Car Accessories Reviews

1. 

   Jason Wilson
   June 14th, 2010 - 16:26

   Review by Jason Wilson for AutoXray AX7000 Tech Scan Diagnostic Code Scanner with Live, Record and Playback Sensor Data Capability and SD Card Slot for Upgrades
   Rating:
   UPDATED:
   
   Below is my unedited original review. Since written, they have released a software update that addresses a lot of the issues I had experienced. There is now most of the GM enhanced data available, but there are still a few glitches here and there. Freeze frame data from GM vehicles does not work. It will provide the correct code on the FF, but the captured data values are non-sensical. The TCC duty cycle % is not right, the PCS solenoid duty cycle % is not right, and a few others. Most of the data is valid, but keep in mind that this appears to still be “beta” class software on the tool.

   ORIGINAL:

   This unit does not include the GM enhanced data for OBD-II you can only see the generic OBD-II info, which does NOT include the transmission parameters, misfire data, or TCC PWM data.

   I have been in contact with their support dept, and was advised to try a different year of vehicle none of which worked. The tech also stated that there would be a software update released in the next few weeks; I do not know that I will wait that long.

   The vehicle I am working with is a 1997 Olds Bravada. Not exotic, but simply a gussied up S-10 Blazer. I have ran it as both an S and a T series truck with no luck as the Bravada is not listed specifically. Likewise selecting, as advised by the techs 1996 and 1998, I either get an error with no data, or the same garbage data when 1997 is selected.

   If I select the manufacturer specific data, I get info in line with the other reviewer with the 454 in the 99 truck. My cam retard was like 6700 degrees. The ignition voltage is 10.6v when running or not, also stays rock steady at 10.6V even during cranking. Any tech would be able to tell you if voltage @ rest is 10.6, it will drop below 10.6 while cranking. ECT is 103 degrees no matter what. The throttle position is set at 2v or 41.8% no matter what you do. If you select the vehicle as generic OBD-II you get correct voltages, temps and TPS values, but as stated above, you do NOT get transmission or other enhanced info.

   Enhanced GM specific info is the reason I bought this tool. At this time it cannot deliver on the advertised promises.
   
2. 

   T. Kelly
   June 14th, 2010 - 16:44

   Review by T. Kelly for AutoXray AX7000 Tech Scan Diagnostic Code Scanner with Live, Record and Playback Sensor Data Capability and SD Card Slot for Upgrades
   Rating:
   I purchased this unit as a mid-range priced scanner/code reader. I was disappoint with the unit and it was returned to Amazon.

   Reasons:

   - You can not print output from scanner as featured. Print option software has not been released by AutoXray
   
   - There are no updates available past 2006 models for the base scanner or for the optional SD cards
   
   - There is no printed manual with the unit. There is a quick-start guide but you most download the users manual from AutoXray’s website. If you print it out it is a book!

   I expected more out of SPX/AutoXray, disappointed with this product as currently supported.
3. 

   The geeks shall inherit the earth
   June 14th, 2010 - 16:57

   Review by The geeks shall inherit the earth for AutoXray AX7000 Tech Scan Diagnostic Code Scanner with Live, Record and Playback Sensor Data Capability and SD Card Slot for Upgrades
   Rating:
   I bought this tool because I needed both OBDI and OBDII capabilities for my cars. For my older pre-1996 OBDI cars this tool not only reads diagnostic trouble codes but also streams live powertrain data (PID) such as throttle position, rpm, manifold pressure, coolant temperature, closed vs open loop mode, oxygen sensor voltage swings, short and long term fuel trim, and so on. Most tools will show these data for OBDII but this tool also shows these data for OBDI, which sets this tool apart in my opinion. I am waiting for the add-on SD cards to be released so I can retrieve enhanced (manufacturer specific) data streams (PID) for my OBDII Honda, not just the EPA-mandated generic data streams. Even without the SD card it shows enhanced (manufacturer specific) diagnostic trouble codes and generic stream data for import vehicles. So I think this tool shows great promise in terms of flexibility and upgrade-ability, and it has performed well on my cars so far. The boot code and program firmware can be upgraded over the internet through a USB cable to the PC using the recently released “Scanning Suite” software, which can be downloaded at no additional cost. I had trouble updating the firmware at first, getting the message “cannot connect to device” and had to call the SPX helpline. They were extremely helpful and solved the problem. It turns out that after you put the tool into “program mode” in prepration for the firmware update, you need to press ENTER. That causes the tool to power down. Then when you turn it back on, it boots up in program mode and the firmware upgrade can proceed. The tool and assorted cables are sturdily built, and would stand up to professional use I would think. Very satisfied.
4. 

   Aaron H. Harkness
   June 14th, 2010 - 17:49

   Review by Aaron H. Harkness for AutoXray AX7000 Tech Scan Diagnostic Code Scanner with Live, Record and Playback Sensor Data Capability and SD Card Slot for Upgrades
   Rating:
   I have had this tool for about 5 weeks now and I just can’t say enough about it. It is very versitile and I really appreciate the fact that it can be updated/upgraded. I have used it on many vehicles and so far it has worked on every single one. Even my Audi, IMPRESSIVE! I havce not yet found a downside to this product. Great tool++++
5. 

   CSubbie
   June 14th, 2010 - 18:10

   Review by CSubbie for AutoXray AX7000 Tech Scan Diagnostic Code Scanner with Live, Record and Playback Sensor Data Capability and SD Card Slot for Upgrades
   Rating:
   Today I received the AutoXray and connected it to my subaru’s diagnostic port. The first two attempts to read the info from the port failed. When the information was finally retrieved I started to review it. The screen blanked out. I had to remove the AutoXray battery to power cycle it. The on-off button did not work. After restarting the unit I did another diagnostic. Once again the unit blanked out. Before I decide to return the unit I am going to call the help line to see if a software upgrade is required. If not I am considering returning the unit

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