What is a good ODB2/CAN Scan tool

[RamPhil]

I've used my android phone with torque and no issues. Also, since I have a bluetooth laptop, I've used ScanXL with no issues too.

Just sprung for a Launch M-Diag Lite. Bluetooth w/Android (perhaps apple also). I think I have $71 in it for device plus Chrysler package. Real time data, freeze frame, bled brakes and some low level maintanence and troubleshooting functions such as purge vapors test. Will also do some higher level functions such as reset BMS, TPMS and others for additional $$.

Instructions on use are practically non-existent, but I'm slowly getting a few things figured out.

 

[BadRam14]

How powerful do want this scanner to be? Just a code reader or a full-fledged scan tool with live-data, module activation, CAN support, etc?
I have a CarMD reader that I was given as a Christmas gift which reads generic codes well but nothing more.
I also have an Auto Enginuity PC-based scan tool that is much more powerful and, yes, much more expensive.

How do you like your autoenginuity scan tool. From the looks of it you buy the scan tool for $250 and then the enhanced program for Chrylser or whatever other manufacturer you want for another $229 or so. Is that how you did it?

 

[carzrepairz]

I know this is an old thread but a scanner that I think everyone should look into is this laptop. It works great and works amazing without ever having issues with it. I use it on my cars and Ram and on my friends cars too. I had an Autel and diesel laptops scanner beforehand and they broke within months while this one I had for 4 years with no issues. The only thing I can complain about is that I have to plug it in after around 8 hours of use. Other than that, it's the best scanner you can get. https://dieselscanners.com/products/diesel-diagnostic-laptop-scanner-tuner-truck-repair

 

[dchapma1957]

I can't believe nobody has mentioned OBDLink MX+ bluetooth scanner and AlphaOBD software! Very powerful!!

 

[jawzs2]

I can't believe nobody has mentioned OBDLink MX+ bluetooth scanner and AlphaOBD software! Very powerful!!

Well, this tread as started over 10 years ago, and the most recent post before the last two was in 2017.

Pretty sure AlfaOBD has been mentioned once or twice on here,

There's almost 15,000 posts in this thread alone

AlfaOBD

Please Read!!! Supported years: 2013 to 2018 Make a backup of your original BCM configuration before making any changes. While we have a few BCM configs to compare with, there is nothing like comparing to your own pre-changes. Instructions: Uploading System ID (BCM) Information: Thank you...

www.ramforum.com

 

[dchapma1957]

Well, this tread as started over 10 years ago, and the most recent post before the last two was in 2017.

Pretty sure AlfaOBD has been mentioned once or twice on here,

There's almost 15,000 posts in this thread alone

AlfaOBD

Please Read!!! Supported years: 2013 to 2018 Make a backup of your original BCM configuration before making any changes. While we have a few BCM configs to compare with, there is nothing like comparing to your own pre-changes. Instructions: Uploading System ID (BCM) Information: Thank you...

www.ramforum.com

Duh. Leave it to me to comment before thoroughly reading a topic. Sorry.

 

[jawzs2]

Duh. Leave it to me to comment before thoroughly reading a topic. Sorry.

No worries, you're not the first, and definitely won't be the last

 

[DILLIGAF]

The 3 must haves for a Ram

HP Tuners
Alpha ODB
KINGBOLEN K7 or similar

 

[Hagar1]

I am looking to get a scan tool. Any recommendations?
I would like to also read ABS and SRS codes.
And any Chrysler specific codes.

Thanks,

Dan

I'm using an Ancel FX 4000. It works ok and does most of what I want. Works on my Ram 1500 and on my Grand Caravan.
It was though, a bit of a hassle to get the updates to work properly because the manufacturer like a lot of other is more interested in selling than they are in fixing the problems that the create.
I also have a Launch CRP123 .......... it works but limited to only a few functions.

 

[MegaHertz]

Blue Driver is a good beginner DIY OBDII scanner. Read/clear codes, emissions readiness, freeze frame data for CELs, and keeps history of all your prior scans. It's a bluetooth dongle and has a mobile app that will explain codes and suggest repairs, including links to parts (usually Amazon; I just copy the part number and then go to rockauto). It's less than $100. I keep it my glovebox for emergency/on-the-road diagnosis purposes.

For more indepth diagnosis, I use an Innova 5610 Bi-directional scan tool. In addition to all the above, it has live data and a bunch of tests, commands, and relearn capabilities. I've used it to release the electronic parking brake on my VW when I do brake flushes, and help diagnose a bad/stuck vapor canister valve on my wife's Jeep Liberty. It doesn't do all functions for every vehicle, but it will do a lot for most--at least for DIY garage use. I got it on sale for $250--which is about as much as I want to spend on a scan tool given my level of competency.

 

[Hemi395]

Best bang for the buck full function scantool I've found is the Thinkdiag. It uses your phone as the screen and it talks to a OBD2 dongle similar to the tablet style scantools.

THINKDIAG Car Scanner - Advanced Car Diagnostic Tool

THINKDIAG Car Scanner saves time by activating solenoids and testing components. Perfect for BMW, GM & Benz. A must-have car diagnostic tool for all.

mythinkcar.com

Bi directional controls, logging abilities, can talk to all modules, program keys, etc. The only thing it doesn't do well is graph but for $120 you can't go wrong, I just keep it in the glove box in case I need it. Subscribe to the software you use only or get the whole suite.

 

[Runaround]

I can't believe nobody has mentioned OBDLink MX+ bluetooth scanner and AlphaOBD software! Very powerful!!

Can you explain a little about the AlohaOBD software? What is that? Is it just an app or what?
I’ve been looking recently at the OVD MX+ and I’m trying to learn all I can to make sure I’m buying something I can use without paying for lots of other things.

 

[Chukbacca]

Can you explain a little about the AlohaOBD software? What is that? Is it just an app or what?
I’ve been looking recently at the OVD MX+ and I’m trying to learn all I can to make sure I’m buying something I can use without paying for lots of other things.

AlphaOBD and appcarFCA are both apps that work with the OBD reader. I highly recommend OBDlink MX+ for your reader
I have AppcarFCA-it is PC based only and requires a license for each vehicle, I have not found a shortcoming; most prefer AlphaOBD as one license covers many vehicles
My app and reader have allowed me to program fobs on my truck and grand caravan, previous GC, and my sister’s GC…definitely worth it!

 

[jawzs2]

Can you explain a little about the AlohaOBD software? What is that? Is it just an app or what?
I’ve been looking recently at the OVD MX+ and I’m trying to learn all I can to make sure I’m buying something I can use without paying for lots of other things.

Everything you ever wanted to know about AlfaOBD, and a ton of stuff you probably won't care about. is in this thread, but it is well worth it, still the same link as posted above.

AlfaOBD

Please Read!!! Supported years: 2013 to 2018 Make a backup of your original BCM configuration before making any changes. While we have a few BCM configs to compare with, there is nothing like comparing to your own pre-changes. Instructions: Uploading System ID (BCM) Information: Thank you...

www.ramforum.com

 

[MegaHertz]

Blue Driver is a good beginner DIY OBDII scanner. Read/clear codes, emissions readiness, freeze frame data for CELs, and keeps history of all your prior scans. It's a bluetooth dongle and has a mobile app that will explain codes and suggest repairs, including links to parts (usually Amazon; I just copy the part number and then go to rockauto). It's less than $100. I keep it my glovebox for emergency/on-the-road diagnosis purposes.

For more indepth diagnosis, I use an Innova 5610 Bi-directional scan tool. In addition to all the above, it has live data and a bunch of tests, commands, and relearn capabilities. I've used it to release the electronic parking brake on my VW when I do brake flushes, and help diagnose a bad/stuck vapor canister valve on my wife's Jeep Liberty. It doesn't do all functions for every vehicle, but it will do a lot for most--at least for DIY garage use. I got it on sale for $250--which is about as much as I want to spend on a scan tool given my level of competency.

I forgot to mention that neither of the OBDII scanners I referenced require subscriptions, which is a big plus. Still receive updates though. More expensive scan tools will usually require annual subscriptions after a 1-3 year trial period.

 

[Treburkulosis]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0744B55QV?tag=bg1-134958-20

 

[Runaround]

Everything you ever wanted to know about AlfaOBD, and a ton of stuff you probably won't care about. is in this thread, but it is well worth it, still the same link as posted above.

AlfaOBD

Please Read!!! Supported years: 2013 to 2018 Make a backup of your original BCM configuration before making any changes. While we have a few BCM configs to compare with, there is nothing like comparing to your own pre-changes. Instructions: Uploading System ID (BCM) Information: Thank you...

www.ramforum.com

Thanks for the link. I will look into it.
I have read that the MX+ will work with the iOS operating system but not the Alpha OBD, which is only available on Android and Windows.

 

[04fxdwgi]

Thanks for the link. I will look into it.
I have read that the MX+ will work with the iOS operating system but not the Alpha OBD, which is only available on Android and Windows.

AlfaOBD is a Windows only program, that is correct

The MX+ works with iOS, Android and Windows. The MX doesn't do iOS.
I use my MX+ with a Win 10 laptop with AlfaOBD, and Android table and an Android phone with other software apps like Torque Pro.

 

[Jeepwalker]

My brother recently bought a TopDon scan tool ...the $360 variety ...from Temu. It has the 5" or 6"-ish LCD, works on just about every vehicle. I haven't gone through it a whole lot, but it seems to do just about everything my S-O scanner does. His model does NOT have much for bi-directional controls (they have a step-up model that does). But it can program fobs, brake bleeds, reset things. Decent graphing. Does a lot. Its a great DIY scan tool and esp for the $$.

If it was me I would bone up for the $500-close to 600-ish Topdon version with bi-directional control just because. Even though, I have to say, I hardly ever use bi-directional on my own vehicles. But when you need it, it's real nice. Most general DIY guys don't need that though. Yeah, like I say, his does just about as much as my 8 y-o snappy does, for a fraction of the price. And comes with a few yrs of free updates (Snap-on is like a grand for a stand-alone update ..less if you do it every yr).

Obviously Snap on has some capabilities that no other scanners really have (like database access, and the ability to 'talk' to cars all the way back to 1981!). But sometimes S-O scanner frustratingly lack the ability to a few things on certain vehicles which much cheaper scanner can, and that can be frustrating. But these days, with the internet as a powerful search tool, most DIY owners who just want to maintain their cars and need more than the real cheap scan tools, can get by with something like that. And harness the power of the internet on your computer/phone to supplement the scan tool. It's not going to have the comprehensive features of AlfaOBD...but if you don't need those ...and have multiple makes of vehicles you work on, that's a good solution. If I was looking to buy a general all-around new scan tool for home DIY, and wanted a hand-held tool, I'd get one of those TopDon scanners, whatever flavor suits your needs. For me, personally I'd schootch a bit toward the higher end.

MX+ is also a neat tool. Has the advantage of being very affordable, pocket size, and use the phone in your pocket! If you don't mind the phone/tablet/computer thing, and don't want to spend much...then the MX Plus is probably a great way to go.

Nobody wants to spend much on a scanner till they get one that doesn't meet their needs....then suddenly a few hundred bucks more makes more sense than it did before. LOL