- Joined
- May 28, 2014
- Messages
- 2,264
Looking to purchase a engine code scanner and was curious how many people are using the bi- directional type code scanner.
Bi-directional engine code scanner
- Thread starter RazorsEdge
- Start date
If I ever got one, it would probably be the Thinktool Pros since that's the one PHAD uses.
I use one. I have the Thintool Pros that Soft Cars mentioned above. I bought it based on watching PHAD using and recommending his. I've had it for almost two years and it has been great.
Have the Autel 906BT for over 3 years. No complaints.
For a lower entry point consider the D7 or D8 from Xtools.
The Think Tool is a great scnner choice if you can afford the price.
The Think Tool is a great scnner choice if you can afford the price.
I use this with a laptop running Forscan. There is software for other makes as well that is available.
I have an Autel DS808 from 2018. Happy with the tool, and it’s paid for itself several times over with diagnostics and key programming. My 2 complaints - no Bluetooth capability (so I can’t use a wireless dongle) and the SW Subscription is $350 a year to reactivate/update to the latest vehicles. That seems like too much for this tool, but it was their cheapest offering with bidirectional capability when I purchased.
The newer models seem to have all the same capability and Bluetooth for a few hundred less than I originally paid though. For software, I figure by the time I’m working on something new enough to need an update beyond MY2021, it’ll be time to replace the tool entirely.
The newer models seem to have all the same capability and Bluetooth for a few hundred less than I originally paid though. For software, I figure by the time I’m working on something new enough to need an update beyond MY2021, it’ll be time to replace the tool entirely.
I use Forscan Lite on my Android phone w/ a OBDLink Bluetooth adapter. Granted it only works for Ford/Mazda vehicles, but it works really well.
Check out the Daigun V by Launch.
D7 here and am happy with it, got it when it was on sale, C$500 to my door.
What is the best brand to get where you don't spend hours to join a club, that needs all your personal information?
I heard some of them cripple the Bi directional if you don't let them have a wifi connection every month or so, I'm guessing so they can report your VIN's to the manufacture that is most always in China?
Also would rather a wired OBD connection for speed and less RF buzzing in my head.
So who offers all that?
I just wish there was an outfit to go to that I could purchase it, and have them set it up for plug and play, no registrations no down loads and all that crap.
I heard some of them cripple the Bi directional if you don't let them have a wifi connection every month or so, I'm guessing so they can report your VIN's to the manufacture that is most always in China?
Also would rather a wired OBD connection for speed and less RF buzzing in my head.
So who offers all that?
I just wish there was an outfit to go to that I could purchase it, and have them set it up for plug and play, no registrations no down loads and all that crap.
Probably one I’d try if I repurchased today.
They’re composed of 5 things:
1) A tablet computer based on an ARM chip
2). An OS (Android something)
3) an obd2 dongle
4) The diag software
5). An entitlement certificate system. As long as you’re entitled you can download app updates.
To me, the annual entitlement cost is high, about 1/3 the cost of a new scanner. But it’s secure. You won’t find a way around it.
If you have the eyes for it, it seems to me an average smartphone could take the place of items 1 and 2.
Maybe the xtool A30M, which promises lifetime updates.
They’re composed of 5 things:
1) A tablet computer based on an ARM chip
2). An OS (Android something)
3) an obd2 dongle
4) The diag software
5). An entitlement certificate system. As long as you’re entitled you can download app updates.
To me, the annual entitlement cost is high, about 1/3 the cost of a new scanner. But it’s secure. You won’t find a way around it.
If you have the eyes for it, it seems to me an average smartphone could take the place of items 1 and 2.
Maybe the xtool A30M, which promises lifetime updates.
- Joined
- May 28, 2014
- Messages
- 2,264
I ended up going with Topdon.
Xtool now has D7S, it's an improvement to D7 for sure. Still gonna rock my D7 for foreseen future, they added some nice features on D7 lately.
The Innova 5610 does bi-directional
I hate these scanners. Pricing is too high, they look so outdated, they burn through batteries, and navigating the menus is a massive pain. Sadly we sell them at work. I miss the Bosch ones we used to sell
I’ve got an older model launch x431 diagun IV as a diy guy. I think it works very well on the Honda and fords i own. I very much appreciate the bidirectional capability. It can save a lot of time. If anything, I’d wish I got something with a larger screen.
