The Actron CP9550 OBD-II PocketScan Plus is the most advanced, powerful and compact automotive diagnostic trouble code (DTCs) reader available, but DTC’s and descriptions are just a start of the tasks it can handle. The CP9550 PocketScan is CAN (controller area network) compliant and provides freeze frame data, VIN info and performs the important task of (I/M) Inspection Maintenance-readiness testing by displaying the I/M readiness monitor status. Great for use before and after repairs are made, its small size makes it perfect for easy storage and use.
Advanced and Compact OBD-II Diagnostics
Since the 1980’s standardized Onboard Diagnostic systems first OBD-I and currently OBD-II mandated for virtually all cars and light trucks have provided automotive technicians with insight into the increasingly complex inner workings of modern passenger vehicles. On the other hand, most consumers are totally unaware of these systems, with the only indication that there may be a problem with their vehicle coming to their attention when “check engine”/malfunction indicator light (MIL) is illuminated on the dashboard. Professional technicians utilize large, expensive diagnostic tools to translate the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) generated by the internal computer networks of in your vehicle in these events. The cost for this is passed on to you by your mechanic whether you understand the reason/mechanism or not, but entry-level do-it-yourselfers (DIY) do not have to be left in the dark.
With Actron’s CP9550 OBD-II PocketScan Plus DIYers can instantly and inexpensively gain access to the generic OBD-II codes generated by their vehicles that indicate a vast amount of valuable diagnostic information. These generic codes can be read easily with the patented one-touch read and erase buttons both during normal use parameters of their vehicle and in the event of an MIL event, with their definitions available on-screen. Designed for ease of use, the CP9550 is CAN compliant (an important OBD-II computer protocol), utilizes a standard 16-pin OBD-II connector and features a cable permanently connected to the unit. CAN functionality allows the CP9550 to interact with the different diagnostic subsystems within your vehicle. The standard pin layout and permanent orientation of the cable ensures that you will always be able connect to your vehicle’s data link connector (DLC), the OBD-II input port usually located underneath your dashboard, and the unit’s rugged construction and small size mean that it can be stored and taken anywhere. In addition to code reading the Actron CP9550 also provides access to more advanced vehicle information. These include the reading and display of “freeze frame” data, which is a snapshot of the overall sensor readings from your vehicle’s central computer at the time of a MIL event; access to the VIN (vehicle ID number); and the status of your vehicle’s inspection and maintenance (I/M) monitors, whose proper working is pivotal to a vehicle passing state mandated emissions tests.
Standard Features:
- Compatible with ALL 1996 and newer vehicles (OBD-II & CAN).
- Automatically reads DTCs when connected for fast diagnostics.
- Displays OBD-II generic code definitions.
- Reads, displays and erases DTCs.
- Reads and displays MIL (malfunction indicator light) status.
- Reads and displays I/M monitors.
- Reads and displays pending codes.
- Reads and displays freeze frame data.
- Reads and displays VIN (easy way to check vehicle ID number).
- Easy to read backlit display.
- Effortlessly powered by car battery through the 16-pin OBD-II connector.
What’s in the Box?
Actron CP9550 OBD-II PocketScan Plus compact code reader tool, users manual.
Automotive Analysis Tools to Suit Every Need
With over 40 years of experience manufacturing affordable automotive diagnostic tools Actron features a product line that has something for everyone, regardless of your level of experience. Check out the table below for current models of Actron scan tools available and their available features. Click the model number at the top of the table for further details.
About Actron, an SPX Brand
A business unit of SPX Service Solutions, Actron has a 40-year tradition as a leading manufacturer of cost-effective, high-performance automotive diagnostic and test equipment. SPX Service Solutions designs, manufactures and markets a fully integrated family of global brands providing specialty service tools, advanced diagnostic and shop equipment, inspection and gauging systems, training and technical information for vehicle servicing and maintenance.
This little device has a lot of functionality packed into a small package. It is also very compact which makes it easier to store in your vehicle. Great product, works just as advertised.
I used this to check the code for the Check Engine light that came on my Subaru Forester. It is simple to use and does everything that it is advertised for. A professional mechanic may demand more, but for me it does the job.
I apologize in advance (and I hope for your understanding) if this review comes out to be lengthy. I just wanted to be as thorough and helpful as possible for those of you still undecided, so I truly hope I can accomplish that for you. For starters – just like I mentioned in my review title, this Actron CP9550 OBD II code reader delivers on everything it promises to do in the description here on Amazon. It is also pretty small so it’s easy to carry along with you if need be. **As one reviewer mentioned, the only drawback is the company does mention there is lead in the cable so if you touch it with your bare hands, please be sure and wash them asap… or simply wear thick enough gloves you can still work with** It is very simple, easy to use and the instruction manual (if needed) is very helpful. I 100% guarantee this tool at the very least will save you time, lots of money in the short and long-term and possibly save you from a headache too, for you ladies and men out there who aren’t very (if at all) familiar with cars when you’re dealing with mechanics that possibly will try to take advantage of you.
Mechanics use very similar technology (just a bit more advanced in some aspects) as this code reader uses, but those mechanics charge anywhere ranging from $50 to $350+ for simply hooking it up to their diagnostic machine and give you a very general idea of what’s wrong based on their interpretation of the code alone, which can often be wrong and very costly. I am pretty skilled at working on cars during my off-time, and it’s no secret that the really good, honest mechanics can be hard to come by these days unfortunately. This device gives you the power/control back when dealing with your vehicle by showing a very clear read-out on its screen, both a “trouble code” from your vehicle’s computer and the “definition” for that code – basically telling you which part of the whole system in the vehicle (fuel, etc) is malfunctioning. Sometimes it can be a very simple and dirt cheap fix you can do yourself. After receiving the code from this device, you can simply go on google.com and type that code number into search and get all sorts of suggestions regarding what you need, how is typically best to repair the problem and on average what it should cost you. That way when you do go to a mechanic (if needed), you are armed with all the information you need so you won’t get ripped off! A prime example is that I am a huge fan of the 6th generation Toyota GT Celicas (years ’94-’99) and when my previous one went bad and wasn’t worth repairing anymore, I drove over 8 hours to buy a ’98 Celica GT convertible in mint (flawless) condition both inside and out with extremely low mileage. I knew how excellent the condition of my car was but this “scam-artist” mechanic was giving me a list of 200 things he’d want to do without ever seeing my car, simply because it is a ’98. Even after telling him it needed none of those things, he got angry because he wanted the money for it. So, having a tool like this can protect you from people like him. Needless to say, this little tool will be your best friend if you find yourself shopping for a used car. No more lies from the salesperson. If they don’t allow you to hook it up, they’re not honest and worthy of your hard earned money anyhow. It does zero harm to any vehicle so there is no excuse. This Actron reader does actually have a feature also with it that pops up if there have been recalls of any sort for that vehicle (which is *always* a free fix from dealership by law). If trouble codes for that vehicle are found, if the repairs aren’t too terribly bad, you can use that as negotiating power to bring down the price some more, if they really want to sell it that badly. What buyer doesn’t need/want a financial break these days, right?
There are so many other code readers on the market. Some advertise heavily on TV, other ads, etc. But this Actron really gets the job done for a fairly reasonable price and doesn’t have many of the restrictions (such as limitations on how many cars you can use it for…) that the others do. Plus, there is nothing you have to subscribe to, so there are no hidden charges. Paying once for the device is it. Ones such as CarMD that sound amazing really have terrible hidden fees and other limits. I considered giving this particular model of Actron’s 4 stars because they do sell higher end models (same brand) that do a little more. But when I thought about it, this model, the CP9550, has done everything I needed and wanted it to do and that would probably be the case for most everyone. It has saved me a lot of money (but mostly my family & friends that I check their vehicles for) already and I’ve only had it a month or 2. I really do highly recommend it to help fix those nagging car problems, check engine light or whatever the case may be for you. If you’d like to ask any questions, feel free to do so in the comments section. Thanks so much for being patient and reading this lengthy review (my apologies) – I genuinely am just trying to help with as much information power for you as possible so I sincerely hope this has helped you in some kind of way!
**As a hopefully helpful side note: If you have an auto supply chain store like Advanced Auto or AutoZone (or one of the many others) around you, they will more often than not hook your car up to an OBD II reader exactly like this one or similar to it for free or *very* low cost and they’ll tell you what it says and help you with it as best they can. You can see how the device works and decide then if maybe you’d like to buy one to own yourself if you still can’t decide now. Just a thought 🙂 **
I have 4 vehicles from a ’98 to an ’07 and have used this to check codes on 3 of them already including the ’07 that had a cylinder 3 misfire upon purchase a month ago. There was a wrong spark plug installed prior to my purchase. If I had taken the car to a garage, I would have paid the purchase price of this code reader for the diagnosis alone. I changed all 4 plugs myself for $26. I recommend every car owner to own a code reader. They are basically plug ‘n’ play nowadays and will pay for themselves in 1 use. This reader read my (’07 Solstice, ’98 F150, ’00 Elantra and a Windstar work van of unknown year) codes straight out of the box….Highly recommended!!
I bought the Pocket Scan Plus after having an Equus 3030 Innova. The Pocket Scan Plus is very easy to use and it displays the actual code definition instead of having to look up in a booklet like with the Equus, but it contains lead in the cable. So you have to remember to wash your hands after using it. Also if you have a car like a Toyota Sienna the port on the car will have a little nub that that will get stuck inside of the code reader’s plug and there is no way of getting it out without wrestling the thing and using a slotted screwdriver to chisel it out. Then you end up scratching the code reader up and almost breaking you cars OBD port. We called the company and they said that it happens pretty often and that you pretty much have to break it to get it off. The Equus is designed so that it will not get stuck on the car. I am returning this one and buying another Equus. Its fine, just make sure the cars port does not have a little nub or you’re going to have a wrestling match.
only worked once, then began getting link errors every time you tried to use it, would have to try to establish link 5-10 times per read.
Followup – I returned the instrument (it was still under warranty). Dealing with the company was a bit of a pain. The real company name is SPX something or other, not Acton. You have to deal with their website routines, which are good and bad. My return got dropped at the loading dock, and that was the last I heard until I did followup contacts with customer support. About a week later they sent me a new one, which so far is working fine. I hope it lasts longer than the old one.
I’d probably bump this up 1 or 2 stars simply for having a functional warranty replacement department.
I was a bit sceptical when I saw this for sale, but took a chance (price was right). This little scanner did everything it was adversited to do an quickly. I like the size too. It fits in the glove compartment ready to use if needed. I gave me the right code, bought the part and fixed it myself (oxygen sensor). But it!
Bought it because i was spending to much on “eng check lite trbls” Had one lit on wifes car. Unit told me is was a very small problem. i reset lamp and it didnt come back. I figure part of purchase price already returned.
I purchased this reader because I am an avid DIY person. I have another reader (not this type) that was giving me an error when trying to read my 2006 Dodge Mega-cab diesel. I like to be informed before I take my car or truck into the shop. Some time you can get the (CEL) check engine light for the slightest little hiccup. Makes you a little nervous when you are running down the freeway towing a 5th wheel. This little device is very powerful, reads the error and tells you what it is. No books to carry. I have used it on 5 different vehicles, 2 diesel and 3 gas. It told me what the error was and allowed me to clear them. I would not recommend junk, this thing is nice. Don’t let the small size fool you, good things do come in little packages. I give this device 5 stars. It is a money saver
I have been using this device to troubleshoot issues with my Honda s2000. At the least, this device will give you insight with why your car’s check engine light comes on. And at best, you will be able to find and fix the problem yourself. The device is very simple to use and I’m glad I bought it.