Need a bidirectional scan tool with no paywall updates.

[Rand]

I'm considering the innova 5610,
What else should I be considering?
It's currently $350 with free thermal camera included.

I'd like to keep it under $350

Features:
Need live data, bidirectional, able to command EPB etc.

Doesn't have updates that cost money yearly and turn it into a brick if you dont buy them.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

I have a 5510 (no bidirectional capability), and it is good, so the 5610 should be good too.

 

[Rand]

Apparently it can't do the Subaru cvt relearn.. now to decide if that is important to me.

 

[D60]

Apparently it can't do the Subaru cvt relearn.. now to decide if that is important to me.

I'm not convinced the relearn does much but nice to have the capability just to reduce any doubt that THAT is what you need

My little Xtool with free updates bricked itself during an update, so if you're one to entertain conspiracy theories ....if any manufacturer tires of supporting you, they can just brick it. If you're out of the hardware warranty -- too bad so sad

 

[martinq]

I'm interested if any of them can code TPMS and key fob for the 2009-2013 Nissan Cube. Very difficult to get direct answers from the mfg most of the time.

 

[Rand]

I looked at a couple topdon's that had the functions but you have to have the software updated or they paywall some features
behind the subscription.
until you get up to the pricerange where there are alot of competitive options.

I am also considering models with pay updates as long as it doesnt paywall the bidirectional functions etc behind it.
I would just have to update for new features or new cars.. but otherwise all the functions would work if I let the update subscription lapse.

 

[ylk1]

Foxwell NT530 might work. Supports most bidirectional tasks except ECU coding.
NT710 supports more including ECU coding.
Check supported functions here: https://www.foxwelltech.us/support-fun-list.html

 

[ylk1]

Alternately, checkout launch X431 series tools too.

 

[ylk1]

https://www.innova.com/pages/coverage

5610 coverage seems pretty poor for most models. No active tests, no special functions and no coding.

 

[Rand]

Foxwell NT530 might work. Supports most bidirectional tasks except ECU coding.
Check supported functions here: https://www.foxwelltech.us/support-fun-list.html

I appreciate the information,
but the nt530 seems to support one car line at a time..
ie one for honda, one for VW, etc.

I was looking for a more generalized device.

the launch x431 seems to be out of my price range unless I missed something.

Basically the min I need is bidirectional, live data, and some commands such as parking brake retraction etc.

Next I would like to have specific functions for vehicles such as the subaru CVT relearn but that is not a deal breaker.

 

[Dborch41]

I got an XTOOL A30D a couple of years ago because it was the only reasonably priced consumer-grade scan tool I could find that would work with the ABS on my Nissan Frontier (long story). The Anyscan app is reasonably user friendly and I haven't paid anything since installing it, it also has a very hand logging function that stores all CEL code scans for future reference.
I've used it quite a few times and so far so good.

 

[willbur]

I got an XTOOL A30D a couple of years ago because it was the only reasonably priced consumer-grade scan tool I could find that would work with the ABS on my Nissan Frontier (long story). The Anyscan app is reasonably user friendly and I haven't paid anything since installing it, it also has a very hand logging function that stores all CEL code scans for future reference.
I've used it quite a few times and so far so good.

I have one and it was very difficult to perform ABS bleed procedure. Gave up. Connection issues, too. Tech support, while very willing, did not help. Went to their web site, entered the serial number and downloaded the latest software. Problem solved. I really like this scanner. The A30M is the tool to get. imo.

 

[Dborch41]

I have one and it was very difficult to perform ABS bleed procedure. Gave up. Connection issues, too. Tech support, while very willing, did not help. Went to their web site, entered the serial number and downloaded the latest software. Problem solved. I really like this scanner. The A30M is the tool to get. imo.

Mine updates directly into the scanner through the app, sometimes it does it automatically.

 

[MaximumMini]

I went with the XTool D8 and it's been pretty good for vehicles after 2003.
Going to add an Autel MP900Z. I do a lot of car stuff for myself and friends.

The yearly updates keep the device up to date as new vehicles come out so with no updates once you stop updates that's where the vehicle years it can work with end. If you're just using for your own vehicles and won't be buying again anytime soon that should be fine.
You can usually add an update subscription later if you want.

At $350 you're pretty close to the professional level scanners which start around $500 and I'd check the features to be sure you don't want to splurge at least just once.

 

[willbur]

Mine updates directly into the scanner through the app, sometimes it does it automatically.

Thanks, but I was not talking about vehicle updates but firmware updates and bug fixes.

 

[Exhaustgases]

Foxwell NT530 might work. Supports most bidirectional tasks except ECU coding.
NT710 supports more including ECU coding.
Check supported functions here: https://www.foxwelltech.us/support-fun-list.html

It says works well (NT710) with 2020 - 2021 models? and what about older and newer? How much does it cost? I like that it is a cable connection, I can't stand wi fi. Doesn't say for sure what cars it works on and mentions "One touch to PURCHASE VEHICLE SOFTWARE" in feature number 18, so what is that all about?

 

[martinq]

I'm beginning to think my best move is to get one of the $100-200 OBD2 bi-directional Android tools (no screen). Such as:
XTOOL AnyScan A30D
XTOOL Anyscan+ A30M
...

I can use whichever Bluetooth phone / tablet I want and can upgrade / replace it without a big expense.

If I spent $1k+ on a tablet, I'd be pretty upset if the battery / screen died and had to replace.

I already have several, wireless OBD2 adapters that were all disappointing in different ways. My most used & appreciated app is $5 and monitors the CVT vitals on long trips.

CVTz50
http://cvtz50.info/en/

 

[ylk1]

It says works well (NT710) with 2020 - 2021 models? and what about older and newer? How much does it cost? I like that it is a cable connection, I can't stand wi fi. Doesn't say for sure what cars it works on and mentions "One touch to PURCHASE VEHICLE SOFTWARE" in feature number 18, so what is that all about?

Some of the foxwell scanners (NT530*, NT710*) work only for a single brand. Additional brands support require more $$. Not a bad choice if your fleet is at max. 2-3 brands. There are other models like NT726/NT716/NT706 that work for all brands and models but supported items might differ.

https://www.foxwelldiag.com/pages/buyer-guide

 

[ylk1]

I appreciate the information,
but the nt530 seems to support one car line at a time..
ie one for honda, one for VW, etc.

I was looking for a more generalized device.

the launch x431 seems to be out of my price range unless I missed something.

Basically the min I need is bidirectional, live data, and some commands such as parking brake retraction etc.

Next I would like to have specific functions for vehicles such as the subaru CVT relearn but that is not a deal breaker.

Checkout https://www.foxwelldiag.com/pages/buyer-guide
NT726 or NT716 may fit your use case. Check the difference in supported items here: https://www.foxwelltech.us/support-fun-list.html

 

[Rand]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll update after I have a couple days to check out the suggested models and do research.