Tool Review: Automotive Test Solutions eSCAN ELITE

As electrical components on vehicles continue to advance, having the right diagnostic tools in the shop is more important than ever. According to Tanner Brandt, technician and owner at Tanner’s Auto Clinic in Greenville, South Carolina, the Automotive Test Solutions (ATS) eSCAN ELITE is a “great tool to add to your diagnostic arsenal.”

The eSCAN ELITE saved time during driveability diagnostics, Brandt says, and features many useful functions. His favorites, to name a few, include the ability to zoom in and use cursors on the graph, as well as simple one-click tests for fuel trim and volumetric efficiency.

Aside from being one of his favorite functions, the fuel trim test is also the most beneficial function, Brandt notes.

“For those struggling to understand fuel trim [analytics], it gives a visual indication that makes it simple to understand what is happening with the vehicle,” he says.

In addition, Brandt adds, the eSCAN ELITE is ideal for diagnosing a vehicle with a P0420 Catalyst Efficiency code.

“The software makes quick work of determining whether the converter is failing or not by simply clicking a button and following the on-screen instructions,” he says. “The test only takes a couple minutes to run and not only helps you determine if the converter is a problem, but also gives you something to show your customer and helps explain what is happening with their vehicle that is causing the code.”

When the tool arrived, Brandt said the setup was a matter of installing the software and plugging in the USB dongle. A simple-to-understand manual was included for easy setup. Brandt said after a couple of weeks of using the device, he became more comfortable with it.

Brandt noted a difference between the eSCAN ELITE from the previous version, the eSCAN PRO, is that the eSCAN ELITE has a g-force sensor built into it, allowing for acceleration and deceleration testing as well as brake pull monitoring.

After an instance where the tool wasn’t able to read a VIN on a Chevrolet 4500 Series van because the van was over the weight limit, Brandt indicated he would like the ability to manually enter a vehicle to the tool.

Overall, Brandt enjoyed the tool and how it simplified advanced tests, making them quick and easy to complete while also providing a great visual aid to show customers.

“It does not matter whether you are a novice or an advanced drivability technician, [the Automotive Test Solutions eSCAN ELITE] will be useful for you,” he says.