I had a trouble code before so I know the MIL works...
My question is I am having problems with my car such as hesitation/surge, stalling etc... I have not seen any MIL although the starting problem happened recently and I tried starting it so many times that I didn't really notice for sure whether once I was finally able to get it started and drive home whether the MIL was on at that point or not...it's currently at my dad's and torn apart... If the MIL isn't on will an OBD II VPM such as AutoTap detect codes that don't trigger MIL or SES light? Could I possibly find clues to my problems by finding codes which are not going to trigger any LIGHT?

Or is it only for reading codes?

Also I have the service manual for my 97 z28 I believe the codes are all in there and if not there online...am I just wasting money buying an autotap? would a live diagnostic reader/scanner such as this be fine?
Advanced OBDII Code Reader - (Retrieve Live Data including timing, fuel pressure, temperatures, throttle position, engine load, and more! Displays the code description on the screen, not just the code - no code book required!)
http://www.diydiagnostics.com/advanced_specs.htm

Please help, My Baby (z28) isn't feeling good and I love her and always will and am keeping her for LIFE... so what should I do?????

 

Well I got my answer today at Autozone... as per the do codes pop up without any indicator light on the dash...The answer is YES...

got a P0100 MAF VAF code...

So now I am thinking a code reader/scanner with ability to run real time diagnostics is a sure thing...plus the ability to delete codes...this way I can scan it whenever and keep a closer eye on it...

Still looking for suggestions for a OBD II scanner maybe even tuner?
Anyone have any experience with any?

 

I have Autotap with the GM enhanced parameters. It's pretty good and has a decent update rate from the PCM.

If you want to read just the basic trouble codes, then the one you posted should be fine(I think...but I have not used it). If your going to be tuning on your car(camshaft change).....then you will need a more advanced logging device like Autotap.