Purchasing a used Snap-On MT2500 OBD scanner for older vehicles, specifically 1999 models, raises important questions about its capabilities and relevance today. Many enthusiasts and DIY mechanics, focused on maintaining classic rides without breaking the bank, find themselves in this exact situation. Let’s address some common concerns for those considering using a Snap-On MT2500, sometimes referred to as “the brick,” for their 1999 vehicles.
A primary question is whether the MT2500, even with its latest software and cartridge updates available at the time of its support, can effectively diagnose 1999 vehicles. For owners of vehicles like a 1999 Chevy Blazer ZR2 or a 1999 Chevy Astro, the good news is generally yes. These vehicles fall well within the operational scope of the MT2500, especially when equipped with the appropriate cartridges. While Snap-on no longer officially supports the MT2500 with updates, its capabilities for OBDII compliant vehicles, which includes 1999 models, remain functional.
Understanding the update process is crucial, although it’s important to acknowledge that official updates from Snap-on are discontinued. Historically, updates involved software or firmware upgrades, potentially through EPROMs or cartridges. The MT2500 often came with reference manuals, sometimes including a GM specific manual, which could provide general guidance, but detailed upgrade instructions might be harder to come by now. Online forums and communities dedicated to automotive diagnostics can be valuable resources for user-shared knowledge on legacy scanner updates.
To ensure comprehensive diagnostics for 1999 vehicles, particularly for models like the Chevy Blazer and Astro, selecting the correct cartridges is essential. For thorough coverage, consider cartridges focusing on primary systems, transmission diagnostics, troubleshooting (T/S), and OBDII functionalities. Identifying the precise part numbers for these cartridges might require consulting older Snap-on documentation or expert communities familiar with the MT2500 system. It’s worth noting that finding these cartridges used might be the most practical approach given the age of the scanner.
For individuals committed to maintaining older vehicles and uninterested in the features of modern, expensive scanners, the Snap-On MT2500 can still be a valuable tool. Its robust design and focused functionality for OBDII and earlier systems make it a practical choice for diagnosing issues on 1999 and similar aged vehicles. While it may lack the advanced features of contemporary scanners, its core diagnostic capabilities can be more than sufficient for many DIY automotive repair tasks on older Chevy trucks and vans.
