For automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, having a reliable car scanner is indispensable. The Innova CarScan 31703 emerges as a robust and versatile tool, adept at diagnosing a wide range of vehicle issues. This scanner isn’t just another OBD2 device; it extends its capabilities to older OBD1 systems and delves into ABS and SRS diagnostics, making it a comprehensive solution for various car problems. Whether you’re tackling a check engine light or diving into more complex system checks, the Innova CarScan 31703 is engineered to provide accurate and insightful results.
Unpacking the Power: Key Features and Benefits of the Innova 31703
The Innova CarScan 31703 is packed with features designed to streamline the diagnostic process and provide users with in-depth vehicle health insights. Let’s explore the functionalities that set this car scanner apart:
- Extensive Code Coverage: This Innova scanner excels in retrieving enhanced and transmission diagnostic codes across all OBD2 compliant vehicles (1996 and newer) and many popular OBD1 vehicles (1981 to 1995). This broad compatibility ensures you’re equipped to diagnose a wide spectrum of vehicles, old and new.
- ABS and SRS Diagnostics: Beyond standard engine codes, the CarScan 31703 offers Read and Erase capabilities for ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) codes on most 1996 and newer Chrysler, GM, Ford, Toyota, and Honda vehicles. This feature is crucial for safety system maintenance and repair.
- Comprehensive OBD2 Modes: Featuring all 10 modes of OBD2 testing, including bi-directional EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System) testing, this scanner provides complete OBD2 system analysis.
- Live Data Graphing: Monitor your vehicle’s performance in real-time with live data graphing. The CarScan 31703 displays, records, and plays back OBD2 live data, allowing for detailed analysis of sensor readings and system behavior.
- Automatic Data Refresh: While connected to the vehicle, the scanner automatically refreshes data every 30 seconds. This feature is invaluable for verifying repair completion and observing system changes in real-time.
- Patented All-in-One Display: Innova’s unique backlit screen, combined with a three-color LED display, offers a quick and intuitive state emissions readiness check. This visual system simplifies understanding your vehicle’s emission status.
- Professional Reporting Software: Included professional shop software enables you to print and manage vehicle diagnostic reports. This feature is particularly useful for professional mechanics needing to document and share diagnostic findings.
- Inspection and Maintenance Monitors: With 15 inspection maintenance monitor coverage options, the CarScan 31703 helps verify that repairs have been completed correctly and that the vehicle has completed its drive cycle.
- Versatile Code Display: The scanner displays generic (PO, P2, P3, and UO) and manufacturer-specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, including global, pending, and permanent codes. It also identifies the code that triggered freeze frame data, offering a complete picture of the issue.
- Freeze Frame Data: Capture a snapshot of vehicle conditions when a code is set with freeze frame data display. This multiple P.I.D. snapshot is crucial for understanding the context of the fault.
- Internet Updatable: Keep your Innova CarScan tool current with internet updates, ensuring compatibility with future vehicle makes and models.
- Memory Backup: The memory/battery backup allows for off-car review and analysis of diagnostic data, providing flexibility and convenience.
- RepairSolutions Access: Gain access to pro.innova.com RepairSolutions, a comprehensive online resource providing trouble code definitions, full diagnostic reports, probable causes, recall information, TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins), and likely fixes for DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).
- Warranty and Support: Enjoy peace of mind with a full one-year warranty and dedicated ASE bi-lingual toll-free technical support.
OBD1 Coverage: Bridging the Diagnostic Gap for Classic Vehicles
One of the standout features of the Innova CarScan 31703 is its OBD1 compatibility. While many modern scanners focus solely on OBD2, the Innova 31703 extends its diagnostic reach to a range of older vehicles. This is particularly valuable for enthusiasts and mechanics working with classic cars and older models. The scanner provides OBD1 coverage for:
- GM (1982 to 1993 and some 1994 to 1995 models)
- Ford/Lincoln/Mercury (1983 to 1995 models with EEC-IV systems)
- Toyota/Lexus (1991 to 1995)
- Honda (1991 to 1995)
- Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth (1984 to 1995)
- Jeep (1993 to 1995)
For these OBD1 systems, the Innova CarScan 31703 performs key tests including KOEO (Key On Engine Off), KOER (Key On Engine Running), timing check, cylinder balance test, output state test, and wiggle test, offering a comprehensive diagnostic suite for older vehicle systems.
User-Friendly Design and Interface: Simplicity Meets Functionality
The Innova CarScan 31703 is designed with user experience in mind. The tool features a clear, backlit screen that is easy to read in various lighting conditions. The button layout is intuitive, providing tactile feedback and immediate response. Key buttons include:
- Power/Link Button (Upper Right): For powering the device on and off.
- LD/M Button (Lower Right): To return to the OBD2 DTC screen or move to enhanced mode.
- Down Arrow Button (Bottom Center): For navigating menus downwards.
- DTC/FF Button (Lower Left): Accesses Diagnostic Trouble Codes and freeze frame data.
- Eraser Icon Button (Upper Left): Quickly erases DTCs.
- Up Arrow Button (Top Center): For navigating menus upwards.
- Enter/Select Button (Center): For making selections and entering commands.
Beyond the device itself, Innova’s website, pro.innova.com, offers invaluable resources. A comprehensive DTC library allows for quick and easy DTC definition lookups. Simply enter the code and vehicle make to get instant definitions. Another helpful tool is the vehicle-specific DLC (Data Link Connector) locator, which provides clear illustrations showing the exact location of the vehicle’s DLC connector based on year, make, and model. The website also offers tips on likely causes of DTCs and recommended fixes, making it a genuinely user-friendly resource.
RepairSolutions: Your Web-Based Diagnostic Assistant
Innova’s RepairSolutions is a powerful web-based service designed to aid technicians in efficient vehicle diagnosis and repair. This platform allows you to view, save, and email diagnostic data retrieved by the Innova 31703 scanner. Connecting the scanner to your PC via the included USB cable automatically launches your default web browser and directs you to the pro.innova.com website. The necessary software for communication between the scanner and the website is automatically downloaded and installed. Once logged into your RepairSolutions account, you gain access to a wealth of information to assist in your repair process.
Built to Last: Robustness and Reliability
Durability is a key consideration for any professional tool, and the Innova CarScan 31703 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The housing and internal construction are robust, as demonstrated by drop tests where the unit continued to function normally even after being dropped onto a concrete floor multiple times. This ruggedness ensures that the scanner can handle the demands of a busy shop environment or the occasional mishaps in a DIY setting.
Conclusion: The Innova CarScan 31703 – A Smart Investment
The Innova CarScan 31703 stands out as a highly capable and user-friendly car diagnostic scanner. Its broad vehicle compatibility, encompassing both OBD1 and OBD2 systems, along with ABS and SRS diagnostic capabilities, makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of users. From the intuitive interface and helpful website resources to the robust build and RepairSolutions integration, the Innova CarScan 31703 is a smart investment for anyone serious about vehicle diagnostics and maintenance. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a dedicated DIYer, this scanner is equipped to empower you with the insights needed to keep vehicles running smoothly and safely.
