When you’re looking for a comprehensive OBD2 scanner, the market offers a vast array of options, each with its own set of features and pricing structures. One scanner that often comes up in discussions is the Thinkdiag. A common question, especially for those with multiple vehicles or professional needs, revolves around its subscription model. Let’s break down how the Thinkdiag subscription works and whether it truly is the “best OBD2 scanner for everything.”
The fundamental OBDII diagnostic functions on the Thinkdiag are designed to be perpetually accessible, meaning you can always use it for basic code reading and diagnostics. However, for advanced functionalities, Thinkdiag employs a flexible subscription system that caters to different user needs. These advanced features, which go beyond basic OBDII, are where the subscription model comes into play, offering options to unlock specific capabilities.
Thinkdiag provides a couple of primary subscription paths. Firstly, you can opt for a manufacturer-specific annual subscription. For roughly $39.99 per year for each car brand, you gain access to all diagnostic and service functions for vehicles from that manufacturer. Notably, Tesla diagnostics are priced separately and higher. When you initially purchase a Thinkdiag, it typically includes one free manufacturer subscription for a year. Alternatively, for technicians or enthusiasts who need specific service functions across various makes, Thinkdiag offers subscriptions to individual service functions. For around $49.99 annually, you can unlock a particular service function, such as ABS actuation, for all supported car manufacturers.
Occasionally, Thinkdiag also offers promotional deals, such as an “all-makes, all-functions” annual subscription for approximately $129. It’s important to understand that when a subscription lapses, the advanced functions associated with it will cease to operate until the subscription is renewed. If you subscribe to a specific manufacturer, like Kia, for example, you can utilize the full capabilities of the Thinkdiag on any number of Kia vehicles within that year. However, this subscription would not extend to Hyundai or Ford vehicles unless you also subscribe to those manufacturers separately.
This subscription model is designed to be advantageous for different user profiles. For individuals primarily maintaining their own vehicles, it allows for cost-effective access to in-depth diagnostics for the specific makes they own, without paying for broader coverage they might not need. Conversely, for professional technicians who may specialize in certain services, like tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) relearns, the function-specific subscription provides a targeted and economical solution.
While the annual subscription might seem like an added cost, it’s crucial to consider the value it brings, including regular updates for new vehicle models and expanded functionalities. When compared to the annual update fees associated with professional-grade scan tools like those from Launch, the Thinkdiag often presents itself as a more budget-friendly option. This balance of capability and cost makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of users seeking a versatile OBD2 scanner.
