The Innova 3160rs Pro Obd2 Scanner is a powerful tool designed to empower vehicle owners with professional-grade diagnostic capabilities. If you’re considering adding this scanner to your toolkit, you likely have some questions. Here we address common queries to help you understand everything this device offers.
Understanding the RepairSolutions2 App with Your Innova 3160rs Pro
One frequent question revolves around the RepairSolutions2 app. It’s important to know that using the RepairSolutions2 app is completely optional and comes at no extra cost. Think of it as a valuable assistant to your Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner. While the scanner functions perfectly well independently, the app unlocks significant advantages. These include ASE-verified repair recommendations, options to export scan reports for record-keeping or sharing, predicted repair timelines to help you plan, and access to technical service bulletins (TSBs) which provide manufacturer-specific repair insights. While not mandatory, leveraging the RepairSolutions2 app enhances the diagnostic experience and provides deeper insights into vehicle health.
Updates and Subscription Costs for Your Scanner
Keeping your tools up-to-date is crucial, and with the Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner, updates are absolutely free. Furthermore, you won’t encounter any subscription fees. This commitment to free updates ensures your scanner remains compatible with the latest vehicle models and diagnostic protocols without incurring ongoing costs. This is a significant advantage, offering long-term value and peace of mind.
Geographical Usage: Where Can You Use the Innova 3160rs Pro?
Considering where you can use your diagnostic tool is essential. The Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner is designed to work with most vehicles adhering to North American OBD protocols. This means it is fully functional within the United States and Canada. However, it’s important to note that operation outside of these regions is not supported. For residents of Mexico, compatibility is limited to US-imported vehicles due to the regional restrictions based on North American OBD standards.
Vehicle Compatibility: Will the Innova 3160rs Pro Work on Your Car?
A primary concern for any OBD2 scanner is vehicle compatibility. The Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner is engineered to be compatible with the vast majority of OBD2-compliant vehicles. This broad compatibility covers most domestic, foreign, and Asian vehicles sold in North America. However, it’s worth remembering that specific features can vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. To eliminate any uncertainty, Innova provides a Coverage Checker tool on their website. Utilizing this tool before purchase ensures the 3160rs Pro is fully compatible with your specific vehicle, guaranteeing optimal performance and functionality.
FCA Vehicle Support: Jeep, Chrysler, and More
For owners of FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) vehicles like Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram, the Innova 3160rs Pro offers robust diagnostic capabilities. For FCA vehicles manufactured in 2017 or earlier, the scanner can diagnose all vehicle systems. For newer FCA models from 2018 onwards that incorporate AutoAuth security, the Innova 3160rs Pro retains functionality for essential tasks like TPMS relearn procedures and accessing live data streams. However, due to security restrictions, certain advanced functions such as code erasing, oil reset procedures, and battery initialization are limited on these newer FCA vehicles when using handheld or dongle scanners like the 3160rs Pro. For full access to AutoAuth protected vehicles, Innova offers tablet-based solutions like the Innova 7111 tablet.
Reprogramming and Key Fob Capabilities: What Are the Limits?
It’s important to understand the functional boundaries of OBD2 scanners. The Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner, like most handheld OBD2 scanners, is not designed for vehicle computer reprogramming. Similarly, it does not support key fob programming or immobilizer relearn procedures. These types of advanced functions typically require specialized equipment and software beyond the scope of a standard OBD2 scanner. The Innova 3160rs Pro is focused on diagnostic and maintenance functions, providing in-depth insights into vehicle health and fault codes.
Vehicle Starting Condition: Can You Use it on a Non-Starting Car?
Finally, a crucial point to consider is the vehicle’s condition when using an OBD2 scanner. The Innova 3160rs Pro OBD2 Scanner, and all OBD2 scanners in general, require the vehicle to be able to at least crank or ideally start. These devices communicate with the vehicle’s Electronic Control Units (ECUs). If the vehicle is completely unable to start or crank, the scanner cannot establish the necessary communication with the ECU to perform diagnostics. Therefore, to effectively use the Innova 3160rs Pro, ensure your vehicle is in a condition where it can at least crank, allowing the scanner to power up and communicate with the vehicle’s computer systems.
