Most automotive shops own at least one scan tool, though it’s common for them to own multiple, with different scanners for specific situations. When a shop finds a scan tool with a variety of features at an affordable price that’s easy to use, they know it’s worth keeping around. For Scott Weaver, retired shop owner of Superior Auto Electric in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he found the Innova 5610 CarScan Pro scan tool fit those specifications.
With the CarScan Pro’s Bluetooth capabilities, Weaver was able to search part numbers and prices, as well as access tips and tricks that could be handy during difficult repairs. The ability to use the proprietary app-accessible RepairSolutions2 knowledgebase as a resource within the scan tool, meaning technicians don’t have to take the time to look up things like part numbers separately, is what Weaver found that set this scan tool apart from others.
Another feature of the CarScan Pro Weaver enjoys is its ease of use. It’s as simple as plugging in the scanner and following the commands on the screen, he says.
“You can tell a computer whiz kid designed [the scan tool] because they use terms … like BKN file and BIN file. As a technician, I want to know where my 1/2” wrench is,” Weaver jokes. “I don’t know all that stuff.”
When it comes to the Innova CarScan Pro, Weaver appreciates that the folks behind making the product are ASE certified.
“I just think it brings a level of awareness of how a technician has to look at a problem,” Weaver says. “If you can observe a problem from that point [of view], you’re going to build a tool that’s going to be more user friendly.”
The CarScan Pro came with the necessary cord to hook the scanner up to vehicles, as well as an instruction sheet. Weaver found the instruction sheet to be “very well written” and “to the point” as far as what you need to know.
Weaver’s only complaint with the scan tool was the size of the text on the screen being a bit too small. Though, he jokes, this could just be due to his age.
Overall, Weaver was pleased with the affordability, availability, and ease of use of the Innova 5610 CarScan Pro scan tool.
