A bi-directional scan tool is a device that has the capacity to interpret the details in your car’s OBD system. … This permits a scan tool to trigger an appeal from the Engine Control Module (ECM) which gives a response by conveying data back to the scan tool in form of communication with your car to salvage the fault. What is the best Bi-directional Scan Tool? In this article, the author pick up top 8 bi-directional scan tools and write up their features, functions, coverage, target user etc, some of them are expensive and suitable for more advanced mechanics and professionals (i.e Launch X431 V, Autel MaxiDAS DS808, Launch X431 Pros Mini, Autel Maxisys MS906BT), some are very cheap and suitable for DIYers (i.e Foxwell NT650, Foxwell NT530, Foxwell NT510 Elite, Autel AL619)
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Features: 8 inch tablet, long battery life, free WIFI printer included with some purchases. Features in Auto VIN Identification, Key programming and 2 years of free software updates. |
| Function: -Reads and graphs data for ALL systems in your car, access to wiper, seat, navigation, multimedia, cruise control, air conditioning, and other systems. -Reset multiple systems including Gear, SAS, TPMS, IMM, BS, ETS, Oil, ABS, and brakes among others.
-Runs actuator tests that allow you to check individual parts to see what is working properly. -Offers how-to-videos and assistance from professional experts to help you fix the problem. |
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| Coverage: 94 car brands and up to 10,000 car models. | |
| Target user: best for expert mechanics and professionals because of its actuator testing and wide range of car brands and models | |
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Features: 7 inch Android tablet; the battery can last for up to 4.5 hours of constant use; 1-year warranty and 1-year free update; Very light and easy to move around |
| Function: Cloud-based MaxiFix stores your car’s diagnostic history over the cloud.
Serves all the most common functions Oil Reset, EPB, DPF Regeneration, ABS/SRS, and SAS calibration etc. Active testing of most major functions in your car which allow you to better diagnose complex problems in your vehicle. |
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| Coverage: over 80 car brands from 1996 to the present. | |
| Target user: best for mechanics and professionals who need a tool that is portable and easy to handle. | |
| Launch X431 Pros Mini
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Features: a mini tablet, Bluetooth and Wifi allow you to diagnose while working under the head, 2-year free update, fast speed and accurate information loading. |
| Function: -Clears codes and activates components.
-Resets include Oil, TPMS, parking brake, and electronic throttle, DPF regeneration, steering angle calibration, battery maintenance, and more. -Data live streams over the easy to use touch screen interface with HD display |
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| Coverage: over 80 car brands, and by connecting the 14 connectors, PROS mini will work with other automotive standards. | |
| Target user: best for mechanics and car enthusiasts who need or like to experiment with different features. | |
| Foxwell NT650
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Feature: one of the cheapest scanners with bidirectional functions on the market. |
| Functions: – Performs 13 different resets. These resets include oil, ABS, SRS, EPB, and TPMS systems among others.
– Performs all the basic functions of an automotive bidirectional scan tool. These include DPF Regeneration, tire pressure monitoring, and battery replacement. – Runs multiple tests, including mode 6 testing. – The graphing capabilities produced by the two-way nature of the NT650 help you to really get down to the key issues with your car. |
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| Coverage: The compatible cars depends on the system. For example, the ABS/SRS works with 58 car makes. The oil reset works for 49 car makes. TPMS adaptation works for 32 car makes. And the DPF regeneration works for 33 car makes. | |
| Target user: best for DIYers and expert mechanics who want an affordable bi-directional scanner that will last. | |
| Autel Maxisys MS906BT
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Feature: -Supports long-distance work.
-Bluetooth transmission through the HDMI and USB ports of the MS906BT allow you to communicate with your car from anywhere. -The Exynos 5260 6-core processor inside the MS906BT ensures ultra-fast speed from any distance. -Comes with an 8-megapixel camera – Comes with significant memory for storing a ton of data |
| Function: – Data logging capability ensures problem is solved correctly.
– Reads AutoVIN technology -Resets and professional diagnostics include oil reset, TPMS, EPB, actuation testing, SAS calibration, SRS, APB, and DPF. -ECU coding is available, but only for Mercedes and BMW. |
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| Coverage: works for over 80 car brands and manufacturers. | |
| Target user: for both professional mechanics and DIYers. | |
| Foxwell NT530
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Features: –Delivers OE-level diagnosis for different car brands and supports the most commonly required service and coding features.
-Is a low-cost handheld scan tool -Lifetime Free Update -1-Year Warranty -Lifetime Free Technical Support |
| Functions: All system diagnostics, all special functions. One car’s function is different from that of another one. | |
| Coverage: Dozens of car brands worldwide incl. BMW, VAG, Mercedes, Porsche, Aston Martin etc, 1 car free as default, pay 60usd-80usd to add up to 5 car brands. | |
| Target user: ideal for specialist garages and car enthusiasts. | |
| Foxwell NT510 Elite
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Features: -All electronically controlled systems, All service reset functions, plus many more advanced features such as bi-directional component actuations and module coding.
-Lifetime Free Update -1-Year Warranty -Lifetime Free Technical Support |
| Function: Performs basic functions such as codes and live data
-Capable of advanced functions such as actuation, adaptation and programming. -Access the most commonly required service features such as oil service light reset, throttle body adjustment, DPF regeneration and much more. |
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| Coverage: Read and erase engine fault codes and show live engine data on EOBD compliant cars (nearly all 2001+ petrol cars and 2004+ diesel cars, from any car manufacturer).Comes with one software for free, able to add extra software by purchasig license | |
| Target user: the most cost-effective professional bi-directional scan tool for enthusiasts, small garages, independent repairs , specialized garages and technicians. | |
| Autel AL619
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Features: -Affordable,
-Really easy to use -Free updates for a lifetime and 1 year warranty. A micro SD card is required to perform updates
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| Function: –Generic codes, manufacturer specific codes, and pending codes all present themselves in this affordable model. And the AL619 explains the meaning of those codes
-Clears most all MIL’s, including ABS and SRS lights. Clearing and reading codes regularly work for most models, with resets available for all of your car’s major systems. –The bidirectional function also allows you to check faults with your car’s airbag and SRS system. Other tests this cheap bidirectional scan tool can run include I/M readiness testing, O2 sensor testing, and EVAP testing. -Mode 08 tests are also compatible with the AL619. Freeze frame data posts live on the screen and is analyzed through easy to read graphs. The AL619 then stores the data for future access. Data and graphs easily print from your personal computer as well. |
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| Coverage: Most car brands built past 1996, but only about 50 of those brands support the clearing of ABS and SRS codes. | |
| Target User: Beginners and home mechanics will love the AL619 with clear listing of code definitions, free lifetime updates, and affordable pricing. |
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