Modern cars and vehicles rolling out of assembly lines are an assembly of systems. Brake system, transmission system, steering, and suspension system, engine cooling system, fuel system etc make up the whole vehicle. These systems come with sensors which send error codes in cases of malfunctioning. If you can read and interpret these error codes correctly, you can solve many problems with your vehicle. An automotive diagnostic scan tool is a very useful equipment for home garages as well as workshops. It helps the user to interpret error codes sent by systems. These devices can even send coded messages to various systems in a vehicle. Once you are aware of the problem you can try to mend it yourself or take the vehicle to a workshop.
There are various scanners available in the market, but when you browse through these you must have some idea about the usefulness and suitability of various types of scanners for your type of vehicle. Let’s get a comparison between Carman and Launch scanners, two of the industry leaders in the field of automotive scanner tools.
Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman vs. Launch scanner
Carman scanner
It is a flexible tool which you can use as an adapter for your PC. It is a stand-alone device with a touchpad. The display can be either monochrome or color TFT. It has got a series of scanners suitable for different brands and types of vehicles.
- Supported functions
Carman scanners support a variety of functions like DTC reading and analysis, DTC erasing, Current data view in parameters and graphic mode, manual parameter grouping, Activation function, Flight record, System identification, sensor calibration, Service resetting, programming of keys, remotes, injector and other components etc. Also, there are some special functions like coding for Injector and other components. The diagnostic software is installed into the tablet PC which runs on Windows 10. You can print via Wi-Fi or use the USB. It also supports Bluetooth data transfer up to a distance of 30 meters. You can also get frequent updates about various service procedures.
These scanners are also supported by all the electronic systems and circuits in vogue like AIRBAG/ETR (SRS), ENG, ENG-2, EA, BM/GM, CCS ADS, ASD, RB, IMMO, RST, A/C, EPS, AHLS, ECS, AAC, FFH, FWDS, KCS etc.
- Coverage by vehicle brand
Carman scanners cover a wide variety of vehicle brands such as Toyota, Honda, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Proton, Subaru, Mazda, Suzuki, Isuzu, Hyundai, Daewoo, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Skoda, Volkswagen, Saab, Seat, Volvo, Opel, Fiat, Ford, Peugeot, Alfa Romeo, General Motors, Chrysler, Ford etc. However, when it comes to Chrysler vehicles, only the jeeps support Carman scanners.
Launch scanner
With Launch scanner, you can do an OEM level diagnosis of car problems and repair them. With vast vehicle coverage and highly sought after functionalities such as key programming, full OBDII test mode coverage, module programing, adaptive resets, relearn procedures, airbag system functions, auto transmission functions etc. Launch scanners are one of the most desirable devices in the automotive industry. You can even switch off the engine check light with this tool. The vehicle coverage is also awesome. In fact, in terms of vehicle coverage, it is somewhat ahead of Carman scanners. What is more, it even supports large vehicles like trucks from MAN, Ashok Leyland, Volvo etc. Owing to this wide vehicle coverage you can read manufacturer specific as well as generic error codes. It has also got a series of products with continuous upgrades. Launch scanners are custom built for different vehicles and systems. Products are categorized into several series like Proline Series, Millennium Series, Creader Series etc. Among these, there are some modules designed specifically for trucks. In fact, it supports 34 truck brands in the USA. The scanner also supports all the electronic systems and circuits in vogue. Moreover, you can print via a laptop and get a lifetime free software update.
Your choice: Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman vs. Launch scanner
It all depends on the type of vehicle you possess, your level of comfort with car diagnostic tools etc. You need to select one that is most positively reviewed for your kind of vehicle.
