ODB / CAN of worms

[Drop George]

Launch X431V OBD/CAN scanner issue: As a diagnostic tool, the user performs un-natural acts to achieve connectivity via AUTO-AUTH/
FCA.
NOW the Launch user is informed annual "software" packages are needed to be purchased as well. My research shows "Launch" (china) and "Launch USA"are two separate companies. Do I have an expensive boat anchor? (without both, the tool is merely a code reader).
I'm versed in CAN/OBD and electronics in general, BUT input and direction from you guys would be great.. Any other scanners you'd suggest? I'm not a shop owner, but love working under the hood.... Thanks, George 2021 2500 Ram 6.4L

 

[Burla]

That's news to me, my info is that is one of the better scanners, that model being on the cheapest ends of the good scanners. So you own this now and are having issues, I dont understand the exact issue.\\

Free updates as well, so updated too?

 

[Burla]

I don't know, is Pro Ellite chinesium as well? Same Launch platform. My info this is the way to avoid paying for shopware coders that are a lot more money. I don't have the info but this was on my shortlist if purchases I had planned, lol. So let me know what you find, I would appreciate it.

 

[Drop George]

I'm the original poster. Yesterday I ACTUALLY spoke to an AutoAuth rep. With the tool I mentioned (sure I'm ashamed I bought it) LAUNCH give you 2 years of updates. However, the devices gives you an AuthAuth error that IT generates. The rep checked and I have a valid subscritpion. Launch forces you to their "MALL" to purchase ANNUAL updates. They tie the function usage to how much you subscribe to (up to $220/year). If you don't buy anything at the "MALL" THE FCA GATEWAY REMAINS CLOSED via an ERROR message. Wow, now have only a code-reader you have even reset a code... When LAUNCH "re-directs" to the MALL, it describes this as "giving the user improves security and better customer satifaction" . FINALLY, the rep verified that LAUNCH CHINA was on Amazon. I confessed to the rep that I was an idiot (they laughed and talked me down from the ledge).. FYI: Be careful, don't know about other Launch products OR "Launch USA" George
Forgot: I opened "Launch Chinese support ticket describing the FCA gateway problem. ANSWER: "Go to Auto Auth, Separate company. Not our issue"

 

[jws123]

I currently use the ICON t8 scanner it gets the job done I got it when matco wanted $900 to update my older scanner LOL.