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[Mutt and Jeff]

So, I watch SMA on youtube.
Eric, as it is, educates me and entertains me at levels well beyond that of mere plow jockey.

This video is just an example of his diagnostic prowess and illustrates at least one of his scan tool/tablet devices.

Some come with software packages.
Some come with online access to updated brand specific offerings
He has repeatedly stated that there can be considerable differences by brand of scanner. In their offerings, data streams available real time or otherwise.

Some have data logging multi channel oscilloscopes.
He probably has 5 or more of these in various brands. He'll complain about some and praise others. Each likes some cars and not others or just lacks that next step deeper he needs.

In this video he accesses a wiring diagram but if you look it is by a built-in browser accessing another subscription data service.

Most if not all of his devices may have good points and bad and each may require even daily updates at cost (factored into purchase or by purchase plan)
And then all the secondary data sources that can get you the wiring diagrams, wiring diagrams wrong, and diagrams right.

I've considered it and seen it asked here before
what scan tool can I afford to let me repair my own vehicles?
Unless you can afford 5 or more large scale up to date units and all the paid subscriptions and ancillary libraries it's a tough road to pursue.
So say you invest in $20000 worth of devices and libraries to fix your car yourself, spend endless days night weeks and years in diagnostic training classrooms. Your next car may just make every future effort obsolete

Good luck
dashboard warning lamps and a blown fuse

 

[GBCMAN]

I watch Eric all the time, great videos.
The Launch mini x431 that he and some others have done videos on seems to have a lot of what works for new cars.
It comes with 2 years of free updates. Sells on Amazon for $789, but have seen it discounted on there much as $200 if you watch for sale.

 

[Duane WI]

I have a $40 scanner that I bought 10 years ago. I have been able to fix most of the problems my cars have. There are better ones out now that cost a little more. Some can link to your I Phone to allow monitoring while you drive. I think those are in the $100 to $200 range. My point is you don't have to spend thousands of dollars to work on your cars. You may not be able to fix everything but basic scanner will let you fix most things.

 

[Rollie NE PA]

I just bought a Launch x431 Diagun. Eric, Ivan @ Pine Hollow and Kieth @ New Level use the Diagun. I bought it because it has Bi directional controls and it will scan all the modules, tpms, ABS, brake bleed just to name a few of it's capabilities.