Repair of modern vehicles is a rather troublesome business, which will certainly require serious financial injections. Therefore, many motorists prefer various small jobs like replacing relays, sensors, light bulbs, spark plugs and so on. In order to timely identify the problem, special devices were developed, called autoscanners. This design is a unit with a special connector, through which it is connected to the on-board computer of the vehicle. Special software is installed in the scanner, with the help of which it is possible to decrypt error codes and diagnose a malfunction.
In specialized stores a huge selection of such products is presented, ranging from the simplest ones, costing several hundred rubles to professional universal models suitable for most brands of cars. Being confused with such a variety is quite easy. To help you make your choice, we decided to write a review of the best autoscanners of 2019. But just before you start a direct analysis of the characteristics of specific models, let's first look at what autoscanners are and how they can differ from each other.
Summary of the rating:
What do you pay attention to when choosing an autoscanner?
As professionals in the field of vehicle repair say, all such products can be divided into two large groups - hardware scanners and adapter scanners. The first type is a completely self-contained product that connects to the on-board computer and reads all the data on its own. Most modern models are equipped with a connector for connecting to a personal computer. Such products are preferred by professionals. However, it should be borne in mind that from time to time the software of this equipment will have to be updated, and this is done exclusively at authorized service centers.
Adapters will require a fairly modern smartphone or laptop to work properly. Such designs are very popular among ordinary motorists, since using them is quite simple. In terms of functionality, there is also a certain gradation - dealer, vintage and multi-brand. The first are equipped with special software that is suitable only for one make and model of the machine, they are very expensive. Vintage autoscanners are also professional equipment, they are cheaper and have less functionality. The programs incorporated in such products are designed only for certain brands of machines. The most common today are multi-brand scanners that are suitable for most cars.
When choosing this equipment, remember that its cost is directly proportional to the quality of the software. To summarize some of the interim results. So, when buying an auto scanner, you should definitely pay attention to the program embedded in it. The wider the software, the wider the range of tasks the device can perform.It is advisable to give preference to a universal product, since it is quite possible that you want to change your car. If you are buying a scanner for private use, it is best to choose the model with the most simple controls. If the design will be connected to a smartphone or laptop using a wire or through a wireless interface, this will be an additional plus.
When developing this rating of the best autoscanners, we took into account all the above points, however, we also paid attention to user and professional reviews. An important selection criterion was the price-quality ratio of the structure, the most expensive equipment was not included in our rating. Now is the time to turn to the analysis of specific models.
Inexpensive price category
4. Scan Tool Pro
This is a fairly simple and reliable autoscanner, which is excellent for amateur diagnostics of vehicles of any type. If necessary, this design can be connected to a laptop or smartphone running on iOS, Android and Windows platforms. Only licensed software is provided in the product, thanks to which the owner of the car will be able to analyze the state of his vehicle within a few minutes and correct errors in the computer. The product is very convenient to use, does not need a large amount of free space, can be connected to any car if it has an appropriate connector. The scanner works on the basis of a high-quality and high-speed processor ELM327, which will communicate with the car computer via the OBD2 protocol. He carefully examines the hardware status of all sensors installed in the car. When a malfunction is detected, it issues it in the form of a code, which is quite simple to decrypt. In total, over 3,000 faults can be diagnosed with this model.
The software is Russified, so you can understand the operation of the device in a few minutes. Due to this scanner, you can reset many errors on-board computer. Data is transferred to a laptop or smartphone using the OBDII standard via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, there is the possibility of cable connection. To work with this device, there are several applications that you can download for free absolutely on the appropriate services.
Benefits:
- Compact and versatile equipment;
- Ability to connect to third devices;
- Perfectly combined with cars manufactured after 1996;
- Test results can be saved and even printed;
- The software is able to detect most problems.
Disadvantages:
- It’s easy to run into a fake device.
3. Orion ELM 327 Wi-Fi Micro
Another design developed on the basis of the ELM327 microcontroller, the diagnostic procedure is carried out using a portable electronic device - the scanner can be connected to a laptop, tablet or smartphone. With this equipment, you can calculate and clear most error codes. The connection is made either using wireless modules, or through the USB cable that comes with the product. The scanner is used not only for repair, but also for the prevention and timely detection of errors. The found error is reset within just a few seconds. After its removal, the Check Engine lamp will go out. Overall dimensions of the product are small, all work is done in real time.
The software is unable to detect all errors, however, it will be able to detect most of the most common failures. You can connect the scanner to the car computer even while driving. It will display data regarding speed at a point in time, the distance that the car managed to drive, the number of engine revolutions, average fuel consumption and other useful data. The device is inexpensive, it is very convenient to use it.
Benefits:
- Identified errors are reset almost instantly;
- All information received from this scanner is fairly accurate;
- Insignificant overall dimensions;
- It is possible to connect via wireless channels;
- Acceptable price.
Disadvantages:
- On a smartphone or tablet, using this device will turn off mobile Internet.
2. Launch CReader V +
The main distinguishing feature of this equipment is the presence of a sufficiently bright LCD screen; this scanner does not need to be connected to a mobile device or laptop. Along with the traditional OBDII standard, another CAN data bus protocol was also integrated into the device, which makes the model’s functionality wider. The on-board computer of the car is scanned reliably and quickly, but no frills are provided. All key indicators are displayed either in the form of textual information, or as visual and understandable graphs. They usually represent the dependence of one quantity on another, for example, you can track how much fuel is consumed at certain engine speeds of the vehicle.
As follows from user reviews, this device is completely autonomous, diagnoses all the main points in a fairly high quality, and the cost of the product is quite acceptable. The screen is not too big, but everything is pretty clear on it. The case of the device is plastic, there are six mechanical buttons that are pressed with a distinctive click. The plastic case has a matte finish, fingerprints and various kinds of contamination will not be visible on it.
Benefits:
- Absolute autonomy of the product;
- Information is displayed in real time;
- Long period of operation;
- Ease of management;
- Data is displayed both in text and in graphical form.
Disadvantages:
- Many users note that the device’s screen could be made larger.
1. Delphi DS150E
Regardless of the software used, this equipment can operate in Generic OBD or eOBD mode. The device is characterized by excellent versatility - it is compatible with any make and model of machine, scans all available units and provides information on existing errors in the on-board computer or incorrect operation of the sensors. The device is characterized by decent overall dimensions - this is the largest model among those already considered. A software disc and a USB cable are supplied with the device. The design is equipped with a special slot for installing a microSD memory card, where data will be recorded while the vehicle is in motion. The connector has a built-in long-lasting battery, from which a bright LED that glows with cool white light will be powered, which greatly facilitates the search for a diagnostic connector. In general, according to users, such equipment is the best among budget models. All checks are performed in real time, if necessary, you can test all the systems in the car.
Monitoring the condition of the car is carried out in strict accordance with European quality protocols. The device reads, decrypts and optionally deletes errors. The scanner will inform the user whether the detected error is a real malfunction or whether it has arisen due to a malfunction in the on-board computer of the car; there is a separate function to view the real mileage of the vehicle, so no resetting the counters will help to hide the number of kilometers that the car actually traveled. It is worth noting that after some repair work or preventive maintenance of the car, a zero setting failure occurs. This device allows you to return them to their original state.
Benefits:
- Very wide functionality;
- It can be used on about a hundred brands of machines, regardless of model;
- Suitable for use at service stations.
Disadvantages:
- Except for large overall dimensions not found.
Average price category
3. AUTEL AUTOLINK AL529, OBD II
A sufficiently powerful diagnostic tool with which you can very quickly check in what condition the main car systems are. In the manufacture of this product, the latest unique One-Click I / M Readiness Key technology was laid in it, which turns this task into a simple and very convenient one. All information regarding the machine is displayed on a decent sized liquid crystal display. The design provides a speaker that will inform you that the device is ready for use. The DTC function is provided, with its help it becomes possible to work not only with general, but also with most factory protocols. This product is multi-brand. It allows you to read OBD II codes. The manufacturer code is determined by the AutoVIN system. Extended Powertrain codes are read in cars of brands Ford, GM, Chrysler. Using this equipment, you can work with cars manufactured in the USA, Europe and Asia, since 1996.
All data streams are read in real time, the display delay is minimal. If necessary, the information will be displayed in graphical format. The product will prompt in terms of troubleshooting methods, which will be very useful for a novice car repairman. The device is multilingual, but support for the Russian language is not provided here. All databases and other important points are displayed in real time. All information received can be displayed on a computer screen and printed if necessary.
Benefits:
- High speed;
- Long service life;
- Self update;
- There is a convenient application for the computer;
- Support for a huge number of protocols.
Disadvantages:
- The interface does not support Russian.
2. Delphi TCS CDP + USB + Bluetooth
Another multi-brand product, characterized by excellent value for money in its price category. The software is downloaded to the tablet - the user just needs to turn on the product and get to work. The functionality of the equipment is designed for both passenger and freight vehicles - it supports 12 and 24 V. The product software has a wide database that allows for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics. The product warranty is 6 months. When new versions of software come out, the user can download them absolutely for free, there is the possibility of remote configuration of this device. At the same time, the software is fully Russified; during the diagnostics of the state of the machine, the user is prompted. The interface is intuitive, even a novice master can understand the operation of the product. You can connect the scanner to a computer via the USB port or via Bluetooth. The product can work with absolutely all protocols.
Diagnostics is carried out in real time, which was made possible thanks to the latest Delphi ISI technology. All electronic systems of the machine are checked by the CDP ISS system. The device is suitable for working with cars, starting in 1988, in total it is used for 47 brands. All error codes are saved. If necessary, data on the condition of the car can be copied to a personal computer and printed.
Benefits:
- Good value for money;
- Reliable and durable model;
- Russian language support;
- Easy to use interface.
Disadvantages:
- Insignificant warranty period.
1.VAS 6154 Wi-Fi ODIS 4.3.3
This is the latest generation of products, the equipment is equipped with a high-quality and powerful Wi-Fi module, so the connection of the product with a smartphone or other digital device is fast and stable.Information received about the state of the vehicle is processed in a matter of milliseconds, so we can say that it is displayed in real time. The scanner is capable of supporting ODIS and ODIS Engenering software, can work with the latest DoIP protocols and many others. The software is Russified, able to function with the latest versions of the Windows operating system.
Owners of such a device respond positively to the quality of its work. The model analyzes the condition of all sensors and various composite devices located in the vehicle - air conditioning, lighting, heating systems and so on. If necessary, with the help of this scanner it is possible to easily reset service intervals, delete error codes, reprogram various units, and adapt new devices. The warranty period is quite long - as much as 5 years.
Benefits:
- Good workmanship and assembly;
- Instantly transfers to the user all received data;
- Compatible with most operating systems available today;
- Russified software.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
The best professional models
3. Autocom CDP Pro
An inexpensive professional-grade device that belongs to the latest generation of automotive scanners. He is able to work with any software on cars or trucks. He can transfer information to a personal computer or tablet, and the power of the Bluetooth module is quite significant - the radius of the coverage zone is 40 meters. Like all the models included in this review, it supports working with OBDII protocols. In addition to standard diagnostics, the user receives a large amount of additional information about how best to perform this or that operation. Everything is completely Russified, and quite high quality. The reliability of the device is evidenced by the lifetime warranty that the manufacturer gives it. Identification of the car and the systems that it supports is pretty fast. Software updates occur regularly and absolutely free during the first year of use, then you will have to pay for support.
The corresponding application is installed on a personal computer quickly enough. There is a built-in instruction (also in Russian), which tells in detail about all the special functions. You can save the received data in both graphical and text mode. The product is perfect for both beginners and experienced craftsmen. It performs the same functions as more expensive products.
Benefits:
- Qualitative Russification;
- Lifetime warranty;
- It works with a wide range of car brands;
- Long service life;
- Powerful Bluetooth module.
Disadvantages:
- After the first year of operation of the product, the delivery of updates will have to be paid extra.
2. ScanTronic R-Box
Special hardware-software device of multi-brand type. It was originally developed by the manufacturer for working with cars of American, Asian, European and domestic production. The software is installed on a laptop or an ordinary computer, connected to them either through a Bluetooth module or via a microSD cable. According to the hardware device, the device is provided with a reliable and stable connection to the car, which is made using a special R-Box multiplexer. It is updated right during operation, so you won’t be distracted by this process. The only thing required is connecting the device to a computer equipped with an Internet connection. As a full-fledged scanner that has the characteristics of dealer products, this equipment cannot be considered, but it is quite close to them in its operational qualities. The model provides full access to the vehicle diagnostic databases. Managing the device is quite simple.
The warranty period is 5 years, which already indicates the high reliability of the model. In their reviews, users talk about a fairly convenient design interface, it is often mentioned that the product reads all indicators with a fairly high speed. The data are accurate - many owners specifically compared them with indicators of more expensive products.
Benefits:
- Free update;
- High quality workmanship;
- Long warranty;
- Reliability and accuracy of equipment;
- Russian language interface.
Disadvantages:
- Pretty expensive.
1. BOSCH KTS 340
It has the broadest functionality and compact overall dimensions. The form factor is a variant of a mobile tablet computer equipped with a touch screen with a decent diagonal, which allows you to receive all the necessary data directly near the car, rather than carrying a laptop to it and not running to a stationary PC. Diagnostic results are displayed both graphically and digitally. Of course, you can determine the diagnostic error codes and faults, delete them if necessary. Using this device, it is possible to test almost all actuators, to diagnose such systems as ABS, EPS. When it comes to significant breakdowns, from the device you can get all the necessary instructions related to the implementation of repair work. At the same time, it is convenient to receive this data directly near the vehicle and see firsthand which particular elements need to be replaced.
The most thorough in this device, and it is quite natural, the diagnostic methods of diesel systems produced by Bosch have been worked out, and they are found quite often - not only on foreign cars, but also in domestic cars of KAMAZ, Gas, ZIL and some others.
Benefits:
- Very wide functionality with which you can even remove the immobilizer lock, adjust the headlights;
- The diagonal of the touch screen is 8.5 inches;
- The scanner can determine the brand of the car and the date of its release by its own means;
- Traditionally high German workmanship
- Details decrypts all error codes.
Disadvantages:
- In addition to the high cost was not found.
Finally, a useful video
Well, the review of the best car scanners of the year is coming to an end. We tried to collect the greatest amount of information on each model, we hope that it will be enough for you so that you can choose the optimal device. If you have some questions, you can ask them in the comments to our article, we will quickly dispel all your doubts. If you have experience using such equipment - share with us and our readers.
(2 ratings, average: 5,00 out of 5)
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