How to Choose a Universal Diagnostic Tool?

Car diagnostics are an essential part of car maintenance and repair in this day and age. With the increasing complexity of electronics in cars, it became almost necessary to have a reliable scan tool for diagnostics and repairs. Whether you own a workshop or just a few cars from different brands at home, universal scan tools are a safe bet.

iCarsoft - Affordable and Universal Scan Tools (ca. 300€ +)

iCarsoft diagnostics offers support for the vast majority of cars manufactured up to 2020. This applies to the CR Pro+, CR Max, and CR Max BT devices, which we recommend for home use by DIY enthusiasts who like working on their cars. The CR Eagle diagnostic tool offers extra features, including support for cars manufactured up to 2022, full TPMS features, and premium accessories - all included with the device. CR Ultra is the flagship model, extending support to cars manufactured up to 2024, making it an offering with the widest coverage of cars in iCarsoft's portfolio.

iCarsoft scan tools support multiple languages and offer free lifetime updates.

-> Complete iCarsoft product range

Launch Multi-Brand Diagnostics (ca. 500€ +)

One of the most popular brands on the market, Launch has been operating worldwide for several decades and their models are capable of working with the latest cars. Launch devices have gained popularity thanks to their robust suite of features for a reasonable price and the free 2 years of updates you get with each device.

Launch diagnostics support reading and deleting of DTCs, live data display, actuator tests, and adaptations. You can also use it to trigger manual DPF regeneration, bleed the ABS, reset the electronic parking brake, and many other functions.

The two best-selling models now also support ECU coding and offer excellent value for money, making them ideal for DIY enthusiasts and smaller workshops. These are the Launch X431 CRP919X BT with wireless connectivity and the Launch X431 PROS Elite, which connects to the vehicle via a cable.

Wireless connectivity is also offered by other diagnostic tools with an 8-inch display, such as the Launch X431 PROS V5.0 and Launch X431 PRO DYNO.

More expensive models with larger displays, wireless connectivity, control unit topology view, and the option of expanding to heavy duty vehicle diagnostics are the Launch X431 V+ and Launch X431 PRO3 APEX.

We also offer some of the most powerful diagnostic tools that support the PassThru J2534 protocol thanks to the Smartlink C 2.0 communication interface, allowing you to use them in conjunction with OEM software from VW, BMW, Mercedes, and others. These are the Launch X431 V+ Elite, Lauch X431 Pro 5 and Launch X431 PAD VII models.

-> Complete Launch product range (online distribution)

Autel Multi-Brand Diagnostics (ca. 500€ +)

Like Launch, Autel supports cars up to the present day and offers a wide range of diagnostic and service features. You get one year of free updates with every Autel purchase.
The MaxiCOM range offer a wide suite of features, but does not support control unit coding – except for injectors. MaxiPRO models feature control unit coding, and the MaxiSYS line offers PassThru J2534 protocol support for connection to OEM software and the widest range of diagnostic and service functions.

A major advantage of Autel devices is the option to purchase SGW and SFD packages, which give you secure access to VAG and Stellantis group vehicles or Mercedes and Renault brands.

Our best-selling models are the MK900 and MP900 with an 8-inch display. We also offer the TS series models that include advanced TPMS features, including sensor programming and learning, such as the MK900TS or MP900TS. Autel's flagship models are the MaxiSYS Elite II Pro, MaxiSYS Ultra Lite and MaxiSYS Ultra.

-> Complete Autel product range (online distribution)
-> Complete Autel Europe product range

Other Scan Tool Brands

Otofix is a spin-off brand of Autel and offers similar features with a slimmer and more portable design.

MaxiEcu 3 is a comprehensive solution for almost all car brands. The app can be connected to a mobile phone or a laptop with a wireless adapter. MaxiEcu is also one of the few brands that offer unlimited lifetime licences. We have several variants available - 1 or 2 brands, doesn't matter if you have a specialised shop or are simply a fan of one or two car makes. Other options are packages for European, Asian, American or for all car brands that MaxiEcu supports.