Today I’ve be reviewing the Launch X431 PRO ELITE diagnostic scan tool, I’ll give my take on the pros and cons of getting this scanner.
Unboxing Review
We have some documentations: the manual, quick start guide and the activation C as well as a packing list. In the box, we have the OBD2 cable, USB type A to type C cable, charging brick and US/UK/Euro zone style wall socket adapters.
And we also have the X431 PRO ELITE scanner itself, which feels hefty and solid build quality. Really feels topnotch. At the top, there are the USB type port, type C port, diagnostic port and power button. On the back, there are a 8MP camera, a flash speaker and the kick stand.
This is an 8-inches display, supports newer protocols like the CAN FD and DoIP. Its battery is 6000mAh.
Functions Overview
This is an all-system scanner as you would expect. It supports by directional testing, does ECU coding as well as adaptations. It’s a one-stop shop solution for automotive repair given its modular design.
Here we can see the main menu includes: intelligent diagnose, local diagnose, service function, remote diagnose, TPMS, software update, diagnostic history, feedback, ADAS, mall, vehicle coverage, info center, user info and other modules.
[Intelligent Diagnose] does the automatic selection via VIN decoding. Diagnostic and Quick Access are basically the same thing.
System Scan is a topology scan of sorts without the graphical elements or the relationships. It just tells you whether a particular system is equipped or not.
Health Report is what you can use for the all systems scan. This was pretty fast on this scanner as it completed it in 2 minutes.
Under system selection, you can select the individual modules in the car. For example, You can display the live data a maximum of 8 individual graphs at any one time in PCM module.
As mentioned this is a bi-directional scan tool, I’ve been able to do a couple of bi-directional tests like turning on the fuel pump actuating door locks.
[Local Diagnose] is for choosing cars manually.
[Service Function] are the usual that you would expect. I’ve counted 32 kinds in total, includes resetmsvin, ABS bleeding, AC system relearn/initialization, adaptive front lighting, adblue reset, air/fuel reset, air level calibration, battery matching, brake reset, coolant bleed, crank position sensor adaptive learning, DPF regen, immobilizer reset, injector coding, intelligent cruise control system, language change, nox sensor reset, oil maintenance reset, seat occupancy calibration, steering angle reset, stop/start reset, sunroof reset, tire reset, TPMS reset database, transport mode, windows calibration.
[Remote Diagnose] is for providing remote support to troubleshoot issues.
[TPMS] is where you connect to Launch inhouse TPMS accessory or the i-TPMS (TSGUN). This is can be used to activate and program TPMS Sensors.
[Software Update] is for doing updates for the software. You can also purchase a subscription from here.
[Diagnostic History] is for all the previous scan reports.
[Feedback] is for providing feedback back to Launch. They’ve also designed it in such a way that you can attach a particular diagnostic session that you want to provide feedback on and that’s nice.
[ADAS] is for calibration of advanced driver assistance systems like 360°or lane watch cameras and so on. Just to note that you’ll have to purchase ADAS equipment from Launch.
[Mall] is for renewing your software subscription and you can also purchase additional software for some rare cars.
[Info Center] has operation tips which essentially provides a guide to some of the procedures by car brand. Not all procedures are listed. DTC Help covers some unique codes for some car brands like Chrysler GM, Hyundai, Nissan, Suzuki, etc. Technology Handbook shows some circuit diagrams for some cars. The coverage is not extensive.
[User Info] has a lot to do about setting up the scanner things like activation of the scan tool. If I go under device management, you’re able to set up a different account.
[Other Modules] speaks to the modular nature of this tool. You can expand functionality by adding additional Launch accessories like Oscilloscope, S2-2 Sensorbox, Multimeter(S2-2), BST360, Immo Programmer(X-PROG3), Video Scope, Key Programmer.
Pros & Cons
- PROS
Now the first thing I really like about X431 PRO ELITE tool is it really feels solid in the hand. Screen resolution is good and the 6000mAh battery is impressive. I’ve actually had to only charge this once since getting it.
Another plus is that it charges off the vehicle battery once connected, so you won’t have that ugly experience where you’re unable to scan a car because the battery of your scan tool is dead.
For me, the biggest thing that this tool has going for its modular design with potential support for ADAS, oscilloscope, advanced key programming accessories and more. This feels like the ideal complete tool for a shop or for some one who is into advanced DIY.
Also another cherry on top is that it comes with 2 years free updates and after that the cost of Renewing Subscription from www.x431shop.eu is €178. This is far less than the $499 quoted on the renewal page.
- CONS
I don’t like about the first thing is the length of the OBD2 cord. So far, this is the shortest that I’ve seen. And don’t get me wrong this will definitely get the job done. It’s not a big issue if that’s a priority to you. There are some OBD2 cable extenders that you can get.
My second gripe on this tool is the layout of the software. There’s quite some degree of duplication in the way that the software is laid out. And I believe there are some opportunities for optimization.
These are not deal breakers but something I thought to flag.
Conclusion
Launch X431 PRO ELITE is a worthy contender in the under €500 category and that €178 in renewal fees for all that you get in this tool is very attractive.