Actron CP9185 Great build quality, awesome features, fast operation!

Only had this for a day so I have not explored all options, but I've used Actron scanners for years now - they are awesome for weekend warriors. They don't have all of the functionality of the Snap-On, Matco and OEM scanners - but Actron's scanners are fast, simple and reliable. Perfect for those of us that need a scanner but can't justify spending $1500-$15,000 on the high end stuff.

I've used the full gambit of scanners, and these little orange things do about 80% of what the big boys do, for a fraction of the price.

Keep in mind that no scanner will fix the car for you, if you really don't know your way around modern electronic controls and automotive service, this will not help you.

Actron CP9185 Nice scanner

Scanner works great on my 94 Lesabre. I tried a Blue Point(Snap on)OBD1/OBD2 that did not work on my Lesabre. This unit pulls the codes in seconds. Live data output is nice and provides a lot of useful info. Be aware that the USB drivers for the scanner USB cable are not found on the CD. What you have to do is load the software. Then add USB support. The software asks where to look for the drivers. It is not on the CD as would be expected. The USB drivers un zipped and loaded into the directory where the scanner software installed on your C drive.

Actron CP9185 Awesome, a technician dream come to surface

This is the best to come yet! I'm selling my Actronscanner CP9145 to a mechanic . With this Upgrade you'll earn the title as a techician. The Actron CP9185 has reached far beyond my expectations. I used it today for the first time, considering I was curious about the back lit display.
Pior to operating the scan tool I download the firmware update. I didn't see the back lit display when powering on. Only to view a normal display similar my Actron CP9145. Now don't get me wrong, this was a great investment & still is . However, the CP9185 Elite superceeds all earlier Actron scanners to my view. With all the features O2 monitors, temp. reading & graphing data, etc. What more can one ask for? For those that can't make the repairs themselve, knowing whats the problems are intimidates auto repair shops. I gave it a 5 star because its easy to operate, the codes are strait forward. Now remember this the CD is a must have that is included with a New CP9185 Autoscanner. I attempted to purchase one on ebay, I did'nt win the bid. Only later to know that the CD was not included. Without that no upgrade is considered & the manual is included on the CD. In conclusion, all I'm saying is simply this a must have Autoscanner. The name Elite is what it is.

Actron CP9185 Best Buy !!!

This device is exactly as advertised.
I have used this on both cars 1999 Mitsubishi and Saturn. Some of the more advanced diagnostics my be passed the weekend DIY but a quick search on the internet and you will quickly be up to speed.

Usb cable is of a good quality, serial cable is heavy duty.
Software update is easy but takes a few minutes to do.
Internally memory is limited, you may need to download often if you use the record feature. My brother is a mechanic by trade and says that $219 my be a little expensive but the construction is durable and it will save you money on the trouble codes versus doing it at a garage.

The unit is pretty thin

Con: I would like this to be a little shorter and it would be nice with a hard case or at least a soft case with a compartment made to hold it securely. The included case is a fabric clam shell (good quality fabric and stitching)

I would recommend this only if you want advanced diagnostics.
This is not for people who just want to search and clear codes, for that I would recommend the 9135 or lesser expensive unit.

Actron CP9185 Goodddddddddddd

Bought the CP9185 Autoscanner. Pluged it into my 2001 Tacoma and read the codes. Looked up what to do to repair the codes. Did it and then reread the codes and they were gone. Great tool to let you know what is going on with your vehicle. Gives you a chance to fix things your self, saving you big bucks. Haven't had the scanner real long and do not know how to use all the features yet, but would recommend it to anyone wanting to know what their codes are. It was very easy to use. You have to have a computer so you can print out the operations manual.

Actron CP9185 User friendly Scanner

I previously used an Auto Xray for pre 96 vehicles. The newer AutoXray and Actron are very comparable scanners but after calling the companies and researching I decided to go with the Actron because 1)Actron came with a usb hook up for computer link(AX needs an adapter for serial cable) 2)Liked the graph features 3)Better instructions 4)More info in the scanner on codes. Since I already had a capable scanner for the old vehicles I went with the 9185 to save a few bucks off of the 9190. The scanner did prove to be simple to use but can be hazardous if your looking at the live data while driving. A good scanner for the money.

Actron CP9185 Only one problem

The CP9185 works exactly as expected with one exception. It does accurately provide the diagnostic codes for trouble-shooting and will clear (turn-off) the "Repair Soon" light if you wish. It seems to have an extensive built-in database that allows it to recognize most vehicles - both domestic and imported. The operation of the unit is straight-forward and simple. However, the internal database on the unit I received contains data only through model year 2002. Vehicles manufactured after that date would have required an update to the built-in database. Updating over the internet is one of the features that attracted me to this unit. The problem occured when I tried to install the PC drivers that would allow the unit to communicate with my computer - something that is necessary to perform an on-line update. The drivers provided with the unit simply would not work - i.e., the PC would not recognize the drivers on the supplied CD as valid drivers for my CP9185. I am very familiar with computers and installing drivers for a unit like this is straight forward. I contacted technical support (in fact I spoke with them about 4 times) to try to work through the problem. Technical support personnel were friendly and responsive - I have only the highest praise for them - but they were unable to solve the problem. They finally told me that it appeared the CP9185 itself was defective in that it was probably identifying itself incorrectly to the PC - even though the unit appeared to work fine in every other respect. I have shipped the unit back for repair (my expense) and am told it will take 4-6 weeks for repairs to be completed. If it had not been for this problem, I would have rated the CP9185 as a full 5 stars. If and when the unit is returned to me in working order, I will update this review.

Actron CP9185 Simple

Actron CP9185 Elite Autoscanner Diagnostic Code Scanner With Live Read, Record and Playback Capability For OBDI and OBDII (Post-1996) Vehicles

This tool reqires very little training,you can pretty much use it without instructions,however you might want to upgrade the software off of the internet.I tested my Toyota truck and everything is good,I was worried about the sensors not functioning correctly.I just got it ,a great tool to have,now I need to test some other vehicles in the family.I gave this reader 4 stars because I had some issues with the software not being compatable with my computer,Actron rep. if you read this how about an update on the computer software

Actron CP9185 Reviews

Amazon.com
The CP9185 Elite Autoscanner from Actron, a leading manufacturer of automotive diagnostic tools, has the upgrades customers asked for. This feature packed unit offers DIYers and technicians the ability to read enhanced codes, graph engine data, record and playback live diagnostic information and the ability to print through a PC. The CP9185 is compatible with all 1996 and newer OBD II (On-Board Diagnosis II) compliant vehicles manufactured in North America, Asia and Europe and (with the purchase of optional cables) will cover most OBD I domestic vehicles. The unit is fully updateable, and can accomodate future vehicles, via the internet. The large easy-to-read liquid crystal display makes reading those diagnostic trouble codes and their descriptions a breeze. The scanner, with its patented technology, provides more functions than any other handheld diagnostic scanner at a comparable price on the market today.

The Actron CP9185 easily scans and retrieves DTCs. View Larger

While robust enough for professional technicians, the CP9185 is simple and easy to use. Just plug the scan tool into your cars data link connector (DLC), located in the drivers compartment, and let the unit do the rest. The extremely user friendly menu makes getting the information you need a snap. This code reader from Actron reads, displays and erases generic OBD II and manufacturer specific codes while reseting your check engine light.

Money-saving Monitor
It has been determined that a problem with you emission control system can affect your cars overall performance and fuel efficiency. The CP9185 gives you the ability to diagnose your cars problem in a few easy steps, giving you the option of fixing it yourself or finding the best repair price possible. Monitoring your vehicle's system can reduce your operating and maintenance costs while keeping you safe on the road, making the versatile CP9185 Elite Autoscanner from Actron a great investment.

What's in the Box
Actron Elite Autoscanner CP9185, OBD II Cable, USB Cable, 8-foot extension cable, cigarette Lighter Adapter and Manual/CD.

HARDWARE FEATURES	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
Detachable cable
Back lit display
USB cable included for online update
Soft carrying case
Blow molded storage case
SOFTWARE FEATURES	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
Updateable online
On-screen code definitions
Battery low indicator
Review data off vehicle
Code lookup on tool
Record and playback live sensor data
Print data
Display graphing data
Urgency Indicators
OBD II ENHANCED	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler enhanced DTCs
OBD II GENERIC	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
Read codes, pending codes and erase codes
MIL status (malfunction indicator lamp)
I/M readiness monitor status (emissions)
View freeze frame data (engine parameters at time of default
State OBD check
Displays vehicle information (VIN # and calibration ID)
View live engine data parameters (PIDS)
O2 monitor test
OBD II drive cycle mode
Manufacturer specific diagnostic trouble codes
PROTOCOLS	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
CAN (all 2008 vehicles are required to use this protocol)
Keyword 2000, ISO-9142-2, J-1850 (VPW & PWM)
OBD I CABLES	CP9125	CP9410	CP9175	CP9180	CP9185	CP9190
OBD I cables for ‘84-’95 GM, Ford & ‘89-’95 Chrysler vehicles

indicates a feature available with purchase of optional cable(s).