Opinions on Scan Tool Option

9

98NWCherokee

NAXJA Forum User
Location
Portland, OR
I've always received excellant advice from this forum so before making a large purchase decision I wanted to run it past the experts here.

I'm halfway through completing my ASE certification and would like to add a scan tool to my toolbox. I don't have the money for a bi-directional unit. This is the best I've found for the money.....about $300.

What do you all think?

http://www.autel.us/Products/md802.htm
 
I just bought a cheap little 50$ one from amazon. Works perfect. Lets me reset codes.
 
What ^^ said. If you are like most of us, you have a laptop, tab or smartphone. I recommend the ELM237 Bluetooth adapter aparatus. About 15-20$ on amazon right meow. Well worth the money.
 
THere is a difference between a scan tool and a code reader. Scan tools allow you to view PID's (data) which help you in diagnosing while code readers spit out a number and quick definition. As a tech you will want an actual scan tool. The best one out there besides the manufacturer specific tools is the auto enginuity (no typo) laptop based but it is a little out of your specified price range. I would grab the Mac ET99. I have one in my roll cart and one in my tool box for just quick stuff. It lets you view a few PIDs just basic stuff but remember the government only requires the manufacturers to give up emission related codes to the public so anything under a manufacturer specific doesn't let you view everything. You mentioned ASE certification...which one?
 
The Torque app(for android ) lets you do more than just read/erase codes. It shows data and can log it as well.
It can also be used with laptops that have BT. So depending on the software used will depend on what you get.
 
x2 on auto enginuity...i have that on my laptop you can graph fuel trims, sensor wave forms. you can do a shit ton with it..i can't say the price for the software itself since i was lucky enough to get it for free through school, but the usb/16pin dlc connector is a bit pricey around $400 depending on where you get it. don't buy knock off usb/dlc connectors the program does not like it to much and will limit you reading some things.

edit: don't quote me on that price that is for the VCDS laptop based scan tool connector for audi and vw...however if you can get it get the program its sweet
 
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