Chat with a fleet manager about scan tools changed my mind on spending

Guy who runs 50 delivery vans told me he only uses a $300 Autel because the expensive ones just sit in the drawer. Made me wonder if I'm overbuying for my home shop - what's your daily driver scanner?

2 comments

2 Comments

kevin_roberts4113d ago

Well that's interesting but I gotta ask - do you do any programming on newer stuff or just basic code reading and resets? Cause the cheap scanners can't touch things like TPMS relearns or ABS module bleeding. I've seen guys burn a whole weekend messing with those budget units on modern cars.

brian_ward5513d ago

Actually, a $300 Autel like the MS309 or comparable model can handle TPMS relearns on a lot of newer vehicles. I've done them myself on a 2018 F-150 and a 2020 Subaru Outback without any issues. The real limitation with those budget units is module coding and programming new ECUs, where you need the higher end stuff. But basic relearns, ABS bleeding, and even some injector coding are often covered. A lot of people overestimate what the cheap scanners can't do. The key is just checking the supported vehicle list before you buy, not assuming all budget tools are useless for modern cars.