For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, understanding the health of your vehicle is paramount. In 2018, as modern cars became increasingly complex with onboard computer systems, the need for effective car diagnostic scanners grew significantly. While a basic, budget-friendly Bluetooth ELM 327 dongle paired with a smartphone app might seem appealing, it often falls short when it comes to comprehensive diagnostics. These entry-level options are generally limited to OBDII systems and won’t provide insights into non-OBDII systems, such as specific oil level readings beyond sensor fault codes. To truly delve into the intricate systems of your car, especially beyond basic OBDII data, you needed to explore more advanced diagnostic tools in 2018.
Stepping up from basic OBDII readers, tools like Autel’s DiagLink emerged as a more capable, yet still affordable option in 2018. Priced around $90-$100, the DiagLink offered deeper diagnostics but with a specific focus: it typically worked with only one car brand out of the box. This scanner came with a single, brand-specific software license, downloadable from Autel. For individuals loyal to a particular car manufacturer, the DiagLink presented a cost-effective solution for accessing advanced functions like resetting oil change lights or managing electric parking brakes – features often unavailable in generic OBDII scanners within the same price range. While expanding its capabilities to other car brands was possible through additional software purchases from Autel (around $10 per brand), the DiagLink was best suited for single-brand households in 2018.
For those needing a more versatile diagnostic tool in 2018, especially for households with multiple car brands or for professional use, the Autel MD806 stood out as a strong contender. Around the $200 price point, the MD806 offered multi-brand compatibility without the need for separate software downloads for each brand. Often considered internally similar in hardware to the DiagLink, the MD806’s strength lay in its comprehensive software suite, allowing it to interface with non-OBDII data across various manufacturers. Furthermore, the inclusion of “lifetime” software updates (within the practical support lifespan of the device) added significant value, ensuring the tool remained relevant and capable for years after 2018. For DIYers and even some professional technicians, the Autel MD806 represented a sweet spot in 2018, balancing advanced diagnostic capabilities with a reasonable investment, making it one of the best car diagnostic scanner options available for comprehensive car care.
In conclusion, finding the best car diagnostic scanner in 2018 depended heavily on individual needs and budget. For basic OBDII checks, simple scanners sufficed. However, for deeper diagnostics, especially into non-OBDII systems, tools like the Autel DiagLink (for single brands) and MD806 (for multi-brands) offered significantly enhanced capabilities and were considered top choices in their respective categories for car owners seeking reliable and comprehensive vehicle diagnostics in 2018.
