Topdon Carpal is a step up from ELM327, giving you some extra functionality from their professional OBD-II software as they also make tablet scan tools. Carpal will let you scan all modules in the car, make diagnostic PDF reports, and even use 6 service procedures.
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Topdon carpal is not a bad scanner, it does a lot more than classic ELM327 but it’s not a bi-directional scanner.
You have to pay a subscription yearly (first year free) of $30/year, which is not a lot but if you pay a subscription of $50-60 you can get a scanner with a lot more features.
For example one of Bluetooth Bi-Directional scanners.
Discount check (find best price)
| Amazon | https://amzn.to/3YjWODC |
| Aliexpress | https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmCmD4d |
Features
| Feature | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Connection Type | Bluetooth |
| Device type | Bluetooth adapter |
| Need extra device | Smartphone (iOS/Android) |
| Need internet | Yes |
| Own software | Yes |
| Can use 3rd party software | No |
| Subscription/Update | $30/year (1st year free) |
| Vehicle coverage | All |
| Global OBD Modes | Yes |
| Live data graphs | Yes |
| Data logging | Yes |
| Scan other modules | Yes |
| Diagnostic report PDF | Yes |
| Full live data | No |
| Bi-Directional | No |
| Service Procedures | 6 |
| ECU coding | No |
| Full review + video | https://www.iamcarhacker.com/topdon-carpal-scanner-owners-review/ |
| Price range | $50-100 |
| Current price | https://amzn.to/3YjWODC |
OBD-II scanner Buyer’s Guide
- Scanner features explained
- Different types of scanners
- Scanners for coding/odometer/ECU/checks
- Best picks + discount codes
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