For car owners and enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into vehicle diagnostics than basic error code reading, understanding the limitations of standard OBD2 scanners is crucial. While a budget-friendly Bluetooth ELM 327 dongle paired with a smartphone app can access some OBDII data, it often falls short when it comes to comprehensive diagnostics, especially for accessing systems beyond the standardized OBDII protocols. Features like oil level checks, for instance, aren’t typically part of the OBDII data stream, meaning these basic tools won’t provide that information directly. While they might flag issues with an oil level sensor through OBDII codes, they won’t display the actual oil level. Brands like VeePeak clearly state that their entry-level tools are designed solely for OBDII scanning, highlighting the need for more advanced equipment to access a broader range of vehicle data.
To truly interact with the full spectrum of your car’s computer systems, including those operating outside of the OBDII standard, you’ll need to invest in a more sophisticated scan tool. At the entry-level for advanced diagnostics, consider tools like the Autel DiagLink, generally priced around $90-$100. A key characteristic of the DiagLink is its brand-specific approach. Each unit comes with software for one car brand. This means you choose a single manufacturer during setup, downloading and installing their specific software onto the DiagLink. While this might seem restrictive, it allows the DiagLink to perform advanced, non-OBDII functions such as resetting service lights or operating electronic parking brakes – features often unavailable in generic OBD2 scanners at this price point, for that chosen brand. If you own vehicles from multiple brands, Autel offers additional brand-specific software for purchase, typically around $10 per brand, providing some flexibility without a massive upfront cost.
For users who work with or own vehicles from various manufacturers, a multi-brand scan tool becomes a more practical investment. In this category, the Autel MD806, usually around $200, stands out as a strong contender. While it likely shares similar internal hardware with the DiagLink, the MD806’s software is designed for multi-brand compatibility right out of the box. It eliminates the need for separate brand-specific software downloads and includes free lifetime software updates. It’s important to note that “lifetime” in software terms usually refers to the product’s support lifespan, meaning updates may not be available indefinitely, especially for older hardware. However, the Autel MD806 offers exceptional value. It delivers the diagnostic capabilities needed by most home mechanics and DIY enthusiasts without an exorbitant price tag, particularly if you anticipate using a scan tool frequently across different vehicles. For comprehensive diagnostics that go beyond basic OBDII functions, the Autel MD806 represents one of the best values available in scan tools today.
