OBD-2 multiscan tools. Which one?

[blueblood1995]

Hi All

Can anyone recommend a Multiscan tool.

I've seen many on dedicated Alfa sites like this one
http://shop.alfisti.net/Tuning-Styling/Alfa-147/Electrics/Stand-Alone-OBD-2-EOBD-Diagnosis-Scan-Tool::6625.html

to some cheapies on ebay and Amazon, and

much more expensive units supplied like this
http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/online-store/products/Actron-Auto-Scanner-OBD2-CAN-Scan-Tool.aspx?pid=340602#Cross

Do they all essentially do the same thing?
Should I be looking for any particular features?

Do they all work with the Mutltiecuscan software?
http://www.multiecuscan.net

Regards

[Cool Jesus]

The stand alone code reader, is just that, it needs nothing else to function. Plug and play. They're fine if all you need to do is read codes and perhaps clear them, which most do. Some give real time data from sensors, but in the main they're limited by there screen and how or what you can do. But, they all read generic codes, which is fine if you swap car marques regularly.

What you need from a diagnostic is an ability to read the most possible parameters (PID)s, the more it can read, the better you can diagnose. The more the merrier. Secondly, a vehicle specific scanner. As you are here, there every chance that Alfa will become part of your life, so that's why I've added this point.

Multiecuscan (MES) has the goods, in fact I would go so far as to say its features are comparable if not near as good as any Alfa dealerships diagnostics, all for about $150. At this price you cover most if not every obd Alfa and is night and day in comparison to the stand alone units.

If you have a laptop, I'd suggest this version with the USB cables. Otherwise I believe they have a bluetooth android version aswell. Apart from MES, there's Alfaobd
http://www.alfaobd.com
It's virtually the same as (MES), up to yourself which one to use. Ive not used, perhaps another member can give there view.

So, if all you need is a code reader/eraser, the standalone is ok and will do you for virtually any make of vehicle. If your looking for Alfa specific functionality and diagnostics for repairs of any Alfa, get the software, theres no comparison.