FAQ
TL;DR: For low-budget “universal” scanners, coverage often tops out at 2013–2014; as one expert says, “the maximum 2013–2014.” Choose legal multi-brand gear or accept limits on 2018/2019 cars. [Elektroda, Realbartu, post #17818231]
Why it matters: DIYers and small shops need realistic, legal diagnostics for 2018/2019 cars without wasting money on clones or misleading listings.
Quick Facts
- Original, legal Multidiag/Delphi-class tools price above 10,000 PLN; sub-1k listings signal clones. [Elektroda, ociz, post #18166506]
- “Multidiag 2018” clones are TCS/Delphi variants; real coverage reaches about 2013–2014 models, not 2018. [Elektroda, Realbartu, post #17818231]
- On a tight budget, expect ELM/EOBD basics only; advanced functions need pricier hardware and software. [Elektroda, autoas, post #17817799]
- MAXIECU is legal and affordable; thread reports coverage roughly up to 2014, so verify per brand. [Elektroda, adam7009, post #17818209]
- Autel MaxiPro MP808: user paid ~€600 with 2-year updates and full adapter kit via UK dealer. [Elektroda, Elajas33, post #18184833]
What’s the cheapest legal interface that really covers 2018/2019 cars?
Expect a price floor above 10,000 PLN for original, legal multi-brand interfaces. Listings far below that are clones or unlicensed. If you need reliable 2018/2019 coverage across many systems, plan that level of spend. This is the realistic threshold mentioned when discussing Multidiag Pro+ legitimacy. [Elektroda, ociz, post #18166506]
Do “Multidiag 2018 Professional” units actually work on 2018/2019 cars?
These units are TCS/Delphi rebrands. Real-world coverage peaks at 2013–2014 despite “2018” labels. As one practitioner put it, “the maximum 2013–2014.” Expect limited access on newer vehicles and modules. Treat any 2018/2019 claims at low prices as marketing, not capability. [Elektroda, Realbartu, post #17818231]
Can I use an ELM327 adapter to access all modules on newer cars?
No. On a small budget you can use ELM-based apps and EOBD readers. That means engine and emissions data, plus basic codes. You will not get deep access, coding, adaptations, or brand‑specific modules. “You can use ELM-based programs and EOBD reading programs,” but expect limits. [Elektroda, autoas, post #17817799]
Is MAXIECU a good budget option for 2015+ cars?
MAXIECU is legal and cost-effective. However, the thread reports it supports cars roughly until 2014. For 2015 and newer, verify supported models and functions before buying. Check the brand pack and coverage list, or consider higher-tier tools if you need newer vehicles. [Elektroda, adam7009, post #17818209]
Is VCDS a universal scanner?
No. VCDS targets Volkswagen Group brands and their modules. It excels for VAG cars but does not provide universal, multi-brand coverage. If you want cross-brand diagnostics, choose a multi-brand platform instead of seeking a “universal VCDS.” [Ross-Tech VCDS product page]
What about Launch X‑431—what’s the cheapest version that reads more than just the engine?
The X‑431 line provides full-system diagnostics across many brands, not just engine. Models like Diagun focus on portability and price, while Pro/Pro3 add features. Choose the model that meets your coverage needs, then confirm the brand list before purchase. [Launch X‑431 product overview]
How good is Autel MaxiPro MP808 for value?
A forum user reports buying the MP808 for about €600 from a UK dealer. The unit included a Polish menu, an adapter kit for older cars, and two years of updates. They noted it “embarrassed” other interfaces near 10,000 in price at their workshop. [Elektroda, Elajas33, post #18184833]
How can I tell if a seller is offering a legal, original device?
Use price, channel, and updates as filters.
- Check the price floor: originals cost above 10,000 PLN; avoid “bargains.”
- Buy from authorized dealers and demand an invoice with company details.
- Confirm official software updates and support tied to the serial number. [Elektroda, ociz, post #18166506]
Do cheap scanners actually support coding, adaptations, and live data?
On very low budgets, expect ELM/EOBD functionality only. That covers generic fault codes and some live data. Deeper functions like coding or adaptations require more capable and licensed tools. As one expert warned, low-cost paths to full access are “illegal… it does not matter that it is for your own use.” [Elektroda, autoas, post #17817799]
I want a “universal VCDS” for adaptations across brands—what’s realistic?
A single tool that replicates VCDS‑level depth across all brands at low cost does not exist. Budget “Multidiag 2018” offers are Delphi/TCS variants with coverage capped around 2013–2014. For 2018/2019 cars, look at true multi-brand platforms and confirm coverage first. [Elektroda, Realbartu, post #17818231]
Will clone tools advertised as “2018” connect to non‑engine systems on 2018 cars?
Do not count on it. Real coverage for those devices reaches 2013–2014, so newer non‑engine systems fail to connect. Ads may list 2018, but practical full‑system access on 2018 vehicles is unlikely at that price. [Elektroda, Realbartu, post #17818231]
Are non‑licensed programs okay for personal use?
No. Using non‑licensed software or cloned interfaces violates the rules regardless of personal use. As a pro put it, “it does not matter that it is for your own use.” Choose legal tools to avoid legal and support problems. [Elektroda, autoas, post #17817799]
Do software updates matter if I buy today for 2018/2019 cars?
Yes. Up‑to‑date software determines coverage and functions. One buyer received two years of updates with an MP808, which preserves value over time. Without updates, coverage plateaus and newer models remain inaccessible, even if the hardware looks capable. [Elektroda, Elajas33, post #18184833]
