OBD2 Scanner, Need help picking out a good all around option.

[JOE.G]

Hi, I need to update my OBD2 Scanner, I am looking for a good all-around option that will allow me to Diagnose, Read/Clear Codes, ABS and Elec E Brake work and so on. I Would like to stay around or below the $200 Range and Don't really want the Bluetooth/Phone models. I would like to be able to use it on Foreign and Domestic vehicles. Thank you

 

[Mr Ratchet]

I have an Autel Maxi-Check Pro that I like quite a bit. I let friends and family use it often. It's easy to use.

Autel MaxiCheck Pro (Including EPB/ABS/SRS/SAS/BMS/DPF) Special Application Diagnostic

Autel MaxiCheck Pro is designed for professional technicians and body shops to service individual specialized systems. It include Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), Steering Angle Sensor (SAS), and Battery Monitoring System (BMS),Oil...

www.autelsale.com

 

[macs_rock]

I have an Autel ML619 that I like a lot, but I've never tried it for electric e-brake or anything foreign yet. Seems like it'd do fine on foreign stuff for most things, and it's pretty durable.

Amazon.com: Autel ABS SRS OBD2 Scanner, Autel Scanner Maxilink ML619, Upgraded Version of AL619, Check Engine Code Reader with 10 OBD2 Test Modes : Automotive

Buy Autel ABS SRS OBD2 Scanner, Autel Scanner Maxilink ML619, Upgraded Version of AL619, Check Engine Code Reader with 10 OBD2 Test Modes: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[joshmodelskidoo]

i have the innova 5310 and i like it, its got a cord, wifi and bluetooth. got it from orilley auto for$140. look at all the innova models and there coverage checker.
https://www.innova.com/products/carscan-inspector-5310?_pos=1&_sid=0b89455a6&_ss=r

 

[Professional Tool User]

Pretty much anything in that price range that ticks all your boxes will suffice. I have a Launch Millennium 90 which includes abs resets. I remember paying around 200 Canadian dollars for it on Amazon. At the time I didn't realize the difference between the 90 and 90 Pro which includes engine and transmission code coverage. I would have ponied up the extra money for the Pro version if I knew the difference. Recently, I also bought a new Bosch OBD 1350 for 200 Canadian dollars from Princess auto because I wanted the engine and transmission code coverage and because I was intrigued by the diagnostics database feature that is supposed tell you the most common reasons for the code on a vehicle specific basis. Now that I have both the Launch and the Bosch, it will be interesting to see if the pirated information on the Launch will make a difference on a scan tool in this price range.

 

[9eight7]

I use a Foxwell NT530 for 2 of my cars and it does a great job. Release/engage e-brake, program airbag light, program spoiler, DME report, etc. They regularly have sales and can be had for the $150 range.

 

[JOE.G]

What do you guys think about these 2? Is one better than the other? I can find the Innova cheaper but I posted the amazon link .

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT624elite Obd2 Scan Tool Automotive All Systems Diagnostic Scanner for Cars with Oil Light & EPB Reset Service, Check ENG ABS SRS SAS Doors EPS HVAC Headlamp Code Reade: Automotive

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT624elite Obd2 Scan Tool Automotive All Systems Diagnostic Scanner for Cars with Oil Light & EPB Reset Service, Check ENG ABS SRS SAS Doors EPS HVAC Headlamp Code Reade: Automotive

www.amazon.com

Amazon.com: INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 Car Code Scanner - BiDirectional Scan Tool & Professional OBD2 Code Reader - Car Diagnostic Tool with Free RepairSolutions2 App - All Systems Scanner: Automotive

Buy INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 Car Code Scanner - BiDirectional Scan Tool & Professional OBD2 Code Reader - Car Diagnostic Tool with Free RepairSolutions2 App - All Systems Scanner: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[Jland]

I have no complaints with my blue driver.. it wouldn’t pull up transmission codes on my 96 f250 but for all obd2.. never missed a code and gives you the recommended fixes too... 99 bucks

 

[boom10ful]

I know you said no to phone OBD2, but the Autel AP200 has one of the best apps on the phone. Very easy to use unlike Torque pro and it has lots of extra functions. Comes with advanced features for 1 make of car. The rest are $20 each a year.

 

[JOE.G]

$20 Each a year, I have 8 Vehicles in my house hold, then add on any friends vehicles and $20 a year adds up, Now that would be worth it if it is a full function tool.

 

[richfinn]

ThinkDiag pro is good, it's a live bluetooth connected app though

Runs good on my cheap Samsung tablet

Good bi-directional scanner

 

[Professional Tool User]

What do you guys think about these 2? Is one better than the other? I can find the Innova cheaper but I posted the amazon link .

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT624elite Obd2 Scan Tool Automotive All Systems Diagnostic Scanner for Cars with Oil Light & EPB Reset Service, Check ENG ABS SRS SAS Doors EPS HVAC Headlamp Code Reade: Automotive

Amazon.com: FOXWELL NT624elite Obd2 Scan Tool Automotive All Systems Diagnostic Scanner for Cars with Oil Light & EPB Reset Service, Check ENG ABS SRS SAS Doors EPS HVAC Headlamp Code Reade: Automotive

www.amazon.com

Amazon.com: INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 Car Code Scanner - BiDirectional Scan Tool & Professional OBD2 Code Reader - Car Diagnostic Tool with Free RepairSolutions2 App - All Systems Scanner: Automotive

Buy INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 Car Code Scanner - BiDirectional Scan Tool & Professional OBD2 Code Reader - Car Diagnostic Tool with Free RepairSolutions2 App - All Systems Scanner: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Go look at what features are advertised and for reviews made by people who actually tested the tool intensively.

 

[JOE.G]

I was reading them, The reviews are mixed.

 

[JOE.G]

I went with the Innova 5610, It seems like it will do a lot, To get a true Bidirectional scanner I would have to spend quite a bit more.

 

[mrjaw14]

does anyone make a full-featured bidirectional scanner for tablets? that's all the expensive tools really are is an android tablet. I have a tablet, I'm looking for the software. that way when the battery craps out I just buy a new tablet

 

[richfinn]

does anyone make a full-featured bidirectional scanner for tablets? that's all the expensive tools really are is an android tablet. I have a tablet, I'm looking for the software. that way when the battery craps out I just buy a new tablet

Yep the ThinkDiag pro, it's a good tool for the money (Launch software)

 

[toolaholic]

It’s over budget but it got rave reviews. I scored one on eBay for $250 INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 Car Code Scanner - BiDirectional Scan Tool & Professional OBD2 Code Reader - Car Diagnostic Tool with Free RepairSolutions2 App - All Systems Scanner https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z481NJM/?tag=atomicindus08-20. https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/best-obd2-scanners/

 

[toolaholic]

Best OBD2 Scanners for 2022

Having a hard time interpreting the car codes your dashboard is displaying? Car codes can be confusing, so here are the best OBD2 scanners for reading, analyzing and clearing diagnostic trouble codes on your own.

www.cnet.com

 

[qqzj]

I use a Foxwell NT530 for 2 of my cars and it does a great job. Release/engage e-brake, program airbag light, program spoiler, DME report, etc. They regularly have sales and can be had for the $150 range.

Are both of your cars the same make? If not, do you have to buy 2 licenses? I like it too because it has some specific functions for Honda/Acura. Do you know what is the closest counterparts for Autel? Thanks.

 

[JOE.G]

Toolaholic I got the 5610 for $260 off E bay as well. Thinkcar is a full function unit?

 

[toolaholic]

I didn’t get it yet in the mail. I liked that it could be paired with a repair app. I know it’s bidirectional. It got great reviews. Eventually I want a android type $700 plus dollar unit. My last two scanners were $100 OTCs bought in 2014 and 2017.

 

[richfinn]

Thinkdiag pro is a full bi-directional scan tool with special functions

It's very similar to the Launch pro mini tool (but you supply the device and download the app) they send the VCI and an activation code

Pro version covers all brands/or you can buy each manufacturer individually

I got one to supplement my company scan tool and I really like it, particularly good on actuator tests and special functions like BMS resets/DPF regen/adblue tank refill and brake caliper service

 

[JOE.G]

Thinkdiag, I read it breifly but it said something about $39 a year per vehicle? I have at least 10 That I need it to work on. Maybe I didn't look at the pro.

I am confused on what you pay for, Is it only for updates or does it stop working after subscription runs out?

 

[richfinn]

Thinkdiag, I read it breifly but it said something about $39 a year per vehicle? I have at least 10 That I need it to work on. Maybe I didn't look at the pro.

The pro version has all the manufacturers, it's a 2 year license in the UK, there are a lot of regular updates though so it works on most new vehicles

 

[JOE.G]

So Every two years I would have to renew license? It appears it is $39 per vehicle per year if I read it right on the site. That's a t least $390 a year for me. Does anyone have link to the pro version, it is not showing up for me.

 

[dscheidt]

So Every two years I would have to renew license? It appears it is $39 per vehicle per year if I read it right on the site. That's a t least $390 a year for me. Does anyone have link to the pro version, it is not showing up for me.

Amazon.com: thinkcar Upgrade Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner, ThinkDiag Bi-Directional Scan Tool Full System Check Engine Code Reader for iOS & Android, 15 Resets, ECU Coding, Offer All Software & Updates for 2-Year : Automotive

Buy thinkcar Upgrade Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner, ThinkDiag Bi-Directional Scan Tool Full System Check Engine Code Reader for iOS & Android, 15 Resets, ECU Coding, Offer All Software & Updates for 2-Year: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[richfinn]

This is where I got mine from they might point you to a distributor in the USA if you email them

THINKDIAG UK - Advanced Diagnostics From Your Smartphone

The THINKDIAG UK OE level advanced diagnostic tool supports full enhanced vehicle diagnostics including actuation tests, live data and special functions all from just your smartphone.

thinkdiag.co.uk

 

[mrjaw14]

Based on the Q&A you lose the reset functions after two years, and then it becomes an OBD2 code reader basically. The renewal has two tiers it looks like: One vehicle for 39 and/or 49 for ONE reset function. The website has loads of spelling and grammar errors. Google thinkcar thinkdiag pro and look at their site. I was really excited until I looked into the details. It's not like a normal scan tool where you get all your functions but you can't update it anymore for new years, this one actually removes functionality. Very disappointing. I hope I'm wrong, but their website is so atrocious it's difficult to read and know what they are saying with all the spelling and grammar issues

 

[JOE.G]

Thats how i see it as well MrJaw, I would get it if it stayed full function but didn't add on cars after say 2023 when it expires. I am not sure what they mean by 1 reset.

 

[richfinn]

Thats how i see it as well MrJaw, I would get it if it stayed full function but didn't add on cars after say 2023 when it expires. I am not sure what they mean by 1 reset.

After my two years are up I can buy another subscription for £144 (current price) for all manufacturers/resets

I think that's a bargain compared to other "pro" scan tools

The UK site is 100% legit BTW

 

[9eight7]

Are both of your cars the same make? If not, do you have to buy 2 licenses? I like it too because it has some specific functions for Honda/Acura. Do you know what is the closest counterparts for Autel? Thanks.

Both of our cars are of the same make and same with my friends. If you have multiple makes, you can buy the additional makes and add it to the device (I think it's $60 or $80). It's limited to the memory so you could buy a new memory card if you have 6+ different car makes.

I don't know what Autel is...

 

[mrjaw14]

Autel and launch are scan tool companies. dedicated tools. you don’t have to pay extra for brands and when your update subscription runs out you can still use the tool at the currently updated level. For the price of 5 years of updates on some of these other options you could have a decent purpose built scan tool.

edit: unless you get the super cheap dongle that is.

 

[P0234]

The Autel AP200 gives you one BRAND free with free updates. Additional brands are $20 for one year of updates. It is supposed to continue working for that brand after a year just no updates. I have one and really like it. Only big gotcha is it uses up a lot of storage on the phone.

 

[JOE.G]

So it'll remain full function say for 2021 and older vehicles, But it will not for 2022 vehicles unless you buy the updates?

 

[P0234]

So it'll remain full function say for 2021 and older vehicles, But it will not for 2022 vehicles unless you buy the updates?

That's what they claim. But if Apple or Google update your phone force you have to update the app, all bets are off.

 

[macwhiz]

Thinkdiag, I read it breifly but it said something about $39 a year per vehicle? I have at least 10 That I need it to work on. Maybe I didn't look at the pro.

I am confused on what you pay for, Is it only for updates or does it stop working after subscription runs out?

The OBDII functions work forever.

For the other stuff, you can pay a la carte one of two ways:

• $39.99 per year per car manufacturer unlocks all functions for that manufacturer. (Except Tesla, which costs a good bit more.) You get one manufacturer free for one year when you buy the ThinkDiag. OR
• $49.99 per year to unlock a single service function (say, ABS actuation) for all manufacturers for a year.

They also commonly run a deal to unlock all functions for all manufacturers for a year for $129.

If you let the subscription lapse, those functions stop working until you resubscribe.

If you pay for the Kia diag module, for example, you can use it with any number of Kias that year. But not Hyundais or Fords, unless you buy those makes too.

The idea is: if you are repairing your own cars, unlock just the makes you need (or buy the package deal if it makes more sense). If you're a pro tech who, say, just needs TPMS relearn functions because you're on tire duty, you can just pay for that instead.

Yes, its an annual fee. But it gets you updates for new models and new functions. Compare it to the annual update fee for a Launch, the next cheapest comparable bidirectional scan tool; the ThinkDiag is a bargain.

 

[ManUpOrShutUp]

I went with the Innova 5610, It seems like it will do a lot, To get a true Bidirectional scanner I would have to spend quite a bit more.

Let me know how you like it. This is the model I was most considering as well.

I started w/ Autel, but it seems their DIY products don't support vehicles after 2015 (and all the way back to 2011 on some Kias). They responded to a Q&A on one of their products on Amazon and stated that their non-tablet versions may have software updates that are 5-7 years behind. Wtf :x

 

[JOE.G]

Will do, I really don't have a need to use it at the moment, I purchased it because the last two times I was working on something I had to use my buddies Snap On as mine would not do what I needed. I am hoping this one will do most of what I needed. I know it is no where near the snap on but I am able to use that as I need.

 

[JOE.G]

I messed with it a litte tinught, It seems to have a lot of functions and is fairly quick to load. The lay out is a bit confusing but with time I am sure that will get easier.

 

[dscheidt]

Let me know how you like it. This is the model I was most considering as well.

I used one for a while, mostly on Ford vans (but also some cars). I found it very random about what it would support (for instance: two identical '10 E-350s, consecutive vins, one has misfire counters, the other doesn't, for no reason you could figure out in the scan tool. It's entirely possible one had updated PCM software, but that's not something it will tell you), and the interface is clunky as all get out. What it does do worked well, the fuel trim and O2 sensor data streams worked okay.