Welcome to the 2021 Scan Tool Spec Guide, brought to you by Professional Tool & Equipment News, Professional Distributor, and Fleet Maintenance magazines.
Diagnostic scan tools are a must for almost all vehicle services and repairs nowadays. Though a variety of tools are needed to perform any given work on a vehicle, using a scan tool to query for diagnostic trouble codes tends to be step one for most technicians.
Many shops own a multitude of scan tools – both OE and aftermarket. For some shops, it may make the most sense to own largely OE scan tools, while for many others, owning a scan tool with the ability to diagnose multiple vehicles is a better fit. In fact, in 2021’s Aftermarket Profile study — found in the April issues of PTEN and Professional Distributor — 76 percent of shops stated they own aftermarket scan tools.
This year’s Scan Tool Spec Guide provides information from 23 scan tool manufacturers. The tools fall into three categories: Global OBD-II, Professional Diagnostic, and Heavy Duty Diagnostic.
Every year, the technology of the scan tools in each of these categories continues to grow in proportion to the technology being introduced and improved upon in vehicles. Whether it’s add-ons for a vehicle’s infotainment center, more ADAS sensors placed around the vehicle, or the high-tech components found within hybrid and fully electric vehicles, technicians need tools that will keep up with that technology. Scan tools are the answer.
Regardless of whether your shop is buying its very first scan tool or what seems to be its hundredth, buying a scan tool is a big deal, and your decision should not be made lightly. While searching for the perfect scan tool to fit your shop, we hope this guide can serve as your go-to reference before making this very important decision.
