Can someone give me advise on a cheep code reader for 2001 is this type on ebay going to give me the information I need I have the triangle and the ! the battery seems OK and it runs OK I havent got a lot of info on the history of the car and are a real newbi.. will this one on Ebay do the job. ELM327 USB Interface OBDII OBD2 Diagnostic Auto Car Scanner Scan Tool Cable v1.4 | eBay
You need one that will let you read the codes as well as reset them. I don't know if the one on eBay will but most part stores have ones that do for less than $50 US.
The problem with over-the-counter scanners is they are designed to read out emission codes and that is it. They do not know the different Prius control computers, much less be able to read the traction battery status. If you get one, ask first for the return policy. If you can get the car to the store, take it out and try to read the traction battery voltage and the 19 module pairs. When that does not work, return it and get your money back. Use the 'search' function and you'll find what folks have found that works. Bob Wilson