I've got a code reader I bought at Harbor Freight a couple years ago (the cheapie model) had my CEL come on yesterday driving to work in my Sorento. Put the code reader on it and all I can get is an error message. Is it time to invest in a better model? It does look like Harbor Freight has discontinued the one I currently have.

OBDII readers can read basic and common codes concerning the engine, but may or may not read tranny codes. They usually do not read mercedes, porche, vw, audi, any other europeans.. Also, there are dealer specific codes sometimes. These will display a code (p0440) but not a description. Even the expensive professional shop scanners don't read the dealer codes. But usually you can lookup the code online or call the dealer about it. it may just be out of date. I'd go to parts store somewhere where they do free code scans and see if theirs get the error too.

I'm planning on stopping at an Autozone today to see what they can find out. Probably too late for Santa to get me a new code reader.