Affordable Bi-directional scan tool?

[MBfreak]

I was an unfortunate owner of several SAAB 9000 and 9-5 "vehicles"
Excellent roadholding and also top rating for low injury records from a large insurance company that analyzed all serious traffic accidents in Sweden.

However, my impression was that the competed with Alfa Romeo and Jaguar for bottom place on reliability and repair friendliness. They even developed an own version of Engine ECU (trident) and plug in CDI module. Both sucked, big time
I was lucky enough to get a scrapped TECH2 unit from a dealer where I did some repairs on SAAB electronics.
I fixed up the TECH 2 which was a great tool.

Poor GM, they propped up SAAB for a good many years. I seem to recall that they lost around $1000 on each new SAAB they managed to palm off!

Ola

 

[toplessHO]

I was an unfortunate owner of several SAAB 9000 and 9-5 "vehicles"
Excellent roadholding and also top rating for low injury records from a large insurance company that analyzed all serious traffic accidents in Sweden.

However, my impression was that the competed with Alfa Romeo and Jaguar for bottom place on reliability and repair friendliness. They even developed an own version of Engine ECU (trident) and plug in CDI module. Both sucked, big time
I was lucky enough to get a scrapped TECH2 unit from a dealer where I did some repairs on SAAB electronics.
I fixed up the TECH 2 which was a great tool.

Poor GM, they propped up SAAB for a good many years. I seem to recall that they lost around $1000 on each new SAAB they managed to palm off!

Ola

you left out Fiat(Fix It Again Tony)

I have a Sved friend who owns a few Sobs. $3600 for a transmission! Yikes!
no one around here want to work on them.

 

[torqueman2002]

I've been checking this thread occasionally to see how the discussion is going. I didn't think I'd be in the position of being able to buy a bi-directional scan tool.

That is, until last week - when the better half said, why don't you get a scan tool for your birthday, so you don't have to keep borrowing your friend's? !!!
Well, now that is fine with me!

Anyway, I looked at the Launch X431 V+ on Amazon because I have some of their store $$s burning a hole in my pocket.

After reading some posts about tech support I asked Launch Tech USA if they supported the X431 V+.

Here's their reply.

"X431 V+ is not a tool sold or supported by Launch Tech USA and is an overseas tool for overseas markets. To see the tools we sell go to launchtechusa.com and look under products then Pro Line. The only tools that work on OBD I are the Pro, Pro 3 and Pad II AE. All have the same basic software but the Pad II AE has the ability to add the HD module and all of the things listed under modules/accessories. If you do not see a tool you were looking at online here it means that it is an overseas tool. Also our GM OBD I coverage is very poor, on other carlines it ranges from poor to not too bad. If you want to see the coverage for different carlines go to support, then vehicle coverage, type in the ,make on the upper left corner, in the upper right hit query then follow the prompts to look at the coverage lists.
to find authorized US dealers look under distributors."

My search continues. Thanks for this timely thread and all the posts.

 

[petee_c]

I've read this thread, and am now more confused then ever.

I have a genuine VCDS cable and the software, I think it cost me $300 when I bought it 5-10 yrs ago.

I've had it to use with my 2002 Jetta 1.8T (sold 4 yrs ago), 2006 Jetta TDI, and 2011 Audi q7.... the test functions have been great for helping me solve ABS wheel problems, resetting SRI, adjusting turbo actuators and boost valves... It's even pointed med to a parking lamp that was burnt out... I've probably only used 5% of it's funtionality.

I'm looking to help service my parent's new Acura MDX in the future, and we may move away from VAG products when my wife does the buyback on the q7....

I also have a 2002 Porsche Boxster, and use an old generic OBDII reader for that; helped a little bit for a MAF sensor diagnosis... most of my repairs have been through visual diagnosis... Air Oil Separator - crazy vacuum on oil filler cap, screeching starter - needed to remove and clean relube bendix gear on starter... misc oil leaks on garage floor... clunking suspension bits...

 

[crook038]

A little late to the game but I purchased an Autel MaxiDAS DS808K in October 2018. I have wanted a bi-directional reader for a long time. I am a weekend mechanic, not a professional. With that said, I have used the Autel to program 2 new chip keys to my Nissan Versa (dealer wanted $100 per key) Used it to view steering angle output on a Cadillac Escalade. Most recently I used it to verify the Bank 1 Sensor 2 output on my wife's Jeep JK. Again, I am not a professional but I can say this tool has enabled me to get a more in-depth look at vehicle trouble codes and live data. Well worth the cost, I scored it on Amazon during a flash deal for $626.
Sean

 

[TimMiller117]

Thank you for the recommendations from you guys. I do some research from Google and I've bought one, it works so well up to now, although it sometimes has some weaknesses.

 

[u118224]

Will the ds808 program replacement modules? I have to replace the BCM on a 2007 Impala.

 

[signcrafter]

CRY ! I would be going hysterical !! My biggest investment in diagnostic equipment was back in the days points when I spent about $50 for a Sears/Penske dwell-tach !

I don't know how any shade tree mechanic could afford a Modis Edge.

It's interesting that you probably have the most posts in this thread talking about what scan tool is better then the other and have never even used one. Does all your knowledge/experience on this just come from watching youtube videos?

I don't have a modis edge but did spend a good deal of money on a decent scan tool. It's a must for diagnosing and repearing cars these days. No way around them in a lot of situations. I use mine all the time and couldn't get buy without it. I mean, I guess, I could just google and watch youtube and make guesses throwing parts at cars from that. But to work on cars today you need a decent scan tool. My tool has more then paid for itself in saving me money over taking my vehicles to shops and also in working on other's cars for them.

Simple fact of 2019 is you need expensive tools to work on cars. I just spend 400 bucks on an TPMS sensor tool and it paid for itself the first week I had it. I've never added them up but I'm guessing if I did my diagnostic tools would be well north of the 5G mark. That's just diagnostic stuff too. Gotta have the right tools to do the work on these cars and they cost money. Can't call yourself a shade tree mechanic with a craftsman socket set and a few brake tools anymore these days.

 

[u118224]

Will the ds808 program replacement modules? I have to replace the BCM on a 2007 Impala.[/QUOTE]

I did some further checking and answered my own question, which is no. For Ecu programming a j-2534 pass thru is needed and they’re cost prohibitive for a DIY’er. Just curious, does anyone have one?

 

[dnschmidt]

Launch has a model that's only supported out of China that they are selling on Amazon that's the absolute best bang for the buck. Here's the link:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LFXQR96/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Launch has a model that's only supported out of China that they are selling on Amazon that's the absolute best bang for the buck. Here's the link:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072FHLYRY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

The link isn't working. What's the model number?

 

[3footpipe]

X-431 Diagun IV

 

[dnschmidt]

Link in my previous post fixed.

 

[GCS]

I have the Matco MaxMe you can get them used for a decent price the thing I like is that it has Generic OBD usage but Subscription for more in depth work so instead of paying hefty yearly update you can choose what you want and for how long. I have Chrysler on mine and pay 20 a month if i need another one I switch it or add it for a month. it also updates more often so it is always up to date. it is made by Launch but only the Matco version has the subscription service.

I also have the Matco MaxMe. I agree with everything stated above. I’m sure its not as good as a Snap on, but for working on my own vehicles I’ve been very satisfied. It has bi-directional capability and can be updated every time you turn it on. As stated above, the big selling point for me was pay as use with updates included. I have all domestic vehicles and a Buick GS which is actually a German built Opel and have had zero problems. For someone working on his own cars, doesn’t want or have a couple extra grand, and wants a quality tool that isn’t some half-*** scanner. I’d second the recommendation.
Is it perfect? No.

 

[Tallpilot]

Launch has a model that's only supported out of China that they are selling on Amazon that's the absolute best bang for the buck. Here's the link:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LFXQR96/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That’s what I’ve been recommending. It’s almost cut the initial acquisition price of a full function scanner in half from a few years ago.

 

[ksuav8r]

Thanks for a lengthy thread. It’s amazing that you can’t just buy the Chrysler/GM/Ford/BMW etc app for say $500/manufacturer then pay like $500 per year for everything for that manufacturer AND do it all from your preferred tablet.

I get the proprietary manu-dealer relationship exclusivity, but how many techs at a dealer take all of the factory training credits and really know how to use a scan tool quickly and effectively?

I’m in the market for my first bi-directional and am going through the demos over the next 2 weeks. Total cost of ownership is most important. Considering my first compaq presario cost $1600 in the late 90s and you can get an iPad for 1/2 that now, my guard is way up when it comes to buying a proprietary box and spending a chunk of $ on it too. How long before it’s a useless relic?

 

[richfinn]

I've been using the Launch ThinkDiag app and vci (£200) with my own android tablet it's the perfect DIY/home gamer set up in my opinion

Cheap

Bi-directional

Special functions

If you bust the tablet/phone just get a new one and enter your PIN

you always need an Internet connection/some of the translations are a bit weird being the only real downsides

There is a learning curve like any new tool but it does do what they claim!!!!

 

[Djosbun]

I have the latest Launch X431 Pro Mini (with current 2021 software and the USB-C charge port) and it's a superb tool. So ce it is the Chinese version it is different than the Launch USA tablet since the USA version uses a better tablet than the Chinese version. For the higher price you also get USA support for that better hardware. For me, the Chinese hardware works just fine and I don't need any support for the tool.

-- Dave

 

[Snapped-off]

I have the latest Launch X431 Pro Mini (with current 2021 software and the USB-C charge port) and it's a superb tool. So ce it is the Chinese version it is different than the Launch USA tablet since the USA version uses a better tablet than the Chinese version. For the higher price you also get USA support for that better hardware. For me, the Chinese hardware works just fine and I don't need any support for the tool.

-- Dave

Are these Chinese versions just for a foreign market, or are they counterfeit clones?

 

[richfinn]

Are these Chinese versions just for a foreign market, or are they counterfeit clones?

I believe ThinkDiag pro is exactly the same software, and all the software is the same, all the USA stuff and Chinese brands are there even on the Euro version, the online support is excellent no matter where you are!!!

 

[jgromada]

Good thread, very informative. Only responding since it will be easier to find later on.