any good cheap tried and tested one for ford or general ones that do all makes about ? even software based rather than a hand held

 

A Generic OBD2 or better EOBD reader will work on all makes, including Ford.
But (VERY BIG BUT), only if the vehicle complies to EOBD.
That means the diesels will not work until 2004.

Forscan may be a better choice for Ford. see: http://forscan.org/

 

I've got a scangauge Jay, has worked fine so far

 

http://www.enginecheck.co.uk/pro/

Have used this, only does Engine tho..

 

i have a mac tool very good

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Car-Diagno...item3f0fcf54d1

I've got one of these, vary basic but does what I need it to do.

 

ebay U581 for a good handheld one, about £50

you can get some these days with a little bluetooth module that you plug in the car and then look at on phone/tablet which are cool gadgets, but don't actually do anything more (although arguably more convenient for looking at live data). again ebay bluetooth car scanner for options from about £13 and buy yourself some new vests with the difference