I wanted to state before I even start this review that is will likely be a long extensive review but I will answer many questions some are wondering and states highlights about the tool and hopefully by the end of this you’ll decided if this is the scanner you need.
Let’s begin with this, this scanner isn’t for the average DIY’er that will be doing repairs in the backyard or garage. This scanner is more dedicated to a shop owner or person that does extensive diagnosing. Now I am not saying that this scanner isn’t for DIY’er’s but this is a very POWERFUL scanner tool that is capable of doing many different functions. The intention I purchased for was diagnosing as I wanted something reliable and something that had the ability to access all functions and most importantly control different functions. Now let’s face it, not all of us have $5000-$10,000 lying around for a Snap-on or Mac Tools scanner that cost over $780 to upgrade every year for the upgrades. It’s not reality but the truth and want to say I strongly believe this scanner is far better than a Snap-on or Mac Tool scanner for the price. The price of this scanner doesn’t even come close the other scanners which makes it that much better.
Now let’s talk more about the scanner, first off when this arrived (WOW). It came in a huge box and thought I was only getting the scanner and Bluetooth adapter. Apparently not because it came with a huge case all sorts of OBD1 adapters and charging cables and some other accessories. The OBD1 adapters I find are not really useful all that much just the fact we don’t see them that often because OBD2 came in affect in 1996 so seeing something prior isn’t common but it’s nice to have because sometimes you may come across is and needing that adapter. What is included in the case is the actual scanner which is an 8’’ touch screen, the Bluetooth connector, charging cable, OBD1 adapters, and some other wires and accessories. The scanner is surprisingly shock resistant as appears to be reinforced with beefy rubber grips which helps with oil and grease for handling. The case is blow molded and could handle a unexpected drop plus it has with plenty of room for other accessories or even other devices like multimeter or portable scope not included.
First off, you’ll need to charge the scanner before use. 4-5 Hours and mine was completely charged. Second thing to do is update the scanner, there are two methods 1. Updating over the air though WIFI in the app on the scan tool which needs to be plugged into a vehicle for it to work which could take a while or 2. Plugging in via a cable and updating the scanner on a computer through a program. I recommend #2 as you leave it and walk away for some time and let it do its thing.
More about the scanner and its functions: The main and only reason I wanted this was the Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to control different output sensors. I will talk about the Bluetooth adapter first, the scanner is completely wire free without anything attaching it. The Bluetooth adapter plugs into any OBD2 port and connects to the scanner instantly. On the Bluetooth adapter there is a button which can be pressed for a flashlight for finding the OBD2 port under the dash as it also comes with a wire to charge it. Other than that is a really nice feature to have because you can walk around the entire vehicle, to a toolbox, depending on how far you are probably even the bathroom were data or codes could be read. The scanner; I own other Autel products but using this for the first time was something new. The first thing is it has two option either a manual or auto VIN detect if vehicle is equipped with it. Some other vehicles will not have auto VIN detect but newer vehicles with will detect the VIN. The scanner will cover almost I believe every manufacturer from domestic, import, European, Asian, etc. This scanner functions almost like every other scanner with powertrain codes but this scanner can also scan body, chassis, ABS, airbag, etc codes. Every module that the vehicle is equipped this scanner will be able to scan. The tool is also equipped with features like live data, freeze frame, but the only thing that is different from other scanners is that this can do active tests meaning that when a command is sent it can open or close or do some sort of test of a certain function. Let me give an example, I had a check engine light on my 2007 Avalanche for a P0442 EVAP Leak detected. I personally start with driver seat diagnosis and monitor fuel tank pressure but with this scan tool I can perform and active test by closing the vent valve and allowing vacuum to be monitored inside the fuel tank. I also performed the purge/seal function to close the vent valve which tests if it is working correctly. I also performed a fuel injector cut out to diagnose a misfire. If someone is confused with what I stated above then I am unfortunately not being rude but then I wouldn’t recommend this scan tool. This is ...
