Delphi DS150 Clone REVIEW | What You Really Get
I bought the Delphi DS150 Multidiag clone for $50 and tested it on multiple real cars in my garage. I compared it against tablets and basic ELM adapters to see if the laptop version still offers good value. It gives way more functions than cheap code readers, but it also has limits on newer cars.
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Quick overview
Multidiag Delphi DS150
Delphi DS150 (Multidiag) is a laptop-based Bluetooth diagnostic tool. You install the software on a Windows laptop and connect using the small VCI box.
It works best on older European and Asian cars. On those, it gives you strong coverage: multiple modules, full live data, some resets, and real bi-directional testing. For the price, it is hard to beat.
Weak point: newer cars past ~2020. It cannot access every module. US brands also have limited functions. And you must disable antivirus during install, which is annoying.
Who tested product & wrote this review?
Tester & Editor for this review: Juraj Lukacko
Hello, I am Juraj (Yuri) and I tested this product to help you decide if it is something you would want to buy, and if yes, show you how to use it.
I make honest reviews based on personal testing in my own garage and If I see the product is bad, I will make it very clear in review.
Read more about how I do reviews on Iamcarhacker.com in my review policy.
What This Tool Actually Is
Test Results on Real Cars
I tested it on real cars.
Cars used:
• Fiat Punto 2004
• Toyota Corolla 2022
• Volkswagen / Audi older models (basic tests)
• Several older European cars
Module Access
On older cars like Punto 2004, it scanned engine, body, airbag, and more.
On newer cars like Corolla 2022, many modules were missing.
What worked
• Engine scan
• ABS, airbag, body module access (older cars)
• Full live data
• Live data graphs
• Key programming in Fiat body module
• Bi-directional tests: lights, locks, indicators, injectors, cooling fan
• EVAP test
• Freeze frame data
• Global OBD modes worked reliably
Scan speed was good.
Live data updated smoothly.
Graphs worked fine.
Active tests responded instantly.
What failed
• Newer Toyota modules missing
• US models limited
• Some DTC descriptions missing
• Autocom software wouldn’t install
• Key programming and service features vary heavily by brand
Behavior
The software looks old but works.
Bluetooth connection was stable.
Wired mode works if Bluetooth fails.
Needs ignition ON every time or it gives a communication error.
Coding behavior
No ECU coding in my testing.
Only service adjustments + key programming in some modules.
Error messages
“Communication failed” happens if ignition is off.
Some modules return “no communication”.
Manufacturer Specs vs Real Testing
| Area | Manufacturer Claim | What I Saw in Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Module coverage | Many control modules | Good on older EU/Asia, weak on US/newer cars |
| Bi-directional | Yes | Works well on supported modules |
| Service functions | Many | Only some available per car |
| Coding | Not advertised | Not available in my testing |
| Updates | No subscription | True |
| Live data | Full | Works, graphs included |
| Coverage of 2020+ cars | Claimed | Not reliable |
Hardware / Software / Plans / Internet Dependency
Hardware
• Bluetooth VCI
• Wired USB mode also available
• Built-in flashlight
• Rugged enough for garage use
Software
• Delphi/Autocom clone
• Needs Windows
• You must disable antivirus to install
• Interface looks outdated but works
Plans
• No subscription
• No cloud lock
• Once installed, you pay nothing else
Internet
• Works offline
• No cloud functions required
Costs
• I paid $50
• For that price it beats every basic code reader
Supported Service Resets
Works differently depending on car.
VAG
• Basic resets only
• Limited module access on modern MQB
• No SFD functions
BMW / Toyota / Lexus
• Mixed results
• Toyota 2022 had missing modules
• Older models worked OK
Other brands
Great support for older Fiat, Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, Renault.
Key programming worked on my Fiat Punto.
If you want heavy service work on many brands, Kingbolen K7, Xtool D7, or Thinkcar tablets are better.
Supported Languages
• Many language packs included
• Translation quality varies
• English safest
• Some menus look half-translated
• When unsure, users often google the meaning
Comparison Section
Delphi DS150 vs ELM327 Adapters
ELM327 adapters can only read engine data.
Multidiag can scan several modules, run bi-directional tests, and perform service tasks.
| Feature | Delphi DS150 | ELM327 |
|---|---|---|
| Modules | Several | Engine only |
| Live data | Full + graphs | Basic |
| Bi-directional | Yes | No |
| Service resets | Some | No |
| Key programming | Sometimes | No |
| Price | ~$50 | $10–$20 |
For $50, Multidiag is simply in another league.
Delphi DS150 vs Standalone Tablets (Xtool D7 / Kingbolen K7)
Tablets cost 5–10× more but give modern coverage and better support.
Tablets give you:
• Faster UI
• No antivirus problems
• Better support for 2020+ cars
• More service resets
• More reliable module access
• Easier workflow
DS150 gives you:
• Dirt-cheap multi-module diagnostics
• Good bi-directional tests
• Low cost, no subscription
| Feature | Delphi DS150 | Xtool D7 / Kingbolen K7 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$50 | $300–$600 |
| Coverage | Older cars | Older + newer |
| UI | Old Windows software | Modern |
| Bi-directional | Yes | Yes |
| Service resets | Some | Many |
| Coding | No | Yes (partial) |
| Setup difficulty | High | Low |
Tablets like Kingbolen K7 are safer for professionals.
DS150 is the budget king for DIY.
Final Verdict
The Delphi DS150 / Multidiag is a huge value for DIY mechanics. For $50 you get multi-module diagnostics, bi-directional tests, live data graphs, and even some service functions. On older European cars it works great.
But it is not a professional tool.
It struggles with newer models and US brands.
Software installation is messy.
Some modules are missing.
Buy it if you want maximum functionality for minimum money.
Skip it if you need full coverage on modern vehicles.
How to save money:
Best price is usually on AliExpress.
No subscription required.
Software links often come from the seller.
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