Has anyone used a diagnostic code scanner with any success? My dealer is far away and I would rather find a local mechanic, but would like to be armed with knowledge going in.

 

I think autoparts discounts and pep boys will scan it for free. I would call first.

 

b4 you panic, the check engine lite is 99 times out of 100 an emissions issue

and that often turns out to be a failed oxygen sensor

so don't get your panties in a wad just yet . . .

YES, most major part stores will read a code for free . . . your dealer will probably charge you $75 or more . . . .

 

Yes, there are a few who do check for free, but I've heard stories that confirm the adage that nothing in life is ever truly "free" so I'd rather do it myself then go in knowing what the problem is.

So... Anyone use a diagnostic scanner with any success? Any scanner recommendations?

 

I've been to an Autozone around the area with my old r50 and they truly scanned it and told me the code for free. It's worth a shot instead of paying $$ for a scan tool you'll likely not have to use again.

 

I dunno, we've got 2 MINIs and a Chevy dually... I wouldn't be surprised if a check engine light comes on again. We tend to keep our cars a long time. My husband's 325e was in the family for 16 years and he did most of the work on it himself after the warranty expired.

 

I think the perfect scan tool for you would be one of the models by Peake:

http://www.peakeresearch.com/

 

The scangauge is useful for monitoring things as well as scanning and resetting codes. Many many folks use them including me.

http://www.amazon.com/ScanGauge-Auto.../dp/B000AAMY86

When computers came into the auto industry folks (like me) figured it was going to be a nightmare to fix. Truth is mostly it makes things easier. Read the code, find out the widget needs replacing, buy a new one, then at worst you can just look around until you find the old one and replace it. In reality, using google, you can find out tutorials to replace it and lists of common issues, so the computer made it easier to fix cars in the end.

 

I have the Peake tool and have used it successfully several times.

 

If you get the scan tool, might as well get the shop manual too!

 

Bavarian Technic scanner; it's dedicated to read all MINI / BMW prodigals and modules outside of the ECU (like ABS, airbags, etc, etc.):
* http://bavariantechnic.com/

- Erik

 

The Peak tool is NOT compatible with the 2nd gen Coopers R55/56/57/58/59/60 vehicles!!

 

Finding a cheap GT1 with DISv57 would be what I would recommend.

 

Thanks for clarifying that strobey. I didn't really pay attention to that when I posted the link.

 

HRM, Thanks! I'm thinking we'll get the ScanGauge. I'm guessing we'll need the manual too?

 

You just plug it in and hit the scan mode. there tec suport is also great.