While traditional automotive scan tools connect with your vehicle and provide a screen full of information, the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX does things differently.
With this tool, you can connect your smartphone or computer to your car’s diagnostics. You’ll get the information you expect from a typical scan tool, but it’s all clearly displayed on your phone or computer.
Priced around $100, the OBDlink MX provides diagnostic information when you need it, and has many convenient features that make the tool easily understood and accessible, even for an amateur mechanic.
There are, however, a few disadvantages that you’ll want to know about before you make the purchase, including one major setback that could make the OBDlink MX completely useless.
Advantages of the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX
Won’t Drain Your Battery: A top concern for these types of tools is the way they can drain your car’s battery. With many scan tools, especially wireless versions, you will need unplug the unit when not in use or have jumper cables handy when you return. With the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX, that won’t be a problem. The tool uses an exclusive Battery Saver system so you can leave it plugged in without worry of draining your battery.
Compatible with Almost Everything: According to ScanTool’s own product description, the OBDlink MX connects with “more OBDII-compliant makes and models than any other scan tool.” If you have had a hard time finding a scan tool to connect with your unique vehicle, then you may want to try this one. It could also be a good choice if you trade or purchase different cars, as this tool gives you greater confidence that you’ll be able to perform all the diagnostic functions.
Clear and Simple Indicator Lights: Scan tools can be complex enough as it is, so having a few clear and simple functions is often a breath of fresh air. The 426101 OBDlink MX has a simple four-light indicator system that gives you basic information about the tool. Lights labeled Power, OBD, Host, and BT (BlueTooth) let you know that the system is working properly and you are ready to go.
Hack-Proof (or at least resistant): The tool uses advanced technology to maintain a high-level of security. ScanTool says the security software “virtually eliminates the risk of unauthorized access.” Whether the system is 100% “hack-proof” is debatable, but it is nice to know you’re using safe and reliable software on your vehicle.
Disadvantages of the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX
No Apples: There is one glaring negative that will automatically eliminate the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX from your shopping list: it does’t work with Apple products. If you use an iPhone, MacBook, or iPad, you won’t be able to connect with the tool. Apple keeps a pretty tight grip on their applications and software, and while this does help maintain safer, more reliable computers, it also eliminates a lot of technology from their systems.
Might Be a Little Pricey: At $100, you can find a traditional scan tool that performs many of the functions the ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX won’t do. For example, you can find an Autel AL519 that performs in all ten diagnostic modes at about the same price.
Possible Problems with Vehicle: There are some online reviews that have reported engine timing and idling issues when the tool is connected. Some have even reported that the tool completely kills the engine. It could be an issue of software compatibility, basic operator error, a bad engine, or it could be completely untrue. No matter what, you’ll want to make sure the tool is compatible with your vehicle’s computer before you make the purchase.
Final Verdict
The ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX is a convenient and nifty little tool for both automotive specialists, technology enthusiasts, and weekend mechanics.
As long as your not a user of Apple products, you’ll have a scan tool that will provide necessary data, while giving you thorough information related to your repair, all conveniently displayed on your smart phone or computer.