For car owners and enthusiasts looking to understand their vehicle’s health in 2017, an OBD2 scan tool was an invaluable asset. While a basic, budget-friendly Bluetooth ELM 327 dongle paired with a smartphone app might seem appealing, it often falls short when it comes to comprehensive diagnostics. These basic setups are typically limited to reading standard OBDII system data and won’t access non-OBDII systems or provide information like detailed oil level readings – although they can detect faulty oil level sensors. For deeper insights and access to systems beyond the standard OBDII, you needed to step up to more advanced tools.
For those seeking more than just basic OBDII readings without breaking the bank, the Autel DiagLink, priced around $90-$100, presented an interesting option in 2017. The key consideration with the DiagLink was its brand-specific nature. It worked with only one car brand, which you selected and downloaded as “free” software upon purchase. This limitation meant it was best suited for individuals loyal to a single car brand. However, for that specific brand, it offered impressive capabilities for its price point. Unlike simpler scanners, the DiagLink could perform tasks like resetting oil change lights and placing electric parking brakes into service mode – functions typically unavailable in similarly priced generic OBD2 tools. While adding software for another brand was possible for roughly $10, it was crucial to acknowledge this single-brand focus upfront.
If you owned multiple car brands or anticipated needing to diagnose various vehicles, a multi-brand scan tool became essential. In 2017, the Autel MD806, typically priced around $200, emerged as a strong contender. While believed to share similar internal hardware with the DiagLink, the MD806 distinguished itself with its software. It supported multiple car brands without requiring separate software downloads for each, offering greater versatility. Furthermore, it included free lifetime software updates, adding long-term value. It’s worth noting that “lifetime” in software terms usually refers to the product’s support lifespan, but for the expected use duration of such a tool, it was a significant benefit. For the features and capabilities offered, the Autel MD806 represented excellent value as a diagnostic scan tool in 2017. It catered to the needs of home mechanics and DIY enthusiasts wanting more in-depth diagnostics across different vehicle makes without a prohibitively high cost.
In conclusion, when considering the best OBD2 scan tool in 2017, the choice depended heavily on your needs and budget. For single-brand owners seeking advanced diagnostics beyond basic OBDII, the Autel DiagLink offered a cost-effective entry point. However, for those needing multi-brand compatibility and broader diagnostic capabilities, the Autel MD806 stood out as a versatile and valuable tool, making both Autel options strong contenders in the 2017 OBD2 scan tool market.
