Choosing the right OBD2 scanner can be complex, especially when considering brands like Launch. Many professionals and DIY enthusiasts are drawn to Launch diagnostic tools for their comprehensive capabilities and reputation in the automotive repair industry. However, the market is unfortunately clouded by counterfeit products, particularly within online marketplaces. This article sheds light on the critical issue of fake Launch scanners and guides you on how to ensure you’re investing in a genuine, high-quality tool.
Launch has established itself as a leading manufacturer of automotive diagnostic equipment. Their scanners are known for their wide vehicle coverage, advanced diagnostic functions, and user-friendly interfaces. For workshops and technicians, a reliable Launch OBD2 scanner is an invaluable asset, streamlining diagnostics, coding, and programming tasks. This popularity, however, has also made them a prime target for counterfeiters.
The problem of counterfeit Launch OBD2 scanners is significant. Unscrupulous sellers often offer seemingly identical units at drastically lower prices through platforms like Amazon, eBay, and even websites masquerading as official dealers. These counterfeit devices are often presented as genuine, making it difficult for buyers to discern the real from the fake. The dangers of purchasing a counterfeit scanner extend beyond just losing money; they can severely impact your diagnostic work and potentially damage vehicle electronics.
Risks Associated with Counterfeit Launch Scanners:
Purchasing a counterfeit Launch OBD2 scanner can lead to a multitude of problems. These are not just limited to performance issues but also extend to the safety and longevity of your diagnostic equipment and even the vehicles you work on. Here are some key risks associated with these illegal clones:
-
Tampered Serial Numbers: Counterfeiters often manipulate or replace the main chip storing serial number information. This leads to mismatches and invalidates any potential warranty or support.
-
Illegal Serial Number Refreshing: The serial number of the diagnostic box might be illegally refreshed to appear genuine. However, this often results in a mismatch between the hardware and software, causing malfunctions.
-
Inferior Components: Fake power boards with low-quality components are common in counterfeit units. These substandard parts can lead to electrical issues and potentially damage a vehicle’s electronic control units (ECUs).
-
Language Manipulation: To conceal the intended market and origin, counterfeiters may illegally alter the original system language. This can lead to software instability and operational errors.
-
Unreliable Software: Counterfeit scanners typically use illegally obtained or copied software. This software is often unstable, lacks full functionality, and may not work correctly, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and potentially harmful actions on vehicle systems.
-
Poor Connectors: Substandard Super 16 connectors, not manufactured by Launch, are frequently used in fakes. These connectors may have incorrect configurations, leading to communication problems and potential damage to vehicle ports.
-
No Warranty or Support: Launch will not provide any warranty, maintenance, or technical support for counterfeit products. These units also cannot be updated through the official Launch X431 website, leaving them outdated and vulnerable.
-
Confiscation and Destruction: Any counterfeit units returned to Launch for repair will be confiscated and destroyed. This means you will not only lose the scanner but also any investment made in it.
How to Avoid Counterfeit Launch OBD2 Scanners:
Protecting yourself from counterfeit scanners requires vigilance and purchasing from authorized sources. Here’s how to ensure you buy a genuine Launch OBD2 scanner:
-
Purchase from Authorized Dealers: Always buy your Launch scanner from officially authorized distributors and dealers. Launch’s official website usually lists authorized sellers in your region.
-
Be Wary of Extremely Low Prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit scanners are often priced significantly lower than genuine products to lure unsuspecting buyers.
-
Verify Seller Information: If buying online, carefully check the “About this seller” section. Be cautious of sellers who claim to be UK or US based but are registered in China or other countries known for counterfeiting.
-
Check for Official Branding and Packaging: Genuine Launch products come with professional packaging and clear branding. Examine the packaging and device for any signs of tampering or low-quality printing.
-
Contact Launch Directly: If you are unsure about a seller or a product’s authenticity, contact Launch directly or Launch UK to verify the dealer’s authorization.
Considering Alternatives and Genuine Purchases:
While Launch scanners are highly regarded, the risk of counterfeits is a serious concern. Brands like Autel and Topdon also offer excellent OBD2 scanners and face similar counterfeiting issues. Regardless of the brand you choose, the key takeaway is to always purchase from authorized sources.
If you’re considering a Launch scanner, research authorized dealers in your area or online. If you had considered purchasing from a marketplace like Amazon or eBay due to price, weigh the risks carefully. Sometimes, investing slightly more with an authorized dealer provides peace of mind, genuine product quality, warranty, and reliable support. Exploring brands like Topdon, as the original article mentioned, and contacting their official channels might also provide you with a trustworthy and supportive purchasing experience.
In conclusion, navigating the market for the Best Launch Obd2 Scanner requires caution. While Launch tools offer excellent diagnostic capabilities, the prevalence of counterfeit units necessitates buying solely from authorized dealers. Protect your investment and ensure reliable diagnostics by prioritizing genuine products and reputable sellers.
