Best scan tool for under $500?

[Dimitri]

I was wondering what would you guys recomend for a cheaper scan too, Domestic and European vehicle support is important, Asian not so much.

Thanks in advance.

Dimitri

 

[TOOLFREEQ]

blue point micro scan!! most capability for the money!! I did a lot of searching before I got one. very happy with mine. obd2 abs obd1 capable , live data, graphing etc. most in this price will only do OBD1 or abs, not both! you can find a used one for 250-300. The new one is touch screen!!

 

[Rogue1987]

I just bought a Microscan III from my Snappy Dealer. He gave me 15% off. I am still figuring my way around it to be honest, but so far it seems to have been money well spent.

 

[DirtRoad]

I got the cen-tech from harbor freight, model 99722.

Been using the **** out of it, so far I'm loving it, no complaints at all.

Use 20% coupon, get it even cheaper.

 

[G-Ram]

In for this one, definitely interested in seeing what the recommendations will be

 

[stephen4785]

Iv been thinking about getting a microscan for a few weeks now. I think Ill go ahead and order one. Iv just been using a brick for my side work and it's pretty useless on newer stuff.

 

[stephen4785]

blue point micro scan!! most capability for the money!! I did a lot of searching before I got one. very happy with mine. obd2 abs obd1 capable , live data, graphing etc. most in this price will only do OBD1 or abs, not both! you can find a used one for 250-300. The new one is touch screen!!

Hows the data logging on it? I know it does graphs but Im wondering if it logs quick enough to diagnose O2 sensors,cam/crank sensors? And the OBD1 adapters look just like the mt2500 adapters. Do you know if they'll interchange? Iv got all of the obd1 adapters for the brick so if I dont have to buy the adapter kit I can save $150.

 

[Dimitri]

blue point micro scan!! most capability for the money!!

But does it support European cars?

Snap On lists "European Coverage Optional" for the rest of their scan tool line. And simply mentions the Big 3 for the microscan without reference to European brands or Asian Brands.

The ones I found that fit my budget before posting were these.

BluePoint Microscan, ($400)
http://www1.snapon.com/diagnostics/us/MICROSCANIII

Launch CReader 123, ($300)
http://www.launchx431.ca/product_detail.php?pid=25&cid=2

Autel MaxiCheck Pro, ($500 - on the high side)
http://www.autel.us/Products/maxicheckpro.htm

OTC 3111PRO ($300)
http://www.otctools.com/products/scan_tool_obd_2_can_abs_airbag

Dimitri

 

[G-Ram]

Managed to get my hands on a Microscan III today. Didn't get to try a whole lot with it but my first impression is good. It DOES have the ability to graph data. Refresh rate is so-so, but if you make a custom data list to graph, (4 parameters vs. all available parameters) it speeds up drastically. Packaging says it will support Asian and European cars, although to what degree I'm unsure. Also supports OBD1 with the proper adapters. Hope this gives you a bit of insight. If you have any questions I'll do my best to answer them for you.

 

[fflintstone]

no need to spend that much.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=162659&highlight=$200+scan

 

[Dimitri]

Packaging says it will support Asian and European cars, although to what degree I'm unsure.

I might ask my local Snap On guy then. Thanks for the information.

no need to spend that much.

The Innova isn't that much less than the options I listed above. And I've heard some mixed reviews on them from people who have bought them from Canadian Tire, which is why I didn't even bother looking at them.

Dimitri

 

[Subyroo651]

But does it support European cars?

Snap On lists "European Coverage Optional" for the rest of their scan tool line. And simply mentions the Big 3 for the microscan without reference to European brands or Asian Brands.

Dimitri

I would add the Autel MD802 to your list for consideration.
When Compared to the MaxiCheck it does more essential functions vs. Maintenance functions with the Maxicheck.

 

[Dimitri]

Thanks for the tip!

Dimitri

 

[Subyroo651]

Here's a Comparison Chart (Too to big to embed)

 

[PSDEng]

Although not under $500, I love my AutoEnginuity. I only have the Enhanced Ford Package, which was under $500, but for the domestic bundle it's around $1300 IIRC. Great tech support from the company as well. It might be something to consider.