Topdon TopScan | Cheapest Bi-Directional Scan tool?

I tried Topscan from Topdon on 3 different vehicles and everything worked flawlessly. I can recommend it as one of the cheapest way to get a professional bi-directional scanner in your own toolbox.

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Features

Feature	Verdict
Connection Type	Bluetooth
Device type	Bluetooth adapter (J2534)
Need extra device	Yes (smartphone, iOS/Android)
Need internet	Yes
Own software	Yes
Can use 3rd party software	No
Subscription/Update	Yes ($59-99 per year)
Vehicle coverage	All
Global OBD Modes	Yes
Live data graphs	Yes (4v1)
Data logging	Yes
Scan other modules	Yes
Diagnostic report PDF	Yes
Full live data	Yes
Bi-Directional	Yes
Service Procedures	Yes
ECU coding	No
Full review + video	https://www.iamcarhacker.com/topdon-topscan-review/
Price range	$50-100
Current price	https://amzn.to/3YH9SUl

Topscan Lite vs PRO | Which one to choose?

Topscan lite seems to be better value for money since it is half price compared to PRO but has almost the same functionality. The only 2 things missing in the LITE version are the immobilizer function and 5 service procedures (a total of 13 in pro). The lite comes with 8 service procedures but already includes the ones you will need most often like battery, throttle, DPF, brake unlock, and 4 others.

Features	Topscan Lite	Topscan PRO
Price for device + first year license	Around $60	Around $130
Update cost (from 2nd year)	$59/year	$99/year
Full scan + diagnostic report	Yes	Yes
Full live data	Yes	Yes
Bi-Directional	Yes	Yes
Global OBD Modes	Yes	Yes
Immobilizer	—	Yes
Service procedures	8	13

My Review of Topdon Topscan

I also got a Topdon warranty card in the package that extends the warranty by 1 additional need, but I don’t think I’ll ever use it. These adapters usually won’t break down, or at least any of mine didn’t.

I know that a lot of you guys hate subscription-based scanners, especially when you want to transition from a cheaper code reader/ELM327 reader. But subscription cost is normal across most professional scanners and with Topscan it is actually very affordable starting from $50/year with the first year free (just buy the device).

Topscan is a good choice for mechanics as well

You can access all modules to read/clear codes, read live data, and even do bi-directional tests for all modules. This alone is enough for a small car shop but on top of that, you can also print out or send diagnostic reports directly to your customers.

Getting your customer report like this will increase their trust in you, and if you want to look even more professional you can get a tablet. It will look very similar to pro scan tools in the price range of thousands of dollars.

It worked fine for all tested vehicles

I tried it with the 2022 Corolla which is easy for almost all scanners, but I also included tests of 2 other cars. Fiat Punto 2004 and Renault Kangoo 2005 are not easy for diagnostic devices to communicate with and provide special functions like all system scans or bi-directional controls.

I remember when testing Topdon Artidiag 900 lite, it couldn’t scan all modules from this Punto, only the engine.

The topscan on the other hand handled it without issues and I was able to access all control modules. Now this is why why pay a subscription for the tools. To get better software each year.

The app is very user-friendly

Topscan/Topguru app is easy to work with and I was able to use all the features naturally without any connection issues or looking for anything. Every feature and setting was exactly right where I expected it to be.

I definitely recommend it, check it out on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3YH9SUl