When it comes to modern vehicle maintenance, understanding your car’s health beyond the basics is crucial. While a simple OBDII scanner can read standard diagnostic codes, accessing deeper data like oil levels and non-OBDII system information requires a more advanced tool. In 2021, selecting the right car scanner means investing in equipment that provides comprehensive diagnostics without breaking the bank.
Understanding OBDII Limitations for Oil Level Checks
Basic, low-cost OBDII scanners, often paired with smartphone apps and ELM 327 Bluetooth dongles, are popular for reading generic fault codes. However, these tools are intentionally limited. They are designed to access only standardized OBDII data, which unfortunately does not include parameters like oil level. While an OBDII system might register a fault code if an oil level sensor malfunctions, it won’t directly display your current oil level. For this, you need a scanner capable of communicating with your car’s broader computer network, beyond the mandated OBDII protocols. Brands like VeePeak clearly state that their scanners are OBDII focused and do not offer non-OBDII system access.
Advanced Car Scanners for Comprehensive Diagnostics
To truly delve into your vehicle’s diagnostics, including accessing oil level readings and interacting with systems outside the OBDII scope, you’ll need to step up to a more sophisticated car scanner. These advanced tools can communicate using proprietary protocols and access manufacturer-specific data.
Autel DiagLink: A Brand-Specific Solution
For car owners dedicated to a single brand, the Autel DiagLink emerges as a cost-effective entry point into advanced diagnostics. Priced around $90-$100, the DiagLink stands out by offering non-OBDII access, typically unavailable at this price. The catch? It’s designed to work deeply with only one car brand. You choose your brand during setup, downloading the specific software from Autel. This software unlocks advanced functions like resetting oil change lights and operating electronic parking brakes – features beyond basic OBDII scanners. While expanding to other brands is possible via additional software purchases (around $10 per brand), the DiagLink shines brightest for single-brand households. If brand loyalty is your game, the DiagLink provides significant diagnostic power for the price.
Autel MD806: Multi-Brand Versatility
If your garage houses vehicles from multiple manufacturers, or you anticipate working on different brands, the Autel MD806 presents a compelling multi-brand solution. Around the $200 mark, the MD806 offers broader compatibility than the DiagLink. While likely sharing similar internal hardware with its single-brand sibling, the MD806 utilizes software that supports multiple car brands without requiring separate downloads for each. Furthermore, it boasts “lifetime” software updates, ensuring your tool remains relevant for years (though “lifetime” typically refers to the product’s support lifespan, not literal eternity). The MD806 hits a sweet spot for DIY enthusiasts and home mechanics. It delivers the diagnostic depth needed for a wide range of tasks across various car brands, without the prohibitive cost of professional-grade equipment. For comprehensive capability and lasting value, the Autel MD806 is a strong contender for the best car scanner in 2021 for multi-brand use.
Conclusion
Choosing the “best” car scanner in 2021 depends heavily on your specific needs and budget. If you’re brand-loyal and seek advanced diagnostics for a single make, the Autel DiagLink offers remarkable value. However, for multi-brand flexibility and broader diagnostic reach, the Autel MD806 stands out as a top recommendation. Both Autel options represent significant upgrades over basic OBDII scanners, empowering you to understand and maintain your vehicles more effectively.
