If I ran wires from the plug for the ground and diagnostic wire to the connections on the scanner? It seems like it would work to me even if I had to solder wires to the scanner. There only $30. Would it work? Has anyone tried it?

 

I think I answered my own question. The cheap scanners don't have a screen and you need a screen to see the codes on these cars.

 

Yes, you would need a "screen" one, plus one that would work with the OBDII connector. (Autozone ones won't work with it)

 

If you make some little adapters like this, it will work fine and you can still use the 12 pin scanner plug on your older cars.

 

No... it won't work fine. He's talking about a "$30 scanner".... that's the "short the ALDL pins" version of the Actron, and will not work at all on anything newer than a 1993.

 

Of course, you are right. I sometimes don't read thoroughly late at night.