The Actron CP9690 OBD1/OBD2 Scanner is a powerful and versatile tool designed for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. This scanner bridges the gap between older and newer vehicles, offering comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for a wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs. Whether you’re dealing with a classic muscle car or a modern hybrid, the CP9690 is equipped to help you understand and address your vehicle’s issues effectively.
Key Features of the Actron CP9690 Scanner
This scan tool is packed with features that go beyond basic code reading, providing in-depth analysis and repair guidance. Here’s a breakdown of what makes the Actron CP9690 stand out:
Broad Vehicle Compatibility: OBD1 and OBD2 Coverage
One of the most significant advantages of the Actron CP9690 is its extensive vehicle compatibility. It’s designed to work with:
- All 1996 and newer vehicles (OBD II & CAN): This includes import, domestic, diesel, and hybrid vehicles, ensuring you can diagnose most modern cars on the road.
- 1994 and 1995 OBD II compliant vehicles: Expanding its reach to some of the early OBD II adopters.
- OBD I Coverage (1984-1995): The inclusion of OBD I cables makes this scanner exceptionally valuable for owners of older vehicles. It supports:
- 1984-1995 GM vehicles
- 1984-1995 Ford vehicles
- 1989-1995 Chrysler vehicles
- 1989-1995 Toyota vehicles
This broad compatibility means you don’t need multiple scanners for different car eras, making the CP9690 a cost-effective and convenient solution for workshops and car enthusiasts alike.
CodeConnect®: Access to 26 Million Verified Fixes
Diagnosing a problem is only half the battle; knowing how to fix it is crucial. Actron’s CodeConnect® feature is a game-changer in this regard. It offers:
- Experience-Based Fixes: Access a comprehensive database of over 26 million verified fixes specifically linked to Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- Check Engine, ABS, and Airbag Lights: CodeConnect provides fixes for issues causing these critical warning lights to illuminate, guiding you to the next step in the repair process.
- ASE Certified Technician Verified: The fixes in the database are not just crowd-sourced; they are reported and verified by ASE certified technicians, ensuring reliability and accuracy.
With CodeConnect®, you’re not just reading codes; you’re getting expert-backed guidance on how to resolve the underlying issues.
Essential Reset and Status Functions
Beyond code reading and fixes, the Actron CP9690 includes several important service functions:
- Oil Light Reset: Supports oil light resets for a wide range of models, including most 1996-2013 BMW & GM vehicles, and limited Ford & Hyundai models.
- Battery Reset: Essential for modern vehicles, the battery reset function is available for late-model BMW, Mini Cooper, and Ford F-Service trucks.
- GM DTC Status: Provides specific DTC status information for GM vehicles, offering deeper insights into potential problems.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Data
The CP9690 offers a wealth of diagnostic data to help you understand your vehicle’s health:
- Airbag & ABS Codes and Definitions: Reads and displays airbag and ABS codes and their definitions for many 1996-2013 vehicles from manufacturers like GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Hyundai.
- Live Real-Time Data: Access over 300 possible data PIDs (depending on vehicle), allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s performance in real-time.
- Graphing Capability: Graph two PIDs simultaneously for comparative data analysis, helping to pinpoint intermittent issues.
- Record / Playback of Live Data: Record live data streams for later review and analysis, useful for diagnosing issues that are not always present.
- Freeze Frame Data: Captures a snapshot of vehicle data at the moment a fault occurs, providing valuable context for diagnosis.
- I/M Monitors (Emissions Readiness): Read and display all available I/M Monitors to check your vehicle’s emissions system readiness for state inspections.
- Pending DTCs: Identifies potential problems before they trigger the check engine light, allowing for proactive maintenance.
- Enhanced Engine and Transmission Codes: Provides access to manufacturer-specific codes for deeper diagnostics of engine and transmission systems.
- VIN, CVN, and Cal ID: Reads and displays Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), Calibration Verification Number (CVN), and Calibration ID.
- Battery / Alternator / Charging System Monitor: Monitors the health of your vehicle’s battery and charging system.
- Mode 6 Data: Displays Mode 6 data in layman’s terms, making complex diagnostic information more accessible.
- State OBD Check & OBD II Drive Cycle Mode: Helps in understanding and performing OBD II drive cycles for emissions testing.
User-Friendly Hardware and Interface
The Actron CP9690 is designed for ease of use:
- Color Display: Provides clear and easy-to-read display of diagnostic information.
- Trilingual Menu and Code Definitions: Supports English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
- Full Manufacturer Specific Code Definitions: Displays make/model/year specific code definitions directly on the tool, eliminating the need for lookups.
- Component Locator: Text-based descriptions help you locate vehicle components, saving time and effort.
- Acronym Library & Full PID Name Description: Provides quick access to acronym definitions and full PID names for easier understanding of diagnostic terms and data.
- Print to PC: Allows you to print diagnostic reports for record-keeping or sharing with a mechanic.
- Updateable via USB: Keep your scanner up-to-date with the latest software and vehicle coverage via USB.
- Optional Battery Backup: Offers battery backup for reviewing data off-vehicle (batteries not required for operation when connected to the vehicle).
What’s Included with the Actron CP9690?
The Actron CP9690 comes as a complete kit, ready to use right out of the box. The package includes:
- Actron CP9690 OBD 1300 Tool
- Quick Start Manual
- 6-foot Vehicle Diagnostic Extension Cable
- OBD II Cable
- GM ALDL OBD I Cable
- Ford MCU/EEV-IV OBD I Cable
- Chrysler SCI OBD I Cable
- Toyota OBD I Cables (Round and Rectangular)
- Cigarette Lighter Cable (for power)
- Soft Carrying Case
Conclusion: The Actron CP9690 – A Smart Investment for Vehicle Diagnostics
The Actron CP9690 OBD1/OBD2 Scanner is more than just a code reader; it’s a comprehensive diagnostic tool that empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicles effectively. Its broad vehicle compatibility, CodeConnect® fixes, extensive data access, and user-friendly design make it an invaluable asset for anyone from home mechanics to seasoned professionals. Investing in the Actron CP9690 means investing in the long-term health and performance of your vehicles.
