The Carly car scanner has gained popularity among car enthusiasts for its promise of advanced diagnostics and vehicle customization. However, after personal experience, it’s important to share a word of caution for those considering this device. In essence, the Carly scanner appears to offer functionality that is surprisingly basic, particularly when weighed against its cost. While it does provide the ability to unlock certain features on some German-made vehicles, its core capabilities largely mirror those of a generic, inexpensive OBD reader. It raises the question: does Carly really offer anything beyond what a budget-friendly £10 OBDII scanner from online marketplaces can achieve?
The primary concern isn’t necessarily the scanner’s limited functionality itself, but rather the business model surrounding it. While the purchase includes the OBD reader, the ongoing cost lies in a mandatory annual subscription. Initially, the subscription model might seem acceptable, but the crucial detail often overlooked is the automatic renewal policy. Many users, including myself, have been caught off guard by unexpected subscription renewals. In my case, the renewal charge of £125 was processed automatically through PayPal without prior notification beyond the terms hidden in the fine print. Contacting Carly support to dispute the charge led to them citing “German law” and a rigid policy requiring cancellation at least one month prior to the renewal date.
This situation was particularly frustrating as it occurred during a period of paternity leave, a time when unexpected expenses are especially unwelcome. Feeling that £125 had been wasted on a product that underperformed expectations was disheartening. A complaint has been lodged with PayPal in an attempt to reverse the charge, although the outcome remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the Carly car scanner presents itself as a premium product, but its actual capabilities seem rather rudimentary. The app interface is visually appealing, but the underlying functionality doesn’t appear to justify the high cost, especially when compared to readily available and significantly cheaper alternatives. The automatic subscription renewal system feels less like a customer-centric service and more like a predatory business practice. Despite being generally cautious with subscriptions, the automatic renewal clause was easily missed. Potential buyers should be acutely aware of this renewal policy and carefully consider if the basic functionality offered by Carly warrants the ongoing expense.
