Remember that using advanced procedures on scanners like coding & service depends not only on your tool but also on your car.
Compatibility checker page for features: OPEN HERE
If you cannot find compatibility of some specific feature for your model, your best shot is to join a Facebook group or forum dedicated to your car model/brand and get an answer there.
And to get professional tools on a DIY mechanic budget, you have 4 options:
1. Bluetooth Bi-Directional adapter
My favorite pick for starting mechanics, since you can get one for as low as $50.
Cheaper ones still support scans of all modules, service procedures, and bi-directional testing.
If you use them with a tablet instead of a smartphone, you have a professional scan tool setup.
Some require a subscription, but some good picks require only a one-time payment and give you free lifetime updates.
Best Bluetooth Bi-Directional scanners HERE
2. Laptop OBD
Laptop scanners are best for getting specific, one-brand software. Sometimes, you need brand-specific software to complete an advanced service or coding procedure.
The good thing is that you can get these software “clones” for very cheap on Aliexpress, but I strongly recommend getting an old refurbished laptop.
Do not use the main computer for this because most of these software require disabling anti-virus to install and work properly.
You don’t want to get your data and passwords stolen.
And if you have trouble installing it, sellers on Aliexpress have always been helpful and if I couldn’t complete installation they would install it to my laptop remotely.
One more reason to get a separate laptop though.
You don’t want some strange guy going over stuff on your own laptop. There are a lot of these software “clones” so depends on the brand you are working with but here are a few popular options.
3. One-brand scanner
Bluetooth bi-directional adapter is a great tool for diagnosing problems but if you need it with ECU coding you will have to pay a subscription.
And if you don’t want to go over the complicated process of running and installing aliexpress OBD clone software for a specific brand, you can get a one-brand scanner.
Usually, they come with both diagnosing & coding features and with free lifetime updates.
They are only for one group of brands like VAG or BMW/Mini, etc… but since you get a tablet + lifetime software update you can sell it after using it for the same price as you paid.
Best one-brand scanner for your make
4. Professional scan tool
The scan tool will combine all features for diagnosing, coding, and servicing with high vehicle coverage into one tool.
You can get a pretty good scan tool even for $300 that does everything you need for DIY car repairs or used car checks.
The current best scan tools here
Ok, so now you have some ideas on how to get an advanced OBD scanner if you need one.
However, when you start diagnosing faults, you will experience that the OBD2 scanner can not always give you an answer. Especially when you are looking at a complex problem and need to test more components before making a decision.
For that, you have to learn electrical testing.
And I know it can be scary and confusing, but I will make it simple, I promise.
Yuri
P.S. The Extended version of this email course, including 60 video lessons to help you master DIY diagnostics, is available HERE.
Hi, I am Juraj “Yuri” Lukacko. I got frustrated by unhelpful and scammy mechanics, so I decided to learn everything about car diagnostics myself. I test dozens of new car diagnostic tools every month along with learning new strategies to fix and customize cars. About Juraj Lukacko (Yuri)
