The Bosch OBD 1300 diagnostic car scan tool is designed to bridge the gap between classic and modern vehicles. If you’re someone who frequently works on cars, especially those vintage models from the ’80s and ’90s, this scanner might just be your new best friend. While it can handle contemporary cars, the Bosch OBD 1300 truly shines when diagnosing pre-OBD-II vehicles. It offers features like oil-change light resets and repair suggestions, making it a valuable tool for DIY mechanics and classic car enthusiasts alike. However, it’s worth noting that this handheld device requires batteries and has a bit of heft to it. Priced around $200, the Bosch OBD 1300 positions itself as an accessible option for those needing to diagnose older vehicles without breaking the bank.
Dive deeper into our Bosch OBD 1300 review to see if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Bosch OBD 1300: Pricing and Availability
Priced at approximately $249, the Bosch OBD 1300 is a versatile diagnostic scanner engineered to work across a spectrum of vehicles, from the latest models to older classics. Bosch’s product line extends from budget-friendly OBD-II scanners starting at $59 to professional-grade tools reaching up to $4,500, catering to a wide range of users and needs.
Bosch OBD 1300: Design and Build
Bosch, a global leader in automotive components, brings its extensive expertise to vehicle diagnostics with the OBD 1300. Despite its comprehensive capabilities, the scanner itself is surprisingly compact, measuring just 6.8 x 2.6 x 1.0 inches. This smaller footprint offers about 15% less bulk compared to similar scanners like the Innova CarScan Inspector 5310.
Weighing in at a mere 10.5 ounces, the Bosch OBD 1300 is initially lightweight. However, when you connect the standard OBD-II cable and the included 72-inch extension, the total weight increases to a substantial 1.4 pounds.
The Bosch OBD 1300 breaks away from the typical black scanner aesthetic with its vibrant blue casing, complemented by soft rubber grips for comfortable handling. Navigation is intuitive thanks to its eight-button interface and clear text-based menus. While generally user-friendly, the buttons are somewhat stiff and may occasionally require a firmer press.
Despite its compact size, the OBD 1300 incorporates a generous 3.5-inch color display, providing a 20% larger viewing area than many comparable handheld scanners, enhancing readability and ease of use.
The eight-button layout includes a four-way directional pad, alongside a dedicated power button. The device is powered by four AAA batteries or an external power source, with a cigarette-lighter adapter included. It lacks an AC power input but features a mini-USB port for software updates. A carrying case is also included for convenient storage and transport.
A standout feature of the Bosch OBD 1300 is its extensive cable set, designed to support both modern OBD-II and older OBD-I diagnostic standards. It includes a standard OBD-II cable and a 6-foot extension, providing an impressive 7 feet of reach – among the longest available for OBD-II scanners.
Beyond OBD-II, the Bosch OBD 1300 comes with seven additional cables to accommodate legacy diagnostic systems, retroactively termed “OBD-I.” These include connectors for ALDL (common in 1980s GM vehicles), EEC-IV (used in 1980s Ford models), SCI and LH (for 1989-1995 Chrysler vehicles), as well as both round and rectangular Toyota connectors (1984-1995).
All eight cables, including the OBD-II, connect to the scanner’s 15-pin port and are compatible with the extension cable. For anyone working with vehicles manufactured between 1980 and 1995, the Bosch OBD 1300 is exceptionally well-equipped.
Bosch OBD 1300: Performance in Real-World Use
In testing, the Bosch OBD 1300 quickly and accurately identified the vehicle model upon connection. Alternatively, users can manually input vehicle information through a straightforward five-question prompt presented by the scanner. The device successfully read Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) from both test vehicles without issue.
The Bosch scanner capably performed a cylinder balance test and reset the oil change indicator light. It also accurately detected a deliberately introduced fault (an unplugged oil-temperature sensor) and successfully cleared the Check Engine Light.
The integrated CodeConnect database is a significant asset, offering over 26 million verified fixes and repair suggestions. The OBD 1300 can also assess the status of anti-lock brakes and airbags on most vehicles from 1996 to 2013 (newer vehicles utilize different protocols) and perform pre-inspection emissions testing.
Furthermore, the Bosch OBD 1300 is capable of monitoring the vehicle’s battery and charging system – a particularly useful feature for older vehicles, especially during colder months. It can also reset battery lights on makes such as BMW, Mini Cooper, and Ford F-series trucks.
Bosch OBD 1300: Setup and User Experience
The Bosch OBD 1300 is designed for immediate use upon plugging into the vehicle’s diagnostic port, instantly displaying live data. The generous 84-inch OBD-II cable provides ample length for comfortable handheld operation while working around the engine bay. Switching between the various included cables is also quick and simple.
To conserve battery life, the OBD 1300 automatically powers down after two minutes of inactivity. This auto-off timer can be adjusted from one to fifteen minutes within the settings.
Despite its comprehensive cable set, the Bosch OBD 1300 lacks printed operating instructions. Users will need to download the Quick Start Guide and full user manual directly from the Bosch Diagnostics website for detailed guidance.
Verdict: Is the Bosch OBD 1300 Worth It?
At a price point of $200, the Bosch OBD 1300 may initially seem like a premium purchase. However, the inclusion of seven OBD-I cables, supporting diagnostic standards predating OBD-II, justifies the cost for specific users. Specifically, if you regularly work with older American and Japanese vehicles, the Bosch OBD 1300 becomes an invaluable tool. Beyond diagnostics, it offers repair guidance through its extensive database. While it does require batteries and can feel somewhat heavy with all the cables, the Bosch OBD 1300 provides a compelling solution for diagnosing both classic and modern vehicles, especially for enthusiasts and professionals dealing with a wide range of automotive eras.
