Monitoring your vehicle’s transmission temperature is crucial for maintaining its health and preventing costly repairs. Fortunately, with an OBD2 scanner, checking your transmission temp is straightforward and doesn’t require complex procedures like using a check mode. When checking, ensure the transmission temperature is within the 95-115°F (35-46°C) range for an accurate reading.
For those looking to read transmission temperature and perform other diagnostics, a variety of OBD2 scan tools are available. Enhanced scanners offer a wide range of functions, with prices varying from around $100 to well over $10,000. For a capable standalone, full-function scanner with bidirectional support, you’ll typically find yourself in the $400-$500 range.
If you’re comfortable using your smartphone, Bluetooth OBD2 dongles offer a more budget-friendly entry point into advanced diagnostics. The Thinkdiag OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth is a prime example, often found around $120.
This scanner provides full system bidirectional diagnostics, ECU coding, and numerous reset services. While it includes one year of free software updates, enhanced functions require a subscription of around $70 per year. Despite this, it remains one of the most affordable full-function scan tools on the market.
For users preferring a standalone, full-featured device, the Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808S is a strong contender at around $479.
The Autel MK808S supports all vehicle systems and offers active test capabilities. If active test support isn’t a necessity, the Autel MD 808 Pro, priced around $279, still provides comprehensive all-system diagnostics and data reading.
Brands like Autel, Launch, and ThinkCar offer a wide selection of scan tools with varying features and price points. Before making a purchase, thorough research is essential to ensure the chosen scanner meets your specific diagnostic needs and provides the functions you require, including accurate transmission temperature readings.
Disclaimer: The author has experience with the MS 906BT and ThinkDiag scanners and finds them satisfactory. However, they do not own the MK 808S or MD 808 but are referencing their specifications based on product information. Personal experiences with Chrysler vehicles and ThinkDiag may vary.
