A code reader is a great idea and you have a few options. A regular reader for about $50 - $200. But I ordered an Ultra-Gauge for $108 (all in, shipped to Canada) and it not only reads and rubs codes but shows 46 different gauges for my car and mounts to the dash and looks pretty clean (it doesn't show closed loop on our cars though, so Scangauge may be better but more money).
Another option that I didn't look into enough before my purchase, is a bluetooth OBD II wireless reader that broadcasts to your Android phone and with the help the Torque App shows way more gauges, stores and logs data and is completely customizable with different "skins" and colors to choose from. The Elm bluetooth reader is about $25- $30 and the App is less than $5.
I'm intending on getting a Samsung prepaid Android phone for $100 along with the Elm reader and Torque App. I don't even have to activate the phone if I don't want. I can use Wi-Fi (for Apps and updates), Bluetooth, and the camera and apps without activating it.
So if you already have an Android phone (running at least honeycomb or better, for Torque App updates) you can get a code reader and very functional and customizable gauge for less than $40.
Another option that I didn't look into enough before my purchase, is a bluetooth OBD II wireless reader that broadcasts to your Android phone and with the help the Torque App shows way more gauges, stores and logs data and is completely customizable with different "skins" and colors to choose from. The Elm bluetooth reader is about $25- $30 and the App is less than $5.
I'm intending on getting a Samsung prepaid Android phone for $100 along with the Elm reader and Torque App. I don't even have to activate the phone if I don't want. I can use Wi-Fi (for Apps and updates), Bluetooth, and the camera and apps without activating it.
So if you already have an Android phone (running at least honeycomb or better, for Torque App updates) you can get a code reader and very functional and customizable gauge for less than $40.