Dealing with a check engine light can be frustrating for any car owner. The dreaded dashboard warning often signals potential expensive repairs, and taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic for a diagnostic scan can quickly add up. Many auto parts stores offer free scans, but the accuracy and reliability of these services can be questionable. For DIY enthusiasts, blindly replacing parts in hopes of resolving the issue is a costly and time-consuming gamble. A reliable OBDII scanner is the key to understanding why that light is on, deciphering the error codes to pinpoint the problem’s location, and even resetting the light after a repair.
The Innova 6100P OBDII scanner is marketed as a tool to empower car owners with diagnostic capabilities. This review is based on hands-on experience with the Innova 6100P, which was provided free of charge for an unbiased assessment. Retailing around $138.99 on Amazon.com, the Innova 6100P aims to offer more than basic code reading.
While my personal car collection leans towards pre-computer classics, my experience often leads me to assist with newer vehicles (1996 onwards) equipped with OBDII systems. This review focuses on evaluating the Innova 6100P’s performance and features for modern OBDII compliant vehicles.
The Innova 6100P arrives securely packaged in a box, complete with a dedicated carrying case. The scanner itself boasts a professional appearance with a large, backlit monochrome screen that remains easily readable even in bright sunlight. The included OBDII cable is noticeably high quality, and the option to add batteries illuminates the OBDII plug – a thoughtful feature for connecting in dimly lit conditions. Captive screws ensure a secure cable connection to the scanner unit.
A static-cling protective layer safeguards the screen beneath an initial sticker. Unfortunately, removing the sticker left a sticky residue, and the protective layer only became apparent after some use when it began to peel away.
Notably absent from the packaging are printed instructions. Instead, users are directed to online resources for the manual and operating guidance. This modern approach assumes readily available internet access.
For the initial test, I opted to skip the manual and directly connect the scanner to a 2005 Jaguar XJ8 Vanden Plas. However, for users unfamiliar with OBDII scanners, consulting the instructions is highly recommended.
Upon connection, the Innova 6100P automatically initiates the process of identifying the necessary OBDII software version and begins scanning the vehicle’s system log. In this instance, it returned a P1111 code. The scanner employs a simple three-light system to indicate the severity of detected issues: Green (No Problem), Yellow (Potential Problem), and Red (Problem).
While the 6100P typically provides code definitions, in this case, no additional information was displayed for the P1111 code. Based on prior experience, I recognized this Jaguar-specific code as an indication that the Computer Assisted Technology (CAT) system had cleared faults post-repair. Essentially, for a Jaguar, a P1111 code often signifies that everything is functioning correctly, despite the scanner’s yellow warning light – which can be somewhat misleading.
My primary interest in testing the Innova 6100P lay in its advertised access to manufacturer-specific codes within the ABS and SRS systems, along with enhanced OBDII codes. The test Jaguar, known for intermittent transmission glitches and computer-controlled air suspension issues, seemed like an ideal candidate to explore these advanced capabilities. However, Innova’s enhanced checks support a limited range of vehicles, and unfortunately, a 2005 Jaguar is not among them.
Undeterred, the scanner was then connected to a high-mileage 2000 GMC Sierra work truck, anticipating the retrieval of more detailed diagnostic information. The scanning process is relatively quick, completing in approximately 25 seconds.
Disappointingly, the scan yielded no fault codes. Despite the truck’s rough running condition, all systems reportedly checked out as normal.
The 6100P does support Freeze Frame data, which captures engine parameters at the moment a fault code is recorded. However, as no codes were triggered during testing, this feature could not be evaluated.
Battery and alternator testing are often overlooked by home mechanics until a no-start situation arises. The 6100P includes a user-friendly feature to assess battery and alternator health. On-screen prompts guide users through a simple test involving starting and stopping the engine three times. Both test vehicles passed this charging system assessment.
The Innova 6100P also allows users to clear oil change reminder lights, a convenient feature for those who perform their own oil changes.
Navigating the scanner’s menus reveals access to various system monitors. The 6100P scanned at least 12 systems on the Jaguar and a similar number on the GMC truck, indicating a comprehensive scan capability, even if deeper diagnostics were not possible for these specific vehicles. Notably, the scanner successfully checked the O2 sensors on the high-mileage Jaguar, confirming they were within acceptable ranges.
Standout Features of the Innova 6100P:
- Protective Carrying Case: The included case is a significant plus, keeping the scanner and cable organized and preventing damage from loose storage in a trunk or toolbox.
- High-Quality Cable: The robust, long OBDII cable feels professional and offers ample length, allowing comfortable scanner operation outside the vehicle while connected.
- Bright and Clear Screen: The screen is exceptionally readable in various lighting conditions, with a straightforward font and clear on-screen instructions.
- Solid Build Quality: Despite being lightweight, the scanner feels well-constructed. Optional battery power enhances portability and illuminates the OBDII plug.
- Responsive Rubberized Buttons: The buttons provide good tactile feedback and remain functional even when wearing mechanic’s gloves.
Drawbacks of the Innova 6100P:
- Unintuitive Button Labels: The button icons are not user-friendly. The reliance on abstract symbols instead of clear labels can be confusing. Only one button with a red “eraser” icon is immediately obvious. Acronyms like DTC, M, and FF require prior knowledge, and other symbols like a “ying/yang” circle and interlocked arrows are ambiguous. Consulting the manual is necessary to decipher button functions. Furthermore, the term “hot keys” is used without clear explanation within the scanner’s interface.
- No Live Data: A significant limitation is the lack of live data streaming. Competitors in similar price ranges often offer real-time monitoring of engine parameters like temperature and RPM, a feature absent in the 6100P.
- Cumbersome Menu Navigation: Menu navigation can be tedious. The absence of VIN auto-detection necessitates manual vehicle information entry using slow-scrolling buttons. While holding the buttons accelerates scrolling, the process remains less efficient than VIN-based input.
Features Discovered in the Manual:
The Innova 6100P can connect to a computer via USB for data uploading and firmware updates. Innova provides free software for this purpose, enabling users to keep the scanner current with new vehicle models and codes. Modern vehicles can have over 20 systems to monitor, and the 6100P’s update capability ensures ongoing compatibility.
The reliance on the manual to understand button functions and the somewhat redundant button layout led to repeated scans during testing to ensure correct button presses.
Final Verdict:
While my personal budget scanner provides basic code reading and live data, the Innova 6100P distinguishes itself with broader system scanning capabilities. The 6100P accesses a wider range of system fault codes compared to simpler, cheaper units.
For home mechanics working on newer vehicles, the Innova 6100P is a worthwhile upgrade from basic scanners. The enhanced data access related to error codes justifies the price, provided it is compatible with the vehicles being serviced. The scanner’s robust build and software updateability suggest long-term durability and value. The excellent cable and carrying case are additional practical benefits. Innova also offers replacement cables, addressing a common point of failure in many scanners with fixed cables.
However, for those primarily working on vehicles from the late 1990s and early 2000s, a less expensive scanner might suffice, especially considering the 6100P’s lack of live data. The advanced features of the 6100P are more fully realized with newer, more complex vehicles.
