I am looking to buy an OBD II code reader for my '96 850 (190K miles) wagon. I know there are a number of tools/software out there (incl. FCP Groton's Innova 3100), but haven't made a final decision yet. What's the most reliable/user friendly tool out there?

P.S.: I can't believe I've gone this long w/o one ...

Most generic OBD II code readers will NOT clear the infamous Service Light except the one from Alex C. Peper at http://www.obd-2.com
Check it out
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Ken

I bought a used Actron CP9135 on eBay for about $85 and it has worked well for me on a 97 850. It has a built-in text display that tells you what the code numbers mean. It came with a manual that was well-written and pleasantly readable!

You may want to consider getting an OBDII interface instead.
If you have a laptop or portable pc, you can download scantools, digimoto,
etc. (freeware) which gives you a lot more flexibility and functions than
a basic code reader.
I just bought one on eBay for $55.00 USD.
Armie

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'94 850 154000kms '86 760GLE 272000kms 95 Silverado4x4

Please tell me more about OBDII interface for laptops...
Manufacturer, type, where to find software downloads, what can it do?

Erik,
My email to you did not go thru at
erik.astrom@swipnet.se
is this address incorrect?
Armie
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'94 850 154000kms '86 760GLE 272000kms 95 Silverado4x4

Oh Im sorry, it was an old one... The email address is updated now
Please try again
Thanks
Erik

Reply sent directly to your email address.
Armie
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'94 850 154000kms '86 760GLE 272000kms 95 Silverado4x4

The Innova 3100 is probably your best bet. Most walmarts have them in stock for around $98.

I have a 1995 850 Turbo, will this Innova 3100 scanner work on this car?

Thanks, Peter

Doesn't your '95 have the 2 diagnostic boxes next to the washer fluid fill tank? I know that some did, but mid-year they changed the design and so some don't. If yours doesn't then Volvo was getting ready for '96 when OBD-2 became standard, and so YES is the answer unless your car is from Canada, in which case there may not be either option. 850's exported to Canada can be a pain and a lot of times won't pass emission testing in the U.S. because there isn't a universal way to read the codes or even check them, from what I've read.

If you have the diagnostic boxes, consider yourself lucky! These little "gems" are much better than an OBD-2 tool which will only tell you emissions and engine codes...your boxes will tell you much, much more like the ECU functioning.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon

That is the one I purchased upon your advice and it works nicely---good price too.

dick

Bought my Innova off of eBay for about $90 shipped. This saved me about $8.50 in tax (TN tax is 9.25%). :) Works great!
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon

I picked up an INNOVA® 3110 CanOBD2™ TOOL off eBay.. works great on my '97 850 GLT (and my friend's 1996, SAAB).. no problems at all - and this one works with the newer protocols as well.

Yes, the CAN-BUS reader....will work on all newer volvo's but not necessary for our older cars...also costs about double what the other reader costs, but worth it if there is a need.
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1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon