Introduction to AutoEnginuity Scan Tools for the UK Market
For car enthusiasts and professional mechanics in the UK, having the right diagnostic tools is essential. The AutoEnginuity scan tool is a powerful piece of equipment that offers comprehensive vehicle diagnostics, going far beyond basic OBDII readers. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling weekend projects or a garage owner running a busy workshop, understanding your diagnostic tools is key. This guide answers frequently asked questions specifically for the UK market, ensuring you get the most out of your AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK. We’ll cover everything from system compatibility to updates and troubleshooting, providing you with the knowledge to confidently diagnose and maintain vehicles right here in the UK.
Understanding AutoEnginuity Scan Tool Compatibility
Windows Compatibility for UK Users: Will It Work with My System?
Many users in the UK operate Windows-based laptops, and compatibility is a common concern. If you’re running Windows 8.1 or Windows 10, you might be wondering if the AutoEnginuity ScanTool will function correctly. It’s important to note that Windows 8.1 introduced changes that affected certain USB devices. Specifically, AutoEnginuity utilizes a particular chip in its security devices, which can be impacted by these changes.
However, the good news is that AutoEnginuity has addressed this issue. Systems in the UK, whether they use an external security dongle or the VCI connector, will work in Enhanced mode. To ensure proper functionality, you need to install the latest version of the ScanTool software. Please note that a current subscription is required to download and install the latest version, particularly if you have enhancements in your system.
Users experiencing a “Failed to create a new session” message upon launching the ScanTool program, especially on Windows 8.1 or later, are likely encountering this specific issue. AutoEnginuity engineers have implemented a fix in version 12.1, released on March 18, 2014. Older versions of the ScanTool are not compatible with Enhanced Mode under Windows 8.1 and newer operating systems. Therefore, updating to the latest software is crucial for seamless operation in the UK.
Laptop Recommendations for AutoEnginuity in the UK
Choosing the right laptop is crucial for optimal performance with your AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK. While AutoEnginuity doesn’t enforce strict specifications, they do offer recommendations based on reliability and compatibility.
Historically, AutoEnginuity has found success with MSI and Toshiba laptops, citing fewer issues and consistent high rankings in laptop comparisons. Brands like IBM are also mentioned for their reliability. When considering laptops available in the UK, these brands, or equivalents known for robust performance, are worth exploring.
Conversely, AutoEnginuity advises against older Dell laptops, particularly certain series known to have USB power issues. Dell Latitude C6xxx/D6xxx series and Inspiron 1500/1510/1501 series are specifically mentioned as potentially problematic due to insufficient power delivery to USB ports. This is a critical consideration as the AutoEnginuity scan tool relies on a stable USB connection.
For feature requirements, any laptop capable of running Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10 will generally be compatible with AutoEnginuity products. This provides a wide range of options available to UK users. The key is to ensure the laptop has reliable USB ports and sufficient processing power to run the diagnostic software smoothly. When purchasing a laptop in the UK for use with your AutoEnginuity scan tool, prioritize brands and models known for their dependability and avoid older Dell models if possible.
Keeping Your AutoEnginuity Scan Tool Updated
Free Generic OBDII Updates for UK Customers
One of the significant advantages of the AutoEnginuity scan tool for users in the UK is its update policy, particularly for generic OBDII functionality. You will not need to purchase annual updates to keep the basic ScanTool current. The OBDII connector is built on an electrical interface standard that has remained consistent for years. This means the fundamental communication protocols are stable, ensuring long-term usability of your investment.
While the core OBDII interface is stable, the automotive industry is constantly evolving, with new interfaces like CAN becoming prevalent. AutoEnginuity acknowledges these changes and has designed the unit to be field updatable. The software is regularly updated every quarter to incorporate any new features implemented by vehicle manufacturers.
Crucially for UK customers, generic updates are provided free of charge. This ensures that your AutoEnginuity scan tool remains compatible with the basic diagnostic functions across a wide range of vehicles without incurring ongoing costs. This commitment to free generic updates makes the AutoEnginuity scan tool a cost-effective and long-term diagnostic solution for the UK market.
Enhanced Coverage Updates and Policy in the UK
While generic OBDII updates are free, AutoEnginuity also offers enhanced options that provide deeper diagnostic capabilities for specific vehicle manufacturers. Understanding the update policy for these enhanced options is important for UK users considering expanding their scan tool’s functionality.
The initial 12 months of enhanced option updates are included free of charge from the date of purchase. This allows you to benefit from the latest enhancements and coverage improvements right from the start. After the first year, continuing to receive updates for your enhanced options requires a renewal fee.
The cost structure for enhanced updates is tiered, offering flexibility based on your needs. For a further 12 months of updates, the costs are as follows:
- Single Enhancement: $50.00 USD (Item #AC-Single)
- Two to Five Enhancements, or One Region (Domestic, Asian, or European): $150.00 USD (Item #AC10-1)
- Six to Ten Expansions, or ProLine Bundle: $300.00 USD (Item #AC10-2)
- ProLine Bundle with Additional Coverage, or More Than 10 Expansions: $450.00 USD (Item #AC10-3)
These prices are listed in USD, and UK customers will need to consider currency conversion rates when purchasing updates. It’s important to note that on the Windows-based product, purchasing updates is not mandatory. You can continue using your existing enhanced version indefinitely. However, after a 12-month period without updates, the Activation Server will only generate activation codes for the previous version unless your account is brought up to date. You also have the flexibility to skip update years and are not penalized for doing so when you choose to update your enhanced options later.
For users of iOS and Android-based AutoEnginuity products in the UK, a current subscription is necessary to operate the tool. Due to the platform restrictions of these mobile operating systems, installing older versions of the application is not possible. It’s also important to be aware that these applications may automatically update when the device is connected to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Enhanced option updates are released on average four times per 12-month period. AutoEnginuity emphasizes that their updates include significant amounts of new enhanced coverage for a diverse range of manufacturers, offering competitive features compared to factory tools. While there is a cost associated with these enhanced updates, AutoEnginuity argues that it represents excellent value compared to the often higher update costs of competing factory tools.
Finally, it’s crucial to understand that enhanced option hardware upgrades are not included in software updates and are not free. If new electrical interfaces are required for supporting newer vehicle technologies, there will be a charge to cover the manufacturing and shipping costs of the necessary hardware upgrade (Item #AC12).
Activation and Usage of Enhanced Options
Activation Procedure for UK Users
Activating enhanced options for your AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK is a straightforward process, although it varies slightly depending on the type of connector you are using. The activation procedure differs for the ScanTool OBDII, ProLine, and ProLine VCI connectors.
ProLine VCI connectors have activation codes directly programmed into the connector’s memory. In contrast, ProLine and ScanTool OBDII connectors store activation codes in the computer’s registry. Once you purchase an enhanced option, you will receive a 32-digit code. This code is used to activate your new features.
For ProLine and ScanTool OBDII connectors, this activation code can be used to install the product on multiple computers. This offers flexibility for users who may need to use the scan tool on different laptops or workstations within their UK garage or workshop. However, for ProLine VCI connectors, activation is tied to the connector itself, and additional activations for multiple computers are not required.
For USB-based product activations, the codes are typically included in your package, allowing you to get up and running immediately. Adding support to an existing system involves purchasing the desired coverage through the AutoEnginuity website and then responding to an email with the download information and activation codes. Purchasing additional coverage can also be done via phone, although a hardware upgrade may sometimes be necessary.
It’s important to note that activation codes are provided via email, not through technical support phone lines. If you require activation codes, you should not call technical support but instead follow the email activation process outlined by AutoEnginuity. A detailed guide to the email activation process is available on the AutoEnginuity support website: Click here for the email activation process. This online process ensures efficient and accurate delivery of your activation codes.
Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Connector Policy in the UK
Understanding the policy for lost, damaged, or stolen connectors is crucial for protecting your investment in the AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK. The policy differs depending on the type of connector you own.
If a ProLine VCI or ProLine connector with a Security Dongle is lost or stolen, it is considered a loss of the entire product, including any associated enhanced options. Unfortunately, in such cases, you cannot purchase a replacement connector and transfer the enhancements from the original connector. The enhancements are licensed specifically to the serial number of the connector that was initially shipped with your product and cannot be transferred to a new connector if the original is lost or stolen. Similarly, lost Security Dongles cannot be replaced, and a hardware upgrade is required to continue using the system.
For damaged connectors, the policy is more favorable. Damaged ProLine VCI or ProLine connectors can be repaired or replaced. In these cases, the enhancements from the original connector can be transferred to the replacement connector, provided that the damaged connector is returned to AutoEnginuity. To facilitate a replacement and enhancement transfer, AutoEnginuity requires the return of identifiable remains of the ProLine VCI or ProLine connector. This policy ensures that users who experience accidental damage to their connectors can continue using their purchased enhanced options without incurring the full cost of a new system. It’s essential for UK users to handle their connectors with care and to understand these policies to avoid potential loss or disruption to their diagnostic capabilities.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
No Enhanced Coverage? Potential Issues in UK
If you’ve activated your enhanced options but are only getting generic OBDII coverage in the UK, you might be encountering a problem related to software authenticity. There are “pirated” or “cracked” versions of AutoEnginuity products circulating online. If your scan tool connects to a vehicle and only provides generic OBDII data, it’s possible you are using a counterfeit version.
It’s important to understand that generic OBDII support is provided for free with all genuine AutoEnginuity scan tool packages. Therefore, a pirated version offers no additional functionality beyond what you would get with a legitimate, basic setup. These counterfeit versions are essentially worthless for accessing enhanced manufacturer-specific diagnostics.
AutoEnginuity technical support cannot assist with issues arising from pirated software. The only solution to resolve this problem and gain access to genuine enhanced coverage is to purchase a legitimate copy of the AutoEnginuity software and scan tool directly from authorized sources. Protecting yourself from counterfeit software ensures you receive the intended functionality, updates, and support, making your AutoEnginuity scan tool a valuable and reliable diagnostic tool in the UK.
OBDII Connector Not Found Message
Encountering the “OBDII Connector Found” message is a normal part of the AutoEnginuity scan tool startup process. However, if you consistently fail to see this message in the UK, it indicates a problem that needs troubleshooting. In most cases, this issue stems from either a serial port malfunction or a lack of power at the vehicle’s Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC).
First, ensure that the serial port on your laptop is functioning correctly and is not already in use by another application. Verify that the port is set to the correct baud rate or faster. AutoEnginuity recommends a baud rate of 115.2k for optimal performance, although 19.2K is the minimum acceptable rate.
Next, check for power at the vehicle’s DLC. Using a multimeter, test for approximately 12V between pins 16 (power) and 4 or 5 (ground) of the DLC. If you find no voltage, the issue is likely a blown fuse in the vehicle’s electrical system. The fuse location can vary depending on the vehicle manufacturer and model. For many Ford and GM vehicles, the DLC circuit is often linked to the cigarette lighter fuse. For many Dodge trucks, it may be connected to the radio fuse. Consulting the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a wiring diagram will help you locate the correct fuse to check and replace if necessary. Addressing these serial port and power supply issues will typically resolve the “OBDII Connector Not Found” message and allow your AutoEnginuity scan tool to establish a connection with the vehicle.
Report Formatting Issues
Users in the UK updating their AutoEnginuity software may encounter an issue where reports display as unformatted text after the update. This problem is related to how Internet Explorer 9 and later versions handle .xml files, which are used for generating reports. Reports that previously displayed correctly in earlier versions of Internet Explorer may appear as a continuous line of text in Internet Explorer 9 and later.
The long-term behavior of Internet Explorer in handling .xml files is uncertain. To ensure that your reports are displayed and printed correctly, AutoEnginuity provides a specific document with instructions to restore the proper report view. UK users experiencing this formatting issue should download and follow the steps outlined in this document: Restore reports view. This will help you to properly view and utilize your diagnostic reports within Internet Explorer, ensuring you can effectively analyze and interpret the data from your AutoEnginuity scan tool.
Using AutoEnginuity Scan Tool Effectively
DIY Mechanics and Professional Repairs in the UK
A key question for many in the UK, whether DIY enthusiasts or professional mechanics, is whether an AutoEnginuity scan tool eliminates the need for authorized service centers. The answer depends on your skill level and the nature of the vehicle problem.
The primary purpose of the AutoEnginuity scan tool is to assist you in diagnosing your vehicle’s issues, enabling you to determine the required service, if any. Whether you are a skilled technician or a Do-It-Yourselfer, the tool provides unparalleled access to your vehicle’s engine computer. This access allows you to examine system test results and live sensor data, giving you a detailed understanding of your vehicle’s condition.
Furthermore, the AutoEnginuity User Guide is a valuable resource, packed with information to help you understand engine management systems and effectively utilize the scan tool for diagnosis. Even if you lack the tools or mechanical skills to perform the repairs yourself, the scan tool equips you with the knowledge to understand the actual problem. This informed perspective can be invaluable when seeking professional repairs, ensuring you can communicate effectively with mechanics and avoid unnecessary work.
In situations where the Check Engine/Service Engine Soon light illuminates due to a minor issue like a loose fuel cap, the AutoEnginuity scan tool empowers you to identify and resolve the problem yourself. This can save you a potentially costly and time-consuming trip to a service center. By providing detailed diagnostic information, the AutoEnginuity scan tool bridges the gap between DIY and professional repair, offering benefits to users of all skill levels in the UK.
Why Choose AutoEnginuity Over Cheap Code Readers?
Many inexpensive code readers are available in the UK market, leading some to question the value of investing in a more comprehensive tool like the AutoEnginuity scan tool. While cheap tools can clear the Check Engine/Service Engine Soon light, relying solely on them can be unwise and potentially costly in the long run.
The Check Engine/Service Engine Soon indicator is connected to the engine computer, which constantly monitors for faults. Even if a cheap tool resets the light or you wait for it to turn off on its own, the underlying problem persists. Ignoring these warnings is risky. A seemingly minor engine-related issue can escalate into a serious problem, potentially leaving you stranded or leading to more expensive repairs later because the issue was not addressed promptly.
Investing in the AutoEnginuity scan tool provides peace of mind. It allows you to accurately diagnose the cause of the Check Engine light, rather than simply masking the symptom. Knowing your vehicle is in top operating condition is crucial for safety and reliability. Even if the issue turns out to be minor, it could still be affecting your vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency, costing you money over time. The AutoEnginuity scan tool offers a deeper level of diagnostics, helping you identify both major and minor issues, ensuring your vehicle runs optimally and preventing potential problems before they become serious and expensive.
Resetting Service Lights (Oil/Service/ABS/Airbag) in UK Vehicles
Resetting service lights, such as the Oil or Service Interval light, is a common maintenance task. However, it’s important to understand the capabilities of the AutoEnginuity scan tool in this area, particularly for vehicles in the UK.
Basic OBDII functionality does not cover service light resets. Therefore, the standard AutoEnginuity unit will not support this feature. For some vehicles, a scan tool is not even required for these resets. Late-model Mercedes and Ford-based models, for example, often allow service light resets through the instrument cluster. Toyotas may use a combination of the ignition key position and odometer reset button.
However, with AutoEnginuity’s enhanced interface options, you can reset service or oil lights for a range of manufacturers popular in the UK, including GM, BMW, MINI, Land Rover, Mercedes, and Audi/VW. Unfortunately, Porsche service light resets are not supported at this time.
Similarly, resetting ABS or Airbag lights is not part of generic OBDII and is not supported by the basic AutoEnginuity unit. Again, enhanced interface options are required for this functionality. With enhanced options, AutoEnginuity offers ABS and Airbag light reset capabilities for supported manufacturers. In some cases, the tool can even calibrate passenger seat weight sensors, a feature beyond basic reset functions. Therefore, if you need to reset service lights or deal with ABS/Airbag system lights on your UK vehicle, you will need to ensure you have the appropriate enhanced options for your AutoEnginuity scan tool.
Understanding Update Rates for UK Vehicles
Update rates, or how frequently data is refreshed during live diagnostics, are an important factor in scan tool performance. The update rates you can expect with an AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK depend largely on the vehicle being tested.
Older vehicles, typically pre-CAN bus systems, will generally have update rates between 4 and 6Hz when using generic OBDII. However, when utilizing enhanced protocols for these vehicles, the update rates are usually significantly faster.
Newer vehicles, particularly those using CAN (Controller Area Network), will typically exhibit faster generic OBDII update rates, ranging from 6 to 16Hz. Again, enhanced coverage for these vehicles will generally provide even faster update rates. This is because manufacturer-specific proprietary protocols often allow for multiplexing and broadcast modes that are not available with generic OBDII. These advanced protocols enable more efficient data transmission and faster refresh rates. Therefore, for optimal live data performance and faster update rates on a wide range of vehicles in the UK, utilizing AutoEnginuity’s enhanced coverage options is recommended.
Powering Your Laptop Safely
Avoiding Power Issues When Using Scan Tool in UK Cars
Powering your laptop from the vehicle you are testing might seem convenient, but AutoEnginuity strongly advises against it, even if it appears possible using a laptop DC/DC adapter or an AC Inverter connected to the PC power supply in your UK car. The primary concern is the design and quality of the power adapter you are using and whether it truly provides an isolated ground circuit.
If you are uncertain about the isolation of your power adapter’s ground circuit, or if the manufacturer cannot confirm it, it is crucial not to use it. Non-isolated power adapters can create ground loop issues, which can damage your AutoEnginuity connector, your laptop, and potentially the vehicle’s electrical system.
AutoEnginuity provides visual examples of damage caused by ground loop issues resulting from improper laptop powering: Damaged Connector 1 and Damaged Connector 2. These images serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of using unverified or non-isolated power adapters. To ensure the safety of your equipment and vehicle, it is always recommended to power your laptop from its own battery or a reliable mains power source rather than attempting to draw power from the vehicle’s electrical system while using your AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK.
OBDII/EOBD Compliance and Vehicle Compatibility in the UK
Determining OBDII Compliance for UK Vehicles
Understanding OBDII and EOBD compliance is essential for determining vehicle compatibility with your AutoEnginuity scan tool in the UK. OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II) is a standard implemented in the United States, while EOBD (European On-Board Diagnostics) is the European equivalent.
For petrol passenger vehicles and light trucks manufactured for sale in the U.S., model year 1996 and newer are generally OBDII compliant. Occasionally, some 1994 and 1995 vehicles may also be compliant.
EOBD regulations in Europe followed a slightly different timeline. New petrol models became EOBD compliant in 2000, and existing petrol models became compliant in 2001. EOBD compliance for diesel vehicles started with the 2004 model year. For vehicles sold in the UK, these EOBD compliance dates are the key indicators.
You can also visually check for an emissions sticker in the engine compartment of your UK vehicle. This sticker often verifies the vehicle’s OBDII or EOBD compliance. This is a quick and easy way to confirm compatibility without needing to consult detailed vehicle specifications.
For older vehicles, specifically 1994 and 1995 models, CARB (California Air Resources Board) has provided a list of OBDII-compliant vehicles. While this list is U.S.-centric, it can sometimes be helpful in determining compliance for vehicles of that era that may have been sold or imported into the UK. The CARB compliance list is available here: CARB_OBDII_Compliance.pdf. By considering the manufacture year, EOBD standards, emissions stickers, and potentially the CARB list, UK users can confidently determine OBDII/EOBD compliance for their vehicles and ensure compatibility with their AutoEnginuity scan tool.
Vehicles Not Compatible with Generic OBDII
While the AutoEnginuity scan tool offers broad compatibility, it’s important to be aware of certain vehicle types in the UK that may have limited functionality with generic OBDII, specifically heavy-duty diesel trucks.
Vehicles such as Duramax, Cummins, and Powerstroke diesel trucks are commonly used in the UK, but due to their gross vehicle weight exceeding the maximum limits defined by the OBDII standard, they are technically not OBDII compliant. When connected using generic OBDII protocols, these vehicles will report a very limited amount of data and sensors.
However, AutoEnginuity offers enhanced interfaces specifically designed for Ford, GM, and Chrysler vehicles, which are often the manufacturers of these diesel trucks. With these enhanced interfaces, proprietary powertrain and other system sensors become accessible, providing comprehensive diagnostic capabilities even for these non-OBDII compliant heavy-duty vehicles. For users in the UK working with these types of diesel trucks, utilizing the appropriate enhanced interface is crucial to unlock the full diagnostic potential of their AutoEnginuity scan tool. More detailed information on enhanced coverage for these manufacturers can be found on the AutoEnginuity website’s Software Enhancements page, such as the Ford Family Enhanced Interface page: Check the Software Enhancements page for more details..
JDM Models and UK Compatibility
Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) models are vehicles manufactured for markets outside of the European Union and North America, such as Japan and the Caribbean. A common question from UK users is whether JDM models are compatible with the AutoEnginuity scan tool.
Unfortunately, JDM models are not compatible with AutoEnginuity products. These vehicles often have different diagnostic protocols and electrical systems compared to vehicles manufactured for European or North American markets. Therefore, if you are working with a JDM model vehicle in the UK, the AutoEnginuity scan tool will not be able to connect or provide diagnostic information. It’s essential to verify the market origin of the vehicle you are diagnosing to ensure compatibility with your AutoEnginuity scan tool.
Understanding CAN (Controller Area Network)
CAN, or Controller Area Network, is a crucial term in modern vehicle diagnostics. It refers to the electrical interface that has become mandatory for all vehicles manufactured from model year 2008 onwards. CAN is a standardized communication protocol that allows various electronic control units (ECUs) within a vehicle to communicate with each other efficiently.
While CAN became mandatory in 2008, some vehicle manufacturers began implementing it earlier. Ford, Jaguar, and Mazda started using CAN exclusively in their vehicles from model year 2004. Other manufacturers, such as Mercedes, Porsche, SAAB, and Toyota, began selectively implementing CAN in some of their vehicles starting in 2004.
Understanding CAN is important because it affects the communication protocols used by diagnostic tools like the AutoEnginuity scan tool. Modern vehicles in the UK predominantly utilize CAN for diagnostics, and your scan tool needs to be compatible with this protocol to effectively communicate with these vehicles’ systems. AutoEnginuity scan tools are designed to support CAN, ensuring compatibility with the vast majority of post-2004 vehicles in the UK market.
CAN Compatibility of Older Units
For users in the UK who own older AutoEnginuity units, it’s important to know if their OBDII connector is CAN-enabled. All USB OBDII connectors from AutoEnginuity are pre-built with CAN capability. However, older RS-232C (serial) versions may or may not have CAN support, depending on the specific model.
To identify a CAN-enabled RS-232C connector, check the number of pins. A CAN-enabled version will have eight pins, while a non-CAN version will have six pins. This pin count difference is a simple visual way to determine CAN compatibility for older RS-232C connectors. If you are unsure about your connector’s CAN capability, especially if it’s an older RS-232C model, checking the pin count is a quick way to verify its compatibility with modern CAN-based vehicle systems in the UK.
Connector Types and Selection for UK Vehicles
Choosing the Right Connector for Your UK Vehicle
Selecting the correct connector is fundamental for using your AutoEnginuity scan tool effectively in the UK. Currently, AutoEnginuity primarily sells the ST06 ProLine connector. The ST05 OBDII connector is an older model and is no longer sold.
While both the ST06 ProLine and ST05 OBDII connectors offer basic OBDII functionality, their performance differs significantly in Enhanced Mode. The ST06 ProLine connector is compatible with all of AutoEnginuity’s enhanced support options. In contrast, the ST05 OBDII connector does not work with all enhancements and has limited enhanced coverage.
For UK users planning to utilize enhanced interfaces for manufacturer-specific diagnostics, the ST06 ProLine connector is the recommended choice. If you already own a system and are unsure which connector to use for a specific vehicle manufacturer, AutoEnginuity provides a helpful reference chart. This chart details connector compatibility for different manufacturers and enhanced options. To access this information and ensure you are using the correct connector for your UK vehicle, please refer to this link: click on this link to find out more. This resource will guide you in selecting the optimal connector for your diagnostic needs in the UK market.
Wireless Connectivity
Wireless ProLine VCI+ for UK Users
The ProLine VCI+ connector (200xxx series) offers a wireless version, providing added convenience and flexibility for users in the UK. This wireless capability is particularly beneficial for those using the AutoEnginuity scan tool with mobile devices.
The Wi-Fi version of the hardware is specifically required for use with iPad/iPhone devices and the upcoming Android release of the AutoEnginuity software. If you plan to use your scan tool with these mobile platforms in the UK, the wireless ProLine VCI+ connector is essential.
The Wi-Fi version is included as standard with all SP01 Proline and SP02 ProLine w/European bundles. It is also available as an option for all other systems. For users with older hardware, such as Scantool OBDII, Proline, and ProLine VCI (100xxx series) connectors, upgrades to the new Wi-Fi hardware are available. UK users interested in upgrading should contact AutoEnginuity directly for pricing and upgrade options.
It is important to note that the Wi-Fi connector is not Bluetooth-based. It is compliant with the 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi protocols and is set up as an ad-hoc network connection. This means it creates a direct wireless connection between the connector and your laptop or mobile device, without relying on an existing Wi-Fi network. This wireless option enhances the usability and portability of the AutoEnginuity scan tool for diagnostics in various UK workshop and mobile environments.
USB Hub for Limited USB Ports
This section pertains to older AutoEnginuity systems that utilize the Proline connector with a Security Dongle. It does not apply to current systems that use the ProLine VCI connectors. Users in the UK with these older systems may encounter a situation where their laptop has only one USB port. In such cases, there are not enough USB ports to connect both the Scantool connector and the Security Dongle simultaneously.
A simple solution to this problem is to use a USB Hub. A USB Hub expands the number of available USB ports on your laptop, allowing you to connect both the Scantool connector and the Security Dongle. AutoEnginuity specifically suggests the Plugable® 2 Port USB 2.0 Hub part # UBS2-2PORT as a reliable and cost-effective option. These USB hubs are widely available online, including in the UK, for a relatively low price, typically under $10. Using a USB hub is a practical and affordable way to overcome USB port limitations when using older AutoEnginuity systems with security dongles in the UK.
End of Life Notices
Legacy Connector and Software Support
As vehicle technology advances, AutoEnginuity continuously strives to support new manufacturer specifications and communication protocols. This ongoing evolution in the automotive industry necessitates changes in hardware to keep pace with new vehicle systems. Consequently, some older AutoEnginuity connectors have reached their end of life, and their limited capabilities can no longer be fully supported in newer software versions.
Specifically, the RS-232 (serial) connector, as well as the AE Enhanced and SCI connectors, will not operate with software versions newer than 9.0. The ScanTool program itself has evolved significantly over the years, and older versions of the software have also reached their end-of-life stage. Activation codes for the software can only be generated for versions that are no more than two versions older than the current release.
For users in the UK still using these legacy connectors or older software versions, AutoEnginuity recommends considering hardware and software upgrades. Continuing to use outdated hardware and software may limit your diagnostic capabilities on newer vehicles and may eventually lead to compatibility issues. Activation codes will not be provided for unsupported older software versions. UK users should contact AutoEnginuity Technical Support to explore available upgrade and update options to ensure they have the latest and most capable diagnostic tools.
Important End-of-Life Information:
- AE Enhanced, SCI, and RS-232 (Serial) connectors: Incompatible with software versions newer than 9.0.
- Scantool OBDII USB connectors: Compatible up to the current version (16.x), but enhanced coverage is generally limited to 1995-2003 Ford-based vehicles only.
- ProLine Connector (without Security Dongle): (No longer available) Incompatible with software versions 10.0 or later.
- ProLine Connector (with Security Dongle): (No longer available) Incompatible with software versions 16.0 or later. Version 15.21 is the last stable version for this hardware. Version 12.1 is required for Windows 8.1 and 10 compatibility.
* Last Updated 05/01/2023
