Originally released in April 2015, the Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner has been marketed as a versatile handheld diagnostic tool, catering to both OBD2 and some OBD1 systems. I recently put this scanner to the test to evaluate its capabilities and determine if it lives up to its claims, especially in today’s market where automotive diagnostic tools are rapidly evolving.
Unboxing the Actron CP9185 Kit
The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner comes neatly packaged in a soft case, accompanied by an instruction booklet, a CD (though mine was missing), a main cable, a USB cable, and a short OBD2 (16-pin) adapter cable. The absence of the CD, which supposedly contains the full user manual and PC connectivity software, was a minor inconvenience, suggesting potential issues with package completeness or a shift towards online resources. However, all other components were present and in good order.
The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner kit unboxed, displaying the scanner, cables, and case.
Purchased directly from Amazon for $175 (a price that quickly changed to $259+ from other sellers, with Actron listing it at $398+), it seemed like I initially secured a deal. This price fluctuation highlights the importance of comparing prices from various vendors before purchasing diagnostic tools. Interestingly, further research indicated a consistent price point of around $150 at Advance Auto Parts, suggesting that the initial low Amazon price might have been an anomaly or a temporary promotion.
The Actron CP9127 OBD1 adapter cable, including a 12-pin adapter and cigar-lighter power adapter.
The scanner itself features a power button, but the display backlight requires external 12V power. This can be sourced from the car’s OBD2 port or an external DC adapter. For OBD1 vehicles, which typically don’t power the data-link connector (DLC), a power adapter is essential.
OBD1 Diagnostic Capabilities: Surprisingly Robust
To explore the OBD1 capabilities, I acquired the OBD1 adapter cables (Actron CP9127, around $35), which include a 12-pin adapter and a cigar-lighter power adapter. Notably, for 1995 F-body cars, the standard 16-pin OBD2 cable is compatible. However, for 1994 models, the CP9127 or a custom-made adapter cable (15-pin Actron to 12-pin DLC) is necessary. A 12V AC adapter is also required for 1994 vehicles.
Testing the Actron CP9185 on several OBD1 vehicles, including 1994/95 LT1, 1994/95 L34, and an 86 5.0L/carb F-body, yielded impressive results. All vehicles connected successfully using the OBD1 adapter and provided at least three screens of live data, alongside current and historical Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). The field service feature, which grounds the field service pin on the DLC, functioned correctly with the OBD1 cable.
Live diagnostic data being displayed on the Actron CP9185 scanner during an OBD1 test on a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 2.
Real-time OBD1 data shown on the Actron CP9185 screen while connected to a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 1.
Comprehensive OBD1 diagnostic information presented on the Actron CP9185 display for a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 3.
Detailed OBD1 diagnostic readings as seen on the Actron CP9185 scanner during testing on a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 4.
Multiple screens of OBD1 diagnostic data accessible on the Actron CP9185 when used with a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 5.
Extensive OBD1 data parameters viewable on the Actron CP9185 scanner during diagnostics of a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 6.
Further screens of OBD1 diagnostic data on the Actron CP9185, demonstrating its capability with a 1994 LT1 engine, screen 7.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) retrieved by the Actron CP9185 from a 1994 LT1 engine during the OBD1 diagnostic test.
It’s worth noting a nuance regarding the field service mode for 1995 OBD1 vehicles using the OBD2 cable. The field service pin signal moved from pin 6 to pin 12 to avoid conflicts with CAN signals in later models. For field service mode to function on a 1995 model with the OBD2 cable, pin 6 in the DLC would need to be manually connected to pin 12.
OBD2 Performance: Disappointingly Basic
Unfortunately, the OBD2 functionality of the Actron CP9185 is less impressive. Its capabilities are comparable to much cheaper, basic OBD2 code readers like the Autel Maxiscan MS310, which offers similar features at a significantly lower price point. For comprehensive OBD2 diagnostics, software like OBDWiz, often bundled with inexpensive ELMScan-5 Compact adapters, provides a more feature-rich experience.
Limited Extra Functions and Features
The Actron CP9185 lacks support for critical systems like ABS and SRS modules, and it does not offer actuator tests. Graphing capabilities are limited to low-resolution graphs for select OBD2 parameters only, with no graphing for OBD1 data. Even the OBD2 graphs are hampered by the inability to pause them for detailed examination, despite the manual’s claim of a “rewind” function.
Data logging is available for both OBD1 and OBD2, but recording times are very short, sometimes under 20 seconds, and the data update rate is slow. PC connectivity is restricted to transferring logged data in a basic text format, offering minimal analytical utility.
Final Recommendation
The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner’s primary strength lies in its OBD1 diagnostic capabilities. If you specifically require a handheld tool for diagnosing older, OBD1-equipped vehicles, it could be a worthwhile investment, especially if found at a competitive price like the $150 range. However, for OBD2 diagnostics, its performance is underwhelming and doesn’t justify its price, especially when compared to more affordable and equally capable, or even more feature-rich, alternatives available on the market. For modern OBD2 vehicle diagnostics, consider exploring other options that offer broader system coverage, advanced features, and better value.
