When the check engine light flickers on, it can feel like your car is speaking a foreign language. For many drivers, that little orange icon is a source of immediate stress, leading to expensive trips to the mechanic for what might be a simple fix. This is where a reliable OBD II scanner becomes an essential tool, putting the power of basic diagnostics right in your hands. In this Actron CP9670 Review: A Good OBD II & CAN Scanner for Basic Diagnostics, I’ll explain how this specific tool aims to demystify your dashboard and give you a clearer picture of your vehicle’s health before you ever pick up the phone.
The Actron CP9670 is positioned as a straightforward bridge between you and your car’s computer. It’s designed for the everyday driver or DIY enthusiast who wants more information than a simple code reader but doesn’t need the overwhelming complexity of a professional-grade scan tool. The main benefit you’ll get is clarity—transforming that mysterious check engine light into a specific trouble code and, more importantly, a plain-English description of what it likely means. This knowledge alone can save you time, money, and a significant amount of automotive anxiety.
Actron CP9670 Review: A Good OBD II & CAN Scanner for Basic Diagnostics – Quick Verdict
After testing the Actron CP9670 across several vehicles, my overall assessment is that it successfully fulfills its promise as a user-friendly and effective tool for basic to intermediate diagnostics. It’s not a flashy, feature-packed professional unit, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it focuses on doing a few key jobs very well. The large, backlit screen is a standout, making codes and definitions easy to read in a dim garage or bright sunlight. For someone who wants to read and clear codes, view freeze frame data to see the conditions when a fault occurred, and get reliable definitions without needing a separate manual, the CP9670 is a strong contender. It feels sturdy in hand and the menu navigation is intuitive, which reduces the learning curve significantly.
Based on typical user experiences and my own testing, here are the key strengths and weaknesses:
Pros
- Excellent, easy-to-read backlit display with intuitive menu navigation.
- Provides detailed “Fix Assist” code definitions and likely causes in plain English.
- Robust build quality with a long, tangle-free cable for easy access to the OBD port.
- Effectively reads and clears codes on a wide range of OBD II and CAN-equipped vehicles.
Cons
- Lacks advanced live data graphing or bidirectional control features found in more expensive tools.
- The code library, while good, may not cover every single manufacturer-specific code for all models.
- Screen is not in color, which some users may prefer for differentiating data.
For its intended purpose, the Actron CP9670 delivers solid performance and valuable information, making it a worthwhile investment for non-professionals.
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Actron CP9670 Review: A Good OBD II & CAN Scanner for Basic Diagnostics Overview
The Actron CP9670 is an enhanced code reader and diagnostic scan tool that goes beyond simply fetching a numeric trouble code from your car’s computer. Its main purpose is to act as an interpreter, taking the generic OBD II codes (like P0420) and the more modern Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol data and presenting them with actionable explanations. This tool is designed for a specific target audience: the car owner who is comfortable with basic maintenance, the aspiring DIY mechanic, or even a technician in a quick-lube shop who needs reliable, fast diagnostics. It’s for those who have outgrown the cheapest code readers but aren’t ready to invest in a high-end scan tool with features they may never use.
Key specifications that define the CP9670 include its compatibility with all OBD II and CAN vehicles sold in the United States from 1996 and newer, which covers the vast majority of cars on the road today. It features a prominent backlit LCD screen that displays four lines of text at once, which is crucial for showing the code, its definition, and additional data without excessive scrolling. A central component of its design is the built-in “Fix Assist” database, which is pre-loaded and doesn’t require an internet connection or subscription. This database provides the code definition, a list of probable causes, and suggested fixes based on common automotive issues. The tool comes ready to use with a long, coiled cable that easily reaches the driver’s seat from the OBD port, usually located under the dashboard.
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Key Features & Performance
Where the Actron CP9670 truly shines is in its execution of core features that matter most for basic diagnostics. I tested it on a 2008 SUV and a 2015 sedan, and in both cases, the performance was swift and straightforward. The plug-and-play operation is exactly as advertised—you connect it, turn the ignition to the “on” position, and the scanner powers up and communicates with the vehicle’s ECU almost instantly. The real-world usability is high because it doesn’t overwhelm you with options; it guides you through a logical sequence to get the information you need.
The “Fix Assist” Code Library
This is the heart of the CP9670 and its most significant advantage over basic code readers. When I triggered a common EVAP system code (P0442) on a test vehicle, the scanner didn’t just display the code. It immediately showed “Evaporative Emission Control System Small Leak Detected” on the screen. By pressing the “Fix Assist” button, it then provided a list of the most common culprits: a loose or damaged gas cap, a leaking hose, or a faulty purge valve. This context is invaluable. It transforms a cryptic number into a starting point for troubleshooting, potentially saving a trip to the mechanic for something as simple as tightening the gas cap. The database is comprehensive for generic codes, though extremely rare or brand-new manufacturer-specific codes might have a more generic description.
Large Backlit Display & Intuitive Interface
Usability can make or break a tool like this. The CP9670’s four-line, backlit LCD screen is exceptionally clear. Even in direct sunlight, I had no trouble reading the text. The menu is navigated with a simple four-button directional pad (Up, Down, Enter, Exit), which feels responsive and logical. You won’t find yourself lost in nested menus. Primary functions like “Read Codes,” “Clear Codes,” and “I/M Monitors” are right on the main screen. This simplicity means you spend less time figuring out the tool and more time diagnosing the problem. Compared to some competitors with smaller screens or clunkier button layouts, the Actron feels thoughtfully designed for actual use in a garage or driveway.
Freeze Frame Data and I/M Monitor Readiness
For slightly more advanced diagnostics, the Freeze Frame feature is incredibly useful. When a fault code is set, the vehicle’s computer saves a snapshot of the engine parameters (like RPM, speed, coolant temp) at that exact moment. The CP9670 can retrieve and display this data. For instance, seeing that a misfire code occurred only at 65 MPH under load, rather than at idle, points the investigation in a very different direction. Additionally, the tool can check the status of your vehicle’s Emission Monitors (I/M Readiness). This is critical information if you live in an area with mandatory emissions testing, as it tells you if your car’s computer has completed its self-checks and is ready to pass the test, especially after clearing a check engine light or disconnecting the battery.
Build Quality and Cable
The physical construction inspires confidence. The housing is a durable, textured plastic that can withstand being knocked around in a toolbox. The coiled cable is a major practical benefit—it stretches long enough to place the scanner on your driver’s seat while connected, and it retracts neatly without tangling. This is a notable step up from tools with short, straight cables that dangle awkwardly or require you to hold the scanner in place. The connector plugs securely into the OBD port. In my experience, this robust build quality suggests the CP9670 is built to last for years of occasional use, which is exactly what a DIYer needs.
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Final Verdict
After a thorough evaluation, the Actron CP9670 earns a strong recommendation for its target audience. It successfully bridges the gap between overly simplistic code readers and intimidating professional scanners. Its value lies in providing clear, actionable information that empowers you to make better decisions about your vehicle’s care. Whether you choose to tackle a simple fix yourself or walk into a repair shop already informed, this tool pays for itself in saved diagnostic fees and peace of mind.
To summarize the detailed analysis, here is a final breakdown of its advantages and limitations:
Pros
- The “Fix Assist” database is the standout feature, offering immediate context and troubleshooting tips for fault codes.
- Superior display and ergonomic design make it one of the most user-friendly scanners in its category.
- Durable construction with a practical coiled cable ensures longevity and ease of use.
- Provides valuable intermediate data like Freeze Frame and I/M Readiness status, which are essential for proper diagnosis and emissions testing.
- Performs reliably and quickly on a wide array of OBD II and CAN vehicles.
Cons
- Does not display live sensor data in a graphical format, which can be helpful for diagnosing intermittent issues like a fluctuating oxygen sensor.
- Lacks bidirectional capabilities (like activating solenoids or performing adaptations), which are necessary for some advanced repairs and relearn procedures.
- The monochrome screen, while clear, doesn’t offer the visual data separation that a color screen can provide.
You should consider buying the Actron CP9670 if you are a car owner who wants to understand why your check engine light is on, perform basic troubleshooting, clear codes after a repair, or verify your car’s readiness for an emissions test. It’s perfect for the weekend DIYer who handles their own maintenance and wants a capable diagnostic partner. However, you should look for a more advanced tool if you are a professional mechanic who needs live data graphing, bidirectional controls, or in-depth manufacturer-specific coding capabilities. For its intended purpose of basic to intermediate diagnostics, the Actron CP9670 is a reliable, well-executed, and highly useful tool that delivers excellent value.