For automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking in-depth vehicle diagnostics, a basic OBD2 scanner often falls short. While a generic, low-cost Bluetooth OBD2 dongle paired with a smartphone app can read standard OBDII codes, it lacks the capability to access non-OBDII systems. For comprehensive analysis, especially for systems like oil level monitoring which isn’t standard OBDII data, you’ll need to invest in a more professional-grade tool. Let’s delve into what constitutes the best pro OBD 2 scan tool for 2019, focusing on devices that offer enhanced functionality beyond basic code reading.
Understanding OBD-II Limitations for Pro Diagnostics
Standard OBD-II systems, while useful for emission-related issues, provide limited access to the intricate network of computers within modern vehicles. For tasks beyond reading basic engine codes, such as resetting service lights or interacting with systems outside of the standardized OBD-II protocols, a more advanced scan tool is necessary. Consider the example of oil level. While OBDII might report a fault in the oil level sensor, it won’t typically display the actual oil level reading. This is where professional OBD 2 scan tools step in, offering deeper access to vehicle systems.
Stepping Up: Professional OBD2 Scan Tools in 2019
In 2019, the landscape of professional OBD2 scan tools offered a range of options, bridging the gap between basic code readers and high-end, dealership-level equipment. For users needing access to non-OBDII data and advanced functions, certain tools stood out for their capabilities and value. Two notable contenders in this category were the Autel DiagLink and the Autel MD806.
Autel DiagLink: Brand-Specific Powerhouse
The Autel DiagLink presented itself as a cost-effective solution for professionals primarily working with a single vehicle brand. Priced in the $90-$100 range, its key advantage was offering advanced, non-OBDII functionality, comparable to more expensive systems, but initially limited to one car manufacturer. Each DiagLink purchase included software for a single brand, downloadable directly from Autel. This allowed users to perform tasks like resetting oil change indicators and operating electronic parking brakes – functions often inaccessible with basic OBD2 scanners.
For mechanics specializing in a specific brand, the DiagLink was a strong contender. Its limitation, however, lay in its single-brand focus out of the box. Expanding its capabilities to other brands required purchasing additional software licenses from Autel, typically around $10 per brand. Despite this, for users dedicated to a particular brand, the Autel DiagLink in 2019 offered a powerful and affordable entry point into professional-level diagnostics.
Autel MD806: Multi-Brand Versatility and Value
For broader diagnostic needs across multiple vehicle brands, the Autel MD806 emerged as a versatile and valuable option in 2019. While carrying a higher price tag of approximately $200, the MD806 offered multi-brand compatibility without the need for separate software purchases for each manufacturer. Internally, it shared similarities with the DiagLink in terms of hardware, but its software package unlocked a wider range of vehicle coverage.
A significant benefit of the MD806 was its promise of “lifetime” software updates. While “lifetime” in software terms typically refers to the product’s support lifespan rather than literal eternity, it represented a considerable advantage. This meant users could expect ongoing updates and support for the tool throughout its practical lifespan. The Autel MD806, therefore, positioned itself as a balanced and cost-effective professional OBD 2 scan tool in 2019, capable of meeting the diagnostic demands of home mechanics and professionals working with diverse vehicle makes.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pro OBD 2 Scan Tool in 2019
Selecting the “Best Pro Obd 2 Scan Tool 2019” depended heavily on individual needs and budget. For brand-specific deep diagnostics on a budget, the Autel DiagLink provided considerable power. For multi-brand flexibility and broader coverage, the Autel MD806 offered excellent value and capabilities. Both tools represented significant upgrades from basic OBD2 scanners, empowering users with enhanced diagnostic abilities crucial for modern vehicle maintenance and repair in 2019.
