The Thinkcar ThinkDiag TKD01 OBD2 scanner is marketed as a powerful Bluetooth-based diagnostic tool for car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. Promising in-depth vehicle analysis and access to manufacturer-specific fault codes, it aims to bridge the gap between basic code readers and professional-grade equipment. But in a market flooded with options, and with the added cost of subscriptions, does the ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner truly deliver on its promises and offer good value for money? This comprehensive Thinkcar ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner review will delve into its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your automotive diagnostic needs.
ThinkDiag OBD2 Scanner: An Overview
Officially known as the ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01, this device is a Bluetooth OBD-II automotive diagnostic scanner designed to be used with smartphones. Thinkcar positions itself as a provider of a wide spectrum of diagnostic tools, ranging from basic code readers to advanced professional systems. The ThinkDiag sits in the middle, aiming to offer advanced features to the everyday user.
Priced around $90-$110, the ThinkDiag is positioned as an affordable entry into more advanced diagnostics. However, it’s crucial to understand the ongoing costs associated with its software, which we will explore further in this review.
Design and Build Quality
The ThinkDiag scanner boasts a robust and durable design. Its oval-shaped, cylindrical form factor is noticeably larger than some other Bluetooth OBD2 scanners on the market.
(Image credit: ThinkCar) Alt text: Thinkcar ThinkDiag TKD01 Bluetooth OBD2 scanner device in black and red with LED status ring.
Measuring 3.1 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches and weighing 2.7 ounces, it’s indeed bulkier than competitors like the BlueDriver Pro. While its solid build suggests durability, its size might present fitment issues for some vehicles. In fact, as noted in the original review, the ThinkDiag’s thickness prevented it from directly connecting to the OBD-II port of a 2014 Audi A4 Allroad without an extension cable. Therefore, having an OBD extension cable on hand might be necessary, especially for vehicles with recessed or tight OBD-II port locations.
The scanner features an LED ring indicator that provides visual feedback on its status: solid blue for connection, green for normal operation, flashing blue for data transmission, and solid red indicating a firmware update failure. This clear visual communication is a helpful design element. The inclusion of a hard carrying case further emphasizes its ruggedness and portability.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) Alt text: Bottom view of the Thinkcar ThinkDiag TKD01 OBD2 scanner showing the OBD-II connector pins and robust plastic casing.
ThinkDiag App and Functionality
The ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner relies heavily on its companion mobile app, available for both Android and iOS devices. The app is the primary interface for interacting with the scanner and accessing diagnostic information. It’s important to note that Thinkcar suggests the app may not be fully optimized for tablet use.
The app’s interface is text-based, prioritizing information delivery over flashy graphics. The main screen offers various options, including “Maintenance,” “OBD-II functions,” and “Full Vehicle Diagnostics,” culminating in a comprehensive health report that can be easily shared via email or social media, or printed.
(Image credit: ThinkCar) Alt text: Thinkcar ThinkDiag mobile app interface displaying a vehicle health report with system status indicators and diagnostic options.
While generally bright and colorful, the app’s live data display utilizes a white-and-light-blue color scheme that may suffer from visibility issues in direct sunlight.
Beyond standard OBD-II functions, the ThinkDiag app’s strength lies in its access to manufacturer-specific diagnostic codes. Upon initial purchase, users typically receive a free one-year subscription for a single vehicle brand. After this period, accessing manufacturer-specific data requires an annual subscription of around $40 per car brand. This subscription model is a significant factor to consider when evaluating the long-term cost of ownership.
The app allows for various diagnostic tests, including pre-inspection checks, tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) analysis, anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnostics, and airbag system checks. The “Full Vehicle Modules Report” provides a summarized overview of potential issues across different vehicle systems.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) Alt text: Thinkcar ThinkDiag smartphone app interface displaying vehicle diagnostic functions and module selection menu.
While the ThinkDiag excels in providing live data and diagnostic information, it lacks a crucial feature: repair guidance. The app identifies problems but doesn’t offer suggestions for repair procedures or part recommendations. However, a useful feature included in each manufacturer-specific software package is the ability to reset the oil maintenance light.
Performance and Real-World Use
In terms of performance, the ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner is generally responsive and accurate. Connecting to a vehicle and pairing with the app is a straightforward process. Once connected, the app quickly retrieves the vehicle identification number (VIN).
The scanner effectively detected a manually introduced fault (a disconnected oil-temperature sensor) and successfully cleared the check engine light in the original test. The 35-foot Bluetooth range provides decent mobility around the vehicle while monitoring data.
However, the setup process is not as seamless as some other OBD2 scanners. Users need to download and install the app, register the device with its serial number, and perform both device and app updates. Furthermore, downloading vehicle-specific data by manually entering the car’s manufacturer, model, and year adds to the initial setup time. The entire process can take around 5 minutes, which is longer compared to some plug-and-play OBD2 scanners.
The ThinkDiag comes with a basic quick start guide, but lacks a comprehensive user manual. For detailed guidance and troubleshooting, users are directed to Thinkcar’s online FAQ section on their support website. The scanner is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Pros and Cons: Thinkcar ThinkDiag OBD2 Scanner Review Summary
Pros:
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Access to both generic OBD-II codes and manufacturer-specific fault codes for in-depth vehicle analysis.
- Live Data Streaming: Provides real-time data monitoring of various vehicle parameters.
- Wide Range of Functions: Supports various diagnostic tests beyond basic code reading, including TPMS, ABS, and airbag system checks.
- Durable Build Quality: Ruggedly built scanner with a hard carrying case for protection.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Wireless connection to smartphones for convenient use.
- Oil Light Reset: Includes oil light reset function within manufacturer-specific software.
Cons:
- Subscription Costs: Requires annual subscription fees for manufacturer-specific software after the first year, adding to the long-term cost.
- Size and Fitment: Larger size may cause fitment issues with some vehicles’ OBD-II ports.
- No Repair Guidance: Identifies problems but doesn’t offer repair suggestions or part recommendations.
- Setup Process: More involved setup process compared to simpler OBD2 scanners.
- App Color Scheme: Live data display color scheme may be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
Is the Thinkcar ThinkDiag OBD2 Scanner Worth Buying?
The Thinkcar ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner offers a compelling set of features for users seeking more than just basic OBD-II code reading. Its ability to access manufacturer-specific diagnostics and provide live data streams sets it apart from entry-level scanners. The robust build quality and comprehensive app interface are also notable advantages.
However, the subscription model is a significant consideration. The annual fees for manufacturer-specific software can quickly add up, especially for users who work on multiple car brands. For users who only need to diagnose a single vehicle make and are comfortable with the subscription model, the ThinkDiag can be a powerful tool.
Alternatives to Consider:
- BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: A popular Bluetooth OBD2 scanner known for its user-friendly app and repair database (though also subscription-based for advanced features).
- Autel MaxiAP200M: Another Bluetooth scanner offering advanced diagnostics, often considered a direct competitor to ThinkDiag.
- Foxwell NT510 Elite: A handheld scanner that provides manufacturer-specific diagnostics without subscription fees, albeit at a higher initial cost.
Conclusion:
The Thinkcar ThinkDiag OBD2 scanner is a capable tool that delivers on its promise of advanced vehicle diagnostics. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the ongoing subscription costs against their diagnostic needs and budget. If you require in-depth diagnostics and are comfortable with the subscription model, the ThinkDiag is a worthwhile investment. But for users seeking a subscription-free option or basic OBD-II functionality, alternative scanners might offer a better value proposition.
