As a seasoned auto repair professional, I’ve had my hands on countless OBD2 code readers over the years. Recently, I finally got my Blue Point Microscan III scanner up and running effectively. My initial experience shows it connects and displays live data quite rapidly, which is a significant plus in a busy shop environment. When it comes to generic OBD2 scanners, the market is saturated with options, many boasting live data capabilities, often priced around $35 or even less.
The trend of using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi ELM327 OBD2 modules with smartphones or tablets is also gaining traction. There’s a plethora of OBD2 Android apps, both free and paid, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s OBD system using your phone while driving. Some of these apps are surprisingly sophisticated. For instance, OBD Fusion® is a popular and highly-rated app available for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Android devices, known for its extensive features and even CarPlay support.
However, my primary reason for purchasing the Blue Point Microscan III was to replace my aging Innova OBD1/OBD2 scanner, which I bought for around $200 many years ago. I work on a few older, OBD1 vehicles, specifically an 88 and 92 Ford, and I also assist a friend with a 92 OBD1 Jeep Cherokee Laredo. Moreover, classic Renix Jeeps, produced from 1986 to 1990, utilize a unique Renix (AMC/Renault) computer system that can provide live data readouts with scanners like the Snap-On MT2500.
My next step is to thoroughly evaluate the OBD1 functionality of the Blue Point Microscan III to see if it measures up to the performance of the trusted Snap-On MT2500. I am currently waiting for the OBD1 cable to arrive, which, when purchased separately, costs around $40 with tax. Genuine Snap-On OBD1 connector sets can be quite expensive, ranging from approximately $150 to over $350 when new. Occasionally, you might find a $150 OBD1 connector set online on platforms like eBay for around $80. While other scanner manufacturers offer similar OBD1 connectors, compatibility with Snap-On scanners is uncertain. I’ve heard warnings in forums about the potential to damage your scanner by using non-compatible OBD1 adapters. So far, I’ve acquired a few Snap-On OBD1 adapters that are compatible with both the MT2500 and, hopefully, the Microscan III. OBD1 capability was indeed a significant factor in my decision to invest in the Blue Point Microscan III.
For comprehensive diagnostics on Chrysler vehicles, including accessing the computer at a deeper level, you would typically need to invest around $6,000 for a new DRB-3 handheld scanner. I know professionals who own DRB-3 scanners, and they are true diagnostic powerhouses, offering extensive capabilities, including PCM reprogramming. Used DRB-3 scanners can sometimes be found for around $3,000 or less, depending on the included attachments. It’s worth noting that other scanner manufacturers also produce scanners with DRB-3 compatibility.
Regarding the ShopStream Connect software that comes with the Blue Point Microscan III, I have to admit I’m a bit underwhelmed so far. Online promotional materials show it performing advanced analysis with high-resolution graphs and detailed data displays. However, my experience has been limited to generating small, low-resolution BMP image files.
This leads me to question the overall value proposition of the Blue Point Microscan III, especially at its new price point. Used units are often available for around $110 to $150, which might be a more reasonable investment considering its capabilities and limitations. Stay tuned for a more in-depth review once I’ve tested the OBD1 functionality and explored the ShopStream Connect software further.
