For car enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, having a reliable OBD2 scanner is indispensable. When it comes to automotive expertise and no-nonsense advice, mechanic Scotty Kilmer is a name that resonates with many. Known for his YouTube channel and decades of experience, Kilmer often emphasizes the importance of using the right tools for car repair. If you’re in the market for an OBD2 scanner in the $500 to $1000 range, you’re likely looking for a tool that offers more than just basic code reading. You need bi-directional capabilities, advanced features, and reliability. While brands like Foxwell are also prominent in the OBD scanner market, let’s delve into some of the top contenders in this price bracket, some of which have even caught Scotty Kilmer’s attention.
This article will explore several scan tools that offer a significant step up from entry-level devices, providing in-depth diagnostic capabilities and features that can save you time and money. We’ll examine tools from Innova, XTool, and Autel, offering a detailed look at their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Innova 7111: The User-Friendly Tablet Scanner
The Innova 7111, priced around $700 but often found for less, stands out as a tablet-based scan tool designed for ease of use and readability. If you appreciate larger screens and intuitive navigation, the 7111 is worth considering.
Pros:
- Larger Screen: The tablet format provides ample screen real estate, making it easier to read diagnostic data and navigate menus.
- Wired and Wireless Connectivity: Offers both traditional cable connection and Bluetooth, providing flexibility during diagnostics, especially for road testing.
- Faster Performance: Compared to cheaper models, the 7111 boasts a faster processor and more memory, leading to quicker diagnostics and smoother operation.
- Reputable Brand: Innova is a well-established US-based company known for its reliable diagnostic tools and customer support. They handle research, development, and design in California, offering a different experience compared to some overseas manufacturers.
- Wide Availability: Innova products are readily available at major auto parts retailers across the US and Canada, including AutoZone, O’Reilly’s, and Canadian Tire.
Cons:
- Feature Parity with Cheaper Models: While offering a better user experience, the core features and vehicle coverage are similar to Innova’s less expensive 5610 handheld scanner.
- No OBDI Adapter Option: Unlike the 5610, the 7111 does not support older OBDI adapters, limiting its use on pre-1996 vehicles.
- No Module Programming: Like many scanners in this price range, the 7111 does not offer module programming capabilities.
- Free Updates Less Common: While Innova once offered lifetime updates on many tools, this is becoming less frequent, and future updates might incur costs.
Scotty Kilmer’s Take & Innova: It’s worth noting that when considering brands like Innova, it’s always wise to do your research. As mentioned in the original article, resources like carkiller.com (referencing Scotty Kilmer) can provide further insights and potentially cautionary advice before purchasing.
XTool D Series: Feature-Packed Bi-Directional Scanners
For mechanics seeking maximum functionality for their money, the XTool D7 ($478), D8 ($699-$769), and A80 ($849) are strong contenders. These tools, from a relatively newer Chinese company, have quickly gained attention for packing high-end features into affordable packages. Scotty Kilmer himself has reviewed the XTool D8, as seen in this YouTube review, acknowledging its impressive capabilities.
XTool D7 Pros:
- Unbeatable Price for Bi-Directional Capability: At under $500, the D7 offers bi-directional controls, a feature typically found in more expensive scanners.
- Extensive Bi-Directional Functions: Includes tests for EVAP, fuel pump, fuel injector, A/C clutch, cooling fan, EGR, window/door locks, and more.
- Key Fob Programming: A rare feature in this price range, allowing for key programming on certain vehicles.
- Special Functions: Supports Cam/Crank Sensors Relearn, Idle Relearn, Zero-Point Calibration, Fuel Trim Reset, and more.
- Compatibility with Newer Protocols: Supports 8+12 Cable Adapter for newer Chrysler vehicles and CAN FD Adapter for newer GM vehicles (adapters sold separately).
- Solid Warranty and Updates: Comes with a 2-year hardware warranty and 3 years of free software updates (renewable at $99/year).
- Positive Reviews: The Car Care Nut, a respected Toyota Master Technician, has given the D7 a positive review on YouTube (D7 Review).
XTool D7 Cons:
- No ECU Reflash/Reprogramming: Cannot perform advanced ECU reflashing or reprogramming.
- “Too Good to Be True” Factor: The extensive features at a low price point might raise concerns about long-term reliability or support.
- Tethered Connection: Requires a cable connection to the vehicle’s OBDII port.
- China-Based Company: Support and warranty claims may involve communication and potential shipping to China.
- Company Longevity: As a newer company, the long-term presence and support from XTool are less certain compared to established brands.
XTool D8 Pros (Building on D7):
- ECU Coding: Adds ECU coding capabilities for more advanced customization and repairs.
- Improved Hardware: Features an 8MP camera, faster processor, more memory, larger battery, and a bigger 8″ screen compared to the D7.
- Wireless Connectivity: Offers Bluetooth connectivity for wireless diagnostics.
- Even More Bi-Directional Functions: Expands on the already extensive bi-directional capabilities of the D7.
XTool D8 Cons (Mirrors D7):
- No ECU Reflash/Reprogramming.
- “Too Good to Be True” Factor.
- China-Based Company.
- Company Longevity.
XTool A80 Pros (Building on D8):
- Older Vehicle Compatibility: Includes connector packages to support diagnostics on older vehicles without OBD-16 ports.
- All Features of D8.
XTool A80 Cons (Mirrors D8):
- “Too Good to Be True” Factor.
- China-Based Company.
- Company Longevity.
Contacting XTool for Compatibility: To ensure full compatibility and feature support for your specific vehicle, XTool recommends emailing them at [email protected].
Autel MaxiCheck MX900: Bi-Directional Capability from a Trusted Brand
Autel is another well-respected name in automotive diagnostics. The MaxiCheck MX900 is a newer addition to their lineup, positioned between the MX808 and MS960S. Priced around $559, it offers bi-directional capabilities in a user-friendly, corded tablet format.
Autel MaxiCheck MX900 Pros:
- Bi-Directional Control: Offers active tests and special functions, enabling component testing and system diagnostics beyond basic code reading.
- Extensive Service Functions: Provides over 40 service and maintenance functions, including DPF regeneration, SAS reset, oil light reset, battery registration, and brake bleed.
- Updated Hardware: Features a faster processor, more memory, longer battery life, and Android 11 OS compared to the MX808.
- Reputable Brand: Autel is a well-known and trusted brand in the automotive diagnostic industry, known for quality and support.
- Pre & Post Scan: Supports pre- and post-scan diagnostics for comprehensive vehicle health assessments.
- Modern Protocol Support: Compatible with DoIP and CAN FD protocols for newer vehicles.
Autel MaxiCheck MX900 Cons:
- Tethered Connection: Like the MX808, it is corded and does not offer Bluetooth connectivity.
- No Advanced Features: Does not include topology mapping, remote expert functions, module programming, or Bluetooth.
- One Year of Updates: Includes one year of software updates, with subsequent updates requiring a paid subscription.
Scotty Kilmer’s Take & Autel: Similar to Innova, it’s always prudent to research user experiences with Autel products. Resources like carkiller.com (again referencing Scotty Kilmer’s community discussions) can offer valuable perspectives before you invest.
Foxwell and the OBD2 Scanner Landscape
While Foxwell wasn’t specifically highlighted in the original article, it’s a brand many consider when looking at OBD2 scanners. Foxwell offers a range of scanners, some of which compete in the same price range as the tools discussed. Like XTool, Foxwell often emphasizes feature-rich tools at competitive prices. When comparing brands like Foxwell, XTool, Innova, and Autel, consider:
- Specific Features Needed: Do you prioritize bi-directional control, ECU coding, or specialized functions?
- Brand Reputation and Support: Are you more comfortable with established brands like Innova and Autel, or are you willing to consider newer brands like XTool and Foxwell for potentially more features at a lower price?
- Update Costs: Understand the update policies and costs for each brand beyond the initial free period.
- User Reviews and Community Feedback: Look for reviews from mechanics and users to gauge real-world performance and reliability. Scotty Kilmer’s community and other automotive forums can be valuable resources.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Scanner for Your Needs
Selecting the best OBD2 scanner in the $500-$1000 range depends on your specific needs and priorities.
- For User-Friendliness and Brand Trust: The Innova 7111 offers a comfortable tablet experience from a reputable US company, though with feature parity to cheaper models.
- For Maximum Features at a Lower Price: The XTool D7, D8, and A80 series provide exceptional bi-directional capabilities and advanced features for the money, making them compelling options despite being from a newer, China-based company. Scotty Kilmer’s reviews of XTool products highlight their potential value.
- For a Balance of Features and Brand Reputation: The Autel MaxiCheck MX900 delivers bi-directional control and extensive service functions from a trusted brand, albeit with a corded connection and a higher price point than the XTool D7.
Before making a final decision, consider watching Scotty Kilmer’s videos and exploring discussions within his online community and other automotive forums. Understanding the experiences of other mechanics and users can help you choose the OBD2 scanner that best fits your needs and ensures you have the right tool for the job. And while Foxwell is another player in this market, the tools highlighted here represent some of the strongest contenders currently available.
