so, it's on my radar as I need to upgrade my existing basic device

[@HouseCallAutoRepair]

Having and learning to use these definitely has become a requirement!

[@FacilitiesDIY]

You sold it for me. The one thing I needed was a scan bit like this that I could service my Subaru CVT with and would you look at that.

[@donho3617]

Codes do not tell you what is wrong. The code guides you to the system that is having a problem and then you diagnose the problem. A bad ground, the green crusties, and a defective sensor can give you the same code. A scan tool is just one of the tools you need along with a DVOM, a test light, and a wiring diagram. I have had too many people bring me their vehicle after they scanned the car and replaced the part the code corresponded to only to not fix their vehicle. Those problems are usually wiring issues of a bad ground or a power issue. Bi-directional is a great feature to have to speed up the diagnosis, but it comes down to the basics and a visual inspection.

[@thomaswilding8818]

Confirm topscan does not do cvt relearn. Bought it for that and no. Has a throttle relearn option, but only brings up instructions for doing it manually. Still an extremely good tool for everything else.

[@gregb8153]

Have you ever heard of a piece of test equipment similar to the COBB unit that you can plug in and be able to just read some various engine parameters?

[@darkfalcon75]

4.14 there car that will give you the codes. Just with simp,e key trix. Like dodge have those build in system and I show u how to get codes from car that have this build in obd2 codes system.

[@CrazyCat229]

The only problem is what to do with that information. Just because you are pulling the code using a code reader, doesn't mean replacing the part the code reflects will fix the car. You can throw parts at the car only pulling codes.

[@DonaldRosane]

What do think of fixed diagnostic device

[@KonmanxX]

Also the codes don't tell you the problem, just because you have codes for a o2 sensor, that does NOT mean throw 3 sensors at it then complain online that it's not working still

[@alemoska]

Great video, is there any device that fits the Subaru Legacy Outback 1998 4x4 2.5

[@evanlarson9427]

I had the valve body replaced on my 14 forested - would you please explain more what kind of monitoring you would recommend for CVTs using a tool like this?

[@Mike_44]

The fact we now need a scanning tool just for replacing rear brake pads on our cars.. 🤦🏻‍♂️ I miss the good old days of mid ‘90s-mid ‘00s jdm vehicles.

[@donaldgeorge6656]

Will they cause any problems with the ECM ? Can you keep It plug in?

[@bennylloyd-willner9667]

Shouldn't be any other problems than they may drain the battery if left for a long time. Some dongles have a battery saving festure that let them sleep when ignition is off. I just ordered a Vgate vLinker MS Bluetooth that I'm gonna pair with a cheap tablet and Torque.

[@TheMongoose69]

And on the idea of carburetors and distributors would you have any idea on where to get ahold of any heads for a ea81 or an 83 I have an 83 GL that I'm trying to get back on the road and both the heads are well or they're cracked

[@ConnorDobbins]

I have a 2010 Subaru Outback 3.6r. And currently I have not been able to fine a scan tool or companion app that can read off my transmission temperature or any transmission data. It seems to be a different Subaru specific code set. Do you know of any relatively inexpensive scan tool that can present that info?

[@JamesSymmonds]

I've had the Scangauge III on my wishlist for a while just for having the added "gauges" for stuff like temps. These in the video will do the same, more, less? Just lacking their own screen like Scangauge would have?

[@journeymancellist9247]

Ok, I need to be careful about fluid in my new Crosstrek. Which item will be help me monitor fluid problems?

[@murtoasumpoiler]

How about blue driver scan tool?

[@PaulStAmour-ws9ch]

Yes, OBD reader is indispensable. But another problem is getting access to factory service manuals. I've got a 22 Outback and want to do my own work, but haven't been able to find an affordable manual yet. In the past I've used Haynes manuals, Chiltons manuals, and pdfs of service manuals made available on Ebay. Any idea how long we need to wait until affordable service manuals come on the market?

[@8145dwerdna]

Can the gear wrench ones do abs modulation for bleeding?

[@louiscali8617]

So many manufacturers, Subaru included, that are using apps with their cars that obviously receive detailed information from the vehicles including errors but only provide a 'take it to your dealer' option with nothing on the actual error code. Why can't they push out the error codes into these apps under a further detail option?

[@Wearephuct-O]

I found that the codes don't accurately tell you what the problem actually is. One I recall called for the replacement of an expensive throttle pedal assembly when the cure was really the throttle control valve. I found an entire group of people posting what the codes really mean. If it says up it means down...

[@1009wlwilling]

Can someone who are using mod tune with AP to use one of these? In order to use these, Do they have to take off the AP dongle that is currently on the OBDII OR they can just plug these directly onto the AP?! Thanks.

[@theitchyoutube]

Don't many Subarus have self-diagnosis?

[@journeymancellist9247]

What is “Bi-directional control”a?

[@whosssstaco]

If you can’t afford to buy one then don’t. Go to your local auto store and they lend you one to scan your car and just search up the codes.

[@laurieann5312]

Are 2ndary (?) Codes just as important as Primary Codes?

[@subieracer005]

If you're smart enough to change your own oil or brakes these are a no brainer.. I use OBDeleven for my MK6 GTi, but I would call myself an "advanced" user. Would I trust one of these to my mom or dad... HELL NO. haha... They still call me for IT support on their cell phones.. But I think they are such an awesome tool without having to drop $100's or $1000's on a full blown scan tool.

[@EvaGiaia]

It's a pleasure to watch you. Your videos are always full of creativity and style.⚡️♣️🔵

[@Yonni6502]

I don’t get it. Is this an ODB2 reader?

[@atticstattic]

Yes

[@Yonni6502]

@ very cool. Thank you!

[@angel19642001]

I like to fix my own car I have a scanner to see what is the code

[@BIG_CHEVY_BOWSKIE_MIKE]

Who doesn't know any of the content spewed here

[@Egermaster1]

I do different I take my car to a shop for diagnostic and they telling me what is wrong and then I fixing my self if is possible with all my tools do not I pay to mechanics!

[@rvdboston9568]

instead of these dongles car manufacturers should ship every car with Bluetooth diagnostics and free app BUILT-IN! Toyota, are you listening?

[@penrithautoelectrical1942]

Bahahaha stupidest thing i've heard. You clearly do not work with people, and we in the Trade know the worst to deal with is the DIY and weekend warrior who thinks he knows about cars and how to fix them.... Also the codes you get out off it is an area to look at those same DIY will throw parts at it then come say ive spent $500 to $1000 and didnt fix it, Dont charge me so much because ive already thrown money at it.... Please delete this video. Its not doing you good for giving the wrong advice.

[@HarperMatties]

Your videos are always so interesting and helpful! Thank you for your creativity and willingness to share your knowledge with us!‍♂️🦾🍅