Looking to find a good, home mechanic type scan tool

As stated, I'm a home mechanic that is dragging myself kickin and cussin into the 21st century and wanting to get suggestions on a good scan tool to keep myself out of repair shops. Been wrenching for 40 years but I finally need to get a better handle on current tech. I don't do what I do for money, I just do it for my own vehicles and some friends vehicles so don't want to spend a fortune on the latest and greatest just something that's fairly comprehensive, with features that you yourself would want if you're a home mechanic. Keep in mind I know virtually nothing about who makes what. Let me hear your thoughts and recommendations please! Thanks

I just bought a Fixd - but have not tried it yet. Still need to download the app. Seemed like this was a pretty well-rated device. Can anyone confirm this?

I have a bosch scanner that goes up to about 2015 maybe newer, would have to check. Also does OBD 1. IF interested PM me and I'll get model number and more info for you.

I bought the one in the link below from Harbor Freight. It will read OBD2 codes and also clear them. I had a misfire code that was driving me nuts trying to diagnose on my wife's Saturn Vue. I hate fooling with new stuff too, but was getting to the point of being ashamed of keep asking my friends with a scanner to check something. I know it's from Horrible Freight.....but it is a good tool and works great for me.

https://www.harborfreight.com/zr13s-obd2-code-reader-with-abssrsfixassist-57666.html

We have used the Autel scan tools for several years now. They have a full line, are available on Ebag and Amazon, have free updates, and start at about $20. Of course you can spend $1,500+ for one if you want to...................

Lots of choices, depending on how much you want to do. I would recommend one that would be able to do OBDII and ABS. A TPMS scan tool is handy now a days, too.

Autel MaxiLink ML619 CAN OBD2 Scanner Code Reader +ABS/SRS Diagnostic Scan Tool

The cheap ones run simple codes, but you need one that explains ALL codes . Air bags, traction control etc.

Secondhand outdated scanners are cheap on the tool trucks. Most are more powerful than any home mechanic needs.

Just need to know what years the programming does and what years the vehicles are.

Before making a decision on used 'tool truck' scan tools, be SURE to ask about the need and cost of updates.

really depends on what you are working on.

For my BMW I use Bimmerlink, only thing I got with a computer.

For Mopars AlfaOBD has great reviews, 1994-2023 coverage

https://www.alfaobd.com/

"The AlfaOBD features include:

monitoring various dynamic parameters of engine, transmission, body, dash, ABS, climate control, etc., and graphical presentation as adjustable plots
reading of the static data: ECU id, system status, fault codes (DTC) with probable causes and environment information (freeze frames) where applicable
clearing of fault (DTC) codes, monitoring the system for the occurence of new faults
active diagnostics and configuration procedures for various equipment controlled by the ECUs. Service light reset, engine oil change, DPF regeneration, ABS bleed, air suspension maintenance, transmission calibration procedures, and many more.
electronic key and RF remote control programming on some vehicle models
adjustment of the car configuration with the ability to activate the newly installed equipment in the Body computer configuration, the Proxy alignment."

Uses the same OBD dongle my Bimmerlink does

If you wants some universal covers every thing option, I have used these guys

https://www.innova.com/pages/repairsolutions2-app

I searched for years and could not figure out what to buy. So about a year ago I bought a Zurich Pro from harbor freight for $800. They don't make them new anymore, but they seem to have a bunch of them reconditioned.

The bad part is there is very little to no support. The good news is it has a ton of capability for the money. If I bought an Autel with the same capability I would of paid several times more. It seems to be perfect for my home shop use.

https://www.harborfreight.com/zr-pr...scanner-factory-reconditioned-57917.html

get one with a 2 channel scope integrated into the software. The scope function is definitely a help with the diagnostic process instead of throwing the parts cannon at your vehicle.

This^^^^ You may not think you need it now but eventually you'll buy or need to work on something newer and your scan tool ends up being outdated. You want something that reads all modules not just engine controls.....everything lives on the can bus...you'll want access to all of it including modes 1-10 on the generic OBDII side for checking raw data and monitor status.

Same applies to most any "OBd2" scanner Limited access and no datastrem

How deep does a hobbyist get?

I picked up an ancient OTC Monitor 400 to work on my pre OBD2 stuff, 100 bucks. Obsolete and no upgrades available. Currently I also have a Bosch Mastertech, last updated 2010. Works on everything we need but obviously not fully functional on newer stuff. It can be updated but why?

Thanks a bunch guys for your opinions, good info here, I have a better idea of where I'm going, lots to think over and research 👌