Help me pick out a scan tool.

[Anarius]

Hey folks!

My souless corporate overlords have decided that they will not be replacing our ancient scanners with new, nor will they be updating the software. We currently have ONE snap-on solus "pro" running 11.something software. It is an original pro - no screen update, no memory update, is beat to hell and take 5 minutes to boot up. The last straw for me was when I couldn't reset the idle on GM TAC. Not cool!

I've been in the market for a personal scan tool for awhile, and I would like to spend no more than $1000 for it. Scanner must be capable of bi-directional controls, graphing, and storing. I'd like the ability to code/setup modules. Flash support is not needed, as I don't have access to the software anyway.

I've looked at the Autel Ds708, and it seems like it would be a nice scanner (can get it for $824.99 +tax). Seems like it might be getting a bit old, though?

I've heard about the new launch CRP-229, but haven't seen one in person. The Mac guy says he has them on order, and will be selling them for $800 (I can probably get it cheaper elsewhere). Anyone have any thoughts on this one?

I've also seen the launcher 431mIV, but it seems really slow - almost as bad as our snapon. I don't have a place to buy one in person, and there seems to be a lot of knock offs/copies out there.

Bonus points for a scanner that can code VW abs modules - I've got TWO people who need that done.

If you have some suggestions on scanners I don't have up here, please chime in with that info too!

 

[firebox40dash5]

From a quick look at the CRP229, I wouldn't touch one with a stick, and I doubt it'll meet your bidirectional criteria. I had a CRP129 I bought right after they got released here, it was really glitchy, limited in abilities, and slow. From the site I just looked at the 229 on, it's basically the same capabilities in a larger body... they make big claims, but when you look at the list, I didn't see squat the CRP 129 couldn't (or at least couldn't try to) do. I dumped mine for a cheaper Autel MD802 and am much happier with that. If you didn't need bidirectional and coding I'd say save yourself $600.

My old shop also had an X431GDS, and I was less than impressed with that thing, too. At least not for the $3500 it was bought for. It locked up a lot, was also pretty slow, and didn't do half the things it was supposed to do right. I don't really know a ton about their lineup (and they seem to have new models every time China makes a new platform, every month or so ) but I'd be hard pressed to spend my money with them again. I'm glad I only wasted $500 on the 129, and not that $3500 GDS.

I have very little experience with the 708 (another shop had one we borrowed now and then, when the GDS and subsequently the Solus brick wouldn't work) but it seemed pretty good when I messed with it. It does seem to be getting pretty long in the tooth, though... but, compared to $2k+ on newer tablet-based tools, it might still be worth it?

 

[90zcar]

Matco just came out with one. Someone else can chime in but I think it's called "maxme". Not quite sure


Sent from my iPhone 5s using Tapatalk

 

[tjmonsen5]

The solus pro is what 10 years old if not more?

New ethos plus is keyless and fast does everything your pro does but no bidirectional controls.
New solus edge links up to sure track online for fix tips. Much more than your 800 dollar limit though.

 

[GTA Matt]

The 708 is the best in the $1000 range. Matco has the maximus and max-go, both above 2k, Launch rebrands. Used solus pro, modis or verus updated to 14.4 can be had for under 1200 on eBay if you are patient. No one scanner can do it all, there is always some compromise. I own multiple scanners, including snap on and a max-go, and factory scanners.

But seriously, what's up with management expecting you to work on new cars with outdated scan tools? They need a wake-up call.

 

[efb16acrx]

From what you are saying you need and are willing to pay I'd go with the 708 if you can't find a smoking deal on a used solus or something. Matco just released a new maximus scanner thats only 849, but if you need to work on more than a couple makes, the subscription setup for it kinda ***** ***.

 

[Anarius]

Thanks, folks!

Looks like it may be time to start shopping for a DS708! Does anyone know more about the ds708 VS 908? Bit of a price hop there...

I only hesitate on the 708 because it runs a windows OS, and there are a few reviews bitching about how slow it is. Does anyone know how much the updates for it are?

 

[signcrafter]

I just bought the 708 from HF with a 25% off coupon. I'm just a DIYer so I don't use it everyday or on a ton of vehicles. And to be completely honest I don't have a clue how to use 3/4 of it's menus and features. But learn a little something everytime I use it. It isn't lightening fast but it isn't snail slow either. I hooked it up to a 08 civic the other week and after selecting vehicle it took a while to "establish communication" with the car, think I had clicked on manual testing in the honda specific menu. For me it has worked great so far. I'm sure it's a "low end" scan tool compared to the 10,000 dollar pro models big shops use but since I just work on my own stuff this will be fine for me.

Updates are something like 700 bucks a year after the first year. I've heard rumors that they aren't charging for them right now but I don't know for sure. I figure I won't have to update for a few years hopefully. Maybe by the time I need to update it I will win the lottery and be able to buy a nicer scan tool.

 

[Chevy-SS]

I am looking for scanner as well. How about the AutoEnginuity Scan Tool?? It's a Windows® PC diagnostics scan tool. https://www.autoenginuity.com/

PC-based ScanTool
#ST06 - USB (ST06 ProLine VCI)
Generic OBDII support.
Optional enhanced expansions

The basic scan tool is ~$250, plus you need a Windows laptop. Each 'bundle' (GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc, etc) costs ~$200.

$799 Domestic ScanTool Bundle - #SP05 - Includes:

• ProLine Interface (ST06)
• Enhanced Ford Expansion
• Enhanced GM (+CAN D) Expansion
• Enhanced Chrysler Expansion

What do you guys think about the AutoEnginuity tool?

EDIT - one more question. It seems to make more sense to utilize a PC-based tool, as you'd get larger screen and maybe easier to use overall? Is this assumption correct?

 

[blown94conv]

So, you want a full featured Scan tool that will work on everything, do dealer level work and diag, code modules, be bi-directioal, and you want to spend less then $1,000 to do it.

Good luck with that.

You will be looking at reverse engineered scanners, or something used.

 

[signcrafter]

I am looking for scanner as well. How about the AutoEnginuity Scan Tool?? It's a Windows® PC diagnostics scan tool. https://www.autoenginuity.com/

PC-based ScanTool
#ST06 - USB (ST06 ProLine VCI)
Generic OBDII support.
Optional enhanced expansions

The basic scan tool is ~$250, plus you need a Windows laptop. Each 'bundle' (GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc, etc) costs ~$200.

$799 Domestic ScanTool Bundle - #SP05 - Includes:

• ProLine Interface (ST06)
• Enhanced Ford Expansion
• Enhanced GM (+CAN D) Expansion
• Enhanced Chrysler Expansion

What do you guys think about the AutoEnginuity tool?

EDIT - one more question. It seems to make more sense to utilize a PC-based tool, as you'd get larger screen and maybe easier to use overall? Is this assumption correct?

AE gets pretty good reviews. To get it setup to work on Domestic, Japan, Euro it costs about twice as much as the 708. Think when I looked at it AE was around 1600 for the complete bundle. And that's if you bought it all at once. If you piece it together as needed it was even more.

 

[bdelmar2]

My otc genisys evo has been a pretty good scanner.

You can get a used one for under a $1000 I'm sure, I've seen several for around $800ish on Craigslist and ebay, or Amazon has a new one for $1,130 which is quite a bit less than I paid for mine.

Whatever you do make sure you get at least a system 4.0 model, lots of people are trying to sell the older ones for way more than they are worth.

I looked at the autoenginuity as an option when I got mine, but I decided that dealing with a laptop in an actual work environment would be a huge hassle.

Also, I know a couple of people with the genisys scanners and they seem to hold up pretty well generally speaking. A good friend of mine has a 3.0 model he has had since 2007 or so and it gets used daily. Did burn up the smart cable once on a dodge with a messed up electrical system - or at least we assume that's what did it as it failed on that truck and after some closer inspection under the dash we discovered some 'creative' wiring. Cost $200 to replace the smart cable.

I've had my 4.0 evo since 2011 or so and it still works fine. Mine covers Domestic, Asian, and European. The European is a year or two behind the others from otc.

Its bi-directional, runs self tests, diesel buzz tests, and quite a few other component specific tests under the 'special tests' heading.

Does abs, and trans specific scans, and a couple others I think, like ac module, airbag, and what have you.

The kit I have came with the cabling to scan older (pre '96) domestic vehicles, and you can get the cables for older Asian vehicles, but I haven't yet. Not sure about older European.

Also available is a heavy truck module, and the cables for that, but I don't have those either.

There are other modules available that plug onto the back of the machine, gas analyzer, pressure transducer, and oscilloscope. Perhaps others, but those for sure.

I have the scope module - but so far I've been pretty disappointed in it.

For one thing it has to be powered from another source than the vehicle its being used on, and the batteries in the genisys scanners leave a lot to be desired. But you can get a battery pack for a radio controlled car that is cheaper and works better if you need it. Otherwise you can plug it in to ac power. But that's yet another wire to haul out.

I'm not sure if its my scope module, or more likely the cables that came with it, but I have a hard time getting it to function properly. Works, but lots of cables to store, dig out, keep track of, mess around with until I get connections, and then put away.

Then when I do get it to function - the times I've messed with it long enough to do so, you can barely see the output screen. Not ideal for a scope.

The genisys itself will output to a monitor via usb (printer also) and it will do so in scope mode as well, but now we have to drag out a monitor and some more cables.

I suppose I could make up a cart with a power strip and monitor and some drawers for cables and make the setup more functional, but honestly I give up on the scope and just diagnose the problem with another supposedly slower and less accurate method. Generally speaking, I can find the problem, fix the car and test it before I can manage to get the scope setup and functioning.



So, while I the scanner itself is pretty good, (oh, will do the other modes also, like mode 6 for example - and of course generic scan) and is durable and easy to use, the scope module is awful or so my experience has been thus far.

Oh, there is also a code assist section, and some other stuff like that, identifix or whatever it is- but generally I don't find those very helpful either - internet is faster and has more info. The higher end fancy otc models take you directly to the internet I believe.

Has some other stuff in it, the connector diagrams are handy sometimes, I think there is a transmission pan identification section in there somewhere also.

You don't have to pay for yearly updates. You can wait until you start running into too new to scan and then buy whatever update you need.

I'm still running system 4.0 and I think I can do up to 2010 or 2011 dom and Asian, and '09 or '10 Euro. I haven't run into very many cars I can't scan with manufacturer specific info yet. The couple I have I got by with the generic, but within the next couple of years I will have to upgrade to 5.0 - or 6.0 if its out.

I can get the loyalty kit from amazon for about $400 which would give me 2013 dom and Asian, and 2012 euro.

If you don't need a scope you might want to check out the genisys.

Edit: Tire pressure monitor is available also.

Mac sells the same thing labeled 'Mentor' and I think Cornwell sells one also.

 

[Chevy-SS]

AE gets pretty good reviews. To get it setup to work on Domestic, Japan, Euro it costs about twice as much as the 708. Think when I looked at it AE was around 1600 for the complete bundle. And that's if you bought it all at once. If you piece it together as needed it was even more.

But AE would seem almost like a bargain for a DIY'er working on limited number of vehicles - because let's say you had all GM vehicles, you could buy the basic tool and the enhanced GM package for ~$400. That's pretty short money for a comprehensive tool........... would you agree?

Man, when I was in the trade, all you needed for diagnostics was a test light and a multimeter and compression gauge, LOL..

 

[Chevy-SS]

.....I looked at the autoenginuity as an option when I got mine, but I decided that dealing with a laptop in an actual work environment would be a huge hassle.......

Good point, makes sense in a busy shop environment - was this issue the main reason you did not opt for the AE?

Great post.

 

[bdelmar2]

I think the issues dealing with a laptop ended up being the deciding factor yes.

But perhaps more importantly, I know these to be pretty dependable/rugged. My friend who has the older 3.0 model isn't especially fussy when it comes to taking care of his tools.

(Not say he is careless, he has a lot of good tools that have lasted many years for him, but he uses them hard and puts they away wet so to speak. For example I've never seen him oil an air tool. Yet oddly he has several that are no spring chickens and run everyday. The AR1776 3/8" air ratchet comes to mind - gotta be at least 10 years old.)

I've seen it fall moderate distances, off of car seats say, and not bother it a bit. I've seen it get lightly sprinkled on - living in FL this can happen without much warning. I've sweated on it (also common in Fl, lol) and it didn't mind that either.

I don't want to give the impression we are a bunch of gorillas escaped from an American Tourister commercial. We don't purposely do such things to the scanners, but reality intrudes and things happen. So far the things that happen haven't bothered the genisys, but I'm pretty sure a laptop wouldn't survive much in the way of falling or getting accidently wet.

They sell covers for them also, but neither of us has them, I'm not sure if Martin (another mechanic) has a cover on his or not, but I'm guessing not.

Also, somewhere around either here at my place or at Lance's shop is an older otc scanner. The kind without the smart cable that needs the plug in modules for both the scanner and the cable. I would say it was new somewhere around 1996, and has the updates to 1999 or so depending on which module.

Its been tossed around (in its case) for close to 15 years since it was last used in the shop, and not treated gently when it was used. Its been stored in semi-outdoor environments for extended periods of time - basically tossed around with little to no regard for its well being.

Just for curiosity I opened it up and inside the case was packed almost completely with what looked to be spider webs. I blew it out and hooked it up to a '99 Sunfire and it worked fine. I found that impressive.


I'm sure the Snap on scanners are probably just as durable, I've seen some pretty roughly treated mt2500's (brick) that still work fine too, but Snap on is way more expensive, and I think you have to pay for yearly upgrades - no skipping years?

AE was also newer at the time, but I would have been willing to take a gamble on that I think. I believe it would be neater to play around with. I gather it does some things the Genisys doesn't , or the Snap on either, but all around I think the Genisys gives the most for the money.

Plus I hate the touch mouse pad things on laptops, so I would need to deal with a mouse somehow, or a track ball or something.

The Genisys also doesn't mind balancing in the engine compartment, not that I do that a lot other than when I'm trying to get the scope to work, but I would definitely hesitate to set my laptop in there with the dirt and heat.

But, I think it was the vision of a customer pulling my laptop off the roof of his car by the cord that finally decided me not to go that route.


Edit: You can still get by with a multimeter, a test light and a compression guage for the most part, but the scanner can sure make things faster. Sometimes. Once in a great while it will even actually straight out tell you what the problem is, but mostly it just gives a direction to look.

 

[MLB0611]

Thanks, folks!

Looks like it may be time to start shopping for a DS708! Does anyone know more about the ds708 VS 908? Bit of a price hop there...

I only hesitate on the 708 because it runs a windows OS, and there are a few reviews bitching about how slow it is. Does anyone know how much the updates for it are?

I have used the 708 and now own the 908 mini I use it daily, mostly on euro and the odd CDJR vehicle I see, the shop has OE scan tools for ford, gm, Toyota Honda,kia and Hyundai plus VAG com for vw audi. The pid graphing is so much better on the 908. Plus the wireless is very nice. The tools both have quirks and various glitchs but over all a very useful tool

 

[Fedwrench]

I would recommend a laptop with Autoegenuity.

The Autel stuff is pretty good on domestics but, they haven't been out for that long.

Not a fan of OTC as they come out with a platform and don't seem to support it then come out with a new platform and forget about the old platform.

A laptop, preferably a tough book is the way to go.

After all, the current factory tools Ford IDS, GM MDI, and Chrysler Witech are all laptop based. you just can't have ford and gm on the same hardrive.

Anything other than a factory tool is a compromise at best. Good luck.

on a side note, by not updating your shop's diagnostic tools, the shop owner/management have put the shop on the road to going out of business. you just can't do a whole lot without an updated scan tool. it might be time to seek employment elsewhere,

 

[WhiffySpark]

I am looking for scanner as well. How about the AutoEnginuity Scan Tool?? It's a Windows® PC diagnostics scan tool. https://www.autoenginuity.com/

PC-based ScanTool
#ST06 - USB (ST06 ProLine VCI)
Generic OBDII support.
Optional enhanced expansions

The basic scan tool is ~$250, plus you need a Windows laptop. Each 'bundle' (GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc, etc) costs ~$200.

$799 Domestic ScanTool Bundle - #SP05 - Includes:

• ProLine Interface (ST06)
• Enhanced Ford Expansion
• Enhanced GM (+CAN D) Expansion
• Enhanced Chrysler Expansion

What do you guys think about the AutoEnginuity tool?

EDIT - one more question. It seems to make more sense to utilize a PC-based tool, as you'd get larger screen and maybe easier to use overall? Is this assumption correct?

If it's possible I will sell you mine. I'm buying a new modis soon and have no use for it

 

[ChrisLS8]

You need to get up their *** as the scan tools are ESSENTIAL for new vehicles. By not ponying up for the proper tools and equipment is to set the shop up for failure.

That being said the DS708 with the updates is fantastic. I really like the screen, very bright and easy to read.