Having a good scanner can save you a lot of pain when that check engine signal pops up in your car. A good scanner does not have to be expensive or big; it just needs to get the job done.
This review takes a detailed look at the Actron CP9125 OBD II code reader. It bases on personal and other users’ experiences to lay bare the good and the bad of the pocket scanner.
Table of Contents
Actron CP9125C vs Ancel AD310 vs FOXWELL NT201 Comparison Chart
 ANCEL AD310 |  Actron CP9125 |  FOXWELL NT201 |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price |  | | |
| Package Dimensions | 9.1" x 6.5" x 1.5" | 10.3" x 6.3" x 2.3" | 4.7" x 3" x 0.8" |
| Item Weight | 11.4oz | 2.3lbs | 10.4oz |
| Pros | 6 OBD2 Modes; Reads and Clears Codes with Code Definition; Retrieve VIN; Shows live data, freeze frame. | ctron CP9125 can read and clear DTCs, display CEL status, and I/M status. | Can read codes, show DTC definitions and clear the codes; Can perform O2, I/M readiness Tests. |
| Cons | Possible Compatibility Issues (check carefully before buying); Slow tech support. | Work with 12V battery cars only; Heavy. | Compatibility issues may be raised. (should check carefully before buying) |
| Bottom Line | ANCEL AD310 focuses on beginners who want to turn off the CEL. | Actron CP9125C is ideal for backyard mechanics who are quite familiar with common errors. | Foxwell NT201 is great code reader for beginners and DIYers. |
Read on for an insight to help you decide whether this is the right scanner for you.
Actron CP9125 Overview
The CP9125 (full name Actron CP9125 C PocketScan Code Reader) is a hand-held scanner from Actron’s line of automobile accessories. It is useful to scan and display error codes on CAN and OBD II protocol vehicles (US manufacture 1996 or later, EU 2000+ and Asia 2004+). It is compatible with a variety of cars and light trucks. An error database of over 5000 codes makes it suitable for various car models- Nissan, Chevy, Toyota, BMW, Subaru, e.t.c. Unlike many scanners that are specific to 12v cars, the CP9125 is versatile.
The CP9125 does not give error meanings. You will need a separate manual or online resource to define error meanings displayed on the CP9125. The scanner allows software updates to keep it in the loop of emerging scanning needs. Actron offers a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase for this product.
Detailed Review of Actron CP9125C
Features of ACp9125C
A CP9125 delivery box comes with the scanner and a separate code manual. The scanner, which has a rubber cord with a 16-pin plug-in head, is a display head with two buttons and a screen.
The ‘Read’ button is used to pull, display, and scroll errors, and the ‘Erase’ is used to clear them. The screen displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) and gives the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Status.
(*MIL is just another name for the ‘check engine’ light.)
It weighs 2.3 pounds (1.04 kg) with a dimension of 10.3 by 6.3 by 2.3 inches (26.16x16x5.8 cm)
Performance of Actron CP9125C
Once you plug the scanner into the OBD II port on the car, it prompts you to turn on the car’s ignition. Once this is done, it will automatically pull the errors from the computer and display their codes. The connector cable contains both power and data pins.
This scanner will search for both electrical and fuel/air system errors. It, however, does not pull ABS errors.
Usually, a single problem may cause several errors to appear on the screen. For instance, an emission problem may cause an O2 sensor error to appear together with the emission one. Fixing the emission problem will make both errors disappear.
Scrolling down the ‘read’ button takes you to the next error that has been scanned. You can scroll back up in case you need to get back to a previously read error.
A ‘No Link’ response signifies that you have not turned the ignition on.
Can the scanner work if a vehicle engine cannot start? Yes, it can. All you need is to turn on the ignition, not start the engine. The battery would, however, need to have some charge required to power the scanner.
Maintenance
Ensure to coil the cord when not in use, which will prevent it from breaking at the end, where it attaches to the screen and the plug. Remember to cover the plug-in end to avoid bending or breaking of the OBD II pins.
Storing in the original delivery box is the safest practice.
Similar Products
- ANCEL AD310 Classic Universal OBD II Scanner Review
- Foxwell NT201: Check Engine Light Fault Code Reader Review
The Verdict
The Actron Scanner CP9125 appears to struggle when measured against other scanners in its class. A significant advantage, however, is its ability to scan a wide variety of vehicles.
This scanner is ideal for backyard mechanics who are quite familiar with common errors. People dealing with cars of varying battery sizes will also love its versatility.
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