INNOVA 3160B ABS/SRS+ Professional CanOBDII Diagnostic Code Scanner with Enhanced Live Data

by Equus

• Reads 'check engine' light warnings on all 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, SUVs and minivans, domestic and import -- including C.A.N. (Controller Area Network)
• Diagnoses ABS and SRS codes on most 1996 and newer GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota and Honda vehicles
• Provides SAE enhanced Live Data - views, graphs, records, and plays back live PCM data streams on screen
• Displays OBD2 Freeze Frame Data & turns off check engine, ABS and SRS lights
• Unit can be USB (cable included) flash updated with a standard Windows® PC (OBD-PC Link(TM) software required / included with tool)

Product Description

Amazon.com

The Equus 3160 Innova ABS + Professional CanOBD2 Diagnostic Code Scanner is both the professional’s choice for a full-featured ABS and OBD2 scan tool and a great option for the do-it-yourself mechanic. It offers the same features and functions as the Equus 3150 model, but comes with the added bonus of a backlit blue screen and provides S.A.E. Enhanced Live Data, including views, graphs and playback of live PCM data streams. With this feature, the user can prioritize live data values (P.I.D.) for quick review and analysis. Other exciting features and functions offered by the 3160 include bi-directional testing, vehicle I.D. capture and oxygen sensor results.

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In addition the 3160 also provides Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) diagnostic functionality to troubleshoot problems with ABS solenoids, ABS pump motors, brake switches, control modules, speed sensors and more on most 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. So, if your car has either a check engine or ABS light on, you don't have to reach into your toolbox for two tools, the 3160 will do both jobs. Combine this with the unit's Internet connectivity which makes for easy software updates and you have a powerful, professional grade multi-use diagnostic tool that you can count on for years to come.

Easy to read, back-lit all-in-one screen.

Emission status LED system and one-push function buttons.

All-in-One Backlit Screen and One-Push Button Functions
Handheld diagnostic tools should put all the information a user needs right in the palm of your hand, but too often other scanning tools bury this data within the device, requiring you to navigate through multiple menus to find what you want. The 3160 is different. Using a combination of its patented all-in-one backlit screen, that allows for viewing 25 pieces of vital information in three languages--English, French or Spanish--all at once, even in low light conditions without having to change screens, and single-button function access to minimize menu scrolling, users are guaranteed quick, efficient access to data they need.

Patented Emission Status LEDs
Over 30 States now use an OBD2 based system to check for emissions readiness, making it more important than ever to be aware of the status of your vehicle and to keep it running in top condition. With this in mind, the Innova 3160 has been designed with the ability to read the exact same emissions information as these state-required tests do to determine your chances of passing the first time around. Built around a simple color-coded system where Green = Pass, Yellow = Potential Problems and Red = Fail, users are able to quickly diagnose potential emission issues with the Innova 3160. Other tool manufacturers charge over $100 for this feature alone and a separate tool has to be purchased, but the 3160 includes this with the price of purchase.

Additional Diagnostic Resources at Canobd2.com
The Equus Innova 3160 also comes with access to RepairSolutions through canobd2.com. RepairSolutions allows users to take control of vehicle diagnostics by providing you with the complete solution as to why your "Check Engine" light is on. A basic report is provided free with your scanner purchase, with a comprehensive analysis available for additional purchase.

Key Product Features:

• Professional OBD2 generic scan tool all 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, and SUVs - domestic, Asian and European Import.
• Diagnoses ABS codes on 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles.
• Features unique patented all-in-one backlit screen and LED display for quick state emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification.
• Retrieves OEM enhanced and transmission DTCs.
• Communicates with all OBD2 protocols: C.A.N. (Controller Area Network), ISO 9141, J1850PWM, J1850VPW, KWP 2000 ISO 14230-4.
• Provides SAE enhanced live Data - views, records, and plays back* live PCM data streams.
• Displays freeze frame data.
• Includes Spanish and French interface and definitions (selected by a menu command).
• Retrieves OBD2 DTCs: generic codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0) / manufacturer specific codes (P1, P3, and U1).
• Unit can be flash updated with a standard Windows PC (OBD-PC Link software required / included with tool).
• Memory / battery backup for off-car review and analysis.
• Comes with access to CanOBD2.com RepairSolutions which gives trouble code definitions, a full diagnostic report, probable causes, most likely fix to DTC's, repair costs and more.

What's in the Box
The Innova OBD2 3160 ABS Kit includes the diagnostic tool, an OBD2 16-pin DLC cable, PC software and cable, a copy of Equus' "Understanding OBD2 video," a sturdy nylon tool storage pouch, an instruction manual in English, Spanish and French and access to canobd2.com where you can find repair solutions, tech tips and product support.

Product Warranty

Equus Products, Inc. ("Equus") warrants to the original purchaser that its units are free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and maintenance for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase.

About Equus Products, Inc.

Equus Products, Inc., is an ISO 9001: 2008 certified company, and a leading manufacturer and distributor of test equipment, gauges and tachometers for the automotive aftermarket. Founded in 1982, the company markets and distributes its gauge line under the Equus brand to major retail and WD accounts throughout the US, Canada and Mexico. In 1990, Innova Electronics Corporation was acquired for research, design and product development. Test and tune-up products developed under this division carry the Innova brand, providing customers with easy-to-use products for servicing the vehicles of today and tomorrow.

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FEATURES & FUNCTIONS	3020	3030	3040	3100	3120	3130c	3140	3150	3160
OBD2 Vehicle Protocol Coverage
1996 - Present - OBD2 - European, Asian, Domestic
CAN and 2010+ Model Diesel and Hybrid Compliance
Tool Features & Functions
Patented All-in-One Display Shows 20+ values on one screen
Plug and Play - All Hot Keys for Intuitive Navigation
Vehicle Health Monitor LED's - Confirm State Emissions Test
Emissions Readiness Advisor - Complete OBD Trip + Drive Cycles
Retrieve Manufacturer Specific, Global & Pending Codes
Erase Button Turns Off "Check Engine" Light
Back-Lit display
Displays Freeze Frame Data
Multilingual - On Screen Definitions in English/Spanish/French
Shows Manufacturer Specific Code Definitions on Display
Battery Backup for Off Vehicle Data Review
Vehicle Information - VIN # - Mode 9
Enhanced Engine and Transmission Codes
On Screen Code Definitions Lookup Library
Tool Storage Pouch Included
OBD2 Scan Tool Functions (1996 to Present)
OBD2 Live-Data Stream Display
OBD2 - All Modes 1 - 10
Bi-Directional Control / Service Mode 8 - EVAP
Record, Graph and Playback Live Data on the Screen
ABS & SRS Coverage
ABS - Read + Erase most 1996+ GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda DTC's
Airbag / SRS - Read + Erase most 1996+ GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda DTC's
Fix Assist
FIXassist -- Provides tech tips on initial items to inspect on the tool
OBD1 Functions - 1981-95 Coverage
OBD1 - Domestic: Most Ford, GM, Chrysler DTC's
OBD1 - Import: Most Toyota / Lexus DTC's
Software, Website, Support & Service Features
All ASE Technical Support - Mon-Sat, 6am- 6pm PST - Spanish
One-Year Warranty
Repair Solutions with VIN Specific Fixes + procedures - optional
Internet Updateable & Upgradeable

Product Description

Equus ABS + Scan Tool is designed to quickly reveal check engine light warnings. It diagnoses ABS codes and retrieves OEM enhanced as well as transmission DTCs. This diagnostic tool features unique patented all in one screen display as well as LED display for quick state emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification. It communicates with all OBD2 protocols and provides enhanced live data. CanOBD2® + ABS Scan Tool • Professional OBD2 Generic Scan Tool all 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, and SUVs – Domestic, Asian and European Import • Diagnoses ABS codes on 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. • Features unique patented all-in-one backlit screen and LED display for quick State Emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification • Retrieves OEM Enhanced and Transmission DTCs • Communicates with all OBD 2 protocols: C.A.N. (Controller Area Network), ISO 9141, J1850PWM, J1850VPW, KWP 2000 ISO 14230-4 • Provides SAE enhanced Live Data - views, records, and plays back* live PCM data streams • Displays Freeze Frame Data • Includes Spanish and French Interface & Definitions (selected by a menu command) • Retrieves OBD2 DTCs: Generic Codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0) / Manufacturer Specific Codes (P1, P3, and U1) • Unit can be flash updated with a standard Windows® PC (OBD-PC Link™ software required / included with tool) • Memory / Battery backup for off-car review and analysis • Comes with access to CanOBD2.com RepairSolutions which gives trouble code definitions, a full diagnostic report, probable causes, most likely fix to DTC’s, repair costs and more.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

261 of 268 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Very useful if you have the right vehicles December 31, 2009

By M. A. Mitchell

Amazon Verified Purchase

The 3160 is a very useful tool if you have the right vehicle. It provides generic codes and more from many makes but on European, Korean or Swedish vehicles dont expect much more than the generic codes.

I did not research tool enough to realize nearly all of the "adavanced DTC" functions are for Chrysler/Jeep, Ford/Mazda,GM/Isuzu, Honda/Acura and Toyota/Lexus vehicles only. The sales verbiage DOES explain the limitations of the ABS testing to certain makes/models but DOES NOT provide the information that the tools enchanced DTC functions share the same vehicle limitations.

The enchanced functions are described in the owners manual as:
"The "enhanced" mode provides the ability to retrieve enhanced DTCs from most Chrysler/Jeep, Ford/Mazda,GM/Isuzu, Honda/Acura and Toyota/Lexus vehicles. The types of enhanced data available depends on the vehicle make."
"You can also retrieve Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) DTCs. ABS DTCs are available for Chrysler/Jeep, Ford and GM vehicles only."

The included software tool OBD PC Link functions but is clunky at best. I could not locate any documentation on this software's features or operation. The 3160 tool still uses a serial port for communications but most PCs being sold no longer include a serial port only USB. It will require an USB to Serial converter if you do not have a serial port on your PC. The live data capture will display in the OBD PC Link software screen and is useful. The report writing function is generic at best.

I tried to update the 3160 internal software from the OBD PC Link main screen and received a message box telling me to download the latest 3130 software. No instructions on where to get software or how just..... download the latest 3130 software.

Since I own vehicles from Audi, Mercedes, Saab, GM, Chrysler, Lincoln, Suzuki and Hyundai it is still useful and has provided reliable data on the vehicles I have tested it on but it would be a more useful tool if enchanced dtc information was available on all makes.

The 3160 does a good job as a code reader and diagnostic tool for the home mechanic. The DTC codes are specific to vehicle make and so far have been accurate pointing to the problem I introduced to check out the tools operation. BUT I want point out possible issues for other buyers like the lack of enhanced coverage mentioned. If you own a European, Korean or Swedish vehicle this tool does not provide everything listed in the sales verbiage.

Update: 08-17-10

I went to test a Yukon with the 3160 today and the display is garbled and unreadable. Technical support confirms unit is broken. less than 9 months old. Sending in for warranty repair and will update when received back.

Update 09-07-10

I paid to ship unit back to Innova and they paid return shipping. I received it today so it took a some days to get back and it appears it is my unit repaired but since units do not have a serial # sticker I can not be sure. I tested it a bit, it seems ok. Hope it continues to work.

100 of 102 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Equus 3160 - Most Complete Diagnostics Provided For Automotive Code Scanning At This Price January 19, 2011

By alexanderaku TOP 500 REVIEWER

Amazon Verified Purchase

What do cats have to do with code scanners?

In my case, cats crawled under the hood of my 2007 Silverado Classic pickup and kept the engine filthy. They also pulled at various wires under the hood. Those two things mean problems for any vehicle, but acutely for my Silverado - as I had to repeatedly wash the filth away the cats left under the hood. The Silverado 4.8 engine for 2007 has knock sensors in the intake valley, and engine washing causes water to damage them by puddling under the intake. With only 6,000 miles in four years, my engine light came on. Turns out the knock sensor problem with water is common. I just wouldn't have had it sans the cats.

I went to my local Auto Zone and they kindly used a scan tool to diagnose a problem with the #2 bank knock sensor (rear - low output) code P0332. I asked about the various scanners they had, but none were all that comprehensive and I had no intention of paying thousands for an OBD2 code scanner that would be more intensive. I did know I needed one as all new vehicles use this Federally Mandated Standard - and I knew cats or something would be setting off more codes, sooner or later, to turn my engine warning lights on again. What I found was the Equus 3160 was capable of handling more than any other scanner on the market in the $400 price range - only for just $200.

My first trial of the unit was on my new Lincoln - I had to have the air conditioning repaired on it this past summer. The scanner found the code left behind, after the repair, for air conditioning "fast cycling". Long since repaired under warranty, this was no problem, and no other problems were found (like pending codes that don't turn on the engine light in the dash). So, I erased the temporary memory in my Lincoln. The 3160 also allowed me to do full diagnostics on every sensor in my Lincoln with the engine running. I found that quite impressive as I could hear the testing - as the unit took over control of the systems. Of course, the erase had reset the computer, so some modules had to reset after a drive - and the computer had to re-learn all the optimal fuel and shift settings while in operation. During the drive, I noticed the car's improvement as it re-learned optimal settings. I also like the complete listing of systems displayed in the "real time screens" as accessed by the DTC and LD buttons. Once the drive was over, the 3160 also showed the vehicle estimated emissions status as green again at the three LEDs for this - a nice added feature that gives more peace of mind. ABS functions were also fully covered and checked using the 3160 on my Lincoln. Again, no problems with my Lincoln.

My second trial was back to my original problem vehicle - the Silverado. I put the 3160 through all of its capabilities again. This time, I saw ABS tests were un-available - no problem as the ABS dash light wasn't glowing to indicate any problem there. The P0332 code had come up immediately, and I also noticed the 3160 displayed a full screen of information at the current time the code had set - from the Silverado's flash memory. It showed the vehicle speed had been 64 mph at just over 1600 RPMs and a wealth of other data. I erased the data and proceeded to watch the lists at the "live data" and "custom data" screens with the engine running. Before long, I again saw the P0332 code set again.

Okay, that code doesn't necessarily mean a tear down is imminent for repair, as the knock sensor and wiring to the PCM (powertrain control module) need to be checked first. An ohms check showed my sensor out of range - so the intake has to come off, and the wiring and/or knock sensor needs replacement. If badly corroded from water, I'll replace both sensors and the wiring - no need to take chances. But this time, my knock sensors will be sealed like GM should have done from the start. This estimated repair is around $500, so I can repair the engine myself for $180 in parts. I can also check my repair using the 3160 when finished - to be sure everything is correct. Total savings: $320 - not counting my labor, and I now own a very reliable scanner I can use anytime to quickly diagnose problems on any of the 1996 up OBD2 vehicle models.

Then there is the 3160 software disk. I loaded it to two computers using Vista X64 Ultimate. It loaded easily and properly. You can get detailed information using it Online, such as TSBs and vehicle recalls - and detailed repair operations along with estimated repair costs by area code. On one of my computers, I could not use the PC connect cable provided with the 3160. This was no problem with the other - which had the needed male D-sub connector for the 3160 provided nine-pin female D-sub connector. Purchasing an additional D-sub to USB adapter cable will soon eliminate that problem.

The 3160 comes with a decent manual for learning the use of the tool, but operation is really simple. Just plug it into the vehicle connector with the engine and key off, and it turns on. The manual will also explain any problems you could encounter. It then prompts what to do next from its screen. The screen is well lit and there are adjustments for screen brightness, language, DTC library, and the desired unit of measurements. I managed to freeze one screen in "advanced diagnostics" with the GM vehicle running, but I just turned the engine and switch off, disconnected the cable, and removed one of the three provided AA alkaline batteries. When I reconnected everything, the test performed properly - and I tried it several times more, to be sure all was fine, and couldn't re-create the problem. As the frozen screen didn't occur again, I think the problem was really just a temporary glitch with my Silverado's computer - it did have the malfunction code showing at the time, and was registering its own data from engine components at the same time the screen freeze occured.

The unit basically looks like a huge brick of a cellphone and is about the weight of some cellphones from late 1990 to early 2001 or so. The carry case is nice, but I wouldn't recommend dropping the 3160 while in the case or out. It looks fairly durable, but no more so than most cellphones. So, treat it with care. I also would remove the batteries if the unit will see infrequent use. Cable connectors are standard computer types and are very well made. I'm almost 60 and had no problem using this tool, and the roughly two and a half inch screen was easily ready by my old eyes. I have an extensive background in electronics, and a long past history in racing I haven't pursued in many years. I do, however, have a fully equipped garage - so repairs to my vehicles, by myself, are not out of the question. My 3160 has made a nice addition that will see infrequent use as needed. I have no doubt it will be well appreciated in my usage, or by many of those working in the field.

(chuckle) Too bad the scanner can't run off cats, but it sure ferrets out bugs. One star off for high prices period. The scanner offers good performance, but you may want to purchase an additional good vehicle specific repair manual (such as Chiltons or Haynes) in preference to studying repair procedures Online.

138 of 147 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Innova 3160 August 24, 2009

By David L. W. Thomas

I was tired of the cheap OBD readers and wanted something much better. I also wanted something I could read the ABS system with. The Innova 3160 does the trick. It is easy to use and understand. I like the way it prompts you in order to get what you are looking for. It has an excellent screen with the exact information you need to make repairs. It is obvious that they consulted with a repair tech when they designed it. I haven't tried to up-date it from the computer as yet, but it has all the necessary items and information with it to do so. On the down side, it doesn't have an explanation for all the manufacturer codes, especially the ABS codes. I found that I am going to their web site quite often to get the expanation. The web-site is very good and helpful though. I really like it. The worst thing is the CHEAP carrying case. The unit won't even fit into it with the cable attached. That means that you are always removing and replacing the cable. I'm sure that isn't good on the connection. Throw the case away and buy something better that you can keep the scanner, instruction book, and other materials in. It's hard to believe a company like this would offer such a fine instrument and provide it in this case. Never-the-less, it's a great scanner and well worth the money-just figure a little extra for another case!