LAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ Elite Diagnostic Tool

I think the LAUNCH PRO3+ ELITE is an excellent diagnostic tool that can easily perform comprehensive diagnostic tests, diesel checks, and the J2534 programming function is outstanding. It can seamlessly handle firmware updates and programming tasks for a variety of vehicle makes and models. The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate complex procedures, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. It is compatible with a variety of makes and models, and its versatile features can be used even by professional repair shops.

The LAUNCH PRO3+ ELITE stands out for its user-friendly software and comprehensive diagnostic functions. The main menu is intuitively designed, and the automatic diagnosis section can not only perform a thorough pre-scan or post-scan, but also present a topology map of the vehicle network, helping to perform network diagnostics efficiently. Visualizing network communications and identifying active modules simplifies the diagnostic process and provides insights that more basic tools do not have, which greatly helped me save time and increase diagnostic speed. The service function and reset function are particularly worth mentioning, and their automatic mode provides quick access to vehicle systems without having to remember specific module controls. It offers a wide range of options, from injector coding to oil life reset, brake bleeding, window recalibration, throttle matching, DPF regeneration, and transmission coding – over 50 different functions, far more than any other tool I have used.
The tool can even be expanded further by adding other Launch tools. You can add an oscilloscope, a key programmer, a full tpms tool, and even ADAS support options. All of these features combined mean this tool can do almost anything you want it to do.

This launch tablet is the fastest that I have purchased yet. The processor speed is excellent. The new style smart link works flawlessly it has added features for ethernet cabling.
As usual launch has outdone themselves again.

UPDATE: This scanner does allow access to the Android home screen and does have Google Play Store. The Google Play store allows me to install Android Apps and tools to use, like email, photo editor, screen recorder, and 3rd party hardware (thermo imager).

I’m a career flag rate mechanic and love using the x431 to scan, diagnose, program, and rest codes.

I assume you’ve read the x431 “description”, but now you want to validate your purchase.

Is it worth it?

Well let me explain how I use the x431 (daily), to make me extra money repair vehicles.

Every vehicle the enters the service department requires a multipoint inspection before any customer concerns are addressed. After the multipoint I address customer concerns and suggest maintenance and repairs based on vehicle mileage, vehicle age, and worn components. Most mechanics use their vehicle scanners to ONLY scan vehicles with concerns. I USE THE x431 TO SCAN EVERY VEHICLE.

While performing my multipoint inspection and looking under the vehicle, I can wirelessly scan the vehicle for current and/or historical problems (not all codes generate a check engine light). Once completed, I email the vehicle scan to the client along with the multipoint inspection and/or suggested services and repairs.

This added service (free scan) to my multipoint inspection, has built trust and respect with my clients. Could you use this same strategy with other scanner? Well yea… But the x431 makes the process fast and simple. I do not need to stay in the vehicle during the scan, because the OBD2 interface is wireless; the tablet stays on my tool box. Once the OBD2 interfaced (VCI) is installed the x431 auto detects the vehicle VIN and runs an “All Scan” with the click on one button. After the scan I can send the report from the same screen, on the tool. Other scanners make you export the scan to PDF, then save it to a thumb drive/cloud, then email it to the client. TIME IS MONEY

Here are some great examples of courtesy “ALL SCANS” making me money:
2015 Honda Civic:
I found a code for “Alternator Output Low”, the code was “Historical” but the key cycle ID was recent. I informed the customer of my findings and suggested an alternator test; the vehicle has over 125,000 miles so the odds the alternator is slowing failing exists. Using an amp clamp and DVM, I monitored the alternator amp/volt output, then used the x431 to change the alternator output. The alternator performance test failed when I set the output to max; the alternator was replaced and I repeated the test to demonstrate the new alternator did fix the problem. Some will say turning on all the vehicle loads is the same thing, but disagree, the x431 Bidirectional support ensures the Engine Control Module commands the alternator to output. 1 hour diag, 1.5 hour alternator replacement

2017 F250 King Ranch Edition: All Scan revealed a problem with the automatic running board on the driver and passenger side. The vehicle is equipped with runner boards that extend when you open the door and retract when you close the door. When the running boards are retracted they have a seamless look, and I missed it at first glance. The customer just bought the truck and didn’t know these running boards where a feature. I upsold 1hr diag to determine the fault and quickly learned each motor was unplugged. Plugging each motor back in did make the code change to historical but the running boards didn’t operate correctly when I opened the doors. Using the x431 I used the bidirectional support feature to command the running boards up and down; this proves the circuit from the computer to the running board motor is good, but the physical switch that commands the running boards to drop has a problem. I discovered each door had a problem with the latches due to previous hail damage repair. I replaced the door latches and the problem was resolved. 1 hour diag, 4 hour door lock replacement x4

2015 Subaru Forester. The check engine light was on but the customer didn’t mention the light being on. My scan revealed a P0420 for the bank 1 catalytic. The customer assured my they know about the code and they’ve cleared it several times; they just don’t have the $2500 to replace the catalytic. I then responded by saying “Did you a P0420 test performed? Because a P0420 code is not a part number”. The customer approved the diagnostics, using the x431 I discovered the front O2 sensor was reacting slow. I used the screen recorder function and sent the graphed data to the client via email. Over the phone I walked the customer through the video and explained the diagnostic procedure I performed. The front O2 sensor was replaced and the readiness monitors all checked green. 1 hour diag, 2 hour O2 sensor Replacement.

I also use the x431 to perform all the advertised service functions, service resets, and bi-directional support everyday (without problem). I just wanted to show you how this tool can money before the customer has a complaint. My customer’s love this service and they’ve been more accepting of purchasing tune-ups, flushes, and other services.