Autel AutoLink AL619 OBDII CAN Scan Tool Review


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Autel AutoLink AL619 OBDII CAN ABS And SRS Scan Tool Update Online

Autel AutoLink AL619 OBDII CAN ABS And SRS Scan Tool Update Online

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Autel AutoLink AL619 ABS/SRS OBDII CAN Diagnostic Tool is built to help you determine why the Malfunction Indicator Light or the ABS / SRS warning light is on. Autel AutoLink AL619 is powerful and affordable choice for car owner and workshops.AL619 does not contain Peugeot and Citroen, if you need to work on these two cars, please choose AL619EU.
The Autolink AL619 OBD II is a great troubleshooter to have on hand.   It can read virtually any code of any system of any vehicle manufactured after 1996.  It comes with CD software, free software updates for a year, a rechargeable Li-Ion Battery, a case, an SD card, and USB cable.  By all reports, this is a solidly built tool, with easy-to-use buttons that can be used even while wearing gloves.  It is not considered a top-of-the-line diagnostic tool-those cost upward of $3,000-however, this is the tool most mechanics reach for first.  It is more expensive than basic scanners, however the Autel AL619 will pay for itself the first time you are able to clear a code without going to the dealership or a repair shop.

 

Retrieves and clears virtually all diagnostic codes.

The Autel AL619 is capable of retrieving manufacturer-specific codes, generic codes, and even pending codes.  This includes both foreign and domestic vehicles, and vehicles that are notorious for having difficult-to-clear codes such as Land Rover and Jaguar.  Once the diagnostic codes are retrieved, the Autel AL619 quickly and easily clears them.  It even clears codes that were left by previous servicing.

ABS and SRS codes.

ABS and SRS system diagnosis, code reading and clearing have been added to this model (the previous version did not have these).  Many vehicles tend to have problems with airbag sensors or anti-lock braking sensors.  Most scanners cannot retrieve and clear these codes.  This is a definite advantage the Autel AL619 has over other brands.

Thousands of troubleshooter code tips.

There is also a “Save” feature, so if you get an obscure code, you can disconnect the unit, bring to your computer, and research it online.

Real-time data.

The Autel AL619 has real-time graphing data on an easy-to-read screen, so you can actually see what’s happening in the system rather than relying on a code.

Free updates for a year.

A year’s worth of updates are included with the purchase.  Although additional software can be purchased separately to upgrade the Autel AL619’s capabilities, I was not able to find any information on the cost of updates after a year.  There have been reports of updates being obtained after a year at no charge.

Additional information

The Autel AL619 is a highly specialized, highly technical, mass-produced instrument.  Sometimes, the unit does not work as it should.  The Customer Service reviews are mixed-some users are pleased with their experience, while others have been totally frustrated.  It appears that the frustrated users either don’t have an understanding of the proper use of the item, or have not been able to clearly articulate the nature of the difficulty that they were having.

Although extensive software is included with the Autel AL619, there are also additional software packages that can be purchased separately.  Additionally, once you receive your Autel AL619, you will be required to register it in order to have full access to the software.

Although the updated software is free, the manufacturer doesn’t always notify you that there are updates available and ready to be downloaded.  Users generally get irritated when the scanner won’t work on a 2000 model.  After a call to customer service, they are informed that the information they need is in an update.

Overall conclusion
 

Users purchase scanners like the Autel AL619 for many reasons.  Some are professionals, some are Do-it-Yourselfers who want to know if there is really a problem with their vehicle, and some just need a way to clear faulty sensor codes.  It appears to be a good investment, as most users are very pleased.  Rather than providing a 4-digit code, the Autel AL619 provides specifics.

The “update” issue appears to be the biggest challenge to using the Autel AL619 effectively, and retrieving the code information you need.  An SD card reader needs to be purchased in order to download the updates.  The SD card is a bit difficult to reach; some users report using tweezers or pliers.  If you purchase the Autel AL619, remember to regularly check for updates.

The Autel AL619 is a great troubleshooter for mechanics, college students, and everyone in between.  There will be times when your vehicle will need to be professionally serviced.  With the Autel AL619 a lot of time, money and frustration can be saved.