TopDon’s ArtiDiag800 BT 2 has introduced professional-grade diagnostic energy into my storage with out the skilled price ticket.
Disclosure: Topdon is a sponsor of Audi World.
This compact, bidirectional scan software manages to carry out at a stage far past what you’d count on for its value. Up to now few years, I’ve examined all kinds of OBD II instruments, from TopDon’s small and easy TopScan Lite to premium multi-thousand-dollar models from Matco and Bosch. For my day-to-day wants as a DIYer who’s steadily constructing each instruments and expertise, the TopScan Lite had been the clear favourite. However when TopDon supplied the possibility to evaluate the ArtiDiag800 BT 2, I knew I used to be about to take a significant step up in functionality.
On this evaluate, I’ll break down what the ArtiDiag800 BT 2 can do, the way it performs, the place it excels, and who it’s finest suited to.
Overview
The TopDon ArtiDiag800 BT 2 is a full-featured, bidirectional diagnostic pill that provides excess of an entry-level software just like the TopScan dongle.
- Compact and ergonomic design that’s simple to deal with.
- Wi-fi Bluetooth connection for added comfort.
- Assist for 28 service and reset features plus CAN-FD communication.
It covers almost each OBD II operate you would possibly want, other than full ECU reprogramming.
What It Does
Whereas it could deal with primary OBD II studying with ease, the ArtiDiag800 BT 2 is designed to go a lot deeper into diagnostic and upkeep work. Right here’s what it brings to the desk:
Learn and interpret diagnostic codes: Shortly scans the automobile’s programs for saved or pending codes, displaying particulars that assist slim down faults.
Bidirectional controls and part exams: Sends instructions to automobile modules to confirm part operate, relying on what the automotive helps.
28+ reset and repair options: Helps you to carry out system resets and calibration routines throughout a number of subsystems.
Computerized VIN detection: The AutoVIN software immediately reads your VIN and hundreds related knowledge in seconds.
Reside knowledge and real-time monitoring: Shows and data sensor and efficiency knowledge to assist troubleshooting and evaluation.
My Expertise
The timing for this evaluate was superb. A number of of my private automobiles wanted consideration—a defective washer fluid pump on my 2008 Mercedes-Benz, a lifeless key receiver on my 2014 Toyota RAV4, and a sequence of warning lights on my C5 Corvette. The ArtiDiag800 BT 2 acquired loads of use proper out of the field and allowed me to strive most of its main features.
Right here’s a rundown of the way it carried out in follow—its benefits, limitations, and the place it suits within the scan software panorama.
Strengths
Compact, ergonomic structure: Like different TopDon merchandise, the pill feels stable and properly thought out. A grip part on the left facet makes it simple to carry, with the facility enter and Bluetooth VCI ports positioned conveniently. The display is giant sufficient to show detailed knowledge however not so large that it turns into awkward to hold.
In depth service reset protection: In contrast with the TopScan Lite (8 resets) and TopScan Professional (13 resets), the ArtiDiag800 BT 2 provides a protracted record of superior features usually reserved for seller tools. These embrace transmission and crankshaft relearns, adaptive lighting changes, air-fuel ratio resets, suspension and window calibrations, EGR service, odometer settings, and extra.
Person-friendly software program: I’ve all the time appreciated TopDon’s interface, and this one continues that development. It’s responsive, easy to navigate, and extra intuitive than many competing manufacturers.
CAN-FD compatibility: As CAN-FD turns into the brand new communication customary for contemporary automobiles, this software’s help ensures you’ll be prepared for newer programs.
Affordability: Considered one of TopDon’s largest benefits is value. Regardless of its cheap value, the ArtiDiag800 BT 2 doesn’t really feel low cost—it matches and even outperforms some pricier models in each construct and performance.
Weaknesses
Show borders: Whereas the show itself is obvious, the display bezel is thicker than it must be. A barely bigger display space can be a pleasant enchancment for future variations.
Battery drain: Battery life is respectable total, nevertheless it depletes quicker when related to the VCI or left idle in sleep mode. It’s not a dealbreaker however one thing value noting.
Who It’s For
Best customers:
- Skilled DIYers who need a complicated software able to servicing a number of makes and fashions.
- Impartial mechanics or small retailers that steadily use bidirectional and reset features however don’t want brand-specific manufacturing unit instruments.
Not superb for:
- Dealerships or brand-specialist workshops that depend on OEM-level programming.
- Newbies who solely want primary code studying, TopDon’s smaller TopScan gadgets are higher suited and much cheaper.
Verdict
The TopDon ArtiDiag 800 BT 2 fills an necessary center floor within the diagnostic software market. It gives deep system entry, CAN-FD help, Bluetooth connectivity, and a sturdy vary of service features. Whereas not an all-purpose substitute for OEM instruments, it delivers extra functionality than most mid-range gadgets.
For those who’re searching for a standalone diagnostic pill, this mannequin gives glorious worth for the cash. For infrequent weekend use, although, the TopScan Lite or Professional would possibly make extra sense—they supply TopDon’s signature high quality in a extra compact, reasonably priced kind.
Software program and Subscription
On the time of writing, the ArtiDiag 800 BT 2 sells for $379 on Amazon and contains two years of free software program updates. After that interval, renewing your subscription prices $119 per yr. With out renewal, the software nonetheless performs primary code studying and a few bidirectional features, however most superior resets and system entry options will likely be disabled.
It’s a good tradeoff, contemplating how a lot you get from the software proper out of the field—and the way simply it bridges the hole between hobbyist {and professional} tools.
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