For diagnosing modern vehicles in 2017, a basic OBD2 scanner might not be sufficient. While a cheap $13 Bluetooth ELM 327 dongle paired with a phone app can read standard OBD2 codes, they often lack the capability to access non-OBDII systems. For example, monitoring oil level usually requires a tool that goes beyond basic OBD2 protocols. Although OBD2 can report issues with the oil level sensor, it typically won’t display the actual oil level reading. Brands like VeePeak explicitly state their scanners are limited to OBD2 functions. To truly delve into your car’s diagnostics, you’ll need tools that can communicate with the broader computer network within the vehicle, similar to professional systems like VIDA/DiCE.
Stepping up from basic scanners, the Autel DiagLink emerges as an entry-level option around the $90-$100 price point. However, the DiagLink has a notable limitation: it’s designed for a single car brand. You choose one “free” brand software during setup, which grants access to advanced, non-OBDII features for that specific make. If you work with multiple car brands, accessing advanced functions on another brand requires purchasing additional software from Autel. Despite this brand lock-in, the DiagLink offers excellent value if you primarily work with one car brand. It can perform tasks often unavailable in similarly priced scanners, such as resetting oil change lights or retracting electronic parking brakes for service – at least for your chosen brand. Adding software for another brand is relatively inexpensive, around $10, making it a scalable option for a limited number of brands.
For broader brand coverage and access to non-OBDII data across multiple manufacturers, consider options like the Autel MD806, typically priced around $200. While likely using similar internal hardware as the DiagLink, the MD806’s software supports multiple brands without requiring separate software downloads for each. Furthermore, it often includes free lifetime software updates, though “lifetime” usually refers to the product’s support lifespan, not literal decades. Nevertheless, the MD806 represents a strong value proposition. It provides a comprehensive set of diagnostic features suitable for most home mechanics and even some professional tasks, all at a reasonable price, especially if you anticipate frequent use across different vehicle brands. For users needing in-depth diagnostics across various car makes, the MD806 and similar multi-brand scanners become essential tools in 2017.
