Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman Vs. Gscan

Automotive diagnostic scan tools are widely used equipments in home garages and workshops. These are helpful in interpreting and understanding the error codes sent by various systems in a car. With a scan tool you can not only diagnose the problem, but also reprogram certain systems in your car. It is basically an interface between the various systems in the car and the On Board Diagnostic module. Once you have diagnosed the problem you can decide on repairing it yourself or taking it to a garage. There are a number of scan tools available in the market, some of which are just simple code readers while others may be bidirectional computers with programming capabilities. Your decision to buy an automotive diagnostic scan tool should be based on your vehicle brand, model, electronic systems installed, functions that you want to have in it, your ability as a DIY car repair enthusiast and price. Carman and Gscan are two reputed brands of scan tool and are compatible with a variety of vehicle brands, models and communication protocols and serve a variety of functions. Let us compare the two brands and see which is better suited for your vehicle.

Automotive diagnostic scan tool - Carman Vs. Gscan

Carman automotive diagnostic scan tool

It is a flexible tool that can be connected to your PC as an adapter. It comes with a touchpad and a display that can be either a monochrome or a color TFT one. It has got a number of models suitable for different types of models and brands of vehicles. The auto search system is helpful in fast detection of problems. The tool can also be remotely controlled with the help of in built Teamviewer software.

Functions supported by carman scan tools

You can get a variety of functions like reading, analysis and erasing of Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Current data view in graphical and parameter mode, Activation function, Flight record, System identification, sensor calibration, Service resetting, key programming, remote programming, injector programming etc. It also supports some special functions like coding for Injector and some other components. You can take printouts via Wi-Fi or with the help of a flash drive. You can also get Bluetooth data transfer limited to a distance of about 30 meters. You can also get frequent updates to keep the tool abreast of new technology.  

Communication protocols

These scanners support all communication protocols in vogue.

Coverage by vehicle brand

Till date 84 vehicle brands are covered by Carman scanners and they include brands like Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Lexus, Proton, Nissan, Mazda, Isuzu, Hyundai, Daewoo, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Volvo, Ford, Opel, Peugeot, General Motors, Chrysler, Ford etc. More than 4568 vehicles can be scanned by this tool.

Gscan automotive diagnostic scan tool

This is a simple tool that is easy to use and read. The display is effective even in sunlight, and you get frequent updates to keep the tool abreast of technology. Though it is found to be very good with Asian brands of vehicles it also works very well with European and American brands. 

Supported functions

Functions that are supported by this tool are – vehicle system auto search, reading and erasing diagnostic trouble codes, body control module actuation test, programming and reprogramming for various components, coding and programming for key, live data streaming and graph generation, EPS recalibration, diesel injector writing and copying, antilock braking system analysis, SRS airbag analysis, EGR self test etc. You can also get fault code reading from memory of tested control unit, current system setting in digital and graphical format, activation of special controller work mode, saving array of existing parameters etc. 

Supported communication protocols

It supports both OBD-II and EOBD protocols. 

Coverage by vehicle brand

Some of the brands covered by Gscan are Daewoo, Samsung, proton, Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Isuzu, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Skoda, Volvo, Ford, Opel, Renault, TATA, Mahindra etc.

Conclusion 

Choosing the most suitable automotive diagnostic tool is a tricky job. If you are aware of the jargon used in automotive terms and their implications then you can go ahead with the one that best matches your vehicle by brand, model and country of origin. If you are not confident then you must take the help of an expert rather than risk buying a tool that will not serve your purpose fully.