The most common Actron scanner is also their cheapest and easiest model to use.
The CP9125 is a lightweight, compact code scanner made by Actron. This device is made for a person on the go looking for a quick diagnosis of their check engine light. Having a device like this on hand will save a trip to the local parts store to get your code read and the engine light cleared quickly and without any hassle.
The simplistic design of this scanner makes it popular with its users. With a rating of 4.6 stars, this device is one of the most well reviewed devices available on the market. Is the CP9125 right for you? Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons…
Advantages of the CP9125
Easy to use, intuitive interface: The intuitive button setup and interface makes this scanner easy to use. The two buttons say exactly what they’re for; scrolling, reading, erasing. So you simply plug this device into your OBDII port, turn your key to the on position (don’t start the vehicle), and hit the Read button. The codes will display on the screen and you can either scroll through the returned codes or erase them. If you continue to tap the Read button, you will be presented with some additional information. For a down and dirty diagnosis of your trouble code(s), it doesn’t get much easier than that what this scanner offers.
Pays for itself quickly: At less than $60, owning this scanner is easy on your wallet. When I first started working on my own vehicles, my favorite hack for engine codes was to simply drive to the parts store and have them read and clear the codes. This was cheaper and quicker than taking my rides to the shop. But I was fortunate to live within a couple miles of a parts store.
If you’re not as close to a parts store, having this device in your tool kit can be a savior. No more towing your vehicle to the shop, or making a risky drive with your malfunctioning vehicle. I currently live further away from the nearest store, and one of the first things I bought for my garage was this device (the second thing was a 3-ton speed jack).
Perfect for Casual Do-It-Yourself Types: If you’ve read this far I’m going to assume that you’re not afraid to change an alternator, replace a battery, or change out the spark plugs, thermostat, or O2 sensor. If you like to take care of the simple mechanical problems yourself, then this scanner is a good fit for your garage. My main vehicle is a 10 year old Ford Escape. When I go on long road trips, this scanner comes with me in my roadside repair bag. With this scanner and an internet connection, I have the confidence to diagnose and fix the most common mechanical issues.
Disadvantages of the Actron CP9125
No code definitions: This unit is a basic code reader. So when you plug it in you will be presented with codes like ‘P0070’. You will have to look up the trouble code to find details on the malfunction. There are many websites and publications available to help with the diagnosis, so this is just an added step.
When troubleshooting codes for my vehicles, I always end up online reading forum posts from users that have experienced similar problems, especially when there are multiple codes. So the added step of finding the code definition isn’t inconvenient for a backyard mechanic because you’ll likely end up online anyway.
Similar units available for less: The only real drawback to the Actron CP9125 is the price. While the unit will pay for itself the first time you skip a trip to the repair shop, there are similar units available for less than half the price, specifically the Auto MS310.
Bottom Line
Final word, this code reader provides a efficient interface to help you read and clear the codes from your ailing vehicle. While cheaper code readers may be available, none of them are as well reviewed and reliable as the CP9125. If you’re not interested in live data or ABS codes then this code reader will be a welcome addition to your DIY toolkit.