Code scanner recommendations?

Most on here use the Mini-VCI cable found online, costing around $18-$30. This cable allows you to use the Toyota Techstream software, which may offer better/different results over that all-in-one hand held scanner.

** Note this cable requires a windows type computer to run the software.

 

You might consider getting a ScanGauge-II, although they're not cheap. I bought my 2nd (they can be daisy-chained) on eBay, and the manufacturer (Linear Logic) gave me a free upgrade for the firmware for the second! (Thankyou LL!) I paid ~$150 for the first (from Ye Olde PriusChatte Shoppe) and <$100 from eBay! Good luck! And welcome to PriusChat!
PS as well as scanning the codes, each SG-2 allows you to set up four (4) useful X-Gauges, I have mine set up for RPM(ICE), °F(ICE), V(AuxBattery), HP(ICE), %SoC(TractionBattery), V(TractionBattery), ±Current(TractionBattery), %(Fuel) - hope this helps - Wil

 

If you are going to carry it around in the vehicle then Scangauge, if you want just a code reader, you can't do better than a mini VCI setup (same as dealer uses).

 

Techstream is freeware, see techstream inconsistencies | Page 2 | PriusChat

You DO NOT want the most current version, really anything later than the vehicle build date will be good. I have 10.10.018 and still looking for a compatible cable. My PUMA *should* work, but I cannot find the OBDII adapter for it

 

Is there any particular version which could be considered the best and the one to get?

 

No, not really. Pretty much anything after V4.xx.xxx up to ver 10.xx.xxx. The only real advantage of getting the newer versions is being able to use it on newer cars (up to the new models added in V10). If you only intend to use it on your Gen II any version that supports Gen II is good enough.

 

A simple Bluetooth OBDII device works fine when coupled with the Torque app download to an Android phone/tablet.

Cost you under $20.

 

If I buy this cable, will the software load and be usable on a Windows 10 machine. I only have one windows laptop and it is running the newest version of windows. Everything I've read concerning the free download of Toyota's Techstream references windows XP or windows 7.

 

I have heard of it being done successfully, but I have also read more stories where they tried and failed.

Personally, I would create a Win XP or Win 7 (32-bit) VM within Win 10 and install the cable and software there. Once installed, disable the network connection, just to be safe. Install v10.xx.xxx or less of Techstream.

 

Thank you for responding.

There's one available on Amazon, it will deliver faster, are these the same units and software packages. The reviews on Amazon are mixed. LINK

 

You can put it on Windows 10, but it takes more effort.
I have yet to see a step by step that makes it so that a complete novice can install it with no hiccups along the way.

 

I think you will find mixed reviews on just about all of them, as the customer base will be a mix of technically illiterate to IT super heroes. You need to read between the lines.

My opinion is that these Chinese knock off cables are all much of a muchness. I'd put more stock in the credibility of the seller that has good feedback for after sales support and who was local. Don't necessarily buy the cheapest either.

Having said that, this is one of those 32-bit versions, so I'd not phaff around trying to install in Win 10 (The instructions are there in one of the reviews, if you want to give it a go, though). Just create a fresh Win 7 (32-bit) (or Win XP) VM. Then make a copy of it and then start your install in the copy. Why? It will be so much easier to start fresh when you get to the point you want to pull your hair out. You may not, if the install instructions are good, but better to be safe than sorry.

PS, even if you elect to install in Win 10, create a VM so it is isolated from the rest of your system and so you can disable the network connection in the VM. You don't want to be faced with unwelcome easter eggs on your only Win system.