If you are looking for a high-tech scan tool for your garage, you will have plenty of options. One choice is the Actron CP9580A Enhanced, which delivers many features in an easy-to-use format.
So is it right for your garage? Let’s have a look..
Actron CP9580A Enhanced Review
The Actron CP9580A Enhanced comes in at a price hovering around $200, depending on where you shop. While that price doesn’t make it the cheapest on the market, it also is far from the top shelf, where you will find highly-advanced scan tools for over $3,000.
So what does that $200 get you? Turns out quite a lot. The Actron CP9580A Enhanced is one of the most advanced scan tools in its price range, with intuitive features like a helpful lookup library, the ability to record and play back data, and a live data graph.
What to Like
Advanced Code Lookup Library: Probably the most useful feature on the Actron CP9580A Enhanced is the helpful lookup library that takes reading and interpreting codes to a new level. Not only will the scan tool give you the code and its definition, it will also deliver information related to potential solutions. The unit is actually programmed to give the top reported fixes that have been used in the past. While it won’t give you a guaranteed solution, it will point you in the right direction. This feature saves time and gives you greater confidence when attempting to fix your vehicle.
ABS Codes Available: The Actron CP9580A Enhanced doesn’t just check error codes for your Check Engine light, it can also help you when the ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) light comes on. While most codes readers won’t be able to perform this function, the CP9580A Enhanced can help you avoid costly diagnostic bills related to the ABS light. Just make sure the device is compatible with your car. Out of the box, the ABS function only works on most 1996 through 2010 GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles and 1996 through 2009 Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Nissan vehicles.
Wealth of Features: With a wide range of features, the Actron CP9580A Enhanced comes fully loaded to perform almost any function you throw at it. Features on the scan tool include:
- Freeze frame data
- Drive cycle mode
- State OBD check
- Print data support
- Live data graph
- Trouble codes memory
- CodeConnect
- Record and play back data
While it’s possible that many people will never use the majority of the functions, it’s always nice to know that should the need arise, your scan tool will be ready to tackle the job.
What Not to Like
Not all Features Work on All Cars: Car technology is always evolving to meet the needs of safety regulations, emissions laws, and consumer demand. Because of these constant changes, scan tools can have difficulty keeping up, and not all scan tools are ready to work on all vehicles. If you plan to use more advanced features like the ABS function, you may want to do some thorough research to make sure the tool is compatible with your vehicle. Updates are available, but some users have reported difficulty downloading information from manufacturer’s websites. Again, do your research so you know what you’re getting into.
Are Extra Features Worth The Price? This is really a case-by-case issue, but you’ll want to ask yourself if having all those extra features is worth the price of the scan tool. At a price around $200, the Actron CP9580A Enhanced is certainly not the cheapest options. So be honest with yourself – will you ever use the printable feature? Will you ever record and replay data? Will you take the time to learn how to use the advanced functions properly? If not, then you could probably settle for a basic code reader and pay around $50.
Final Thoughts on the CP9580A
The Actron CP9580A Enhanced is a great tool for car enthusiasts who want an advanced scan tool that has multiple features and an easy-to-use format. While it may be a little pricier than the basic units, the wealth of options make it a solid choice for many garages.
The advanced code library makes diagnosing and problem solving quick and convenient, while the myriad of uses make Actron CP9580A Enhanced one of the most versatile scan tools available. So if you need a scan tool that has multiple features, and you’re willing to pay a little more to get them, then you should definitely consider purchasing this model.