so my new to me 99 996 just threw a check engine light. noticed it has been starting to hunt and idle a little rough.

what is the best setup to be able to read the OBD code to get an idea of where to start?

thx

 

Any generic ODB scanner you can buy at your local auto parts store. $20-$100

Autozone will scan for free $0.00

Also Amazon or Ebay also sell a clone Porsche PIWIS that works on a XP laptop. It will read Porsche specific codes that a generic ODBII reader will not. $39.00 it also will clear codes generics do not, Airbag etc.

The gold standard is a Durametric scanner $275

 

im in the same boat. 997 "check engine visit workshop" came on..Tightened gas cap,no good. my autozone does not offer the OBD service so ifound a jiffylube that does...im hoping its a code the OBD will recognize or im off to an indie or see if anyone in Sacramento will help me out..

 

If you are going to bother to have the code read you really should just break down and buy a reasonably good code reader/data viewer/data logger.

I've had an Actron unit now for years (over 14 years) and it has paid for itself a number of times. (It cost around $200 then.)

A good code reader/et al will be invaluable as you attempt to diagnose an error code or codes. Even if you do not plan on fixing the problem yourself being able to read the codes and then post them for comment helps you when you do take the car in, what to expect.

 

I've got a great scanner that I paid decent money for but now the easiest and very accurate method is a Bluetooth (android or WiFi (iPhone) OBDII transmitter plugged into your OBDII port and reading all codes on your mobile device. There are several free (and pay/premium) apps that report all basic codes and which also let you clear them w/your phone.


The ELM32 is the most popular device and runs $10-$20.
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_no...1%2Ck%3Aelm+32


These also allow you to get real time data such as coolant, temp, engine load, intake air temp, etc...


These don't have the vast features of a durametric but are great for most general CELs and errors.

 

I bought a $80.00 OBD scanner at Harbor Freight and it reads all the codes it actually has a menu where you scroll through to pick your specific car make, it clears codes and does live monitoring. Works pretty good.