I would like to be able to read my ecm, body computer, abs, etc.
What software program would be good to run on a laptop and allow me to have full access to my car and it'* sensor readings?

also I would like to try not to break the bank

Scantool.net has a good tool. What year is your car?

1996 with a 1999 ecu upgrade

should I grab the scan xl or the scanxl pro software?

I forgot what the difference between the reg and pro version. But if i remember, it didnt seem beneficial to pay more for it. Just make sure you get the GM enhanced addon.

Do you have any add ons that need monitoring like a wide band sensor?
If not just go for the ScanXL basic.
Have you thought about what dongle you are going to get to interface with the PCM?
I have used the cheap ELM 327 dongle, and I is ok for monitoring a few PID'*, if you want something to communicate with the PCM faster you will spend more, there is one dongle made with the STN1110 IC in it, it costs a lot more than an ELM 327, but IMO it is worth it, I'll try to find a link to it, I should have it bookmarked..

Here is a comparison if ScanXL and ScanXL PRO.
http://www.palmerperformance.com/pro...comparison.php

I have a cheap-o china elm 327, But i was thinking about ordering there obdlink-sx dongle.

If you get on the scantool or palmerperformance forums you will see that the chines Elm327'* are junk. Sometimes they work, sometimes they dont.

That one is a fine choice. Just remember, if you want to see more than just simple sensors, you will have to buy the license for ScanXl and ADD the GM enhanced package. I have both of them.

Agreed the ELM327'* are junk, and really only fast enough to handle a few PID'*, the OBDLink SX is a great choice for 49.99, that is what I had bookmarked, it has the STN1110 IC in it.

I also recommend the license and GM Add on, you get access to a lot of GM specific PID'*, with my 96' PA it is around 1,100 or so PID'*, maybe more, I forget...
You also get "access to the ability to read and clear codes on powertrain, hybrid, transmission and other proprietary systems, it also adds thousands of new parameters and sensors for both gasoline and diesel vehicles."

""The GM Enhanced Diagnostics Module gives you additional diagnostic support for:

Engine
Transmission
Fuel Pump
ABS
Airbag
Hybrid Battery
Hybrid Powertrain ""


Try to get all the info on your car you can to input it into Scan XL, especially if you are going to use it to calculate MPG, and use the Dyno feature, if you are not doing either, don't worry about all the info like wheel circumference, drag coefficient , curb weight, etc...

cool I'll will be ordering the scan xl and the GM Enhanced pack with the obdlink sx.
Thank you for all the help!!