I have trouble reading, sorting and processing through a lot of information, so I was hoping you guys could clear some muddy waters. I have been getting into much more advanced repairs for myself, friends and family her at my home shop. I have been getting by with my cheap OBD2 adapter and torque pro, and also have some VX diag stuff (Ford IDS and GM TechII/MDS). Both of those stop at year 2014, which is really starting to limit me.
I am looking at some if the newer scan tools, possibly with programming capability. I know I for sure want coding ability.
I don't know that i care about subscription cost, as long as the tool works 100% up to the year the current subscriptions expire, although it could be a deciding factor if models are close. I am willing to spend upwards of $2250, however if a cheaper tool will do what I need it to, that is the route I'd like to take. Here are a few things I am currently running into that need the tool to do
*Obvious simple code reading/clearing and live data
*Need to do a transmission relearn on a 2013 Subaru
*Need to do a CAM position sensor relearn on a 2015 Town and Country minivan
*Need to do ABS bleed procedures on several vehicles
*Need to reset adaptive shift points on a 2014 Suburban
*Need to operate an EVAP system (purge valve) on an 08 chevy for a smoke test
*Need to perform forced regen on newer diesel engines
*need to replace an airbag module on a 2014 suburban
*need to command a fuel pump on an 06 F350 (clone IDS does this, but want the bi-directional control on the newer tool)
Just a small sample. What about programming? I understand some models have the J2534 pass through, and that programming requires a manufacturer subscription. Are these tools capable of a wide range of vehicle programming? (I see some seem limited to just BMW)
East of use depends on cost, I would prefer a newer OS, and possibly bluetooth for ease of use but if I can get an older hardwire model for half price, it would be hard to justify the convenience.
Scope features, I want to add and learn more auto oscilloscope diagnosing techniques, I can purchase a stand alone for this in the future, but would spend a bit more for a unit that had some capability.
TPMS stuff, I have tire machines and get into a fair amount of tire work, would be nice to program TPMS sensors, however it looks like a lot of guys go with a dedicated tool for this. Once again would spend a little more for the capability.
