For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, understanding your vehicle’s health is crucial. When that dreaded check engine light illuminates, the first step towards resolution is understanding the fault codes. Enter the Autel AutoLink AL319 OBDII & CAN Scan Tool, a budget-friendly device designed to empower you with basic diagnostic capabilities right in your hands. After spending some time putting this tool to the test, here’s a comprehensive review to help you decide if the AL319 is the right scan tool for your needs.
Key Features and Benefits of the Autel AL319
The Autel AL319 immediately impresses with its simplicity and efficiency. Let’s delve into the features that make this scan tool a worthwhile addition to your automotive toolkit:
Fast Boot-Up and User-Friendly Interface
Time is valuable, especially when you’re troubleshooting a vehicle issue. The AL319 scores high in this aspect with its remarkably quick boot-up time. Unlike some scanners that leave you waiting, the AL319 is ready to go almost instantly, allowing you to quickly connect to your vehicle and start the diagnostic process. While the interface is basic, it prioritizes function, getting you to the essential information without unnecessary delays.
Bright Color Display
In various lighting conditions, a clear display is essential. The Autel AL319 features a bright color screen that enhances visibility, whether you’re working in a dimly lit garage or under direct sunlight. This ensures that you can easily read fault codes and live data without straining your eyes.
Emission Readiness Test with One-Click I/M Button
Emissions testing can be a source of anxiety for car owners. The AL319 simplifies this with its dedicated I/M readiness button. With a single press, you can quickly determine your vehicle’s emission readiness status. A green light indicates all monitors are ready, a yellow light signals that some monitors are not yet ready (often requiring more driving), and a red light warns of potential emission-related issues that need attention. This feature can save you time and potential headaches before heading for an official emissions test.
Broad OBDII & CAN Compatibility
The Autel AL319 is designed to work with all OBDII compliant vehicles, which includes most cars and light trucks sold in the USA from 1996 onwards. It also supports CAN (Controller Area Network) protocols, ensuring compatibility with modern vehicle systems. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile tool for diagnosing a wide range of vehicles.
Reads Generic and Manufacturer-Specific Codes
While focusing on basic engine diagnostics, the AL319 goes a step further by detecting not only generic OBDII codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0) but also some manufacturer-specific codes (P1, P3, and U1). When a manufacturer-specific code is detected, the tool prompts you to identify the vehicle’s make and model, offering more detailed diagnostic information than basic scanners might provide. It’s important to note that this tool is primarily for engine codes and does not access systems like Transmission, ABS, or Airbag modules, which is typical for scanners in this price range.
Live Data Streaming for Real-Time Monitoring
Beyond reading fault codes, the AL319 offers a valuable live data feature. This allows you to monitor real-time engine parameters such as coolant temperature, O2 sensor readings, RPM, and more. This live data stream is presented with a surprisingly fast refresh rate, making it genuinely useful for diagnosing intermittent issues or monitoring sensor performance while the engine is running. This is a significant advantage over some basic scanners where live data can be clunky and slow to update.
Responsive and Fast Navigation
Navigating through the AL319’s menus is a smooth and responsive experience. The device reacts quickly to button presses, making it easy to scroll through options and access the information you need without frustrating lag. This responsiveness contributes to a more efficient and user-friendly diagnostic process.
Wide Vehicle Coverage
The reviewer tested the AL319 on various car makes and models, including Honda, Toyota, Subaru, VW, and Nissan, without encountering any issues in reading codes. This suggests a reliable performance across a broad spectrum of vehicles, reinforcing its value as a general-purpose OBDII scan tool.
Minor Drawbacks to Consider
While the Autel AL319 offers significant value for its price, there are a couple of minor drawbacks to keep in mind:
User Interface Navigation Learning Curve
The AL319 utilizes a simplified three-button interface. While this contributes to its compact design, the navigation isn’t immediately intuitive. Specifically, the “ENTER/Exit” button doesn’t function as a typical “Exit” button for menu navigation. Instead, users need to scroll through menu options to find a “Return” or “Back” function. This is a minor learning curve, and once you understand the navigation logic, it becomes less of an issue. However, users accustomed to dedicated “Exit” buttons might find this initial experience slightly confusing.
Cable Length Could Be Limiting in Some Situations
The attached cable, approximately 2 feet long, is non-detachable and might be shorter than desired in certain scenarios. For instance, if you’re using a lift and want to keep the scanner visible while working under the car, or if you need to monitor live data while driving and want a passenger to observe the screen, the cable length could be restrictive. For standard code reading in a parked car, however, the cable length is generally sufficient.
Overall Impression
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Autel AutoLink AL319 OBDII & CAN Scan Tool emerges as an excellent budget-friendly option for basic car diagnostics. Its strengths, including fast boot-up, bright display, emission readiness test, broad compatibility, and useful live data feature, significantly outweigh its limitations. It’s a highly recommended portable code reader to keep in your car for quick diagnostics and peace of mind.
In Conclusion: If you’re seeking an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use OBDII scan tool to read and clear engine codes, check emission readiness, and monitor live data, the Autel AL319 is a strong contender. It provides essential diagnostic capabilities for DIYers and car owners looking to understand their vehicle’s basic health without breaking the bank.
