2008 Ford Taurus OBD tool

First lets clear up a common misconception. A diagnostic fault code will be set whenever the Engine Computer detects a problem, but the Check Engine light might not turn on. That light only turns on when the cause of the detected problem could possibly have an adverse effect on emissions. There's over two thousand potential fault codes, and only about half of them will turn on the Check Engine light. Therefore, the place to start is always to read and record any fault codes.

There are some common things that will cause sudden stalling but you won't be able to restart the engine until it has cooled down for up to an hour. The affected sensors usually will set a fault code but not turn on the Check Engine light because a non-running engine won't pollute excessively.

The next step is to use the scanner you're asking about to view live data and see what might be affecting the stalling. I use Chrysler's DRB3 scanner. A lot of independent shops bought them because with an extra plug-in card, they will do emissions-related stuff on any brand of car sold in the U.S. After 1996. Your car is likely too new to be supported by this scanner. I'm pretty sure your car uses the newer "CAN BUSS" computer system, so you need that type of scanner. Do a search on eBay to see what is out there. One of the more popular scanners is made by "Genesis". Snapon makes a few models too but they get way too much money for them and for the annual updates. They have a lot of tricks built in to make you spend a lot of money on those updates. The Modis and Solarus are two common models.

Just to add to this one the otc nemisys platform is a good one it will read all your computer's. It also uses a obd smart cable as a option but you really only need that for reading certain computers like seats etc.I have the mac taskmaster which is made from that platform as well. Also the matco pro scan theres tons on ebay as well as the cornwell but cant think of the name of that one. There are plenty of matco pro scans on ebay thats your best bang for your buck no bidirectional controls. Meaning you cant do special tests command solenoids etc. But you can get codes and live data. Also updates are available reasonable later on. Just make sure it does 2008 domestic and again before buying it. Be patient and you can get one for a really good price.