The Innova 3100 is an advanced scan tool that can perform multiple tasks on almost any vehicle.
Designed to work on most 1996 or newer American, Asian, and European vehicles, the tool is also capable of handling some 1994 and 1995 cars.
At a price usually hovering around $100, the scan tool can be purchased online for as low as $85. Considering the wealth of modes and functions, this is actually a pretty decent price. For people who have experience using scan tools, especially those living in a state that requires emissions tests, this tool could be very helpful, and could pay for itself after a couple of uses.
So is the Innova 3100 right for your garage? Let’s take a look at some of the top features and common drawbacks of the tool to find out.
Top advantages of the Innova 3100
Multiple modes and functions: The Innova 3100 is able to operate in many modes that make the tool versatile and highly functional. One of the most useful features on the Innova 3100 is the freeze frame mode, which will display data taken from the moment an error code was detected. The tool even has a Freeze Frame icon, which indicates a stored code. Other modes include the ABS function, which allows you to use the tool for diagnosing issues related to the anti-lock brake system.
Emission status LEDs: Another handy mode is the state emissions test, which will give you an indication on whether your vehicle is ready to pass a state check. Emmission problems can be quickly diagnosed thanks to Innova’s color-coded LED lights. Three lights tell you if the car is ready. Green means pass, yellow means a possible problem, and red means fail.
Automatically refreshes data: The Innova 3100 automatically refreshes data every 30 seconds to give you a clear and consistent idea of what your engine is doing. This function is especially useful after the fix has been made. Because it continually refreshes, you won’t have to manually scan for codes over and over again; if you perform a fix and the code doesn’t come back, you know you’ve solved the problem.
Displays diagnostic code information: One of the most convenient function is the diagnostic code definitions. By displaying the definitions, you won’t have to go to a computer or smart phone to look up each code. You’ll know exactly where the code is coming from, so you can get straight to work solving the problem. While the Innova 3100 can’t give you repair solutions, it will point you in the right direction.
Common drawbacks for the Innova 3100
Advanced reports cost money: While basic definitions are free, if you want a comprehensive analysis report you’ll have to pay an extra fee. This may only be a problem for people who want (and can understand) the advanced reports, but it still seems to defeat the purpose of purchasing a scan tool. After all, you buy the tool to be free from repair shop diagnostic fees, but now your roped into paying for advanced information.
May have more functions than you really need: There are many modes and functions in the Innova 3100, and you’ll want to be honest with yourself if you really need them all. For example, will you use the freeze frame data mode? Do you live in a state that requires emissions inspections? If not, you may be able to save your money and go with a less complex code reader.
Bottom Line
While it all comes down to how you plan to use the tool and how much you want to spend, the Innova 3100 is a good value for your hard-earned dollars. The multiple modes and state emissions testing are nice features to have, and could help save money in the long run, making the tool a smart investment.
If you want advanced reports, you may want to choose an even more detailed model. If you aren’t sure you need all those extra modes, functions, and features, you may go the opposite direction and choose a basic code reader like Innova’s 3030 or 3020 models.
If you do choose the Innova 3100, you’ll have a versatile and useful scan tool for your garage.