Choosing the right scan tool...confusing to say the least

[freudianfloyd]

I've been trying not to create a thread on this topic because I know it comes up often, but I give up. I have never had so much trouble picking something out. Picking out my kids names was easier than picking a scanner. I am a DIYer, and have a lot to learn, but I am ready to step up from a standard code reader. Obviously I don't need all the features that pro's use, but prefer having as many as possible for the future. You never know...

Anyway, I think I have my choices narrowed down to a few different ones. Here is specifically what I am looking to do:
1. Read codes
2. Bi-directional
3. Some basic ECU Tuning/Programming (disable features such as Auto Start/Stop) and things like that. I am not going to be dyno tuning or messing with A/F ratios anytime soon.
4. Special features are always a plus - Might not need them, but want more options if I can get them...
5. I mostly work on Domestic, especially Ford, but it seems like I get more and more people needing me to fix their vehicles, so the more manufacturer support the better.
6. Something that has come up several times is the ability to program keys. While not a deal breaker, I would love that option.
7. Bluetooth would be nice
8. I don't plan to update it every year, so am I going to be stuck with a brick until I do when the subscription runs out (I've read that Topdon requires a subscription to keep things working once your updates run out)?
9. I don't want a new manufacturer that promises lots of features, but may not exist in a year or two.

The scanners I have been looking at are the following:
1. Autel MS906BT
2. Autel MK900-BT
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2
4. Roll the dice on Launch ordered through Amazon (Launch X431 V Pro 5.0 or X431 PROS Elite) or other variations.

I'm open to other options also, but if I'm going to invest, I would like to invest in one in this price range that will give me several years of use.

 

[mike93lx]

For your Ford stuff, Forscan is well worth having.

 

[freudianfloyd]

For your Ford stuff, Forscan is well worth having.

I do have Forscan and have used it a few times. While I will continue to use it, a scanner would still be a useful tool as I don't only work on Fords but thank you for the reply.

 

[rayik]

Very happy with Gearwrench Bi-Directional Scan Tool GWSMARTBT which I bought for $150 from Amazon. To me well worth it.

I'm DIY. Will put e-brakes into service mode. No subscriptions necessary. Does what I need.

As a bonus it read far more systems and codes on our older 2010 Chevy than any other the other cheap scan tools I have.

 

[zimman]

The more options the scanner has the deeper you'll get into trouble. Trust me. Stick to the basic stuff like misfires, lean codes and MAF's. A $35 code reader will do that. You'll thank me later.
Zim

 

[richfinn]

I've been trying not to create a thread on this topic because I know it comes up often, but I give up. I have never had so much trouble picking something out. Picking out my kids names was easier than picking a scanner. I am a DIYer, and have a lot to learn, but I am ready to step up from a standard code reader. Obviously I don't need all the features that pro's use, but prefer having as many as possible for the future. You never know...

Anyway, I think I have my choices narrowed down to a few different ones. Here is specifically what I am looking to do:
1. Read codes
2. Bi-directional
3. Some basic ECU Tuning/Programming (disable features such as Auto Start/Stop) and things like that. I am not going to be dyno tuning or messing with A/F ratios anytime soon.
4. Special features are always a plus - Might not need them, but want more options if I can get them...
5. I mostly work on Domestic, especially Ford, but it seems like I get more and more people needing me to fix their vehicles, so the more manufacturer support the better.
6. Something that has come up several times is the ability to program keys. While not a deal breaker, I would love that option.
7. Bluetooth would be nice
8. I don't plan to update it every year, so am I going to be stuck with a brick until I do when the subscription runs out (I've read that Topdon requires a subscription to keep things working once your updates run out)?
9. I don't want a new manufacturer that promises lots of features, but may not exist in a year or two.

The scanners I have been looking at are the following:
1. Autel MS906BT
2. Autel MK900-BT
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2
4. Roll the dice on Launch ordered through Amazon (Launch X431 V Pro 5.0 or X431 PROS Elite) or other variations.

I'm open to other options also, but if I'm going to invest, I would like to invest in one in this price range that will give me several years of use.

What is your budget?

Generally when the 2/3 year subscription deal runs out on these 10.1" screen android scan tools some functions will stop working and the tablet battery will be on its way out, the way I look at this is treat all these devices as a "consumable" you will need to replace every couple of years. At which point the replacement will be so much more capable for the same bi-annual cost it will render your old unit obsolete and not worth updating.

You really need an internet connection all the time to get the best performance from any of them as certain functions require it

I tend to buy the latest version of whatever $1000 tool Launch X431 is selling from Amazon/eBay as they are all global tools anyway (unless you step up to the $2500-3000 dollar regional tools.) and you are covered with a return policy!!!!

Launch and Autel are the big players most of the others from Topdon/Thinkcar/X-tool etc are just running their software on fancier tablets

 

[Drunkonunleaded]

Very happy with Gearwrench Bi-Directional Scan Tool GWSMARTBT which I bought for $150 from Amazon. To me well worth it.

I'm DIY. Will put e-brakes into service mode. No subscriptions necessary. Does what I need.

As a bonus it read far more systems and codes on our older 2010 Chevy than any other the other cheap scan tools I have.

This. It's essentially the same as the low-tier tablet scanners minus the inherent drawbacks (battery life, update cost). For a DIY guy, this is the way to go.

That said, you are not going to be able to do ECU "tuning" with any of these or run something like Forscan. That's a different dongle entirely. I believe the standard for this and the cracked GM tools is the VCX Nano or whatever.

 

[humpty]

Boy you are not kidding on how hard it is to make a choice.
I debated for quite awhile to get the "perfect" one, finally I said screw it and just picked one.
I ended up with the MX808S-TS and I have been very happy so far.

I too am a DIYer and mostly stick to my fleet and the kid's cars so some Toyota, Honda and a Chevy.

I haven't done aything too complicated, 3 sets of TPMS sensors and some light diag, but it has been good so far.

 

[Two Speed]

What is your budget?

Generally when the 2/3 year subscription deal runs out on these 10.1" screen android scan tools some functions will stop working and the tablet battery will be on its way out, the way I look at this is treat all these devices as a "consumable" you will need to replace every couple of years. At which point the replacement will be so much more capable for the same bi-annual cost it will render your old unit obsolete and not worth updating.

You really need an internet connection all the time to get the best performance from any of them as certain functions require it

I tend to buy the latest version of whatever $1000 tool Launch X431 is selling from Amazon/eBay as they are all global tools anyway (unless you step up to the $2500-3000 dollar regional tools.) and you are covered with a return policy!!!!

Launch and Autel are the big players most of the others from Topdon/Thinkcar/X-tool etc are just running their software on fancier tablets

Another dirty little secret about the android/chromium based scanners, they can remotely shut off functions. I recently looked at a chromebook tablet autel that had a "dead" screen.
Turns out the screen is just fine, as was the scanner, I had hooked up an external monitor h and a message quickly flash up screen while I was poking around about disabled screen due to the subscription had lapsed. Sneaky to put that into the system in order to extort a subscription to have a device not tethered to an external monitor. Autel is basically admin owner of the tablet, just like we are at work with our chromebooks, I have management software I can remotely do things with a chromebook, including locking it out, flagging it within the google ecosystem if it gets stolen, preventing log-ins if people need to bring it to us in IT. Personally, I find it a strike agains the auto tablet manifucturer that they leverage that ability to screw with multithousand dollar systems that in my opinion they do not own.

 

[cgrutt]

I've been super happy with my Autel MP808 Pro I "think" the MP906 that you have listed may be the replacement for my scan tool. It has handled so many things for me and continues to surprise me. I bought a separate Autel for TPMS you may want to see if the model you have listed handles that or pick another one that does. Some features like key programming may be built in but vehicle specific e.g. believe there is a function for key programming on wife's Mercedes but when I click into it it says its not supported by our vehicle. May work on other Mercedes models not sure. Key programming in general is pretty limited on most of these scan tools (in the price range that you are looking at) IIRC. Also same comment for other features my friend had a late(r) model Honda that scan tool just wouldn't communicate with but it worked with his other Hondas go figure. I never renewed subscription but tool continues to work just fine. I would definitely buy another Autel if and when I decide to upgrade.

 

[mikedodge]

How old is the vehicle and how much would you be fixing yourself? That's the two main things to consider when looking for scan tools. There's no point to spending big bucks on one that has features you'd never use or has an annual subscription if you would rarely if ever take advantage of it.

 

[freudianfloyd]

How old is the vehicle and how much would you be fixing yourself? That's the two main things to consider when looking for scan tools. There's no point to spending big bucks on one that has features you'd never use or has an annual subscription if you would rarely if ever take advantage of it.

My newest vehicle is a 2022, then also have a 21, 16, 12, 11, 08. Both Ford and Chevy, but recently had a Nissan, Honda, and audi, and im sure i will again. I have 11 kids and most drive so I will be their main mode of repair as well.

I have never paid to have anything of mine fixed, so anything that comes up, I will most likely be fixing.

 

[richfinn]

My newest vehicle is a 2022, then also have a 21, 16, 12, 11, 08. Both Ford and Chevy, but recently had a Nissan, Honda, and audi, and im sure i will again. I have 11 kids and most drive so I will be their main mode of repair as well.

I have never paid to have anything of mine fixed, so anything that comes up, I will most likely be fixing.

Eleven kids??

I can think of two things you could pay to have fixed

Kidding aside, what's your budget for a scan tool???

 

[GTO]

I have the Topdon ArtiDiag 900 lite
Well under $400
What I like about it most other than the great features, is the wireless dongle

 

[freudianfloyd]

All the ones I have been looking at range from $500-$800.

The Kingbolen K10 Pro also looks like it would fit my needs.

Any experience with that one?

 

[mike93lx]

All the ones I have been looking at range from $500-$800.

The Kingbolen K10 Pro also looks like it would fit my needs.

Any experience with that one?

Are you actually encountering things that you can't do that would necessitate spending $800?

 

[Wrench97]

The Autel is a nice tool, but as with anything today it has it's issues, some functions listed for different vehicles don't work because the vehicle doesn't support it, same goes for the Launch systems, the pro tools like snap on and Bosch are a bit more sorted in that if the function is listed it is supported by the vehicle and generally works. As a example today on a Nissan Pathfinder V6 had a P0300 code there are no live misfire counters on the Snap On Triton I grabbed the Autel it has it listed but then comes back as not supported on this vehicle.
However I much prefer using the Autel for generic mode $6 data at least you get a display of misfire counters history on one page as opposed to having to access each cylinder # in Mode $6 data and back out to the next cylinder on the Snap On tool.
Down side of a lot of the newer vehicles is secure gateway Mopar stuff you have to pay a yearly subscription to register your tool Ford/Honda/Nissan are a bit different but with all of them your tool had to be up to date software wise.

 

[richfinn]

This model will probably be my next scantool (can't vouch for this particular vendor)

Launch X431 PRO3 V+ Elite Diagnostic Scanner J2534 Programming

LAUNCH X431 PRO3 V+ Elite -PDU/CANFD/DoIP Diagnostic Scanner, Online Coding, Topology Map Car Scanner, FCA SGW Scan Tool, 60+ Reset, Active Test, 2-Year Update, NO IP Limit! LAUNCH X431 PRO3 V+Elite: A New Upgrade of X431 V+ 5.0 J2534 Pr0gramming is done when no band end Pr0gramming occurs...

uk.launchx431online.com

This one comes with free updates for life and might just be perfect for semi-pro or DIY mechanics (the smaller 8" screen and lack of topology aside it's very competent).

Official Thinkscan 689BT Bidirectional Scanner – Lifetime Free Updates

THINKCAR Thinkscan 689BT Wireless Scanner - OE-Level Diagnostics & ECU Coding. Official Store with CAN FD/DoIP, FCA AutoAuth. Authentic & Full Warranty.

mythinkcar.com

 

[freudianfloyd]

This model will probably be my next scantool (can't vouch for this particular vendor)

Launch X431 PRO3 V+ Elite Diagnostic Scanner J2534 Programming

LAUNCH X431 PRO3 V+ Elite -PDU/CANFD/DoIP Diagnostic Scanner, Online Coding, Topology Map Car Scanner, FCA SGW Scan Tool, 60+ Reset, Active Test, 2-Year Update, NO IP Limit! LAUNCH X431 PRO3 V+Elite: A New Upgrade of X431 V+ 5.0 J2534 Pr0gramming is done when no band end Pr0gramming occurs...

uk.launchx431online.com

This one comes with free updates for life and might just be perfect for semi-pro or DIY mechanics (the smaller 8" screen and lack of topology aside it's very competent).

Official Thinkscan 689BT Bidirectional Scanner – Lifetime Free Updates

THINKCAR Thinkscan 689BT Wireless Scanner - OE-Level Diagnostics & ECU Coding. Official Store with CAN FD/DoIP, FCA AutoAuth. Authentic & Full Warranty.

mythinkcar.com

I looked at the launch, but from what I read, they are not made for the U.S. Market and you will not be able to get support if you have any issues.

 

[richfinn]

I looked at the launch, but from what I read, they are not made for the U.S. Market and you will not be able to get support if you have any issues.

Yep, that's a complete load of nonsense to be honest, all the tools in your price range are basically "Global Tools" and are all exactly the same whether you buy from Amazon or an official Launch distributor. The official USA Launch distributor doesn't want you to buy this, they want you to buy something from them at double the price

The "back up" is still available direct from China online via the tool (and it's quite good), you get a PIN supplied in the kit to activate the device

This is what you get for under $1000 I'm afraid

Take a look at Pine Hollow Diagnostics on YouTube for the latest Amazon deals (he updates regularly and is an honest unbiased resource)

 

[dscheidt]

t

Take a look at Pine Hollow Diagnostics on YouTube for the latest Amazon deals (he updates regularly and is an honest unbiased resource)

He's as much a shill as everyone else on youtube. I suspect he'd not plug stuff that really sucked, but that doesn't mean what's shilling for is the best option.

 

[richfinn]

t

He's as much a shill as everyone else on youtube. I suspect he'd not plug stuff that really sucked, but that doesn't mean what's shilling for is the best option.

What are you recommending, I think Ivan is a straight shooter, who would he be working for Amazon Prime??

 

[freudianfloyd]

Well after a week of trying to figure out which scanner I wanted to go with, I decided on the Kingbolen K8 pro, mostly because of the lifetime free updates, however, my bank will not let the transaction go through because it doesn't trust kingbolentool.com. If I buy it through Amazon, it is almost $300 more expensive, and buying through Ebay makes me feel like I am buying from a flea market the way they are advertised, so I don't trust them either.

Maybe this is a sign to just give up on a scan tool. I've never been more stressed trying to buy myself something.

 

[JeepYJ]

I just ordered this Gearwrench scan tool. It should be here tomorrow. I think it will do what I need and want from it. Price is right and I ordered from Amazon for easy returns.

GWSMARTBT Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the GWSMARTBT Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool here.

www.gearwrench.com

 

[Skellyii]

I've had the Autel MS906BT for about a year, I picked it up during the BF specials. I'm a DIY'er, and I work on a wide variety of Euro/Asian and domestic vehicles. I was on the fence on the decision of Autel vs Lauch derivatives, but I had a friend with an Autel who could teach me how to use it.

I've been very satisfied with it, and I *Love* the BT dongle. It's great to be able to sit comfortably at my workbench and diagnose a vehicle.

 

[freudianfloyd]

I just ordered this Gearwrench scan tool. It should be here tomorrow. I think it will do what I need and want from it. Price is right and I ordered from Amazon for easy returns.

GWSMARTBT Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the GWSMARTBT Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool here.

www.gearwrench.com

I've looked into the Gearwrench scanners, but from what I have found, there are just too many people having issues with them.

 

[freudianfloyd]

I've had the Autel MS906BT for about a year, I picked it up during the BF specials. I'm a DIY'er, and I work on a wide variety of Euro/Asian and domestic vehicles. I was on the fence on the decision of Autel vs Lauch derivatives, but I had a friend with an Autel who could teach me how to use it.

I've been very satisfied with it, and I *Love* the BT dongle. It's great to be able to sit comfortably at my workbench and diagnose a vehicle.

Do you plan to keep it updated? I would love to know if you still have full functionality after the subscription ends. I keep reading that you will not lose it, but have seen many complaints about loss of some functions after the update period. Then again, it could just be a bug a few people experience that causes this, but with the amount of money I would be spending, I want to get more than 1 or 2 years use out of a scan tool.

 

[Hohn]

I'm using a cheap Autel ML529 from 2022. It's sufficient.

I don't want to go any farther down the rabbit hole than that.

 

[Skellyii]

Do you plan to keep it updated? I would love to know if you still have full functionality after the subscription ends. I keep reading that you will not lose it, but have seen many complaints about loss of some functions after the update period. Then again, it could just be a bug a few people experience that causes this, but with the amount of money I would be spending, I want to get more than 1 or 2 years use out of a scan tool.

Honestly, I'm on the fence about the update. Like yourself I've seen conflicting info on what/if you lose if you don't update. I'm thinking about not doing it just to see what happens.

I'll have to make that decision within the next month or so.

 

[cgrutt]

As stated I have an Autel MP808 that hasn't been updated. As far as I know it doesn't lose anything without the updates you just dont get any new features or fixes that had been made to software since last update. You also don't lose ability to update in future if you let the original subscription lapse. It reminds me every time I use it that subscription has lapsed and asks if I want to renew it.

 

[mikedodge]

My newest vehicle is a 2022, then also have a 21, 16, 12, 11, 08. Both Ford and Chevy, but recently had a Nissan, Honda, and audi, and im sure i will again. I have 11 kids and most drive so I will be their main mode of repair as well.

I have never paid to have anything of mine fixed, so anything that comes up, I will most likely be fixing.

Good reasoning.

I've never had a vehicle of our own made in the last 15 years or so that's had a service light come on or had a break down that needed a scan tool unless it's something on a project vehicle from doing various swaps.

So I'd go with a decent priced scanner that does the normal stuff, abs would be nice too. And keep a better one in mind but not get it unless it's really needed.

Some of the apps do everything too. I've never messed with forscan but I have the equivalent for Dodge and it does more than any affordable scan tool will.. that might be the better route to take, get a couple apps that are brand specific.

 

[tiredoldironworker]

I just bought an Innova 7111 SDS tablet scanner at a pawnshop. It has Bluetooth with a removable VCI and lifetime FREE updates. I am very impressed by this tool comparing it to my Bluetooth Audel Maxisys 8008BT. The Innova is only about $600 new. It will also do keyfob programming for some makes and is Stellantis Secure Gateway Autoauth verified.

 

[tiredoldironworker]

I also had absolutely no problems re-registering the tool to myself. Autel will make you jump through a devil's inner circle to reassign ownership.

 

[Wrench97]

Well after a week of trying to figure out which scanner I wanted to go with, I decided on the Kingbolen K8 pro, mostly because of the lifetime free updates, however, my bank will not let the transaction go through because it doesn't trust kingbolentool.com. If I buy it through Amazon, it is almost $300 more expensive, and buying through Ebay makes me feel like I am buying from a flea market the way they are advertised, so I don't trust them either.

Maybe this is a sign to just give up on a scan tool. I've never been more stressed trying to buy myself something.

Aren't they a British company? If so it may not be as cheap once it gets through customs and has the duties and tariffs applied.

 

[Wrench97]

Do you plan to keep it updated? I would love to know if you still have full functionality after the subscription ends. I keep reading that you will not lose it, but have seen many complaints about loss of some functions after the update period. Then again, it could just be a bug a few people experience that causes this, but with the amount of money I would be spending, I want to get more than 1 or 2 years use out of a scan tool.

You will not lose functions from the tool, however if the software is out of date AutoAuth(subscription based service) will not allow access through the Chrysler secure gateway but you will still have access to all EPA OBD2 functions including code clearing on the ECM, but no bidirectional controls or access to some non OBD2 modules. I haven't run up against out dated software with the 2025 up Ford and Nissan security yet so I'm unsure how that works. I know the PA. emissions machines are having issues doing tests so far the only bulletin states the "Manufacturers are required to make the cars EPA compliant". Not sure how that helps us.....

 

[cgrutt]

You will not lose functions from the tool, however if the software is out of date AutoAuth(subscription based service) will not allow access through the Chrysler secure gateway but you will still have access to all EPA OBD2 functions including code clearing on the ECM, but no bidirectional controls or access to some non OBD2 modules. I haven't run up against out dated software with the 2025 up Ford and Nissan security yet so I'm unsure how that works. I know the PA. emissions machines are having issues doing tests so far the only bulletin states the "Manufacturers are required to make the cars EPA compliant". Not sure how that helps us.....

Not sure that Im following 100% but my buddy uses mine on his Chrysler all the time without issue. In fact he has my scanner now.

 

[JeepYJ]

my buddy uses mine on his Chrysler all the time without issue. In fact he has my scanner now.

That’s surprising. /sarcasm/

 

[cgrutt]

That’s surprising. /sarcasm/

Says the guy with Jeep in his user name LMAO

 

[drokihazan]

I spent a lot of time overthinking this same problem, and then I just said enough is enough with the deliberating and research. I bought a TopDon Phoenix Lite 2. With a little help from my GAP IID tool for Land Rovers, I haven’t run into a problem yet the TopDon wasn’t capable of solving and I know it can do more than I use it for. I’d recommend to just not overthink it and buy a good scanner from a reputable brand instead of trying to guarantee you have the best one.

 

[JeepYJ]

Says the guy with Jeep in his user name LMAO

My YJ is a quality AMC built product. And my JK is a fine Chrysler product. I’m allowed to talk the ****.