What is "OBD", anyway?
In short, OBD is a computer-based system found on most modern vehicles, whose main job is to keep tabs on the emission levels. Over the years, OBD systems grew more sophisticated, and today can provide access to hundreds of vehicle parametersWhat vehicles are supported?
Our scan tools work on all Petrol cars year 2000 onwards and diesel cars 2003 onwards sold in the UK and Europe
Several different systems are available from ESP Automotive but what products best for me?
We sell 3 PC based systems, 1 touchscreen tablet system and a handheld system.
PC based packages:- Our advice is if you're simply looking to read and reset fault codes along with basic engine diagnosis, choose the "Elmscan5 Compact USB pack with OBDwiz software"
If you're looking for more detailed information (i.e. ability to graph and log in real-time) and fault diagnosing capabilities choose our "Elmscan5 USB Scanmaster Package". And if you're looking for a package that provides all of this as well as performance timings (i.e. 0-60mph) then its "Scanalyst Premium Package"
Our "CReader" (pronounced 'See Reader') handheld tool is great for very quickly checking and clearning fault codes, and reading basic engine parameters without the need for a PC / Laptop.
Our Touchscreen Tablet system is specifically designed for the professional trade user.
What is a "scan tool"?
A scan tool is a device used to access on-board diagnostic information. Scan tools come in many shapes and sizes, but there are two basic types: stand alone and PC based. As the name suggests, stand alone scan tools do not require a computer. However, they typically have a small screen with a minimalistic interface, run only proprietary software with limited functionality, and cost significantly more than comparable PC based scan tools.
PC based scan tools harness the power and economy of scale of modern PCs, and have a number of important advantages:
•Large, easy-to-read screen
•Unlimited storage for data logging
•Wide selection of diagnostic software that can be easily updated
•Remote data acquisition
•Cost a small fraction of the cost of comparable stand-alone scan tools
Our PC based scan tools can:
•Turn off the check engine light, and erase stored diagnostic information
•Check emissions readiness
•Read and erase trouble codes (generic and manufacturer-specific)
•Display real time parameters
•Record data for later playback
•Plot data in the form of graphs & maps
•Display customizable Digital Gauges
•Serve as a dynamometer
•Provide a drag strip feature
•Generate printable diagnostic reports
•Access manufacturer-specific information
•Do lots of other cool and useful things
None of the stand alone scan tools available on the market today (even the ones that cost thousands of punds) can even approach this feature set.
It's all about the software
Without software, a PC is just a box with lights. The same can be said about a scan tool: it is only as good as the diagnostic software that works with it. Therefore, we are proud to be able to say that if you get one of our scan tools, you will enjoy the widest selection of the best diagnostic software.
From the very beginning, we made it our priority to make it easy for programmers to write software for our devices by providing documentation, source code, technical support, and OBD simulators. We work closely with many software developers across the globe, share ideas, and use their feedback to improve our scan tools.
Why buy from Esp Automotive ?
The short answer is, when you buy from us you get the most value for your money.
We were amongst the first on the market to offer inexpensive, sophisticated PC-based scan tools at a price anyone, not just the professional mechanics, can afford. It continues to be our mission to this day, and we believe we do it better than anybody else.
When you buy scan tools from ESP Automotive you get:
•Fast, inexpensive shipping. Most orders are shipped same day from our facility in East Midlands, UK
•Risk-free, hassle-free 7 day unconditional money back guarantee.
•Best warranty in the industry. Your scan tool is covered by a 3-year material and labor warranty. If it fails, we will promptly repair or replace it free of charge.
•Highest quality. We ensure it by:
◦Continuously improving the design of our scan tools.
◦Insisting on using only high quality components.
◦Thorough testing.
