For car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics, having a reliable OBD2 scanner is essential for diagnosing vehicle issues without breaking the bank. In 2018, the market was filled with affordable options, each promising to be the best budget OBD2 scanner. This article dives into hands-on experiences with some of the popular budget scanners from that year, offering a practical look at their capabilities and limitations based on real-world testing.
Autel AL539: A Strong All-Rounder Despite Update Quirks
The Autel AL539 was a standout tool, becoming a personal favorite for its ease of use and helpful features. One particularly useful function is the I/M readiness mode. This feature clearly displays what the engine control unit (ECU) is monitoring, making it easy to pinpoint potential issues. During testing on a Lexus engine, the AL539 impressively showed pending fault codes appearing in real-time as the ECU detected problems, such as an open circuit VSV solenoid and issues with VVT solenoids. This immediate feedback is invaluable for quick diagnostics.
However, the Autel AL539 wasn’t without its drawbacks. Update issues were encountered with two units, where the menu display changed to numbers after the update. While a workaround to revert the language back to English was provided by the supplier, this highlighted a potential reliability concern with Autel’s update process. Another user of the AL539B, which includes a battery tester, reported losing menu icons after an update, further suggesting inconsistencies in Autel’s update system. Despite these update problems, the AL539’s functionality during actual vehicle diagnostics remained impressive.
Autel MD805: Promising Features, but Compatibility Hiccups
The Autel MD805 was another scanner tested, showing initial promise with its ability to perform auto-searches and identify vehicle models and engines accurately. It performed well on most vehicles tested, except for a 2005 Toyota Camry. Despite correctly identifying the Camry’s model and engine, the MD805 failed to proceed with any scanning functions on this particular vehicle. Regardless of button presses, the scanner would not initiate a system scan, raising questions about its advertised capabilities and compatibility across different car models. Feedback was sought from suppliers to understand if the issue was user error or a limitation of the tool itself. Despite this setback with the Camry, the MD805 demonstrated graphing capabilities, successfully graphing wheel speed sensors in the ABS module of a 2013 Ford Ranger. However, it was limited to merging only two graphs at a time, requiring a separate selection process to view all four wheel speed sensors, which could be less efficient for comprehensive ABS diagnostics.
Foxwell NT630 Elite: Impressive ABS Functionality
The Foxwell NT630 Elite stood out for its advanced diagnostic capabilities, particularly in accessing systems beyond basic OBD2 fault codes. In a comparison with the Autel MD805 on a Lexus LS430, the MD805 could only read standard OBD2 codes. In contrast, the Foxwell NT630 Elite immediately offered an ABS option on its main screen. Navigating to the ABS module was straightforward, and the scanner quickly identified a “zero point calibration” issue. Crucially, the Foxwell NT630 Elite provided a “test” mode that allowed for resetting the calibration, successfully resolving the ABS light issue. This demonstrated a clear advantage over the more basic capabilities of the MD805 and even the Launch CRP123 in terms of accessing and resolving specific system faults.
Launch CRP123: Basic Code Reading, Limited Special Functions
The Launch CRP123 was also tested, primarily for comparison. While it could read fault codes, its capabilities seemed limited when it came to special functions, such as the ABS reset performed by the Foxwell NT630 Elite. This suggested that users needing more advanced functions beyond basic code reading might need to consider stepping up to models like the Launch CRP129, which was speculated to offer enhanced features for a slightly higher price point. However, for basic OBD2 code reading, the CRP123 served its purpose.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Budget Scanner in 2018
In 2018, the “best budget OBD2 scanner” depended heavily on the user’s specific needs. The Autel AL539 offered a user-friendly experience and valuable I/M readiness features, despite update concerns. The Autel MD805 showed promise but had compatibility issues and limitations in graphing. The Foxwell NT630 Elite impressed with its ability to access and resolve ABS system issues, making it a strong contender for users needing deeper diagnostics. The Launch CRP123 was a more basic option suitable for simple code reading. Ultimately, these hands-on experiences highlight that while budget scanners can be incredibly useful, understanding their specific strengths and weaknesses is crucial for choosing the right tool for the job. Prospective buyers should carefully consider their diagnostic needs and research compatibility and functionality before making a purchase.
