Menu toggle

Fault Code Reader?

Blacklight

Blacklight

New member
I have a 1998 2.5L 986 and would like to be able to check an engine fault code. I've been told that the cheap code readers on EBay etc won't do the job on a model as old as mine.
Does anyone know of a fault code reader that will work OK? Don't want to spend a lot as it's not something I foresee using a great deal.
 
The problem is the UK 2.5's aren't OBD2 compliant, so the cheap code readers won't necessarily read all the fault codes on the DME. I think it is very much pot luck if they work or not. The Durametric system is probably the best DIY diagnostic system, but it is pricey. There is a Porsche specific hand held code reader (which does more control modules than the cheap OBD2 readers) made by iCarsoft, but I have heard it is patchy on early 986's and 996's too.

If you want to give it a go and hope for the best, I would give the D900 code reader a try. You can get them for about £15 on eBay and they are probably about the best of the bunch. Handy for other cars if it doesn't work out on the Boxster.
 
Thanks for the info. Have had all plugs, coil packs replaced and the vario valve solenoid on cylinders 1-3 replaced in the last few months. Despite this I still get a warning light accompanying loss of power.
Will happily take a punt on one of these devices if there's a chance that it may ID a fault that is being missed.
 
when I had my 986 and 987 I used a durametric clone from china , it worked ok on a 2000 986 s and a 2006 987 ,about £30 . you needed the old level software though,as the new level software will turn the unit into a brick.i might have a copy somewhere on one of my old xp laptops
also see
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=1474419
and

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/boxster-cayman-forum/774210-chinese-durametric-knock-off.html
I also bought a I carsoft reader por 11 and it works on the 981 ok
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Posts made and opinions expressed are those of the individual forum members

Use of the Forum is subject to the Terms and Conditions

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed on this site are not necessarily those of the Club, who shall have no liability in respect of them or the accuracy of the content. The Club assumes no responsibility for any effects arising from errors or omissions.

Porsche Club Great Britain gives no warranties, guarantees or assurances and makes no representations or recommendations regarding any goods or services advertised on this site. It is the responsibility of visitors to satisfy themselves that goods and/or services supplied by any advertiser are bona fide and in no instance can the Porsche Club Great Britain be held responsible.

When responding to advertisements please ensure that you satisfy yourself of any applicable call charges on numbers not prefixed by usual "landline" STD Codes. Information can be obtained from the operator or the white pages. Before giving out ANY information regarding cars, or any other items for sale, please satisfy yourself that any potential purchaser is bona fide.

Directors of the Board of Porsche Club GB, Club Office Staff, Register Secretaries and Regional Organisers are often requested by Club members to provide information on matters connected with their cars and other matters referred to in the Club Rules. Such information, advice and assistance provided by such persons is given in good faith and is based on the personal experience and knowledge of the individual concerned.

Neither Porsche Club GB, nor any of the aforementioned, shall be under any liability in respect of any such information, advice or assistance given to members. Members are advised to consult qualified specialists for information, advice and assistance on matters connected with their cars at all times.

Porsche
Lockton
Pirelli
Officially approved
Oracle Finance
WEX Esso
Collecting Cars
Archant Dialogue
Back
Top