For DIY enthusiasts and especially those who own a Sprinter van or RV built on a Sprinter chassis, having a reliable OBD2 scanner is invaluable. Recently, I explored some budget-friendly options from Launch, specifically their Creader Elite series. My aim was to find a cost-effective tool for basic diagnostics and fault code clearing on my 2020 Sprinter 907 chassis RV. Here’s what I learned from my hands-on experience with the Launch Creader Elite models.
Initially, I considered the Launch Creader Elite Benz. Priced around $179, often discounted to $120-$140 on platforms like Amazon with coupons, it seemed like a good starting point given the Mercedes-Benz connection to Sprinter. I assumed a “Benz” specific scanner would inherently cover Sprinter vehicles. However, I soon discovered that Sprinter support is not included in the base Benz unit. Instead, it’s offered as a separate module, requiring an additional $35 purchase. While I did update the device’s software via Wi-Fi and USB power at home, I opted not to purchase the Sprinter module for this unit, realizing it wasn’t the all-in-one solution I was hoping for. The key takeaway here was that a “Benz” scanner doesn’t automatically mean “Sprinter Obd2 Scanner” compatibility.
Next, I decided to try the Launch Creader Elite 200, the most basic model in the series. Marketed with generic support for multiple car brands, it listed for $129 but was available for around $100 on Amazon. This model claimed to support SRS and ABS systems. Similar to the Benz unit, updating the software and built-in Sprinter module was straightforward using Wi-Fi and a USB power connection before even taking it to my Sprinter. I successfully used the Creader Elite 200 to reset an SRS airbag error code related to the driver’s seat. This was a win, as this was my primary immediate need. However, beyond the SRS reset, the functionality for Sprinter seemed limited. Despite the device having a “Mall” (app store), there wasn’t a comprehensive “complete Sprinter module” available for purchase. Instead, there were numerous individual vehicle subsystems offered at $35 each, which could quickly become expensive if broader diagnostics were needed.
Customer support proved to be a challenge. Navigating the support channels led to a series of emails to Chinese support addresses before reaching the right contact ([email protected]). On the positive side, the operating system itself is user-friendly. The Android-based touchscreen interface is modern and eliminates the need for a PC for updates, a significant advantage.
Regarding software versions, at the time of my testing, the pre-installed Sprinter module was V21.44. Customer support indicated that ABS support was supposedly included in version V21.46 and that a more current official version, V21.50, was expected in February 2023. However, I encountered difficulties in getting the unit to download these newer versions, and the Launch website was not helpful in locating specific updates for the Creader Elite 200 amidst their vast product range.
In conclusion, the Launch Creader Elite 200 at $100 effectively addressed my immediate need to reset an SRS fault. However, its limited Sprinter-specific functionality and the unclear path to broader Sprinter diagnostic capabilities made it seem too restrictive for future use. Knowing that I likely won’t encounter the same driver’s seat airbag error again, the long-term value of this particular model as a comprehensive sprinter obd2 scanner solution appeared limited. Consequently, I decided to return both the Creader Elite 200 and the Benz unit to Amazon. For Sprinter owners seeking a more versatile OBD2 scanner for Sprinter vehicles, exploring options with more comprehensive Sprinter-specific coverage out-of-the-box or clearly defined upgrade paths might be a better investment.
