I've been considering buying a more comprehensive scan tool than my $20 generic engine code reader. I want to be able to read more data and do some more advanced tests and procedures, like ABS bleeding and maybe smart key pairing, etc. This one by Thinkdiag would seem to fit the bill, but its pricing structure seems a little opaque:
Thinkdiag
I Also found this one, which costs about twice as much but doesn't appear to have recurring fees: XTOOL
Really, I'm open to any piece of software - apps, PC, etc - that I can interface with my cars and do these more advanced functions. I just don't want to pay $400+ for a scan tool.
Depending on what years of vehicles you work on a Snap-On Modis would fit the bill and can be had between 300 and 600 depending on what year they are good to. You can usually cheat a bit on the years, IE if the 2008 and 2009 models are essentially the same vehicle and your scanner only goes to 2008 - high likelihood it will work on 2009 as well.
They are not bluetooth but I never got the warm fuzzys from bluetooth for this sort of application. My neanderthal brain prefers hard wired. The Modis is nice because it does legacy support back to 1980 for OBD1 and OBD0, along with oscilliscope and multimeter functionality.
If you want to go brand new, I would buy the most expensive Autel your budget will allow from Amazon. If you don't like it or it doesnt support your vehicles, send it back.
General consensus is for non OBD2 stuff and domestic stuff, the Snap On scanners are still top of the heap. For more modern vehicles and foreign vehicles, the Autel and the Launch scanners offer the same functionality at a better price point.
Snap-on is definitely my preference.
If you're patient an Autel 906 does everything you can reasonably want/expect
Good things have been said about HF's newest offering as well.
Kingbolen or a launch x431(?). Not a seamless/intuitive interface but completely workable.
I have a Foxwell 510 Elite that I've been happy with. I've added the manufacturer specific software for Toyota, Honda, and Saab. I've been impressed with the value of the tool (it was $189 with one software package, additional software is about $60 per manufacturer). Reading the manufacturer-specific codes and being able to perform specific functions has been a huge help!
NOHOME
MegaDork
9/14/23 6:01 p.m.
I have a question:
With that stupid,driver distracting TV screen, that is legally mandated in the centre of the dash on every new vehicle, why is a comprehensive, diagnostic display that tells you all about how your vehicle is feeling not federally mandated?
I know the answer, just thought I would ask.
Talk about a niche for AI to take over.
