Before 1996, there was no standardization for on-board diagnostic codes. So manufacturers had their own set of codes. Some of this knowledge has fallen by the wayside in the last 20 years, making it more challenging to diagnose an issue with your older model vehicle. Luckily, Actron has two scanners available to assist with OBD-1 diagnostics for domestic vehicles:
Details of the Actron OBD-1 Scanners
These two scanners are very similar so I’m going to assumed you have a very specific need if you’re considering purchasing one. So I’m going to skip our regular ‘Advantage and Disadvantage’ review and just give you some details about the scanners.
They are model specific: This is very important to keep in mind. One of the most common complaints about these scanners is due to people buying them without reading exactly which vehicles they are for.
The CP9001 is for GM and Saturn vehicles. Actron has a handy guide explaining exactly which model vehicles you can analyze with this reader. It will cover most models made by Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Oldsmobile, Pontiac & Saturn manufactured between the years 1982 and 1993. It was also cover 1-ton or less Trucks and Vans manufactured during this time.
Vehicles made by GM & Saturn in 1994 and 1995 were in transition from OBD1 to OBD2. Check the guide that I linked to above to make sure your model is listed before purchasing this scanner. For example, Corvettes and Firebirds made in 1995 will require either the CP9145 or CP9150 for troubleshooting (eBay is the simplest way to order either of these units).
The CP9015 was designed for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles produced from 1981-1995. Not every model will be covered by this device. Review Actron’s CP9015 compatibility guide to make sure your vehicle is covered.
Codes displayed by flashing check engine light: Most OBD-II scanners have screens or app interfaces to directly display trouble codes. OBD-1 systems are set up a little differently, requiring these scanners to communicate the trouble codes to you in a unique way. Both scanners flash the check engine light on the dashboard in unique series for each trouble code. You will have to pay attention and count the flashes to complete the code retrieval. The CP9045 also communicates through a series of tones.
User manual included: Once you’ve recorded the trouble codes, you will need to translate them. Both scanners come with user manuals that not only tell you how to use the units, but also include code definitions. If you lose your manual, you can always purchase the OBD-1 Haynes manual.
Bottom Line
If you have an older vehicle and like DIY repair, then having the CP9001 or the CP9015 scanner will be a welcome addition to your arsenal of tools. Be sure to double check Actron’s compatibility guides to ensure your vehicle is covered by the scanner. If not, you’ll need to find another device or method to read your trouble codes. Overall, the cost of these units is more than reasonable and will pay for itself the first time you self diagnose and fix a problem. And the user manual with code definitions is a very handy feature included by Actron.