Scotty Kilmer, a renowned automotive mechanic with years of experience, often recommends specific diagnostic tools for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. This article dives into some of Scotty Kilmer’s favored scan tools, focusing on Autel and its competitors within the $500-$1000 price range. This range offers bi-directional capabilities, often found in tablet-style devices with enhanced processing power and memory. However, be aware that free lifetime software updates are usually replaced with annual subscription fees for updates and bug fixes.
Scotty Kilmer Autel Alternatives: Exploring XTool Scanners
While Autel is a prominent player in the diagnostic tool market, Scotty Kilmer has highlighted XTool as a strong contender, especially for its price-to-performance ratio. XTool, a newer company based in China, offers the D7, D8, and A80 models, each boasting impressive features for their respective price points.
XTool D7: Budget-Friendly Bi-Directional Powerhouse
The XTool D7, priced around $478, provides extensive bi-directional control, including EVAP, fuel pump, and injector tests, along with key fob programming – a rare feature in this price bracket. It’s a tethered tool with a 7-inch touchscreen, running on Android. While it lacks ECU reprogramming capabilities, its comprehensive functionalities make it an attractive option for its price. Scotty Kilmer and other mechanics have praised its value.
XTool D8: Enhanced Features and Wireless Connectivity
Stepping up to the XTool D8 (around $699-$769), users gain ECU coding, a built-in camera, a faster processor, more memory, a larger 8-inch screen, and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation. While still lacking ECU reflashing, the D8 significantly upgrades the D7’s capabilities, offering a robust set of features that Scotty Kilmer has reviewed positively.
XTool A80: Comprehensive Coverage Including Older Vehicles
The XTool A80, priced around $849, builds upon the D8’s foundation by including a connector package for compatibility with older vehicles lacking the standard OBD-II port. This makes the A80 a versatile choice for mechanics working on a broader range of vehicles.
Scotty Kilmer on Innova Scan Tools
Scotty Kilmer also discusses Innova scan tools, mentioning the Innova 7111 as a viable option. Priced around $600, it features a large screen for improved readability, both tethered and Bluetooth connections, and boasts free lifetime software updates. However, its functionality is similar to the cheaper Innova 5610, lacking module programming and offering infrequent software updates.
Autel MaxiCheck MX900: A Solid Contender in the Mid-Range
Autel’s MaxiCheck MX900 (around $559) offers a balance of features and affordability. This 8-inch touchscreen tablet provides bi-directional control, service functions like DPF regeneration and brake bleeding, and runs on Android 11. While it lacks topology mapping, remote expert features, and programming capabilities, the MX900 represents a solid option for those seeking a comprehensive yet budget-conscious Autel tool. It is an upgrade to the popular MX808, offering improvements in battery life, processing power and memory.
Choosing the Right Scotty Kilmer Autel or Alternative Scan Tool
The optimal scan tool depends on individual needs and budget. XTool provides impressive functionality for the price, while Autel offers established reputation and a wide range of tools. Consider the specific features required, the types of vehicles serviced, and long-term costs like software updates when making your decision. Remember to research further based on Scotty Kilmer’s recommendations and other trusted automotive experts to make an informed choice.
