The Thinkdiag scanner has been generating buzz among both DIY car enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Questions often arise, however, regarding its subscription model and whether it remains a valuable tool, especially when considering the “Best Professional Obd2 Scanner 2021”. Let’s clarify the subscription details and explore why Thinkdiag might still be a strong contender.
One user, JOE.G, expressed confusion about the Thinkdiag subscription, asking if it requires a yearly fee per vehicle and whether the tool stops working after the subscription expires. The good news is that the basic OBDII functions of the Thinkdiag are permanent. You can use them indefinitely without any ongoing subscription. This includes reading and clearing generic OBDII codes, accessing live data, and performing I/M readiness tests – essential for basic diagnostics on any vehicle.
However, for advanced functionalities that truly make a professional OBD2 scanner powerful, Thinkdiag employs a flexible subscription system. There are two main ways to access these enhanced features:
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Manufacturer-Specific Subscription: For $39.99 per year, you can unlock all advanced functions for a single car manufacturer. This means if you primarily work on, say, Ford vehicles, you can subscribe to the Ford package and gain access to module programming, bidirectional controls, system tests, and much more for any Ford vehicle you diagnose within that year. Notably, Thinkdiag often includes one free manufacturer subscription for the first year with the purchase of the device.
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Single Service Function Subscription: Alternatively, for $49.99 annually, you can unlock a specific service function, such as ABS actuation or oil reset, across all car manufacturers. This option is ideal for technicians who specialize in particular services regardless of vehicle make.
Thinkdiag also frequently offers a promotional “all-makes, all-functions” annual subscription for around $129, providing comprehensive coverage for workshops dealing with diverse vehicle brands. It’s crucial to understand that if you let your subscription lapse for the advanced functions, these features will be deactivated until you renew. Think of it like subscribing to software updates – you retain the core OBDII capabilities, but advanced features and access to newer models require an active subscription.
Comparing Thinkdiag to other professional scan tools, like those from Launch, reveals its cost-effectiveness. Launch scanners, while robust, often come with significant annual update fees. Thinkdiag offers a more modular and potentially more affordable approach, especially if you focus on specific brands or service functions.
For DIY enthusiasts managing a fleet of personal vehicles of specific makes, or professional technicians specializing in certain services, Thinkdiag’s subscription model can be highly advantageous. It provides access to professional-level diagnostics without the hefty upfront and recurring costs associated with traditional, full-featured scan tools, making it a strong contender in the realm of “best professional OBD2 scanners” for value and functionality in 2021 and beyond.
