Recently, the Actron CP9185 OBD2 handheld scanner was put to the test to evaluate its capabilities, particularly for both OBD2 and OBD1 systems. Marketed as a versatile tool for both older and newer vehicles, this review dives into a detailed examination of its features and performance.
The Actron CP9185 arrives as a complete kit, including a soft carrying case, an instruction manual, a CD, a main connection cable, a USB cable, and a short OBD2 (16-pin) adapter cable. Notably, the test unit was missing the CD, which might necessitate downloading files for PC connectivity and accessing the full user manual. Purchased directly from Amazon for $175 (a price that soon after increased significantly), the kit was otherwise complete and in perfect condition. This price point was considerably lower than Actron’s direct selling price of $398 plus shipping, highlighting potential price fluctuations and deals available through different vendors.
The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner kit laid out showing the handheld scanner, cables, and case, emphasizing the components included for vehicle diagnostics.
Image displaying the Actron CP9185 cable adapter set, essential for connecting to both OBD2 and OBD1 vehicle diagnostic ports, showcasing compatibility.
While the scanner includes a power button, the display backlight requires an external 12V power source to illuminate. This power can be supplied either from the vehicle’s diagnostic link connector (DLC) in OBD2 cars or via a DC adapter, which is necessary for OBD1 vehicles as they typically do not provide power to the DLC.
OBD1 Functionality: A Strong Suit
To test OBD1 capabilities, the optional OBD1 adapter cables (CP9127) were acquired, priced at approximately $35. This adapter set includes a 12-pin short adapter cable and a cigarette lighter power adapter, crucial for powering the scanner in OBD1 applications. For certain 1995 F-body vehicles, the standard 16-pin OBD2 cable may suffice. However, for 1994 models, the CP9127 or a custom-made adapter cable from the 15-pin Actron connector to the 12-pin DLC is necessary. A 12V AC adapter is also required for 1994 OBD1 systems.
Testing across several classic vehicles, including 1994 and 1995 LT1 and L34 F-bodies, and an 86 5.0L carbureted model, revealed impressive OBD1 functionality. All vehicles successfully connected 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, worked effectively with the OBD1 cable. It’s important to note that for 1995 OBD1 cars using the OBD2 cable, the field service pin functionality is not directly compatible due to pin configuration changes to accommodate CAN signals in later models.
Close-up of the Actron CP9185 car scanner screen displaying diagnostic data from a 1994 LT1 engine, showcasing its OBD1 capabilities.
Actron CP9185 displaying live engine data parameters during an OBD1 scan on a 94 LT1 vehicle, highlighting real-time diagnostic feedback.
Screen capture of the Actron Car Scanner showing various OBD1 parameters being monitored on a 1994 LT1 engine, demonstrating data richness.
Actron CP9185 screen displaying detailed diagnostic information during an OBD1 test on a 94 LT1 car, emphasizing its diagnostic depth.
The Actron CP9185 performing a system check on a 1994 LT1 OBD1 system, confirming its comprehensive diagnostic process.
Actron CP9185 providing engine analysis results on a 1994 LT1 vehicle through OBD1, showcasing its engine diagnostic capabilities.
In-depth readings displayed on the Actron CP9185 during OBD1 diagnostics of a 94 LT1, demonstrating the scanner’s data acquisition.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) displayed on the Actron CP9185 after an OBD1 scan of a 1994 LT1, illustrating fault code detection.
OBD2 Performance: Disappointing Capabilities
In contrast to its OBD1 performance, the OBD2 functionality of the Actron CP9185 is less impressive. The capabilities offered for OBD2 diagnostics are comparable to much simpler and more affordable OBD2 code readers, such as the Autel Maxiscan MS310. These basic tools perform nearly all the fundamental OBD2 functions of the CP9185 but at a significantly lower cost. For comprehensive OBD2 diagnostics, software solutions like OBDWiz, often bundled with inexpensive adapters like the ELMScan-5 Compact, provide a more feature-rich experience.
Limited Extra Functions and Features
The Actron CP9185 lacks support for advanced systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) modules. It also does not offer actuator tests, which are valuable for diagnosing component-level issues. Graphing capabilities are limited, with low-resolution graphs available only for certain OBD2 parameters and no graphing support at all for OBD1 data. Even the OBD2 graphs are hampered by the inability to pause or stop them for detailed examination, despite the manual’s claim of a “rewind” feature for graph recordings.
Data logging is available for both OBD1 and OBD2 systems, but the recording duration is severely restricted, sometimes capturing less than 20 seconds of data. The data update rate is also notably slow, which can limit the usefulness of live data monitoring and logging.
PC connectivity is possible, but its utility is confined to transferring logged data, and even this is limited to text format, restricting in-depth data analysis and visualization on a computer.
Recommendation: Best for OBD1, Consider Alternatives for OBD2
Pros:
- Effective OBD1 scanning capabilities with live data and DTC retrieval.
- Includes necessary cables and adapters for basic OBD1 and OBD2 diagnostics.
- Handheld and relatively easy to use for field diagnostics.
Cons:
- Disappointing OBD2 functionality, comparable to much cheaper basic code readers.
- Lacks support for ABS, SRS, and actuator tests.
- Limited and low-resolution graphing, only for some OBD2 parameters.
- Short data logging duration and slow update rate.
- Restricted PC interface capabilities.
Conclusion:
The Actron CP9185 car scanner is primarily recommended for users who specifically require a handheld tool for diagnosing OBD1 vehicles. Its OBD1 capabilities are robust and functional. However, for OBD2 diagnostics, it does not offer significant advantages over much less expensive options and lacks the advanced features found in more comprehensive scan tools or software-based solutions. If your diagnostic needs are primarily OBD2 focused, exploring alternative scanners that offer better value and features is advisable.
