I recently bought the ThinkDiag 2, so I have at least one Bluetooth OBD2 scanner with wide vehicle coverage. And I was impressed with it. This was the first Bluetooth scanner not advertised as a “dealership-level” OBD tool, but it is one.
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Thinkdiag2 – My Quick Rating
Thinkdiag2 has the fastest scan of all Wireless scan tools I tried, probably because of CanFD protocol support. It also does everything needed for beginner and intermediate DIY mechanics.
You also get wide vehicle coverage and advanced functions that usually aren’t present in Smartphone scanners like Bi-directional testing, ECU coding, or accessing every control module for scanning, reading live data, and other parameters.
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VIDEO: Thinkdiag2 Review
What can you do with ThinkDiag2?
Thinkdiag2 uses software from its parent company: Launch. That means you are buying a device with professional software, and it shows when you read about everything it can do.
1. Read and erase trouble codes
Thinkdiag can read fault codes from all control units in the car, not only the engine. You can diagnose problems with the transmission, radio, headlights, and more. Volkswagen in the photo has 19 control units, so it would be a shame to use a device that can work only with one of them.
2. Read the live data (full data)
While reading the codes from multiple units is becoming common even in Bluetooth scanners, only the best one can read live data from multiple control units. You can use full live data not just to diagnose problems but also to find out about the car’s history and possibly discover mileage fraud. Thinkdiag2 reads live data from all control units and can also display them in graphs.
3. Read the freeze frame data
Every trouble code comes with a set of stored live data values like RPM, engine temperature, speed, etc… from the time when the trouble code was stored in ECU. It can help you understand under what conditions the malfunction is occurring, pointing you to the right car part that has to be replaced.
How I review products
On my website Iamcarhacker.com, I am committed to providing genuine and thorough reviews. I believe in the importance of firsthand experience, so I personally test every OBD2 scanner I review. Before I share my insights and opinions, I make sure to purchase and use each product, ensuring that my reviews are based on real-world usage and experience. Check the full review policy.
4. Service functions
Service functions are becoming necessary steps in car repair. You must unlock electronic brake calipers to change pads, force DPF regeneration, or reset oil service lights. Bluetooth OBD2 scan tools usually have either none or only a few of these. Thanks to professional Launch software, you will gain access to up to 15 service functions with Thinkdiag, depending on the car.
5. Bi-Directional tests
You can test hundreds of car parts just by sitting in the car and commanding your OBD2 scanner to do these tests. You can test every electrical component, like relays, motors, or fans, which significantly speeds up the diagnostic process.
6. ECU coding
Thinkdiag’s versatility is completed with ECU coding. You can code changes into your car and possibly unlock hidden features and options. ECU coding also disables annoying features like seatbelt warnings or start-stop systems.
Car Diagnostics Training
- Car Electrical basics
- OBD-II scanner basics
- How to use an OBD reader
- Introduction to a Bi-directional Scan tool
- OBD scanner buyer’s guide + discounts
I test OBD-II scanners and make DIY Engine diagnostics guides to help you solve your car problems without having to depend on the mechanic. A lot of them will try to scam you or are just no help at all. About Juraj Lukacko
Can it be used by a mechanic to work on various cars
Yes, it is perfect as budget scanner for mechanic. Of course the $1000 scan tool would be better but the Thinkdiag2 does the same, except it might take little longer with scan and other functions than scan tool. But for starting mechanic/car shop is great to save money.