Scan tool shopping?

[PoorUB]

I have been thinking of buying a better scan tool. A bi-directional so I can see live data. Currently we drive a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer and a 2021 Ram Laramie. i have noticed on Youtube a few guys using the Launch brand, and even a few with the T10 Harbor Freight and they seem to like them. Of course, many YouTubers are getting tossed free tools from HF for the advertisement, so they might be a bit biased.

My questions,

Is there one tool that will do my Chevy and the Ram?
Can anyone recommend a decent tool that doesn't break the bank?
Do most scan tools of this caliber require updates, or an annual service fee?

 

[Jeepster04]

Idk the details but there is something funky going on with Chrysler. Some scans tools cannot connect to certain year Chryslers due to something called secure gateway. My Autel 808 will connect to them but it needs the internet to be verified.

https://www.reddit.com/r/AutoMechanics/comments/1dqza5n

 

[dnschmidt]

I like Launch. The Launch clones like Thinktool will not do Chryslers as Launch doesn't allow them to use that part of their software. Considering how ****** Chryslers are being able to work on them is paramount when buying a scan tool.

 

[shakenfake]

I am using an Autel MK808. Only thing I dislike about it is the charger is not USB-C and for some reason if it dies it can be a pain to get turned on again.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

You need an $50 autoauth account and compatible scan tool for that era Chrysler product.

 

[njride]

Bidirectional doesn't mean live data, you can see live data with a cheaper tool. Bidirectional means the ability to control outputs from the scan tool. As far as 2021 chrysler and secure gateway, not sure, that is around when that started I think but above my pay grade. The harbor freight t10 looks like launch software to me. I have an older launch x431 and it's pretty sweet, I also have have a pretty complete old vetronix mastertech that is great for the 80s and 90s and early ought fuel injection stuff, but it is a brick lol. Pretty amazing what it can do tho, was the factory tool for a few oems for a long time.

 

[charbar]

If you intend to do much more than just read codes on your 21 Ram you MUST keep your scanner up to date, along with the AutoAuth account and fee and Internet connection.

It is(was) $1200 a year to update my Snap On and for my Autel it's $1600 a year. Plus the $50 dollars a year

So how much money are you willing to spend just so you can hook up to your Ram maybe once every 18 months? Unless it's a Cummins, then you'll be plugged into it all the time

 

[impactims]

I say Snap on Zeus is the way to go.

 

[Wrench97]

If you intend to do much more than just read codes on your 21 Ram you MUST keep your scanner up to date, along with the AutoAuth account and fee and Internet connection.

It is(was) $1200 a year to update my Snap On and for my Autel it's $1600 a year. Plus the $50 dollars a year

So how much money are you willing to spend just so you can hook up to your Ram maybe once every 18 months? Unless it's a Cummins, then you'll be plugged into it all the time

Have you tried any of the by pass methods on Mopars?

 

[tiredoldironworker]

Autel 8008mx Bluetooth, Obdmx+, with $50/yr autoauth does everything I need on 2017 Ram 3500 and 2019 charger pursuit.

 

[Wrench97]

I have been thinking of buying a better scan tool. A bi-directional so I can see live data. Currently we drive a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer and a 2021 Ram Laramie. i have noticed on Youtube a few guys using the Launch brand, and even a few with the T10 Harbor Freight and they seem to like them. Of course, many YouTubers are getting tossed free tools from HF for the advertisement, so they might be a bit biased.

My questions,

Is there one tool that will do my Chevy and the Ram?
Can anyone recommend a decent tool that doesn't break the bank?
Do most scan tools of this caliber require updates, or an annual service fee?

Secure Gateway on Mopars and some current Fords and probably most others in the future does not effect OBD 2 data but will lock you out of systems other then the engine as well as engine bidirectional controls and special functions.

Any tool you buy will need to be kept updated(I believe 2 years is the limit) plus the $50 annual clearing house charge as mentioned above.

 

[tiredoldironworker]

Tazer bypass kit in trunk of charger beside battery also bypasses and defeats secure gateway! Adds a bunch of cool tweaks too!

 

[tiredoldironworker]

My bad, the scanner is

MaxiCOM MK808Z-BT​

 

[Rusted Nut]

For your Ram, check out jscan. jscan is a phone based diagnostic app, for Dodge and Jeep. jscan can read/erase codes, and has some bi-directional capability. The app costs about $25, and you’ll need a blue tooth dongle that plugs into the 12+8 cable (which you also need to get around the Dodg/Jeep secure gateway), The dongle costs about $90, and 12+8 cable about $25. Pretty decent setup for less than $150, no update or subscription fees. I’ve used this several times on my 2018 Jeep, works well. You can program tire sizes and other stuff.

For your 2006, almost and scan tool will work.

 

[charbar]

Have you tried any of the by pass methods on Mopars?

No I haven't. I actually forgot about even being able to do that just because it's not feasible for me, but for the OP's situation it would be perfect.

 

[PoorUB]

I'm starting to think the scan tool for the Ram is not going to happen!

If that doesn't happen, I probably won't buy one for the 18 year old Chevy either!

 

[djbmw]

I'm starting to think the scan tool for the Ram is not going to happen!

If that doesn't happen, I probably won't buy one for the 18 year old Chevy either!

The problem is you've asked for two different things ... so perhaps some clarification is needed.

If all you want to see is live data, MOST scan tools can do this. Even a $15 ELM327 using Torque or Carista, or whatever app you want to use.

If you want a bi-directional DIAGNOSTIC tool,.. thats different beats, costs a lot more, and generally has a subscription (that you dont NEED to renew if you dont want all the updates). The higher end tools can also program keys, program modules, have scopes included, etc.

So... what will you be using the tool for?

 

[PoorUB]

The problem is you've asked for two different things ... so perhaps some clarification is needed.

If all you want to see is live data, MOST scan tools can do this. Even a $15 ELM327 using Torque or Carista, or whatever app you want to use.

If you want a bi-directional DIAGNOSTIC tool,.. thats different beats, costs a lot more, and generally has a subscription (that you dont NEED to renew if you dont want all the updates). The higher end tools can also program keys, program modules, have scopes included, etc.

So... what will you be using the tool for?

Perhaps I don't need the bi-directional tool. I thought is was needed for live data.

If there is a tool that will do that for both the Ram and Chevy I might be interested.

 

[djbmw]

Most innexpensive scanners are built on the ELM327 board so the hardware is mostly the same. Some have additional boards on top of that module that allow it to communicate differently but i"ll ignore that for now.

The scan tool will have access to PID data from the car and whichever software you choose to use will then help you visualize that data. For example, real time voltages from your O2 sensors, or the fuel trim levels,.. or your MAF readings, etc. Some of these softwares will work with certain scan tools, while others will work with other hardware.

I carry cheap ELM327 wifi dongles in all my vehicles and have Torque Pro installed on all our phones and tablets. In my shop, however, i use an Autel MX808

 

[AA/FC]

The problem is you've asked for two different things ... so perhaps some clarification is needed.

If all you want to see is live data, MOST scan tools can do this. Even a $15 ELM327 using Torque or Carista, or whatever app you want to use.

Not on 2018 and newer FCA vehicles with a secure gateway module. Your lucky if you can check trouble codes without the correct equipment.

If you want a bi-directional DIAGNOSTIC tool,.. thats different beats, costs a lot more, and generally has a subscription (that you dont NEED to renew if you dont want all the updates). The higher end tools can also program keys, program modules, have scopes included, etc.

So... what will you be using the tool for?

If you want the scan tool to work on 2018 and newer FCA vehicles the scan tool DOES indeed need to have a current subscription AND a current AutoAuth account..... along with a scan tool that is compatible with AutoAuth. Not all import scan tool brands are are. In fact, most aren't. (at this point in time, anyway) Right now it's typically Autel or Launch that will work with AutoAuth.... unless something has changed recently. I hear more AutoAuth compatible scan tools are coming "soon".... not sure when.

Perhaps I don't need the bi-directional tool. I thought is was needed for live data.

If there is a tool that will do that for both the Ram and Chevy I might be interested.

All new vehicles sold in the United States from 1996 until today are required to use the OBD2 protocol. The same scan tool can theoretically be used on both of your vehicles. The new RAM truck just requires more software to satisfy the secure gateway module security requirements. Otherwise, the same scan tool CAN work on both vehicles.

With all that said, there is a "work around" for the AutoAuth requirement. I haven't tried it myself, but I do have once of these cables to try one of these days. It's called the 12+8 cable. This cable allows your scan tool (that does NOT have AutoAuth) to connect to your 2018+ FCA vehicle and have full access. The problem is, the connector ports are not located in an easy access location. It can be under the center console, behind the stereo in the dash, etc, etc... It's not easy to get to like the factory OBD2 port. (DLC) However, it will allow you to NOT have an AutoAuth account, OR a current subscrition. For 20-30 bucks it might be worth it for a guy who doesn't need access every day.

 

[djbmw]

Not on 2018 and newer FCA vehicles with a secure gateway module. Your lucky if you can check trouble codes without the correct equipment.

If you want the scan tool to work on 2018 and newer FCA vehicles the scan tool DOES indeed need to have a current subscription AND a current AutoAuth account..... along with a scan tool that is compatible with AutoAuth. Not all import scan tool brands are are. In fact, most aren't. (at this point in time, anyway) Right now it's typically Autel or Launch that will work with AutoAuth.... unless something has changed recently. I hear more AutoAuth compatible scan tools are coming "soon".... not sure when.


All new vehicles sold in the United States from 1996 until today are required to use the OBD2 protocol. The same scan tool can theoretically be used on both of your vehicles. The new RAM truck just requires more software to satisfy the secure gateway module security requirements. Otherwise, the same scan tool CAN work on both vehicles.

With all that said, there is a "work around" for the AutoAuth requirement. I haven't tried it myself, but I do have once of these cables to try one of these days. It's called the 12+8 cable. This cable allows your scan tool (that does NOT have AutoAuth) to connect to your 2018+ FCA vehicle and have full access. The problem is, the connector ports are not located in an easy access location. It can be under the center console, behind the stereo in the dash, etc, etc... It's not easy to get to like the factory OBD2 port. (DLC) However, it will allow you to NOT have an AutoAuth account, OR a current subscrition. For 20-30 bucks it might be worth it for a guy who doesn't need access every day.

Unless things have changed, the FCA Security Module is supposed to still allow "read only access" for the cheapie scan tools.

Unauthorized devices will be allowed read-only or, passive access, to the private network. Passive means the ability to read codes, and data but does not include the ability to clear DTCs, perform, actuator tests, special functions, ECU configuration, flashing, or module resets. At least on the private side of the network.

When it comes to diag tools, most big brands (autel, snapon, etc) have bypass modules available, if you work on a vehicle that requires it.

Here's a decent article from a few years ago on it https://diag.net/msg/m1fsoznwl3nndqti9pxq9k4nz0

 

[AA/FC]

Unless things have changed, the FCA Security Module is supposed to still allow "read only access" for the cheapie scan tools.

Unauthorized devices will be allowed read-only or, passive access, to the private network. Passive means the ability to read codes, and data but does not include the ability to clear DTCs, perform, actuator tests, special functions, ECU configuration, flashing, or module resets. At least on the private side of the network.

When it comes to diag tools, most big brands (autel, snapon, etc) have bypass modules available, if you work on a vehicle that requires it.

Here's a decent article from a few years ago on it https://diag.net/msg/m1fsoznwl3nndqti9pxq9k4nz0

I understand all that.... That's why I mentioned it in the second sentence of my initial reply.... "Your lucky if you can check trouble codes without the correct equipment"

The "bypass module" is the 12+8 cable that I also, already mentioned in my initial reply.

Thanks

 

[djbmw]

I understand all that.... That's why I mentioned it in the second sentence of my initial reply.... "Your lucky if you can check trouble codes without the correct equipment"

The "bypass module" is the 12+8 cable that I also, already mentioned in my initial reply.

Thanks

The OP just wants to see some live data without us confusing the **** out of him

 

[AA/FC]

The OP just wants to see some live data without us confusing the **** out of him

Yep, that's why I replied with the information about the 12+8 cable. He can buy one Autel scan tool (for example) and have full access to both of his vehicles with the addition of a $25 dollar 12+8 cable..... and not have to worry about internet (cloud) connections, scan tool subscriptions, or AutoAuth accounts.

 

[PoorUB]

I understand all that.... That's why I mentioned it in the second sentence of my initial reply.... "Your lucky if you can check trouble codes without the correct equipment"

The "bypass module" is the 12+8 cable that I also, already mentioned in my initial reply.

Thanks

OK, I think i am properly confused!

Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?

 

[djbmw]

Yeah AA/FC contradicted himself.

My post #19 above gives you the info. Most cheap elm327 scanners ($15) will be able to access PIDs for a bulk of your modules. This data then needs software to decode and display it in an easy to understand format. There are many cheap/free software apps for your phone including Torque and Carista ($5)... along with hundreds of others.

Be sure to heavily research each app to see what pids they can and cannot access and decode for your specific vehicle(s).

Now... if you want to tell a module to do something, like run an air pump while you're testing, or to bleed the brakes, or to change idle speed values, etc... thats where a bi-directional diagnostic tool comes into play ($300 to $5,000). As AA/FC mentioned above, depending on your vehicle, you might need additional modules to bypass certain security systems in order to use different functions of the tool.

 

[Wrench97]

OK, I think i am properly confused!

Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?

The government is protecting us by requiring auto manufacturers to install secure gateways so bad actors can't hack into your car through the wireless/satellite connectability and make it do bad things like control the throttle body, control the electric power steering electric parking brakes etc. To get around the secure gateway you need to have a registered scan tool using up to date software.
OEM software bought through the manufactures(AKA deal scan tools) can get through the gateway natively, for after market tools Snap On, Autel, Launch etc you need to go through autoauth inc.

WHAT WE DO​

AutoAuth is a service that gives technicians the ability to use their aftermarket diagnostic tools to perform secured functions on vehicles through the OBD port that would otherwise be locked by the Auto OEM. New vehicles come enabled with the latest advanced security measures to protect vehicle owners from cyber attacks. AutoAuth works with independent Tool Vendors to ensure tools are AutoAuth certified. This allows Independent Operators to continue to service Security Gateway enabled vehicles. AutoAuth provides the registration service and “unlock codes” to Independent Operator’s service tools to unlock vehicle Security Gateway to perform day to day service.

Homepage - AutoAuth

info.autoauth.com

AutoAuth

webapp.autoauth.com

There are ways to bypass the gateway module by hooking the scantool to the network downstream of the gateway if it's your own vehicle you can get to a connection point once and leave the wiring in place for a customers vehicle it's not practical to do plus I don't personally know for sure if you get access to all the modules in the vehicle as some have multiple networks that run into the gateway.
A device like this> https://www.kaodtech.com/product-page/security-module-bypass
I've never used or had to use the bypass method so my knowledge is a bit lacking on them.

 

[djbmw]

The government is protecting us by requiring auto manufacturers to install secure gateways so bad actors can't hack into your car through the wireless/satellite connectability and make it do bad things like control the throttle body, control the electric power steering electric parking brakes etc. To get around the secure gateway you need to have a registered scan tool using up to date software.
OEM software bought through the manufactures(AKA deal scan tools) can get through the gateway natively, for after market tools Snap On, Autel, Launch etc you need to go through autoauth inc.

Homepage - AutoAuth

info.autoauth.com

AutoAuth

webapp.autoauth.com

There are ways to bypass the gateway module by hooking the scantool to the network downstream of the gateway if it's your own vehicle you can get to a connection point once and leave the wiring in place for a customers vehicle it's not practical to do plus I don't personally know for sure if you get access to all the modules in the vehicle as some have multiple networks that run into the gateway.
A device like this> https://www.kaodtech.com/product-page/security-module-bypass
I've never used or had to use the bypass method so my knowledge is a bit lacking on them.

Yes, but to clarify, this is only for bi-directional access. For viewing live data you do NOT need to worry about any of that.

 

[Rusted Nut]

OK, I think i am properly confused!

Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?

I Have an older lower end Autel scanner, that will not recognize or work with my 2018 Jeep (this was verified by Autel), has nothing to do with the secure gateway. Many of the newer tool, such as Autel MX 808, will work with the secure gateway if you use the 12+8 cable, no subscription required.

jscan will show live data on your RAM, as well read/clear codes. I think an Autel AL629 would give you live data on the ‘06, you can pick them up for about $75.

 

[mikey03]

The government is protecting us by requiring auto manufacturers to install secure gateways so bad actors can't hack into your car through the wireless/satellite connectability and make it do bad things like control the throttle body, control the electric power steering electric parking brakes etc. To get around the secure gateway you need to have a registered scan tool using up to date software.
OEM software bought through the manufactures(AKA deal scan tools) can get through the gateway natively, for after market tools Snap On, Autel, Launch etc you need to go through autoauth inc.

couldn’t someone who wanted to hack your car to kill your just pay the $ 1000 for the subscription or do they not want to kill you that bad only if it was cheaper?

 

[tarmy]

Can an individual get the AutoAuth…cause it doesn’t look like it on their website.

 

[AA/FC]

Yeah AA/FC contradicted himself.

Where?

Please quote my contradiction so I can see it.

Thanks.

 

[GTO]

I have the Topdon Artidiag 900 Lite
I'm just a home wrencher.

 

[Wrench97]

couldn’t someone who wanted to hack your car to kill your just pay the $ 1000 for the subscription or do they not want to kill you that bad only if it was cheaper?

Scan tool has to be physically connected the gateway will still prevent remote connections, but I agree as with any software there is probably a hack on the dark net.

 

[frcook]

OK, I think i am properly confused!

Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?

It's easy to get caught up in the tools that are available. Bells, whistles, etc. And if you're like me, easy to nerd out on all the data we can grab. All goo and fun... until you see the price tag.

I have, and have been through, my share of scan tools. For me, the dust settled on TopDon and Innova. But honestly, 90% of those decisions came down to personal preference, not so much tool capability because they can all do the job once you match up what you need and consider the correct within a brand. besides, it's no secret that many of the Android based scan tools out there share a lot of the software, and as I understand it, they all use the same API to access the hardware.

But you asked... "Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?"

Not sure if it was already suggested, but take a look at the OBDlink MX+. It's a solid OBD2 dongle, but more more importantly, the accompanying ODDwiz software is great! The only downside is, it's Windows based. So you'll need a laptop/PC. But that's why this software is so good. It's not limited by Android capabilities, which is what most scan tools run on. Windows allows much greater software and feature functionality. Good thing is, the MX+ has pretty good range, so you're necessarily stuck in the garage. I've used mine with the software on a PC in a second story office half way across our 4000 SF house. No problem with that range. Gathering, watching, recording live data, is a breeze and very customizable. I run it on a 32" monitor because you can get so much data at one time you need that real estate. Just for grins, I once kept adding data PIDs to see how many live data graphs the MX+ could handle. I stopped at 40 simultaneous graphs (got bored). I was surprised the MX+ dongle, which is Bluetooth connected, could handle that mush concurrent data. I've used $2000+ scan tools that struggled with 10 or more graphs, and their DTC's were wired (not wireless)! If you do get he MX+ and use OBDwiz, you'll need the Professional Ad-on to garb more than four graphs at a time. It's like $40.

Beyond the MX+/OBDwiz... I have an Innova's 5610, Innova 7111, TopDon, Phoenix Plus 2, and TopDon's Phoenix Scope (oscilloscope). Also have a smaller Launch model, which is collecting dust. But honestly, with all this $,$$$ hardware, I still find myself at my laptop using the MX+/OBDwiz if I'm just looking at live data and freeze frames.

 

[roc_on_the_rocks]

OK, I think i am properly confused!

Any recommendations for a lower priced scan tool that will show me live data?

Expect to be ~$50 on Black Friday:

TOPDON TopScan OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth, Bi-Directional Scanner Wireless All System Diagnostic Tool for iOS & Android, FCA AutoAuth, 8+ Hot Reset, Repair Guides, Car Code Reader, Performance Test

 

[BrandonV]

Been happy with my two Autel scanners. 808 and now the 900.

Snap on Zeus

So uh... what other "full service" functions does this thing have for $10k+?

Scan tool has to be physically connected the gateway will still prevent remote connections, but I agree as with any software there is probably a hack on the dark net.

I always found the information on MHH Auto fascinating for every new whizbang security feature an automaker introduces seems like someone has a bypass.

 

[PoorUB]

Expect to be ~$50 on Black Friday:

TOPDON TopScan OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth, Bi-Directional Scanner Wireless All System Diagnostic Tool for iOS & Android, FCA AutoAuth, 8+ Hot Reset, Repair Guides, Car Code Reader, Performance Test

Sure, but the anual license fee gets a bit tough!

 

[roc_on_the_rocks]

Sure, but the anual license fee gets a bit tough!

Sorry, I didn't realize this tool is subscription based.

I don't have this tool yet, it's been on my wish list for quite a while, I honestly think this $50/year subscription is a recent chance.

 

[Wrench97]

Sorry, I didn't realize this tool is subscription based.

I don't have this tool yet, it's been on my wish list for quite a while, I honestly think this $50/year subscription is a recent chance.

All security gateway tools have a license fee to register the tool yearly plus the software has to be up to date.