bi directional scan tool.

[billconner]

Another son "suggestion" for Christmas. Like a lot of what he uses, I have no idea what it is. (Another thread decried GJ users who can build a house and are good at every system in it, but can't change the oil in their car. That's me.) Quick Google puts these at a much higher price than I can probably swing - $600-800? Are there more reasonably priced options options for the occasional user? I did see one that I think connected with a smart phone and itself was under $100. Any good?

 

[TheToolEnthusiast]

Depends on the functionality you’re looking for. What’s he looking to do?

 

[BrandonV]

MaxiCheck mx808 Scan Tool

Autel MaxiCheck MX808 combines the MaxiDIAG MD802 and the MaxiCHECK Pro into one tool

www.aeswave.com

With the 1 year free upgrade this thing can do a lot of OE level functions including bi-directional work. I've used it to program modules, register immobilizer keys, trigger resets/procedures, etc.

 

[billconner]

Depends on the functionality you’re looking for. What’s he looking to do?

He works on his trucks. I don't really know more than that. His current truck is assembled from several "for parts" truck.

Thank you BOTH!

 

[AA/FC]

The OTOFIX D1 Lite is Sold by Autel and runs on 100% Autel software. It's basically another version of the Autel 808 family of scan tools. But the best part is.... it comes with 2 years of free updates instead of the standard one year that comes with Autel branded tools. It's a full bidirectional scan tool, with 100% Autel software at an affordable price. It's probably the best bang for the buck scan tool on the market right now. AND it's AutoAuth compatible so if he ever plans to work on 2018 and newer FIAT/CHRYSLER Vehicles, this scan tool is capable of that.

 

[carmantl]

Just sold my brand new MaxiCheck MX808S to my brother and bought the MaxiCOM MK808Z Bluetooth for myself. BF sale at Amazon 808s was 379 and 808z was 50 more for the wireless dongle. I really like being able to have the tablet under hood and not being tied to the OBD2 port with a comm wire.

 

[AA/FC]

The OTOFIX D1 Lite is on a lightning deal right now for $319 bucks, which is the same as their recent Black Friday pricing. It has the same software and capabilities as the 808 series, it comes with 2 years of free software updates instead of only one year, AND it's wireless bluetooth.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Thinkdiag 2, I have a modis edge, and top level launch and the thinkdiag is always my first grab. super handy, reasonably cheap, and does alot for the money.

 

[OccupantRJ]

I have an Xtool D7 bidirectional. 3 years free updates, but they continually post updates that can be downloaded as wanted.

 

[carmantl]

Otofix has half the RAM of the Autels...slow!

 

[finn]

Whatever you do, don’t get a Launch product. I picked up a Launch Touch Pro Elite, probably three years ago, based partly on Garage Journal recommendations.

It’s, as I remember it, a bi directional scanner—mid range, with abs capability.

i used it a few times, and it worked, but it’s been in the cabinet for 13 months not. Went to use it today, and it bricked. No updates apparently available for that model.

It won’t even read the vin anymore. What I recall is that updates were free for two years, then you needed a subscription at anywhere from $100 to $500, but the thing was supposed to work without updates. Apparently that’s not true.

Lesson learned number one: don’t buy **** like this from Amazon.

Lesson number two: don’t go by Garage Journal testimonials.

 

[BrandonV]

Lesson learned number one: don’t buy **** like this from Amazon.

And this is one reason I will only recommend to buy an Autel thru a real dealer (like AESwave).

Too many clones and devices out there. Who knows how long support and upgrades will be around for them.

 

[finn]

And this is one reason I will only recommend to buy an Autel thru a real dealer (like AESwave).

Too many clones and devices out there. Who knows how long support and upgrades will be around for them.

Yup. My 20 or 30 year old Autel still functions as new. It’s obsolete now, but still works on older cars.

 

[noid]

Updates is where they get you.

Xtool A30 is probably one of the only bi-directional tools that comes with free lifetime updates.

 

[richfinn]

Whatever you do, don’t get a Launch product. I picked up a Launch Touch Pro Elite, probably three years ago, based partly on Garage Journal recommendations.

It’s, as I remember it, a bi directional scanner—mid range, with abs capability.

i used it a few times, and it worked, but it’s been in the cabinet for 13 months not. Went to use it today, and it bricked. No updates apparently available for that model.

It won’t even read the vin anymore. What I recall is that updates were free for two years, then you needed a subscription at anywhere from $100 to $500, but the thing was supposed to work without updates. Apparently that’s not true.

Lesson learned number one: don’t buy **** like this from Amazon.

Lesson number two: don’t go by Garage Journal testimonials.

Is it Android Tablet based?

Did you get an activation code when you purchased the Launch?

All may not be lost, you might just need to reactivate it with that code for it to recognize it is a free lifetime update purchase.
(Then spend a week updating it )

I use my Amazon purchased Launch X431 on a daily basis and it works absolutely perfectly, I've even saved the seller for next time I don't want to pay an extra £500 to buy the exact same tool from an "Authorized dealer" who wanted to sell me something else entirely.

The biggest issues with all this Chinese stuff is

1. Chinese - English translation, save all the paperwork and read it carefully, navigating licenses etc. can be a PITA

2. Android devices require an internet connection at all times for full functionality.

3. The sheer volume of updates/fixes will quickly render a tool useless if you fail to maintain it.

 

[finn]

Is it Android Tablet based?

Did you get an activation code when you purchased the Launch?

All may not be lost, you might just need to reactivate it with that code for it to recognize it is a free lifetime update purchase.
(Then spend a week updating it )

I use my Amazon purchased Launch X431 on a daily basis and it works absolutely perfectly, I've even saved the seller for next time I don't want to pay an extra £500 to buy the exact same tool from an "Authorized dealer" who wanted to sell me something else entirely.

The biggest issues with all this Chinese stuff is

1. Chinese - English translation, save all the paperwork and read it carefully, navigating licenses etc. can be a PITA

2. Android devices require an internet connection at all times for full functionality.

3. The sheer volume of updates/fixes will quickly render a tool useless if you fail to maintain it.

It’s the size of a small tablet.

Got my answer today. Looks like it’s a grey market tool. Launch doesn’t sell through Amazon or eBay, and doesn’t support products sold on those sites, marketed by unauthorized resellers.

They would be happy to sell me an authorized tool, though…go figure.

Basically they said I am on my own and I should figure out who the seller / importer is and go after them.

Looks like I have a paperweight.

These things were recommended pretty highly here. Wonder how many others have a useless tool three years later.

 

[richfinn]

It’s the size of a small tablet.

Got my answer today. Looks like it’s a grey market tool. Launch doesn’t sell through Amazon or eBay, and doesn’t support products sold on those sites, marketed by unauthorized resellers.

They would be happy to sell me an authorized tool, though…go figure.

Basically they said I am on my own and I should figure out who the seller / importer is and go after them.

Looks like I have a paperweight.

These things were recommended pretty highly here. Wonder how many others have a useless tool three years later.

There isn't really such a thing as a "grey market" tool, that sounds like typical authorized seller nonsense.

Launch sell Global products and regional products, it sounds like you have a global unit

do you have an activation code for the software?

LAUNCH® Renewal Card for Creader CRP429/CRP429C/CRP479/CRP909/CRP909E/CRP909X

This renewal card is suitable for LAUNCH CRP429, CRP429C, CRP423, CRP469, CRP479, CRP909, CRP909E, CRP909X, CRP TOUCH PRO ELITE OBD2 scanner etc. The upgrade of the machine can be completed in just a few simple steps. Get it now without wasting extra money and time!

kingbolentool.com

Email them the serial number on your tablet and they will tell you if it can be renewed for $90 per year, they are an authorized Launch seller through Amazon BTW

 

[AA/FC]

And this is one reason I will only recommend to buy an Autel thru a real dealer (like AESwave).

Too many clones and devices out there. Who knows how long support and upgrades will be around for them.

All new Autel (and OTOFIX) scan tools get registered on the Autel website to begin the 1 year free update subscription. If someone ended up with a clone or a fake, it wouldn't allow them to register the tool. They would know right away at that moment if it was real or fake. Autel is a Chinese company. Buying a scan tool from a US based dealer doesn't really get you a better tool because they ALL come from China. Autel North America likes people to believe they are somehow not officially related to the mother company. Well, they are! Autel North America is located in Port Washington New York..... If you buy an Autel scan tool on Amazon, and then make a return and send it back to Amazon for whatever reason.... those returned scan tools, that originally came from sellers on Amazon, end up at Autel North America in Port Washington New York. lol.

If you walked in the front Door of Autel North America, they would tell you they have nothing to do with Autel China....... while simultaneously, at the back of the building, trucks are backing into their loading dock and unloading Chinese Autel returns from Amazon. lolol.

 

[Stelzer]

I have an Xtool D7 bidirectional. 3 years free updates, but they continually post updates that can be downloaded as wanted.

Me too, and the amount of functions they've added with the updates in the last year it now has nearly the capabilities of Xtool's D8 except for polymetric functions as well as bluetooth capabilities.

 

[finn]

All new Autel (and OTOFIX) scan tools get registered on the Autel website to begin the 1 year free update subscription. If someone ended up with a clone or a fake, it wouldn't allow them to register the tool. They would know right away at that moment if it was real or fake. Autel is a Chinese company. Buying a scan tool from a US based dealer doesn't really get you a better tool because they ALL come from China. Autel North America likes people to believe they are somehow not officially related to the mother company. Well, they are! Autel North America is located in Port Washington New York..... If you buy an Autel scan tool on Amazon, and then make a return and send it back to Amazon for whatever reason.... those returned scan tools, that originally came from sellers on Amazon, end up at Autel North America in Port Washington New York. lol.

If you walked in the front Door of Autel North America, they would tell you they have nothing to do with Autel China....... while simultaneously, at the back of the building, trucks are backing into their loading dock and unloading Chinese Autel returns from Amazon. lolol.

That’s not necessarily true. The Launch Tech I am dealing (via email) with said the software in the non authorized versions isn’t the same as those sold through legitimate US Channels, and has a lot of unaddressed bugs. Sounds like there is a dedicated team in Orange Ca that supports the US versions, including debugging and recoding. I assume Autel is the same. They do not deal with either eBay, or Amazon. I suspect all that is done in China is assembling the dumb box, and the actual software is market dependent. The boxes may leave China without any specific software installed.

Looking at the Launch products on Amazon today, there are a couple of paragraphs basically saying there is no US support, so don’t contact Launch. They do give another contact, which I think is in China. The owner’s manual does have a mail address in China, and a phone number with a country prefix of 86. I didn’t check, but I think 86 is China. I haven’t looked closely at Autel on Amazon, so I don’t know if they have the same disclaimer.

 

[finn]

Well, two minutes on Google and I confirmed that Autel has the same issue with “grey” products. There’s a blurb from the UK warning buyers about grey Autel scanners, and advising that they are being locked out by the auto companies beginning in 2024. I assume that carries over to us.

The summary is that scanner manufacturers pay a licensing fee to the automakers to use the Oem software. Grey market scanners are sold without paying those fees, so beginning in 2024 the automakers are incorporating gateways in vehicle electronics that insure only registered scanners have access. Only legitimately imported and registered scanners will be able to pass those gateways.

Sounds exactly what I am experiencing.

 

[txvwnut]

I just bought this one, https://www.harborfreight.com/zr-pr...tive-scanner-factory-reconditioned-57917.html and so far it has been great. It does have an annual subscription but you don’t have to renew it if you don’t want to, and the machine will still function at its current level. The annual sub is $400 currently which is way cheaper than any of the upgrades for the big name brand units.

 

[BrandonV]

That’s not necessarily true. The Launch Tech I am dealing (via email) with said the software in the non authorized versions isn’t the same as those sold through legitimate US Channels, and has a lot of unaddressed bugs. Sounds like there is a dedicated team in Orange Ca that supports the US versions, including debugging and recoding. I assume Autel is the same. They do not deal with either eBay, or Amazon. I suspect all that is done in China is assembling the dumb box, and the actual software is market dependent. The boxes may leave China without any specific software installed.

Looking at the Launch products on Amazon today, there are a couple of paragraphs basically saying there is no US support, so don’t contact Launch. They do give another contact, which I think is in China. The owner’s manual does have a mail address in China, and a phone number with a country prefix of 86. I didn’t check, but I think 86 is China. I haven’t looked closely at Autel on Amazon, so I don’t know if they have the same disclaimer.

Yes. I've heard there are a lot of cracked versions of Autel tools that don't talk to the real Autel for updates but instead an update server which is likely to be taken down at some point.

 

[Jeepster04]

I've had this one for a bit and am happy with it. I had to buy an adaptor to use it on my 90's Jeeps, but it works. Works perfect for programming TPMS **** too.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LPIRY6E/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[AA/FC]

That’s not necessarily true. The Launch Tech I am dealing (via email) with said the software in the non authorized versions isn’t the same as those sold through legitimate US Channels, and has a lot of unaddressed bugs. Sounds like there is a dedicated team in Orange Ca that supports the US versions, including debugging and recoding. I assume Autel is the same. They do not deal with either eBay, or Amazon. I suspect all that is done in China is assembling the dumb box, and the actual software is market dependent. The boxes may leave China without any specific software installed.

Looking at the Launch products on Amazon today, there are a couple of paragraphs basically saying there is no US support, so don’t contact Launch. They do give another contact, which I think is in China. The owner’s manual does have a mail address in China, and a phone number with a country prefix of 86. I didn’t check, but I think 86 is China. I haven’t looked closely at Autel on Amazon, so I don’t know if they have the same disclaimer.

The Launch tech that you're dealing with is wrong. If the Autel scan tool is registerable via the Autel website, then it's a legit tool. Autel North America is located in New York. Google it, then go to street view to see the big fancy building for yourself. Sure, there may also be another office in CA, but Autel North America headquartered is in New York. Do you really think Amazon allows the sale of counterfeit tools through their website? They don't. And if some bad guys eventually make their way onto the Amazon platform, they certainly wouldn't last very long before Amazon boots them right back off. Amazon is VERY strict when it comes to enforcing their policies.... the LAST thing a legitimate seller on Amazon wants to do is lose their ability to ever sell on Amazon again. Legit Amazon sellers are legit. And lastly, you have absolutely nothing to worry about when buying from Amazon. They offer free returns on 99.8% of everything sold on their site. If I buy a defective tool on Amazon, I simply send it back for a refund, or a replacement. I purchase many things from Amazon. I place an order probably 2-3 times per week. I have made many returns back to them and there has NEVER been a problem with any of my returns.... Regardless if it was sold BY Amazon, or if it was a private seller on Amazon. Amazon has the best return policy, and best return procedure on the entire internet.

Now, buying from various other Chinese websites is a completely different story. If you see a certain Autel scan tool on *** website that you've never heard of before, and it's listed $20 bucks cheaper than the same tool on Amazon...... BUYER BEWARE. Don't be stupid when shopping on-line and you will probably be just fine. If someone buys a $750 scan tool from a website that nobody has heard of, then that person probably deserves to lose their money.

I have included a screenshot of MY Autel account. I have 9 scan tools registered with them between my Autel and OTOFIX tools. TRUST ME when I say, fake or counterfeit tools will be rejected when trying to register them on the REAL Autel website. Fake tools will not make it past this first step in using a new tool. Every one of my 9 tools that are registered on the Autel site came from Amazon.

 

[finn]

The Launch tech that you're dealing with is wrong. If the Autel scan tool is registerable via the Autel website, then it's a legit tool. Autel North America is located in New York. Google it, then go to street view to see the big fancy building for yourself. Sure, there may also be another office in CA, but Autel North America headquartered is in New York. Do you really think Amazon allows the sale of counterfeit tools through their website? They don't. And if some bad guys eventually make their way onto the Amazon platform, they certainly wouldn't last very long before Amazon boots them right back off. Amazon is VERY strict when it comes to enforcing their policies.... the LAST thing a legitimate seller on Amazon wants to do is lose their ability to ever sell on Amazon again. Legit Amazon sellers are legit. And lastly, you have absolutely nothing to worry about when buying from Amazon. They offer free returns on 99.8% of everything sold on their site. If I buy a defective tool on Amazon, I simply send it back for a refund, or a replacement. I purchase many things from Amazon. I place an order probably 2-3 times per week. I have made many returns back to them and there has NEVER been a problem with any of my returns.... Regardless if it was sold BY Amazon, or if it was a private seller on Amazon. Amazon has the best return policy, and best return procedure on the entire internet.

Now, buying from various other Chinese websites is a completely different story. If you see a certain Autel scan tool on *** website that you've never heard of before, and it's listed $20 bucks cheaper than the same tool on Amazon...... BUYER BEWARE. Don't be stupid when shopping on-line and you will probably be just fine. If someone buys a $750 scan tool from a website that nobody has heard of, then that person probably deserves to lose their money.

I have included a screenshot of MY Autel account. I have 9 scan tools registered with them between my Autel and OTOFIX tools. TRUST ME when I say, fake or counterfeit tools will be rejected when trying to register them on the REAL Autel website. Fake tools will not make it past this first step in using a new tool. Every one of my 9 tools that are registered on the Autel site came from Amazon.

Yes, I agree that if it’s registered on the Autel US web site, then its legal and can be upgraded. Royalties have been paid. Total agreement with no argument.

By definition that unit isn’t grey market. It’s a registered and authorized unit.

The grey market scanners are also sold here, but not through authorized dealers, thus avoiding royalty payments, and aren’t registered with the US subsidiary.

That’s exactly what is happening with Launch on Amazon and eBay, and, in the case of Autel, is happening with units not sold through authorized dealers, at least accordind to the Autel bulletin I saw. (The bulletin was actually published in England, stating is is a worldwide problem)

Launch doesn’t sell through Amazon or eBay, as I explained, but their products are heavily listed there. They do have a list of authorized dealers you can access on their Site. Units sold through those authorized dealers can be registered and are supported. The gray devices, including everything on Amazon and eBay are not supported by Launch US.

Autel does sell on Amazon, apparently, so that’s good. Nevertheless one should be prudent and make sure the vendor you select is legit. None of the Amazon Launch vendors are legit.

As a side note, it looks like all of these devices come from Shenzhen China.

 

[AA/FC]

Yes, I agree that if it’s registered on the Autel US web site, then its legal and can be upgraded. Royalties have been paid. Total agreement with no argument.

By definition that unit isn’t grey market. It’s a registered and authorized unit.

The grey market scanners are also sold here, but not through authorized dealers, thus avoiding royalty payments, and aren’t registered with the US subsidiary.

That’s exactly what is happening with Launch on Amazon and eBay, and, in the case of Autel, is happening with units not sold through authorized dealers, at least accordind to the Autel bulletin I saw. (The bulletin was actually published in England, stating is is a worldwide problem)

Launch doesn’t sell through Amazon or eBay, as I explained, but their products are heavily listed there. They do have a list of authorized dealers you can access on their Site. Units sold through those authorized dealers can be registered and are supported. The gray devices, including everything on Amazon and eBay are not supported by Launch US.

Autel does sell on Amazon, apparently, so that’s good. Nevertheless one should be prudent and make sure the vendor you select is legit. None of the Amazon Launch vendors are legit.

As a side note, it looks like all of these devices come from Shenzhen China.

None of the scan tool manufacturers sell directly on Amazon. (that I know of) ALL scan tools sold on Amazon are sold either by Amazon itself, or by private sellers who get their inventory from the manufacturer.

Launch is no different than Autel. Both are Chinese companies. ALL of their tools are made in China. Even the ones sold through US dealers. I've had a few Launch scan tools in the past, and they came from Amazon. I never had a problem with them. I can tell you that thousands of scan tools are sold monthly (all brands) on Amazon. If the Launch scan tools from Amazon were a problem, you would be hearing about these problems all over the internet, on a regular basis...... and we're not. At All.

Like I mentioned in a previous post.... Autel North America would have everyone believe they have nothing to do with Autel China. Even though they get all their inventory from the mother company in China. lol. It sounds like Launch is no different. They want everyone to believe if you live in the USA then you must buy a scanner from them otherwise you're going to have trouble. I just don't see it. Where are all these guys who are having trouble with their Launch tools from Amazon? Amazon has sold tens of thousands of Launch tools over the last 5 years (for example) and yet very few if any are having trouble SPECIFICALLY BECAUSE they were purchased from Amazon and NOT a USA based dealer.

Ebay is a different story. ANYONE can sell on that site without any history or background. I would never buy anything that mattered from that site. EBAY and AMAZON are NOT the same. You can't compare Ebay and Amazon equally. Completely different business models. Like I said before, if people are not stupid when buying on the internet then they shouldn't have any trouble.

I'm not saying fakes do not exist.... I'm just saying there is really nothing to worry about when buying a scan tool from Amazon. (specifically Amazon, I am not defending any other site)

And yes, again, they ALL come from China.... Autel, OTOFIX, Launch, XTOOL, Topdon, Foxwell, Thinkcar, Ancel, Kingbolen, etc. All Chinese. I've owned every brand that I just mentioned except Thinkcar. The one I had problms with is the Kingbolen. I would NOT recomend a Kingbolen product. (for several reasons)

 

[OccupantRJ]

I will tell my experience with Amazon and XTool. I bought a D7 from Amazon, and when it arrived and I started it up, it was already registered to someone, and had their name in it. I was pissed! The unit was in perfect condition with all packaging intact, so I surmised that someone had bought the unit, used it to scan their car, carefully reboxed it, then returned it as still new. I knew that I could return the unit to Amazon, but since this happened one time, what was going to prevent it again?

I got Xtool’s email address and wrote them about it. Considering the 12 hour time difference, they responded quickly overnight. The rep was not happy, and said that they had experienced problems before with this sort of thing from Amazon. After I explained that I was concerned that I would get sent a returned unit again from Amazon, they apologized profusely and asked what would make me happy concerning XTool, and then made me an offer to remotely factory reset the tool and also to add a free year of updates @$99, bringing updates to a 4 year level. I needed the tool, so I told them that I would be good with that option.

In a matter of minutes over the internet she had done a factory reset and current update on the software, registered it to my name, and added the 4th year update to my account. Over a period of about a month, the rep emailed me several times to make sure I was happy with the tool, happy with her service, and to see if there was anything else I needed. Their customer service and concerns were excellent. Rarely do I get the tool out that there are not vehicle specific updates waiting to be loaded onto the tool.
Anyway, that is my experience with dealing with Xtool as a company.

 

[OccupantRJ]

As an aside, since then, XTool has offered several times to sell me a new product for free money if I would buy the tool, use it a while, then write an unbiased online review about the product. Afterwards, they would do a full monetary reimbursement for the particular tool. I have not taken them up on it yet, but I may eventually.

 

[richfinn]

Yes, I agree that if it’s registered on the Autel US web site, then its legal and can be upgraded. Royalties have been paid. Total agreement with no argument.

By definition that unit isn’t grey market. It’s a registered and authorized unit.

The grey market scanners are also sold here, but not through authorized dealers, thus avoiding royalty payments, and aren’t registered with the US subsidiary.

That’s exactly what is happening with Launch on Amazon and eBay, and, in the case of Autel, is happening with units not sold through authorized dealers, at least accordind to the Autel bulletin I saw. (The bulletin was actually published in England, stating is is a worldwide problem)

Launch doesn’t sell through Amazon or eBay, as I explained, but their products are heavily listed there. They do have a list of authorized dealers you can access on their Site. Units sold through those authorized dealers can be registered and are supported. The gray devices, including everything on Amazon and eBay are not supported by Launch US.

Autel does sell on Amazon, apparently, so that’s good. Nevertheless one should be prudent and make sure the vendor you select is legit. None of the Amazon Launch vendors are legit.

As a side note, it looks like all of these devices come from Shenzhen China.

Did you contact Kingbolen or are you still messing around with Launch USA?

I've been in the Diag game a long time, some authorized dealers only tell you what they want you to know, because they want to sell you another machine.

All the cheap entry level units like the one you have are just global devices and are all exactly the same, they don't even bother making region specific tools under approx $1500-$2000, it wouldn't make financial sense.

 

[finn]

Did you contact Kingbolen or are you still messing around with Launch USA?

I've been in the Diag game a long time, some authorized dealers only tell you what they want you to know, because they want to sell you another machine.

All the cheap entry level units like the one you have are just global devices and are all exactly the same, they don't even bother making region specific tools under approx $1500-$2000, it wouldn't make financial sense.

Email sent to the seller. No response yet, but I will give it a few days.

I did find my original order from about 38 months ago, with what looks like a delivery date a few weeks later. I assume that means it was shipped from China.

The original listing had similar language as the current listings do, ie all service and questions go through the seller, not Launch US..

Problem I see confronting me now is that the original seller seems to be Leoglobal, which I think might be different than the current seller.

We’ll see if I get a response. The email from the original listing is [email protected]. If that is a dead end, I’ll try the current sellers, but I won’t hold my breath on that path being successful.

I also found that service for global spec Autel scanners goes through China, not Autel US. Autel sales through authorized dealers go through Autel US for device Issues and upgrades

Bosch and Delphi will brick non registered, ie global, scanners if you try to download upgrades, per a couple of online sources.

 

[finn]

None of the scan tool manufacturers sell directly on Amazon. (that I know of) ALL scan tools sold on Amazon are sold either by Amazon itself, or by private sellers who get their inventory from the manufacturer.

Launch is no different than Autel. Both are Chinese companies. ALL of their tools are made in China. Even the ones sold through US dealers. I've had a few Launch scan tools in the past, and they came from Amazon. I never had a problem with them. I can tell you that thousands of scan tools are sold monthly (all brands) on Amazon. If the Launch scan tools from Amazon were a problem, you would be hearing about these problems all over the internet, on a regular basis...... and we're not. At All.

Like I mentioned in a previous post.... Autel North America would have everyone believe they have nothing to do with Autel China. Even though they get all their inventory from the mother company in China. lol. It sounds like Launch is no different. They want everyone to believe if you live in the USA then you must buy a scanner from them otherwise you're going to have trouble. I just don't see it. Where are all these guys who are having trouble with their Launch tools from Amazon? Amazon has sold tens of thousands of Launch tools over the last 5 years (for example) and yet very few if any are having trouble SPECIFICALLY BECAUSE they were purchased from Amazon and NOT a USA based dealer.

Ebay is a different story. ANYONE can sell on that site without any history or background. I would never buy anything that mattered from that site. EBAY and AMAZON are NOT the same. You can't compare Ebay and Amazon equally. Completely different business models. Like I said before, if people are not stupid when buying on the internet then they shouldn't have any trouble.

I'm not saying fakes do not exist.... I'm just saying there is really nothing to worry about when buying a scan tool from Amazon. (specifically Amazon, I am not defending any other site)

And yes, again, they ALL come from China.... Autel, OTOFIX, Launch, XTOOL, Topdon, Foxwell, Thinkcar, Ancel, Kingbolen, etc. All Chinese. I've owned every brand that I just mentioned except Thinkcar. The one I had problms with is the Kingbolen. I would NOT recomend a Kingbolen product. (for several reasons)

I never had a problem, either….until I did. Now I have a bricked tool.

There are a few other threads here on this, too.

 

[richfinn]

Email sent to the seller. No response yet, but I will give it a few days.

I did find my original order from about 38 months ago, with what looks like a delivery date a few weeks later. I assume that means it was shipped from China.

The original listing had similar language as the current listings do, ie all service and questions go through the seller, not Launch US..

Problem I see confronting me now is that the original seller seems to be Leoglobal, which I think might be different than the current seller.

We’ll see if I get a response. The email from the original listing is [email protected]. If that is a dead end, I’ll try the current sellers, but I won’t hold my breath on that path being successful.

I also found that service for global spec Autel scanners goes through China, not Autel US. Autel sales through authorized dealers go through Autel US for device Issues and upgrades

Bosch and Delphi will brick non registered, ie global, scanners if you try to download upgrades, per a couple of online sources.

These are regional Launch products sold for the European market (note they don't actually sell pro-level global tools)

OEM Dealer Level Car Diagnostics Equipment

Buy official Launch UK OEM diagnostic tools, including the Pro-S, Pro 5 and Eurotab II from the X431 range. Browse online and find our full range.

www.launchtech.co.uk

Now this model is a global unit but works just fine in Europe for around 50% of the cost

LAUNCH® X431 PRO3S+ Car All Systems Professional OBD2 Scanner

LAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ not only diagnoses all car systems such as Engine, SRS, and ABS system, but also supports ADAS, oscilloscope, and TPMS tools... 31 kinds of reset functions can complete more work. Support FCA login and guidance functions. Equipped with the LAUNCH heavy truck module-HDIII, it...

kingbolentool.com

 

[billconner]

Well, thank you for responding and by all means, continue. Since it got so far over my head by post 4 or 5, I'm wondering if someone can suggest one or two under $400 or 500 that would be useful for at least a few years? Maybe that first suggestion of the AUTEL MX 808?

I may just give him cash.

 

[richfinn]

Well, thank you for responding and by all means, continue. Since it got so far over my head by post 4 or 5, I'm wondering if someone can suggest one or two under $400 or 500 that would be useful for at least a few years? Maybe that first suggestion of the AUTEL MX 808?

I may just give him cash.

Shop around and you might find one of these for around $600

Phoenix Lite 2

The Phoenix Lite 2 is TOPDON’s new compact pro-level scan tool. This tool is designed to be streamlined and deployable. When technicians have jobs outside the shop or jobs need to be resolved fast, the Phoenix Lite 2 is up to the task. With a robust array of special functions, online coding, and...

www.topdon.us

Ivan always gives good advice on Amazon purchased scan tools

 

[Rusted Nut]

Well, thank you for responding and by all means, continue. Since it got so far over my head by post 4 or 5, I'm wondering if someone can suggest one or two under $400 or 500 that would be useful for at least a few years? Maybe that first suggestion of the AUTEL MX 808?

I may just give him cash.

I’m in the market for a new scanner and done quite a bit of research, as my old Autel won’t work on my newer vehicles. If you have anything newer than a 2018, you’ll need an MX808 or higher. Several 808 models out there depending if you want blue tooth, TMPS ability, etc… I’ll probably end up with an 808 or 906, still debating. The 808’s and up all have yearly updates, but will work without the update on most model vehicles. As others have pointed out, buy from an authorized reseller.

 

[pvanderlugt]

I was in the same boat, looking for a nice “prosumer” scanner for hobby work on cars.. Ended up with an Autel Maxipro TPMS900… do not have a lot of play time with it yet, but seems to do a nice job….happy with this purchase so far..
Pete

 

[AA/FC]

I never had a problem, either….until I did. Now I have a bricked tool.

There are a few other threads here on this, too.

What problems are you having exactly? Is the problem(s) caused strictly because you didn't purchase the tools from Launch USA?

In another post I see where you mentioned the original order was placed 38 months ago? If so, that is over 3 years ago?

What exactly do you expect either Launch USA or Launch China to do for you? Is it even still within the factory warranty period? SOME scan tools have a factory 5 year warranty, most have a 2 year warranty.

If you were a full time mechanic and used it every day for three years before the scanner died, you might have a different opinion today.

Did you buy it through Ebay or Amazon?

If you bought it through Amazon, AND it's still under factory warranty, AND the original seller wont help you, then you need to contact Amazon and have them get involved between you and the seller. Hopefully they will do that for you.... I guarantee the seller does NOT want Amazon (their bread and butter) pissed off at them. A little bit of pressure from Amazon might just help the seller to act accordingly.

 

[AA/FC]

Shop around and you might find one of these for around $600

Phoenix Lite 2

The Phoenix Lite 2 is TOPDON’s new compact pro-level scan tool. This tool is designed to be streamlined and deployable. When technicians have jobs outside the shop or jobs need to be resolved fast, the Phoenix Lite 2 is up to the task. With a robust array of special functions, online coding, and...

www.topdon.us

I have a very lightly used Phoenix Lite 2 that I would consider getting rid of at a decent price. It probably has about 1 year left of free updates remaining. (roughly, give or take)

It doesn't have enough factory memory space left to download the current batch of updates. Once that happened I put it back in the box and just used my other scan tools after that.

 

[finn]

What problems are you having exactly? Is the problem(s) caused strictly because you didn't purchase the tools from Launch USA?

In another post I see where you mentioned the original order was placed 38 months ago? If so, that is over 3 years ago?

What exactly do you expect either Launch USA or Launch China to do for you? Is it even still within the factory warranty period? SOME scan tools have a factory 5 year warranty, most have a 2 year warranty.

If you were a full time mechanic and used it every day for three years before the scanner died, you might have a different opinion today.

Did you buy it through Ebay or Amazon?

If you bought it through Amazon, AND it's still under factory warranty, AND the original seller wont help you, then you need to contact Amazon and have them get involved between you and the seller. Hopefully they will do that for you.... I guarantee the seller does NOT want Amazon (their bread and butter) pissed off at them. A little bit of pressure from Amazon might just help the seller to act accordingly.

I do realize the warranty is expired, but it seems like a software issue, not a hardware issue. I sent an email, I think to China. Friday, and got a response this morning asking for the Amazon order number and a screen shot of the error message. That’s, frankly, more than I expected.

It really seems like a software issue they can fix remotely. Remember, these scanners can be updated by the manufacturer over the internet, and use the net to retrieve diagnostic information.

If I have to pay for a refresh / update, which these grey scanners, offer as part of the sales pitch, so be it. I understand there’s a cost for that, and if we get that far, I’ll decide on the next step. Same thing if they tell me it’s toast…I just will buy a replacement from a competitor. The key is knowing.., and the fact that they responded at all is encouraging.