In many fields of technology Europe leads the world and the automotive industry is no different. Led by greater expectations of vehicle comfort and safety set by a competitive European car market. European automotive repairers are constantly upgrading and have a choice of three types of diagnostic tools: OBD-II generic, OBD-II Specialist and factory scan tools. Every OEM has its own factory scan tool. These tools can be extremely expensive to maintain software and hardware. General workshops that also repair late model European, will purchase either an OBD-II generic code reader, or already have an older specialist aftermarket scan tool. Cost is a driver here and some will “make do” with one basic diagnostic tool to cater the needs of their workshop.
Code readers are “Generic OBD-II mostly limited to ECM (PCM) or Engine Emission information,” Specialist aftermarket scan tools provide specific information on the vehicle’s computer modules. You get access to more than just engine data, such as transmission, ABS, SRS (airbags), HVAC and more. Some high-end European cars such as VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, etc can have on board more than 100 modules controlled by multiplex CAN bus gateway modules. Some using fibre optics for speed of light data communication. Onboard monitoring in real time using algorithm logic processors providing enhanced automotive intelligence.
Aftermarket Specialist diagnostic scan tools may provide some, or similar functionalities as a factory tool, providing access to OEM-specific information. The hard part is for the workshop owner to decide what Diagnostic tool option provides the best “Bang for Buck”. In some cases, the general automotive workshop can get by with OBDII generic data, but more often when a late model European car drives in will also need OEM specialist information and bi-directional functions and testing as required. Bi-directional actuator tests allow the user to complete a range of actions on the vehicle, via the specialist scan tool. Examples are turning on headlights, switching fans on, Wipers etc.
After using the specialist diagnostic tool with bi-directional adjustments, or coding, some functions of the vehicle will be different than before you connected to it. Your making computer adjustments to the vehicle and some functions include reprogramming. When you fit a replacement component in, it needs to be relearned, which is a factory-level function. The only way to fix something if the program goes bad, is to reprogram it! Some diagnostic scanners such as genuine Launch can copy, delete OEM files, and replace the files on a vehicle’s computer, if that file is defective.(VAG) VW, Audi, Skoda
Some examples of what is required for advanced repairs.
• Read ECU Identification – displays the control module identification string, the control module coding.
• Check DTC Memory – displays all current diagnostic trouble codes present.
• Actuator Tests – activates different actuator tests.
•Basic Setting – performs a Basic Setting, block number channel range (000-256).
•Clear DTC Memory – clears any existing trouble codes.
• Stop Communication—stops the communication.
• Coding – changes the existing control module coding by entering new coding values.
• 08-Read Measuring Value Block – displays measuring value blocks after entering a valid block number.
• Adaptation – changes adaptation values from the control module.
• Login Request – performs a login request to the control module after entering a valid login code.
• 15-Check Readiness Code Setting – displays a readiness code.
• Security Access – performs a security access function.
Our latest high-end genuine Launch scanners can carry out a range of advanced functions.
Are you looking at replacing or adding a current scanner? Ask yourself these questions: Do you want an OBD-II generic, and OBD-II specialised, or a factory scan tool? What would you like to be able to do with your scan tool? Do you want complete Local, Asian and European, USA coverage? Have you turned away, or do you avoid certain makes of cars or types of repair due to lack of equipment or knowledge?
All our Launch scanners are NOT OBD code readers posing as scanners, like some other scanners on the market. They not only read fault codes and clear, but reset service lights, code injectors, Airbags, key reprogramming, throttle bodies etc. transmission adaptions, which include Audi, VW, Skoda channel codes and advanced service procedures. Call us to find out more details and of course we can provide finance for the cost of what you would make from one diagnostic scan per week. Based on finance on the latest genuine Launch X431 PAD V set over two years. It just makes sense.
WARNING NOTICE: We have switched off some launch scanners in the last few months bought from illegal channels. Do NOT buy from companies on Trade Me and those running around trying to sell Launch pretending to be genuine will be dealt with by head office. If they are claiming they are a NZ master dealer get the scanner serial number and let us know. We can verify it. Warning we may switch off any scanner purchased through illegal channels. The last thing you want to do is buy a tool which fails to work as described or find it’s a clone and cannot be registered / repaired / supported. Here at LaunchNZ we are only a phone call away. All enquiries please call Vince: 021 241 4885 for quick response.
By Vince Ainsworth
Director Quantum Mechanics Ltd and Launchtechnz
