AUTOMOTIVE SCAN TOOLS WHICH ONE TO BUY? OEM OR GENERICJanuary 1.
Get a cup of coffee, this could take a while. A word about Ford IDS VCM1) DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITY: A scan tools ability to retrieve trouble codes, ability to aquire lines of data (Read sensor output and observe actuators like the IAC or TCC). With Bi- directional ability, you can, for instance, activate the ABS motor in a car, you can pop the trunk open electronically with the scan tool instead of the key or button inside the car. With most generic scan tools you get NO bi- directional communication capabilities. Look hard at some of the OBD II/ CAN readers on Ebay that are PC based (can be used with a laptop or desk top PC) or for use with a PDA.
SOLUS Scanner Scan Tool, Bundle 5.4. Product Specifications: Stock # N/A : Name: N/A : Price** $ Description. GM Body Control Module coverage 1996-2004; GM ABS brake bleed tests 1998-2004; Chrysler airbag coverage.
Even though it is very old and by today's standards very slow, it is still better than a lot of dedicated scan tools built today, BUT it has no bi- directional communication ability. ATERRA lets you do Evaporative Emissions solenoid tests only in Bi- Directional mode. The only beef I have with Auto.
Enginuity is that they push the basic kit that does not do much for $2. When you call them to ask questions, they tend to get short with you and sometimes were outright rude! I like the EASE diagnostics system, it is priced a little better and has a lot of bi- directional capabilities. UPDATEABILITY Just like any investment, YOU BETTER READ THE FINE PRINT as to what these kits come with! MAKE SURE YOU KNOW HOW MUCH SOFTWARE AND FIRMWARE UPDATES WILL COST YOU IN THE FUTURE! This is a real sore spot with me. You can also change speedometer calibrations for gear ratio or tire size, re- flash a radio so you can install it into another vehicle, or re- flash an ABS module.
If you want proof, hook up the best standard battery charger and turn on the radio. A Midtronics 5. 55. I use. Thanks this from experience folks, get a good power supply before trying to re- flash vehicle modules. FUNCTIONALITYHOW GOOD IS GOOD ENOUGH AND CAN THE SCANNER YOU BUY DO WHAT YOU NEED IT TO DO? Many scan tools that are generic are not up datable and operate on a generic OBD II or CAN platform. They seldom offer bi- directional communications and module re- flash capability. There are a few modes of fault codes.
A type A fault code, for instance, is a major malfunction of something that will quickly cause a catalyst failure. This allows you to check the history to see what happen and what led up to it and what happened afterword. When they break, they go to the exact same place to get fixed at the Owatonna Tool Company (OTC).
There are some distinct differences between the Tech I and an OTC 2. IF YOU ARE LOOKING AT AN OTC GENISYS, MAC MENTOR, MATCO DETURMINATOR THERE IS A FEW THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY ONE USED ON EBAY!!!! ALSO BE AWARE THAT OTC WARRANTY HAS A GREY AREA ON NEW GENISYS UNITS. THEIR WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER YOUR BATTERY OR CHARGER PAST 3.
DAYS. There are a few models and software packages with Genisys. It is the first model of Genisys and can be identified simply by knowing what kind of . Also be aware that ANY programs loaded into your Genisys are resident to that unit.
Also, according to the repair techs at OTC, a good amount of returns for corrupted software and screen failures are directly attributable to a defective battery packs and chargers. If your going to call OTC to report a problem with your battery pack or charger, tell them your unit is less than a month old or you will get the royal kiss off.
THINKING ABOUT BUYING A LAUNCH X- 4. Just for your information, this unit is made in China and, if you can believe it, there are actually knock- offs out there for it.
- Body Control Module (BCM) Programming/RPO Configuration Introduction A new body control module.
- BODY CONTROL MODULE (CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER). After installation, use scan tool to program new module.
AES Modules is an Control Module Remanufacturing company with an A BBB Rating. We repair and remanufacture Engine Control Module's (ECM), Body Control Modules (BCM), Instrument Cluster Modules (ICM), Powertrain Control. Body Control Module (BCM) Programming/RPO Configuration Introduction A new body control module. Follow the instructions on the scan tool under Vehicle Control Systems>Module Replacement/Setup. Add OEM scan tool software to your ELM327. Body Control Module; Instrument Panel; Driver Door Module. Select either Level 1 (Powertrain) or Level 1 + 2 (Powertrain, ABS, Airbag, Body. Innova 3030g Diagnostic Code Reader with ABS for OBD2 Vehicles. Only 6 left in stock - order soon.
Launch is having a lot of problems with software and subsequent updates. Maybe in a few years those folks at Launch will figure it out, but as for right now, unless you are working on a SEAT, SKODA, BMW, Benz, Sprinter, Transporter or VW your going to be very disappointed wtih the X- 4. REGARDING X4. 31 UPDATES.... BE CAREFUL BUYING THIS SCAN TOOL ON EBAY from NON- FACTORY APPROVED VENDORS!
Without that VENDOR CODE, you CANT GET YOUR UPDATES. If they get crappy about answering your questions or take forever to return your emails, what happens if you have a problem later? If your just looking for a code reader, you can get one of those for 2.
If your looking for something to grow into, and need it for a wide range of different cars, you still cant beat OTC Genisys, or Snap- On Modis. If your just doing GM's you need to get a Tech II and for old non CAN Mopar, its the DRB III and for CAN controlled MOPAR Its got to be Star. Scan. It is clearly the future of scan tools.
If your wondering why someone would buy an update DVD on Ebay as opposed to getting it free on the net, its because you cant download the PCM calibrations. You can use the VCM with a PC or a PDA making it infinitely portable. Be careful of Chinese knockoffs of these units. I have seen these coming out of Europe and China for hundreds less than buying from reliable vendors here in the USA. Practice due diligence in buying these on Ebay or Craigs list. They really need to go back to the drawing board on the wireless module for the VCM. VCM supports Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, and Mazda.
The HONDA GNA6. 00. VERY similar to the FORD VCM but IT IS DIFFERENT! The early Honda units would work with Ford, but good luck finding one of them.
If your VCM is coming from another country, its a Chinese knock off and you will find that it is likely a piece of crap! Lots of people are buying from China for 5 or 6. Ebay. If they don't have a lot of feedback for selling to American buyers, be very cautious. DID THIS GUIDE HELP YOU? If it did, please take the time to read just a little bit farther. I guarintee that they need the help too!