For automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, having a reliable OBD2 scanner is indispensable. The Bosch 1300 Obd2 Scanner emerges as a versatile tool, particularly appealing to those who work on a diverse range of vehicles, including older models predating the OBD-II standard. Priced around $200, this scanner aims to offer a blend of modern diagnostic capabilities with legacy vehicle support, but does it truly deliver? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of the Bosch OBD 1300 to assess its features, performance, and overall value in today’s automotive diagnostic landscape.
Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner: Design and Build
Bosch, a global leader in automotive components, brings its expertise to the diagnostic tool market with the OBD 1300. While compact in size at 6.8 x 2.6 x 1.0 inches, making it slightly smaller than competitors, the initial impression is one of robust functionality over sleek design. The scanner sports a bright blue casing with rubberized grips, ensuring a secure hold during use. The eight-button interface, including directional keys, is straightforward, though the buttons themselves can feel a bit stiff, sometimes requiring a firmer press.
Despite its handheld form factor, the Bosch 1300 incorporates a 3.5-inch color display, a notable size for a portable scanner, providing clear readability of diagnostic data. Power is supplied via four AAA batteries or through a 12V cigarette lighter adapter, offering flexibility in various work environments. A mini-USB port is included for software updates, ensuring the scanner remains current with vehicle diagnostic protocols. The inclusion of a carrying case is a practical addition for storage and transport.
The true standout feature in the Bosch 1300’s design is its extensive cable set. Beyond the standard OBD-II cable, it includes a collection of seven OBD-I cables. This retroactively labeled “OBD-I” set caters to older diagnostic standards like ALDL (for 1980s GM vehicles), EEC-IV (1980s Ford models), SCI and LH (1989-1995 Chrysler), and both round and rectangular Toyota connectors (1984-1995). The OBD-II cable itself, coupled with its extension, reaches an impressive 7 feet, offering ample reach under the hood or within the vehicle cabin. All cables connect to the scanner’s 15-pin port, ensuring compatibility across the board. This comprehensive cable assortment makes the Bosch 1300 a particularly attractive option for anyone working with classic or older vehicles alongside modern cars.
However, the weight becomes noticeable when all cables are considered. The scanner itself is light at 10.5 ounces, but with the OBD-II cable and extension, the total weight increases to 1.4 pounds, which could be a factor for users prioritizing ultra-portability.
Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner: Performance and Diagnostic Capabilities
In terms of performance, the Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner functions effectively as a comprehensive diagnostic tool. Upon connection, it automatically detected the vehicle model in tests, and also provides a manual vehicle selection option via a series of prompts. Reading Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) was seamless across test vehicles.
The scanner demonstrated practical diagnostic abilities, successfully running a cylinder balance test and resetting the oil change light. Critically, it accurately identified and diagnosed an artificially induced fault (an unplugged oil temperature sensor) and effectively cleared the Check Engine Light. The integrated CodeConnect database, boasting over 26 million repair suggestions, is a significant asset. This feature provides users with potential repair paths based on diagnostic trouble codes, bridging the gap between code reading and actionable repair information.
Beyond basic code reading, the Bosch 1300 extends its functionality to cover Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Airbag (SRS) diagnostics for vehicles manufactured between 1996 and 2013. It also includes a pre-inspection emissions test function, valuable for vehicle maintenance and preparation for emissions checks. Furthermore, the scanner offers battery and charging system monitoring, a particularly useful feature for older vehicles, and can reset battery lights on certain makes like BMW, Mini Cooper, and Ford F-Series trucks.
Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner: Ease of Use and Setup
The Bosch 1300 is designed for user-friendliness. Once connected to the vehicle’s OBD-II port, the scanner initiates data display almost immediately. The generous 84-inch OBD-II cable provides ample freedom to hold the scanner while working around the engine bay. Switching between the various OBD-I cables is also straightforward.
A notable feature is the automatic power-off function after two minutes of inactivity, aimed at conserving battery life. This auto-off timer can be adjusted from one to fifteen minutes, allowing users to customize it to their workflow. However, a potential drawback is the lack of included printed instructions. Users need to download the Quick Start Guide and full user manual from the Bosch Diagnostics website, which may be less convenient for some users initially.
Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner: Verdict
The Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner presents a compelling value proposition at its $200 price point, especially for users who frequently work with both modern and older vehicles. Its key strength lies in the inclusion of a comprehensive set of OBD-I cables, making it a unique tool in its price range for diagnosing pre-OBD-II vehicles, particularly older American and Japanese models. The scanner performs reliably in reading codes, providing live data, and offering helpful repair suggestions through its CodeConnect database.
Pros:
- Extensive OBD-I and OBD-II cable set for wide vehicle compatibility.
- Comprehensive diagnostic functions including ABS/SRS checks and emissions testing.
- Helpful CodeConnect repair database.
- User-friendly interface and clear color display.
- Competitive price for its feature set.
Cons:
- Requires batteries for operation (though cigarette lighter adapter is included).
- Can feel heavy with all cables attached.
- No printed manual included; requires download from website.
- Stiff button feedback.
In conclusion, the Bosch 1300 OBD2 Scanner is a robust and versatile tool that effectively bridges the gap between diagnosing classic and modern vehicles. While it has minor drawbacks like battery dependency and weight, its comprehensive cable set, diagnostic capabilities, and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice, particularly for DIY mechanics and professionals who handle a diverse range of vehicle ages and models. For those seeking an OBD2 scanner that can confidently tackle both the latest vehicles and cherished classics, the Bosch 1300 is a strong contender.
