Best (so far) BUDGET Bi-Directional Scan Tool - For DIY and PROFESSIONAL (Part 2 - Field Testing)

10% of the proceeds will be donated to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, using promo code DANNER
For pricing and information, here is the link to the Phoenix
www.topdon.us/...
Link to part 1 • Best (so far) BUDGET B...
ScannerDanner Tools:
www.scannerdan...
www.amazon.com...
For more information on this topic, I have written a “field manual” called Engine Performance Diagnostics which is available at www.scannerdanner.com as an eBook or paper book.
Want even more diagnostic training? Whether you are a DIY trying to fix your own car, someone looking to become an auto technician, or a current auto technician that wants to get more into diagnostics, subscribe to ScannerDanner Premium www.scannerdan... There is a 14 day free trial.
On ScannerDanner Premium I will bring you right into my classroom at Rosedale Technical College. You will find page for page lectures taken right from my book as well as exclusive classroom type case studies. What is so special about these classroom case studies? I pull live problem vehicles directly into my classroom and we troubleshoot them in real time, using and applying the theory and testing procedures we learn during the classroom lectures. There is no better on-line training of how to troubleshoot automotive electrical and electronics systems anywhere!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. ScannerDanner LLC assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. ScannerDanner LLC recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ScannerDanner LLC.

[@djosbun]

It was nice to see that the dealer didn’t charge you list price, Paul. It goes to show how popular the Scanner Danner name is (and very well deserved)!

[@weldingjunkie]

I knew it, just a parts changer 🤣 Danner is the master diagnostician in the fam. Lol gotta love coming from Florida home abs freezing for a week right? Nothing beats family time, nothing. Thanks for sharing brother

[@Flyingspann3r]

Don’t beat yourself up Paul, I know that exact feeling when you have the family in the car, on vacation and non of your normal support network (tools, brothers garage, parts etc) around you. Normal thinking goes out the window, just do anything to get the car going again to keep your family safe.

[@skiarmadajj]

Leave it to an almost brand new Ford to leave you on the side of the road and needing to diag the thing hahahaha great work Paul! Love the videos as always - journeyman Ford technician in 🇨🇦

[@karlhungus545]

Exactly what I was thinking...unbelievable the junk that is being sold today for astronomical prices.

[@ppeterson9359]

My 100s of hours watching your (& Ivan’s & Eric O’s) videos paid off today. My sister in law’s lift chair/recliner died yesterday w/ the footrest up. Long story short, I checked the load & control side of the relays and found a bad one, replaced it & all is well. 🙂Relays don’t care if they’re in a car, dishwasher or a lift chair. Thanks!!

[@ScannerDanner]

Heck yeah! Awesome and nice job man

[@jeffkovene4420]

All have been a parts changer at one time or another in their lives. This is a necessary learning tool to teach us how foolish we can truly be. THANKYA LORD!

[@dwainkowalske3060]

Just got my phoenix , it's charging up now. Thanks again for all your work on finding a respectable scan tool alternative to the ones I can't afford with the new business start up.

[@ScannerDanner]

You did good my friend

[@misterhandy5121]

Hey Paul, I have the x431 Pad V and it is my go to , I also have the pheonix and the x431 pros mini which are identical in about 95% . both are great tools! I recommend the pheonix at a great price point!!

[@paulpaquette1961]

Anything 'goes' on the road. Glad you had a safe trip. Your vehicle is lucky to have a Master Diagnostician behind the wheel! It seems that Topdon, Launch, and Thinktool are very similar. I have a Thinktool Pros and the only difference I see for the most was the splash screen and theTopdon is blue instead of red. Nice tool for sure. God Bless!

[@Mr2004MCSS]

I have the Thinktoo Pros too and it's a nice tool.

[@weavingspiderscomenothere2192]

Launch uses Lenovo made hardware which is superior

[@hopewilliams6705]

It's amazing how easily you can pinpoint the likely problem when you know what to look for by the codes that it is telling you I'll be honest I'm impressed.

[@johnnym4220]

I'm one of the many people currently searching for a capable entry level scan tool. Love your demonstration and opinions on this tool especially the comparison to the D8 which was also on my short list. Keep up the good work looking out for us beginners brother. God bless!

[@danielmusat597]

Hi, Paul. Maybe a test with a heat gun would shed some light in this issue? It would be interesting to see something like this as many parts seem to be way under the automotive standards lately. Cheers!

[@gargoylebrother]

Can of air duster turned upside down. I have found internal issues with modules before by cooling them down to below freezing for complaints in cold weather. Just use an infrared thermometer to check temps. Just be careful with plastic connectors and housings because they will be very brittle until they warm up and thaw out.

[@kalandjr6]

In the Ford training class they preach about micro corrosion which can cause enough resistance for the sensor to seem like it's acting up

[@robertmedina6875]

Yes Paul I have the launch Pro 3S plus and the baseline think tool pro. They operate on exactly the same platform the top Don does. I have been using them for a little over a year now and they do offer a lot of data pids at a awesome price! Great video as always!!!! Thank you!

[@iam1smiley1]

Which scanner is your favorite? I'm looking for something new, my Modis is super hard to see the screen and the layout on the new tools is so nice.

[@gordondowdy833]

Well DS, I am from the old-school mechanic. I love your channel !!! I know this post was a year ago, but I have worked on internal combustion engines of all sorts. Including hit and miss engines. Back in the day, Ford had an actual test called "The WiggleTest"...😂 I loved that test. I have used that test on every vehicle, Ford, or not. When you mentioned the Nintendo gig, I lmbo 😂😂😂...Being in south central Texas, I also recall leaning out carbs when we would head out to Colorado on a hunting trip. Barometric pressures will cause all types of issues. In the mid 80's, I would have the guy's who hauled their own fuel, and never shut their vehicle off, shut it down so the computer could re-learn... I am preaching to the pulpits here. You get the gest...I am definitely going to check out this scanner ! Thank you Sir and keep these video's coming !!! I love ❤️ it !

[@richb419]

HI, these scanners are a god send, the problem that I've been noticing is the software subscription is pricey. I don't know how useful the scanner is when the subscription runs out. it appears like "Henry Ford said I can give the car away and make money on the parts" . I would love to have one of these but the software costs seem prohibitive. Rich

[@HeyBirt]

I bought a D8 and have had it for a few months and not had any of the problems you describe. It does not take 30 seconds to change screens, etc. I don't recall losing PIDs I had selected when I went back to add more but I'll have to try that again to be sure. Being a shade tree mechanic, it came down to finding a tool I could afford that did what I needed. I needed bidirectional control and to be able to program a Mini to accept new FOBs. I was able to buy the D8 and KC100 (FOB ID reader) for less than the Pheonix and it does what I need. I also have to give XTOOL props for being very responsive to support emails. It does seem like the Pheonix has other capabilities, the graphing looks nicer in some ways, and it also provides a topology view of the vehicles network which is nice. The meus also looked nicer, easier to navigate, etc. than the D8. No doubt this makes it faster to get where you want to go. It seems there are things that are 'essential' for a pro working on the clock and perhaps only 'nice to have' for the guy working in his driveway. Seems unfair to bag on a less expensive too that is not ideal for your personal use case but may indeed work fine for other's needs. I know I have soldering equipment I would not want to live without since I make money with it, but the average tinkerer could likely not justify the expense and the sub $100 tool they bought works fine for their needs.

[@rwieber79]

Same here, I bought my Xtool D8 about 2 months ago and it's very fast reading modules and going from screen to screen and like you I just needed something bidirectional and didn't have over a grand to spend on a tool I use a couple times a week tops. As far as the graphing goes Paul is right, the Phoenix graphs pids and stuff better than the D8 from what hes shown here but again that's a $1200 tool compared to an $800 tool. And overall I still like the format of the D8 better than how the Phoenix is set up. To me the D8 is easier to navigate it just lacks a bit on the graphing of pids and again like I mentioned you'd expect the more expensive tool to do more. Also Paul keeps saying the Phoenix is under $1000 but in where hes seeing that because on Amazon they're $1200.

[@nordicpride9708]

I bought the D9 pro. Thing is amazing. Granted it’s a little more expensive vs the D8, but with updates it’s handled everything I’ve thrown at it. I find if you work on cars for a living you absolutely need several different brands of scanners. It’s really the only way to have close to complete coverage.

[@HeyBirt]

@@nordicpride9708 I am just a shade tree mechanic but watch a lot of the good auto diagnostics guys on KZbin. I can't count the number of times they switch from one scanner to another because, "The Autel does this better than factory tool" or "The Bosch can do this but Autel can't." or "For pre-199x the Sanp-On works better." Just like wrenches it takes more than one type of scan tool if your a pro.

[@weshawkins7165]

Good video Paul. It’s good to see this in real life situations. Depending on where your at and what the hourly labor rates our in the shops it can be cost effective to change parts, especially if it’s a thousand mile intermittent problem. I know here in Northern California labor rates are $110 to $200 per hour. So a forty dollar part with a 15 minute diagnosis is worth it right or wrong. And I did exactly the thing on a 05 Honda Accord a week ago you should never do, I wiggled the connector on the variable valve timing oil control solenoid before test drove it after canceling the code. I tried to kick myself in the butt but I’m to old to have that much flexibility anymore. I fixed the pin connectors just because and the car hasn’t set that code since.

[@humanresource9659]

Topdon is taking over. If they would sell replacement batteries, multimeters, and stop charging for updates they would have the market in the bag. "Swapnostics" is a veteran tactic; every shop has extra sensors and coils laying around to confirm a fault.

[@johnaclark1]

You're not a "Parts Changer" when you can't duplicate a problem. You can do nothing and wait for the ability to duplicate or you can replace the sensor. You do a visual inspection of the wiring, maybe scope the 5v ref, signal, and ground, and then put a sensor on it.. You're taking an educated guess and that's often all you can do. Ain't nobody got time to drive 800 miles to duplicate for a $60 (retail) sensor. If it happens again then you have evidence to go into deeper diagnostics.

[@dennisford6296]

The in

[@weavingspiderscomenothere2192]

Been finding a ton of wiring harness issues with "new" cars

[@CameronDC-Grimes]

You can duplicate the problem every time if you do nothing to fix it. They have a misfire, just smash the ignition coil with hammer, I bet you'll get a misfire 😂 It's a joke 🤣

[@raymondprendergast5839]

Thanks for sharing as usual and highly appreciated , at some time before I told you about the X431 Pro Mini but you never made a rebuttal, but that Phoenix is a clone of the launch pro mini because the features are the same. Anyway information and great content can never be too much God bless.

[@bobneuman8124]

Awesome tool , really like the graph overlay feature. Can come in handy for diagnosis!

[@jrneff9773]

will the tool program keys

[@rickw.9298]

-Keeping up with the diagnostic equipment is a job in itself, it is a very competitive field these days. I appreciate the effort you put into it. - To be fair about it, a mechanic has more flexibility when diagnosing their own vehicle. If you decide to take a chance on saving/wasting some time or money, its no one else’s problem. Additionally, when one is on the road, (safe)emergency actions are allowed, to safeguard the vehicle and its inhabitants. ps: shout out to Paul, Topdon & St Judes Children Hospital. Drive safely its a jungle out there!

[@Mr2004MCSS]

I've done the unplug/plug back in on one of the O2 sensors on my 98 Chevy truck. If I let the truck sit too long without starting it(usually a month or two), it will set a CEL and run a little rough at idle. Both Banks sensor 1's have been replaced with AC-Delco replacements some years ago but not that many miles ago. Hopefully the next time it does it, I will have time to diagnose it correctly. This time around the CEL light has stayed off for awhile but I've been driving it more often.

[@rwieber79]

Hey Paul, I checked my Xtool D8 on the pids like we talked about in the comments of your last video on the Phoenix and what they've done is limited it to where it will only let me graph and compare up to 5 pids at once. And your right there is a slight lag in the data as it comes across. I spoke to Xtool about it and they told me they are working on improving the lag and it should be resolved in a coming update. They just didn't know how long. For me and what I use it for it hasn't been an issue and hopefully never is. For $800 I still dont think there is a better option out there. But if someone has the 1200 to spend the Phoenix definitely looks like a great tool and may just be the best option outside of spending thousands for Snap On or Autel Elite

[@ScannerDanner]

Pretty sure the Phoenix is 895 right now? It was in the link I shared. Anyway, thanks for the feedback on your D8

[@bbminetesting6837]

My 2010 Honda Accord had the check engine light on for an o2 heater. I measured the resistance through each heater, checked all the wires for power and ground, and everything seemed good. Plugged it all back together, and I haven't had a code in over 3000 miles.

[@spelunkerd]

I haven't yet found a scan tool that I didn't learn to hate after a while. Right now I'm on the Autel Maxisys 906BT, and it seems OK, but it lacks some flexibility with evap system diagnostics. The real price is the cost of updates. Most let those slide.

[@mbazzy123]

Paul can you do some more video work using the Autel Ultra? It would be great to see some additional case studies using it, I bought one last year and are still learning my way around it.

[@Justino_Nicolás]

So happy I watched this before shelling out on an XtoolD8.. Topdon Phoenix it is then. Great vid. All the best.

[@nordicpride9708]

There’s nothing wrong with the D8. I personally don’t like the top Don. I bought a Xtool D9 pro. Way better than the Phoenix IMO

[@Aidan.17]

I bought an icarsoft scantool for each of our cars and they live in the glovebox. Only $200 ea but much better then a code reader as they are programmed for our cars specifically plus some other brands e.g. Ford/Holdens and Land rover/Jaguar. I can’t change parameters with them but can read live values on all areas of the car. Invaluable and both have saved me thousands of dollars especially on my land rover.

[@hurls2301]

Great video, so glad you mentioned the xtool. Have been looking into the new d9 but i think ill stay away. Priceless infomation

[@ScannerDanner]

Look into the Topdon Phoenix Lite 2

[@hurls2301]

@@ScannerDanner do you know, can it still be used after the free update period if you dont purchase the new update

[@WJV9]

Never overlook the problem of corrosion of contact pins on the electrical connector jack or plug. I am an electronics engineer and have been troubleshooting electronics for years and I have fixed computers by unplugging a circuit board and plugging it back in again. The old Apple II computers would do this often. Also I used to always carry a can of 'freeze spray' to temporarily cool electronic components since many failures are due to high heat in the semiconductor components.

[@mjk9674]

You are so right, I sent my Xtool D8S back after 3 car scans. Garbage. Suppose to have lots of special functions but hardly any for any one vehicle. junk

[@courier11sec]

I'll have to look through your videos and see if the longevity matches the capability. This looks like a hell of a machine for the money. When I was still in the job you couldn't touch this level of capability under 10 grand or so. They were also 4 times the size.

[@Jpilgrim30]

They are rebranded launch tools and that’s fine because those launch tools are very powerful scan tools.

[@ironmike742]

Hey Paul if the problem does return check pin fitment. I work for Ford and I have replaced some wiring pigtails for the boost sensor. There is a problem with pin fitment on that pigtail. Sometimes when unplugging and plugging back in it will work for a while. Hopefully you have the issue handled with just replacing the sensor but you may want to do a pin drag test on the plug end. There's a TSB on some models to replace the sensor and pigtail. I wish I had the TSB # handy but I already left work. I love your videos brother keep them coming. ROCK ON !!!

[@ScannerDanner]

its funny you say this because it's been more than a year and it hasn't done it since!! I still have the new sensor in my door for when it fails again. But given the time frame, pin fitment seems to be most likely. Thanks!

[@flatrateus]

As a soon to be retired ( yeah sure) self employed tech I recently came across a Mic Sig scope tablet that has an app that will download to my cheapo Autel bidirectional Maxi Check. This makes my wireless Autel a wireless scope. Very fast and under 1000 for both. Portability is key....the future is now.

[@racrx7]

Glad to see that Ford providing you with a target rich environment to demo that scanner with 😂. In all seriousness tho, that looks like a feature rich scanner. Does it work with transmission issues? Thanks for the video 👍🏻

[@jordanboulay3780]

never thought id see the day you guessing to change a part! glad you got it fixed! always enjoy your videos Paul!

[@jimyep9971]

On the road you do what ya have too!!!! Not a parts changer........... Ive done it n am sure others have too. nice video.

[@Portuguese-linguica]

I don't have anything else to say other than you hit the nail on the head . Thumbs up .

[@calholli]

When there's that many codes at once.. It makes me think that a connector came loose or a main ground losing contact. Something with a common denominator across all the issues... So when you said that you unplugged it and plugged it back in--- that made me feel vindicated. lol. :)

[@kennethhicks2113]

Bummer that happened on new vehicle. Great job troubleshooting and TEACHING. Ya'll listen up as this can teach you the ability to troubleshoot very quickly and effectively... once you have experience with the tool(s). Have a fun and safe journey, God speed.

[@garystuart226]

As always in awe of ur expertise and how u methodically diagnose errors , I’m from across the pond and for my sins own a discovery 3 TDV6 , 2.7 , and been chasing a turbo error , ref Boost pressure actuator - Bank 1 displays N/A , diagnostic wise own a gap iid and a carly , also recently bought a Curien N2 , ordered a few of ur OTC testers , alas haven’t been able to find spare bulbs as of yet here in the UK , looks like I’ll have to also order them from the states , thks as always for sharing ur vast knowledge and u also got home safe and sound

[@AJ-wj9ij]

When one is in comfort zone we don't recommend for parts changers and when we on other side parts cannon takes the lead ,it happens to great troubleshooter bro nothing personal , good video take care

[@PaulysAuto]

It's crazy how little it takes to get them to act up or go into a "limp mode" when that DTC set criteria is met. Moreover, how difficult it can often be to just get them to duplicate without just calling the part in question, knowing why is not always possible...sadly. At least you're taking the time to show the reasons why based on frequency and symptoms that we should suspect pin fretting and/or sensor pin issues when examining graphed scan data. From what I've been seeing, those IAT sensor data inputs are ABSOLUTELY critical on Turbocharged engines...ESPECIALLY on diesel engines...charge air temperatures, cold climates, fuel delivery, wastegate control or Variable Vane Solenoid Control, and CAC shutter operation is definitely affected. Alot to consider on these modern engines...ALOT...the learning never stops! Thanks for sharing as always Paul!

[@markchidester6239]

Your a good man Paul Really glad your around.

[@exmotorsports]

I'm the same way...never leave home without it. Lol. Pretty much the same as the Launch I have. Just don't have the hand hold on the back like that. For a tool under 1k it's very powerful and loaded with extras that make it well worth the money. 😉👍

[@rickl7024]

I’ve done this unplug thing on two brand new cummins engine sensor,,, less than a month old truck,,I didn’t think the sensors would go out that quick

[@snubbelbuff1471]

@21:10 AC at 73 and seat heating at 2/3 power... Wifes of the world - NEVER CHANGE!!

[@tyree9055]

Of course you're a Parts Changer, we all are (if we do any kind of repair work), it's just a matter of how far above simply changing parts that you can rise that'll set you apart! 😉👍

[@JoitaConstantin]

Thank you Paul for sharing your experience with us. You made me do decide to buy that tool when I will be back at home.

[@30YearOldBunta]

Since I fixed that issue with the cam sensor ground, the cars ran amazing and I actually met a 2001 cima (JDM model of my car, just as rare) and he had an almost identical issue that he'd been throwing parts at! He replaced the starter, throttle body, alternator and other various 5v stuff. I told him how to diagnose it further and to check the cam sensor on the transmission so it's spreading! Slowing changing parts changers 1 car at a time. 🤙

[@ScannerDanner]

Nice!

[@mykbuph]

I use blue driver for graphing fuel trims. It's fast and easy

[@iam1smiley1]

Yes, I have an older Modis but often grab my BlueDriver for watching fuel trimes and sometimes it picks out more codes than my Snap-on surprisingly.

[@nellyxavier8923]

It's always a pleasure Sir hearing for you. it is.

[@James-fs4rn]

👍been nice if Ford programmed a limp mode for that condition. Thanks for the scan tool review.

[@elcomandante9299]

Limp modes are dangerous. Especially with the drivers in Manatee County. Bradentonians,u no who I'm talkin bout.

[@kaylamarie8309]

Well, I have to say. I have been watching your videos and I liked you before but my respect for you has risen ten million percent after watching this complete set of videos on the Topdon tool. Where many here on YT are simply hawking something to make a buck you Sir have true integrity and a giving heart and I can trust what you say.. I am trying to learn more of the diagnostic end of things and maybe one day I will get it, maybe not but at least I know a direction to get an affordable instrument that is something worth using. I have a couple of regular 'ol plug in OBD2 scan tools (one being a Topdon) that have really helped me but of course they are limited in scope. I want to learn how to use something more in depth that has bidirectional capabilities. I would really like to be able to command components to turn on and off. Circuits that control such functions as the fuel pump or the EVAP system etc. opening and closing them. Maybe some day I will be able to budget in the Topdon tool you are using here. Thanks for the truth! I feel I do not need to watch any further diagnostic scanner videos to find out the best bang for my buck.

[@ScannerDanner]

Wow, thank you so much! Look into the Phoenix Lite. It is the replacement for this model and is a bigger screen for the same price. One of the other things I do is I've partnered with a company (AESwave) where all of my affiliate revenue from them is being used for tool grants for new techs or people just starting out. I'd be more than happy to set you up with one. But your limited to shopping at AESwave as they match my amount dollar for dollar. Email me at [e-mail] and copy this exchange and I'll set you up. The grant is good for 90 days

[@kaylamarie8309]

@@ScannerDanner You are quite welcome Sir 🙂 I will certainly take a look at the Phoenix Lite. Sounds like a great tool! full disclosure, I am neither a new tech in school or just starting my career (I wish! lol) , I'm just an 'ol gal who is a "starving contractor" that works on all her own equipment and vehicles. I have to buy all my own vehicles, tools and equipment and as such I am also usually the repair dept lol. . My most frequent patient being my '05 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3 vortec ext cab long bed work truck. I would not want to take a grant opportunity away from a young person that is broke and just starting out who plans on making a living as an auto technician. Your kindness is truly appreciated! I will touch base with you anyway so you'll have my email address and if I can help by buying through any of your links I will.

[@ScannerDanner]

@@kaylamarie8309 I had my wife send you a grant. If I can help someone help themselves, then I'm all in. The company I mentioned (AESwave) does carry the Phoenix Light too. And they will match the amount of the grant I sent you towards anything in their store.

[@kaylamarie8309]

@@ScannerDanner Many thanks to you and your wonderful wife. I very much appreciate it! I definitely will be getting something from AESwave as soon as I can. Thank you again!

[@ScannerDanner]

@@kaylamarie8309 once you hear back from Carlos from AESwave, you'll have 90 days to use that grant

[@bryanjones2972]

Wow, talk about coincidences! Just last week I was driving from Orlando to Fort Myers, right in the Bradenton area in a rainstorm in my 2017 Expedition, and I got the bucking/shutdown/wrench, and went into limp mode. I pulled codes and got P0236 (boost sensor A range), P0237 (boost sensor A circuit low), P025E (Boot sensor A erratic), along with some other sensor circuit level codes. I was really thinking it might be the 5v reference line voltage itself, but after seeing your near identical problem, you may have done the unintended, which is convince me to try to "parts swap" first! j/k... I'm going to check the 5v line.

[@bryanjones2972]

BTW, it did it again yesterday evening while... driving in the rain. Hmmmm.

[@TOLDyouSOagain]

You reach a lot of people and im sure that i would love that scan tool. However for a diy guy 900 bucks is a lot. I have 2 ok scanners, one is a launch without bi-directional controls which does wonderful. The other is the xtool a30m Bluetooth scanner like the bludriver. Except it does have some bi-directional controls. We're talking 216 dollars and ive been happy with it. Maybe you could check it out and see what you think. Im pretty sure the a30m could be the d8 with the only difference of using your phone or tablet.

[@dougkelley1266]

Awesome info. I have been looking for an affordable quality scanner. Thank you Dan

[@ScannerDanner]

Its Paul Danner 😉

[@gregoryfairchild2460]

Did you blow into it Paul when you unplugged it:) Yep heat changes the resistance and can cause noise.

[@jeremyalbert2069]

You might want to smoke test the charge tubes , and intercooler, .. turbo failures are very common kn the ecoboost engines , usually left side turbo will leak oil and coolant , f150,and expedition ,navigator .

[@retireditguy9493]

Fantastic video. I really appreciate your honest opinions on the various scan tools.

[@griffith04]

What do you think about the codes possibly being caused by the change in altitude? Long down hill coasting, change in baro without the truck knowing there was a change. PCM gets baro reading from TCIPT. You even mentioned the different reading with the new sensor. I'll bet it won't happen again, unless and maybe another trip to Florida or similar. That's my thoughts.

[@taj73]

Wow, it hurt to hear the truth from a pro technician about x-tool d8 that I was considering buying. But thank Paul, it better to know the truth now I got my mind set for the topdon scanner.

[@andrewgibson1991]

Good video as usual Paul

[@user-wh1nr9rr1h]

Paul...Your comparing an X-Tool D-8 for $700 (which you can get for $550-$600) to a Phoenix for $900 and only 1 yr of updates. 🤔

[@wilamyoukhana1109]

Every one is part changer except u boss your the best

[@calholli]

See, on the xtool D8 --- I can only combine 5 graphs at a time. and I can only see ONE drop down graph at a time while in the pid list....... and then it won't even do the multiple separate mini graphs on one page, at all; only combine... and only 5 at once. (when graphing).... so the D8 is $700.. and this Phoenix is $900.. It's worth that extra money for the graphing enhancements alone.

[@paulsimpson2232]

I know this was filmed some time ago , but for me it was just what i was looking for. My Verus now has come to the point that snap - on will not support it, and i just can not justify buying a Zeus i think snap-on call it. The Topdon pro + does a lot more and for the money. .if Topdon never go and include a 4 channel scope, man that would be top of the list for any diagnostic machine...snap -on you need to up your game and give me key coding AND ECU reboot/mapping and make the price affordable to all, you've milked us techs for years...ScannerDanner keeping up the good work, even on vacation ,hat off to ya :)

[@damnwereinatightspot]

Mr. Paul Danner, if you could, would you please give brief definitions of some of your vocabulary. What is ment by "hash?" I dont think defining every time the word is used but say 1:3ish ? Thank you, your son and wifes thumb for all your doings.

[@scientist100]

"Sweet" 😅 I have a friend that is always using "sweet" instead of nice or other combined terms and started noticing you use that too. He uses that term so much that I could not stop from noticing how often he uses it. Though, I know you probably thought, it is a low mile Ford, nothing will fail on this trip.

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

Low miles? Haha. All Ford's are past their life expectancy. Even the ones on the dealer's lot. 😋😂😃🤣

[@jackrussell680]

Careful having that in hand while driving. Some states have distracted driver laws. Also i appreciate your videos, I'm old to mechanic but new to electrical/scan. Helped me out recently.

[@robertleifeld225]

Great video for the scan tool. Please show us some of the bidirectional controls. Do you still have the discount codes active?

[@ScannerDanner]

The link is in the description. It is not a discount code link, it is a link that will automatically provide a 10% donation to St. Jude's if you buy the tool. Thank!

[@waiting4aliens]

I always add a drop of deoxit before I put it back together.

[@JamesSmith-xs7sr]

1 drop of Deoxit applied, with 30 more leaking from the nozzle! Sux... Had a can from 1998, lasted 10 years, NO nozzle leakage!

[@jameswasher3938]

Thanks Paul. Very nice followup.

[@calholli]

Well Mr. ScannerDanner--- I blame you for me buying this D8. lol... You should have done a video showing how it was lacking. Everyone said it was so great, and to be fair--- it can do a lot. But as soon as I got it and started trying to graph data, it is very much lacking in the graphing department. Instead of just throwing these tools back, just do a quick video showing how they are failing or how they are lacking. That would have saved me from buying it and I could have bought this topdon.... But again, to be fair-- I've already used to it fix 3 different cars and I've made 3 separate pairs of immo keys and key fobs. So it has basically paid for itself already...... The D8 is very capable, it's just lacking in it's graphing--- which could easily be fixed with software updates-- which this as like 3 free years of updates. I'm over the limit now and can't send it back- so I'll just have to hope that they refine the graphing problems in upcoming software updates.

[@KT-so3ml]

Well done. Lots of respect for you, good review.

[@jasonc9294]

Hi SD, Have you tried to use the OBD1 adapters on older vehicles? The spec list says it's for 1996 and newer vehicles and the adapters would be for Pre-1996 vehicles. I bought the Autel "Kit" that has all of the adapters but they are useless because of the same 1996 and newer requirements. It was a wasted $300 on the Autel.

[@PistonShack]

Phoenix Scan Tools menu looks exactly as Launch just blue compare red to Launch menu.

[@ScannerDanner]

I've heard the x431 is the same. Not launch in general

[@richmhwd]

You make me a better Tech everyday brother. Thanks

[@ScannerDanner]

Glad to hear it!

[@madds6678]

We’ve all done it no shame in that. Pulling the plug on a airmass sensor to get a car home & with power done a few times.

[@Jay_Dahl]

This thing runs on top of Android 7 ? That's an antique! Many apps no longer support that old operating system.

[@Kevin-yc4kg]

Super common on the 3.5 expedition but the real question is how bad is the startup rattle? Cam phasers are super common on those as well along with shifting concerns the cdf bushing slips in the cdf hub causing some wacky shifting

[@elcomandante9299]

3.5 motor?

[@Kevin-yc4kg]

@@elcomandante9299 yes 3.5 ecoboost

[@htownblue11]

TopDon is a very capable tool and is great as a tag along for long trips just in case.

[@jrneff9773]

will the tool program keys

[@dalebabbitt6185]

Simple reply.......... Awesome and Thank You!!!!!!!!

[@robertheaney4672]

Hi Dan just stumbled upon your video it looks like a nice scanner i have a Apollo D9 and it breaks the bank keeping this thing up to date whats the cost to keeping the TopDon updated ? Thanks Bob

[@dwainkowalske3060]

I really like your show and want to say thank you for doing the scan tool search as a new low budget repair owner who almost made a bad decision on the xtool. I had one question if you see this and that is if there was any possibility of elevation changes and computer relearning lag for the issues with the Ford?

[@ScannerDanner]

Thank you! The elevation changes I mentioned in the video? Is that what you're referring too? Sorry

[@dwainkowalske3060]

Yes I'm sorry for taking so long getting back to you trying to get my doors open business, it has been one obstacle after another but I'm close now. Yes I had trouble figuring out when exactly the issue was arising but it seemed like both times it happened was at higher elevations. So I was curious if you were at higher elevations on both instances?

[@dwainkowalske3060]

And thank you again on the leg work of finding a low budget scanner I just ordered mine and can hardly wait to have it in my hands.

[@rollenschultz2707]

Your wife is so lucky to have handy dandy on board for the trip to Florida

[@rexluongo6470]

Have you checked out the Foxwell Scanners? I have been looking at this unit: Foxwell NT819BT. I would really like a verus pro but at $2,000 and no updates, it's pretty hard to justify as a DIY.

[@daan5918]

Good video, would not call it budget tho. Would say below 400 would be more a budget tool. I am looking at the Icarsoft CR Max seems a good deal and lifetime free upgrades is nice for the DIY mechanic

[@ScannerDanner]

I've seen NOTHING under the $500 range worth putting my name next to. If you're going that route, just get a $100 bluetooth scan tool

[@andrewgonyou9903]

Hey I was interested in the D8 for a it’s key programming abilities I wonder if you could expound on the negatives a little because I was really considering it.

[@colonelcatastrophe4821]

I think this is the best vid I've ever seen from you sd. As rad as any of us think we are, there's always something to throw a wrench in the spokes. Does the Phoenix graph cam and crank sensors sd?

[@colonelcatastrophe4821]

I was asking because I have an autel ms906 ts and It seems i have to buy the ostilloscope to get the graphing on sensors . Great vid again paul.

[@colonelcatastrophe4821]

And what exact phoenix do you have?

[@DJTJ13]

Please check out the original Autel Ap200 or hyper tough HT200. Best value for the money hands down. I have the launch which is very similar to the topdon. But I honestly use the AP200 more bc it easier. Has iphone and Android app. Autel has some newer models ap200m, ap200c but are not well rounded as the original ap200 in my opinion. I promise you will be blown away at this price point. I could send you one to try out also. Thanks for the great videos!

[@JAYJAYJAY53]

That looks exactly like my x431 different brand looks exactly the same . DIY guy but these days it’s really needed

[@isalmankhan1]

Everything you do is Awesome SD😍

[@taipan8021]

The Experiences that Life throws your way, makes you wonder. A Part's changer? Life made you one, if only for that one Moment

[@thecode3fc]

Finger free device! Sweet. Maybe version 2.0 will be “thumbs” free as well. 🤠🇺🇸

[@gnomiefirst9201]

Had an automotive class in 2005. Didn't a bidirectional scan tool cost $100k at that time? Your new truck is already wonky? dang. Great Vid Paul.

[@ScannerDanner]

No sir, I've never seen a bidirectional tool for under 500

[@robertmedina6875]

One of the things that would be nice on that platform as if you could read grams per second in metric and English. Right now you have to switch back-and-forth or do the math :-)