Choosing the right diagnostic scanner can be crucial for any car enthusiast or professional mechanic. This article compares two popular options: the Autel MaxiCheck Pro (MD802) and the Foxwell NT510, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Diagnostic Capabilities and Coverage: A Head-to-Head
Both the MD802 and NT510 offer comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, but their coverage and functionalities differ. The Autel MD802 boasts wide vehicle coverage, supporting most makes and models through 2016. This makes it a versatile tool for general repairs on a variety of vehicles. However, its bidirectional control is limited, especially for Chrysler vehicles, meaning it might not allow for certain advanced tests or component activations.
The Foxwell NT510, while potentially offering less overall vehicle coverage, excels in its depth of functionality for specific makes. It provides advanced features like module-specific testing, calibration procedures (essential for tasks like replacing blend door actuators), ABS bleeding, and injector dead cycling. This focused approach makes it a powerful tool for in-depth diagnostics and specialized repairs.
Image: Autel MaxiCheck Pro MD802
Updates and Support: A Key Consideration
A significant difference lies in the update policies. Foxwell offers lifetime updates for the NT510, a substantial advantage for long-term use. Adding coverage for additional car makes is reasonably priced at $60 per make. Autel, on the other hand, charges around $100 for updates. While Autel’s coverage up to 2016 might suffice for many users, the lack of free updates could become a cost factor over time.
Image: Foxwell NT510
Updating both devices involves using an SD card. The NT510 utilizes an 8GB microSD card and includes a card reader for convenient updates via a PC connection. The MD802 comes with an 8GB SD card (often mislabeled as 16GB) and requires a separate SD card reader for updates. Notably, the included USB cables for both devices are primarily for printing, not for updating.
Performance and User Experience: Subtle Differences
Both scanners offer comparable speed, although the Foxwell NT510 might be slightly slower when accessing modules with more advanced control functions. This slight delay is understandable, considering the greater depth of information and control it provides.
Specific Vehicle Examples: Practical Applications
Testing on a 2009 Dodge Journey revealed the NT510’s ability to replace the WIM and keys, erase keys from memory, but not code new fobiks. Interestingly, the MD802 connected and read the PCM on a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 using the recommended Chrysler CCD 16-pin connector, but offered no additional functionality compared to using a standard connector. Neither scanner provided coverage for ABS or SRS systems on this vehicle. The NT510 offered no coverage at all for the 1997 Dodge Ram.
Technical Support: Room for Improvement
Communication with both Autel and Foxwell regarding technical issues has been reported as inconsistent. While Autel responded to a query about the CCD connector, further communication was lacking. Foxwell’s response rate was significantly slower.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job
The Autel MD802 is a solid choice for users needing broad vehicle coverage for basic diagnostics and common repairs. Its affordability and wide compatibility make it suitable for DIY enthusiasts and general mechanics. The Foxwell NT510, with its lifetime updates and in-depth functionalities, caters to users who require advanced diagnostics, specialized repairs, and module-level control for specific car makes. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between these two capable diagnostic scanners.
