A bi-directional scanner can not only connects to a car’s engine computer to read error codes but as well as sends commands. Besides, this kind of diagnostic tool can turn the systems in your car on and off, to help you know the reason why the check engine light is on.
With so many bi-directional scan tools, it is vital to pick the right bi-directional scanner for your car. The most popular Bidirectional scan tool brands are Autel, Launch, etc. This article is to share the In-depth Review of TOP 3 Bidirectional Diagnostic Scanner, including Autel Maxisys MS906BT Bluetooth Automotive Scan Tool, Launch X431 V+ BI-Directional Full Systems Diagnostic Scanner and Autel Maxidas DS808 Automotive Diagnostic Tool.
TOP 1. Autel Maxisys MS906BT Bluetooth Automotive Scan Tool
Technical Specifications of the Autel Maxisys MS906BT OBD2 scanner
| Features | Autel MS906BT |
| Image |  |
| Operating System(OS): | Android 4.4.2, KitKat |
| Processor: | Samsung Exynos T5260 6-Core Processor (1.3 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 + 1.7 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A15) |
| Display: | 8.0″ LED capacitive touch screen with 1024x768P resolution |
| Internal Memory: | 2 GB RAM and 32 GB ROM |
| Oil Reset: | Yes |
| Camera: | Built-in 8-megapixel rear camera, autofocus & flashlight |
| Live data: | Yes |
| Views freeze frame data: | Yes |
| Instant remote control tech support anytime, anywhere: | Yes |
| Connectivity: | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), USB: 2.0, Mini USB 2.0, Wireless BT V2.1+EDR, Class1, HDMI 1.4a |
| Real-time push message notifications: | Yes |
| Smart AutoVIN technology: | Yes |
| Audio Input/Output: | Microphone, Single Speaker, 3-Band 3.5 mm stereo/standard headset jack |
| Sensors: | Gravity Accelerometer, Ambient Light Sensor (ALS) |
| Power and Battery: | 10,000 mAh 3.7 V lithium-polymer battery, Charging via 12 V AC/DC power supply (up to 14 hours of continuous operation) |
| Storage Temperature: | -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158°F) |
| Update Option: | Yes. (via internet) |
| Input Voltage: | 12 V (9-35 V) |
| Vehicle Coverage: | more than 80 US, Asian and European makes and models |
| Support Car Models: | Abarth, Acura, Alfa, Audi, Bentley, Benz, Bmw, Fiat, Ford, Gm, Holden, Bugatti, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Citroen, Dodge, Dacia, Daihatsu, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lancia, Maybach, Mazda, Mini, Mitsubishi, Honda, Jaguar, Jeep, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Saab, Scion, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Sprinter, Subaru, Porsche, Renault, Suzuki, Toyota, Vw, Vauxhall, Volvo, Etc. Etc.. |
| Operating Temperature: | -10 to 55°C (14 to 131°F) |
| Warranty: | 12-Month Limited Warranty |
Pros:
Well-built to last long
The bi directional scan tool has data logging capability for solving problems correctly
Performs a broader range of functions
Extensive vehicle coverage
Large and intuitive user-interface
Simple to update
1-year warranty
Cons:
It does not perform ECU coding on all vehicles makes and models
It is slightly expensive
Top 2. Launch X431 V+ BI-Directional Full Systems Diagnostic Scanner
The Launch X431 V+ scan tool is another quality bi-directional scanner with excellent features and functions. It boasts a 10.1 HD IPS display that makes interpreting results easy and fast. The scan tool has the ability to read and graph data for all systems in your vehicle. This is with the inclusion of air conditioning, navigation, wiper system, and other systems. It is one of the best bidirectional scan tool for the money.
Technical Specifications of the Launch X431 V+ Scan Tool
| Features | Launch X431 V+ |
| Image |  |
| Works: | Over 68 car brands and 220 car models from America, Europe, Asia |
| OS: | Android |
| Main Brands: | Skoda, Opel, Citroen, Porsche, Rover, Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Acura, Lexus, Honda, Ford, Nissan, Lincoln, Mazda, etc |
| Software Update Option: | Yes, 2-Years Free Update |
| Check Engine Light: | Yes |
| View Live Data: | Yes |
| Active Tests: | Yes |
| View Freeze Frame: | Yes |
| Oil Reset Service: | Yes |
| Tooth Learning/Anti-theft Matching: | Yes |
| ABS,SRS, Body control module: | Yes |
| Battery Register /Battery Maintenance: | Yes |
| Wifi,Bluetooth: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 5-year warranty |
Pros:
Large and bright LCD for a straightforward interpretation
Performs a broader range of functions
The bi directional scan tool is compatible with a more extensive range of vehicles
Reads and clears error codes
Fast and accurate
Excellent runtime of 8 hours
Turns on/off the fuel pump and cycling the a/c clutch on/off
2 years free update
5 years warranty
Cons:
It takes a long period to recharge
Several users have reported trouble with activation and update codes
TOP 3. Autel Maxidas DS808 Automotive Diagnostic Tool
If you want a professional scanner at an affordable price, then you will love the Autel Maxidas DS808 Automotive OBD2 scan tool. This is a compact and sturdy code reader that you will use to read and erase error codes. The bi-directional scanner performs most of the functions such as SAS calibration, throttle body adjustment, ECU coding, EPB, DPF regeneration, ABS/SRS, oil reset, and much more. Apart from that, the bi-directional control function carries out active testing of the most significant functions in your vehicle.
Technical Specifications of the Autel Maxidas DS808 obd2 diagnostic scanner
| Features | Autel Maxidas DS808 |
| Image |  |
| Operating System: | Android 4.4.4 |
| Memory: | 32GB |
| Display: | 7-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen with 1024×600 resolution |
| Sensors: | Ambient light sensor for brightness auto changing |
| Operating Temp: | -10 to 60°C(14 to 140°F) |
| Storage Temp: | -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158°F) |
| Processor: | Cortex-A9 processor (1.5 GHz) |
| ABS, SRS, TPMS, EPB, SAS, DPF, BMS Resets: | Yes |
| Audio Input/Output: | • Input: N/A • Output: buzzer |
| Connectivity: | Mini USB 2.0 • USB 2.0 • Wi-Fi • Micro SD card (supports up to 32GB) |
| Power and Battery: | 3.7 V/3200 mAh lithium-polymer battery • Charges via 5 VDC power supply |
| Oil Reset: | Yes |
| Tested Battery Life: | Around 4.5 hours of continuous use |
| Battery Charging Input: | 5 V/1.5 A |
| Power Consumption: | 500 mA (LCD on with default brightness, Wi-Fi on) @3.7 V |
| Vehicle Coverage: | More than 80 U.S., Asian and European vehicle |
| Models: | Acura, Audi, Bmw, Bentley, Benz, Bugatti, Citroen, Chrysler, Dodge, Daewoo, Ford, Fiat, Gm, Hyundai, Gmc, Infiniti, Holden, Honda, Isuzu, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Jeep, Lexus, Maybach, Nissan, Mazda, Mini, Mitsubishi, Opel, Saab, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Scion, Seat, Smart, Suzuki, Skoda, Sprinter, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Vw etc.. |
| Update Option: | Free Online Update |
| Weight: | 788 g (2.42 lb.) |
| Warranty: | 12-month warranty for any product problems |
Pros:
It covers more than 80 US, Asian, and European vehicles
Wireless connection
Performs a broad range of functions
Automatic software update
Large 7-inch LED screen for displaying results even in the dark
Easy to use with the large LED touchscreen
AutoVin technology allows user to identify car easily
Cons:
It does not perform ECU programming
Not the best battery for such a quality scanner as it does not hold a charge
Final Decision:
Get the best-bidirectional scan tool for your car if you want to diagnose more than just the essential OBD2 functions. Bi-directional scanners may be quite challenging to use, but they are very reliable and accurate. Pick the best scanner from the best brand with the features that you desire. However, bi-directional scan tools are slightly more expensive, and that’s why they are more suited for busy auto repair shops or professional technicians. I hope you’ve found the best bidirectional scan tool to diagnose your different car makes and models.