Are you looking for simplistic and easy-to-use pocket scanner to get that Check Engine light turned off? Do you want a reliable scan tool that will quickly display diagnostic trouble codes? Are you on the hunt for a low-cost, feature-packed scanner? If so, you’re going to want to keeping on reading our Actron cp9125 review to learn more about this impressive scanner. Actron is one of the leading manufacturers of automotive diagnostics, scan tools, and code readers and is a popular choice among car owners and mechanics so we’re confident in recommending this practical pocketscan.
As any mechanic knows, having a good quality pocketscanner is vital when the Check Engine light pops up in a vehicle. In this Actron cp9125 review, we’re going to show you that a high-performance code reader doesn’t need to be expensive, it just needs to be reliable, functional, and easy to use. There’s a lot of plug-in scanners on the market at the moment and it can initially be a bit of a challenge sifting through all the jargon-filled product listings. To make the process of finding the best pocketscan code reader easier, we’re going to review Actron cp9125 c in detail.
We’ll begin with an overview of the product, including a list of the pros and cons of this Actron autoscanner. Towards the end we’ll explain its compatibility, its functionality, and five of its key features. Following this, you’ll get our overall verdict to summarize our thoughts. We’ve also made sure to answer two of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to how the Actron cp9125 works at the end of our review.
Actron cp9125 Product Overview
In this review, we are, of course, going to be focusing on the Actron cp9125 Pocketscan Code Reader. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from almost 1000 Amazon users, this is a highly affordable device suited to car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and mechanics of all experience levels. Covering all the basic functions you’d expect from a scan tool, the Actron cp9125 c pocket scan is more than capable of reading and turning off the Check Engine light. In terms of compatibility, it can diagnose trouble codes from the onboard computers of the majority of 1996 and newer vehicles, but more on that later.
Compact in design and small in size, this is a reliable scan tool from Actron, one of the industry leaders in diagnostic gadgets. This code reader is built out of high-quality, durable materials. Featuring two navigation buttons for reading and erasing trouble codes, this is an exceptionally easy-to-use tool. For a low price, this device is capable of performing both basic and specific functions, helping the user to quickly diagnose and turn off the vehicle’s Check Engine light.
Suitable for use with all 1996 and newer cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs sold in the United States, the cp9125 c pocketscan has a range of impressive features to help you read and erase error codes, while also displaying emission status too. In addition, this particular code reader will also work with 1994-1995 vehicles that are equipped with an OBD II port. It’s worth noting that due to its simplistic design, this tool will only provide the user with the code and will not provide error meanings; you will be required to determine the meaning of the detected code yourself by using the manual included with purchase or by using available online resources. This is a quick, easy, and informative process and one that certainly should not deter you from getting hold of the cp9125 scanner.
Pros
- The compact design makes this scan tool very easy to handle and store in your pocket.
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD II vehicles.
- Created to be easy to use and designed without any overly-advanced navigation buttons.
- Allows users to update the software, increasing the longevity of this tool.
- The Actron cp9125 c comes with a limited one year warranty.
Cons
- Doesn’t provide on-screen error definitions.
- Requires a wired connection for software updates (USB cable is included with purchase).
Actron cp9125 Compatibility
Compatibility is, of course, one of the most important features to include in any review of a code reader. Compatible with a variety of 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, vans, and SUVs, the cp9125 pocket scan tool has an error database of over 5000 codes which makes it suitable for use with a range of vehicle models. You’ll also be able to use this pocketscan with 1994-1995 OBD II compliant vehicles. This versatility sets the cp9125 apart from other scanners which are limited to specifically 12v cars. As this tool can be updated, it offers compatibility with future vehicles too. Simply put: it’s unlikely you’ll run into any compatibility problems with this Actron scanner.
Actron cp9125 Functionality
At its core, this pocket scan tool is used to provide the user with the vehicle’s diagnostic trouble codes, erase these error codes, and display the emissions status and the malfunction indicator lamp status.
Designed to be a fast and easy way to diagnose and turn off your vehicle’s Check Engine light, the Actron cp9125 gets the job done. It quickly determines the cause behind the Check Engine light and, once the appropriate repairs have been made, you’ll be able to clear the trouble codes and turn the light off.
With two simple navigation buttons and a screen often praised for its readability, this is a no-fuss scanner that covers all the bases. All it requires the user to do is plug it in by using the OBD II connector cable. This cable fits directly into the vehicle’s data link connector which is usually located on the driver’s side under the dashboard. From there, you’ll be able to read the code and use either the Actron’s manual or online resources, such as Actron’s recommended RepairPath, to determine what the error is. Once you’ve referred to your manual or preferred website and successfully made the necessary repairs, you’ll be able to erase any codes and the Check Engine light will turn off.
Towards the end of our Actron cp9125 review, we have written up a simplistic set of instructions to help you use the device effectively. The user manual similarly includes an illustrated guide on how to best use the scanner.
Actron cp9125 Autoscanner Key Features
We have made sure to outline five key features in our Actron cp9125 review so that you can ensure it’s the very best pocketscan code reader for your needs. The design, the ability to read and erase any trouble code, having the capacity to show the vehicle’s emissions status, good overall compatibility, and running software which can be updated are all necessary features for a scanner to possess and, despite its affordable price, the cp9125 can do all of these.
1. Design
Designed to be compact and portable, this device measures 10.3 x 6.3 x 2.3 inches, making it longer in length than many of its competitors that are situated within the same price range. It will fit nicely in the palm of your hand and, weighing in at just 2.3 lbs, this scanner is noticeably lightweight. Constructed to withstand enduring use, this code reader has a hard orange plastic casing created to be drop resistant on even the hardest of garage floors. The one year limited warranty also attests to Actron’s confidence in the durability of this scanner.
For ease of navigation, there are two large buttons below the screen: ‘Read/Scroll Down’ and ‘Erase’. The OBD II data stream graphic display is clear and features a single line display of up to 8 characters. Many Amazon reviewers note how the on-screen characters are readily visible in a large font for quick, easy reading. Included with your purchase are a user manual which lists the definitions of all codes, information about the one year warranty, and a rubber cord with a 16-pin plug-in head.
2. Reads and Erases Codes
Reading and erasing trouble codes, the primary function of this scan tool, is quick and easy to do. The Actron cp9125 c reads engine Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and provides the codes on-screen so that you can determine the cause of your Check Engine light.
As this tool comes with over 5000 trouble codes, the Actron cp9125 pocket reader is more than capable of getting the job done. Having both manufacturer specific codes and generic codes means that there’s a good chance that, as long as your vehicle is OBD II/Controller Area Network (CAN) compliant, then it will be covered by this Actron scanner device.
Once you insert the scanner into the OBD II port on your vehicle, it will prompt you to turn on the ignition. Following this, it will automatically pull the errors from the onboard computer and display any codes. Scrolling down using the labelled button will then take you to the next error while also allowing you to scroll back up the errors list.
At the end of our review we have made sure to include a guide on how to go about using the Actron cp9125 c and you’ll also be able to find clear instructions on how to check for error codes by looking at the table of contents in the user manual that comes with your purchase.
3. Displays Emission Status
Providing more than just scanning codes, the Actron cp9125 pocket code reader sets itself apart from other budget pocket scan tools as it’s capable of showing emission status. With this scan tool, you’ll be able to self-test the vehicle’s emission control systems in order to check their performance. Ensuring that your emissions control system has passed the test is a straightforward process thanks to how easy to use the cp9125 c pocketscan is. If you use your OBD II scanner and no error codes have been displayed, it means that the vehicle is running clean and is compliant in terms of its emissions status.
4. Compatibility
Whether you’re a regular car owner or an experienced mechanic, you’re likely to want a pocket scan tool that is compatible with a variety of vehicles.
Capable of reading and erasing trouble codes on 1996 and newer import and domestic OBD II and Controller Area Network vehicles, the Actron cp9125 c code reader is a highly versatile option. Its wider coding capacity which spans across both manufacture and generic codes, means that, from Nissan to Toyota, you’ll be able to use this Actron cp9125 c pocketscan with a whole range of car models.
5. Software Updates
Beneficial for those of you looking for a pocketscan code reader that boasts longevity, you’ll be able to keep the software up to date so that even the latest vehicles can be diagnosed. You’ll simply need to connect the cp9125 to your computer, visit Actron’s website, and select the required software updates.
Updating is really straightforward and we’ve made sure to include a step-by-step guide on how to install updates at the end of this review.
The Actron cp9125 Verdict
The bottom line of our Actron cp9125 review is that this is up there among the best budget-friendly, yet feature-packed pocket scanners on the market. The fact that the Actron cp9125 can display emissions status is pretty impressive, particularly for a price tag of under $50.
Users will often note in their cp9125 review on Amazon that this device is simple to use and well worth the price. Its features, value for money, ease of use, and accuracy consistently score highly among those who have had first-hand experience of using this scanner. On top of this, you can rest easy knowing that Actron, one of the most respected code reader manufacturers, provide a one year warranty from the date of purchasing.
For DIYers, vehicle owners, and mechanics alike, this is a practical and cost-effective product and one that will get you the results you need. It’s hard to find any drawbacks of this handy gadget; it’s compact and durable, versatile in terms of its compatibility with a range of OBD II vehicles, and it comes with free updates to ensure its longevity with newer vehicles. After providing an in-depth review of the Actron cp9125 pocketscan code reader, we feel confident in saying this is an all round great, easy-to-use code pocket scan tool.
FAQs
Below we’ve provided answers to the most frequently asked questions when it comes to using and updating your cp9125 pocketscan code reader.
The cp9125 pocketscan code reader is one of the most easy to use scanners on the market. Here you’ll find an accessible guide on how you should go about using this scan tool, although it goes without saying that all of this is included with Actron’s user manual.
Step 1. Turn your ignition key to the off position.
Step 2. Locate and plug in the data link connector. This should be located under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle. If it isn’t there, there should be a label describing the location of the vehicle’s data link connector.
Step 3. Observe the display toggles: ‘pocket’ and ‘scan’.
Step 4. Start the engine.
Step 5. Press and release the ‘Read/Scroll Down’ key on your scan tool.
Step 6. Wait as you see a moving asterisk-like symbol on the tool’s display.
Step 7. The codes will appear on the display screen. To view all of the codes, navigate using the ‘Read/Scroll Down’ key.
Step 8. Continue using the ‘Read/Scroll Down’ key to read through any codes, to view the malfunction indicator lamp status, and to view the inspection and maintenance monitors.
You’ll be able to use the user manual to determine what the trouble codes means or you can go online and look up the codes.
Actron regularly release new updates for the cp9125 so if you come across a bug in your scanner’s software, it’s worth checking for updates. To update your cp9125, connect your scanner to your home or work computer and then download and install the update onto the device using a USB cable.
We’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide to help you update your cp9125 scanner.
Step 1. Download Actron’s Software Suite onto your computer.
Step 2. Select ‘Tool Update’ once the Software Suite starts. Connect your Actron cp9125 to your computer using the USB cable.
Step 3. Click on ‘Detect Device Automatically’.
Step 4. Choose the required update from the list provided. If you find that the update does not list a version number, then you will already have that version of the software installed.
Step 5. Once the update progress meter is complete, select ‘Done’ and close the Software Suite. You’ll then be able to unplug your updated cp9125 from your computer.
4.5 / 5