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One of the most common questions you may hear is, "What's the best scanner for my car?" But there are many other things to think about when buying a CAN OBD2 scanner. We prepared this Ancel AD510 review, so you can find out if this code reader is the right one for your needs.
Technical Features Of The Ancel AD510 Scanner
Features | Ancel AD510 | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility | Most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles | |
OBDII Protocol | ISO9141, KWP2000, J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW and CAN | |
Display | 240×320 TFT | |
Operating Voltage | 12 Volts | |
Language | English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Finnish, Dutch, and Portuguese | |
Price |   | |
PROS
CONS
Features and Benefits
Compatible with all OBD2 protocols
Ancel AD510 scan tool supports every protocol in use, including KW2000, ISO9141, J1850VPW, J1850PWM, and CAN so you're assured that your car is compatible with this diagnostic scan tool.
Multilingual Interface
The software includes several languages: English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, and Portuguese.
Functional
The CAN OBD2 scanner is an all-in-one tool device that more than reads your car's diagnostic codes. It has 3 indicator lights to prompt the user of existing error codes.
When the green light is on, it means your vehicle is healthy. The yellow light indicates it has a pending fault code, while the red light means a permanent fault code that needs an immediate fix.
Display
The Ancel AD510 has a 2.8-inch backlit LCD screen that is large enough for one to read without straining their eyes. You can also adjust the screen contrast for the best setting.
Monitors Battery Health
The Ancel AD510 scan tool monitors and displays real-time battery voltage before and after ignition to analyze the battery health status - this test can inform you whether or not your alternator needs a new belt.
Efficient
The Ancel AD510 scan tool is a cost-effective, efficient, and durable option for anyone seeking an overview of vehicle performance. Unlike other Bluetooth products that require battery charging, the Ancel AD510 gets power from the OBD port in your car.
Durable
The AD510's small size and rugged design make it a versatile choice for automotive technicians on the go. It is also anti-shock proof, so you can ensure that it will work for a long time.
Its solid and durable casing is strong enough to withstand a 5-foot drop without affecting its performance.
Displays Live Data in Graphs
This scan monitors the values of volts, rpm, temperature, and speed more visually than text. The system has 2 modes: open loop and closed loop mode, enabling you to see the fuel system status. You can choose from different parameters such that your graph will display data for only these items.
Extensive Built-in DTC Library
The AD510 OBD2 scan tool has a rich list of features that help diagnose and detect many other codes. It has more than 2000 generic codes that you can check against after each reading.
Lifetime Free Update
The Ancel AD510 scan tool supports lifetime free updates online to fix the latest bugs and add new parameters, and it can print freeze-frame, data stream, and DTCs. The device also offers the ability to record information by saving important data.
Easier Data Transfer
You can also connect the Ancel AD510 OBD II scan tool to communicate with your Windows 7, 8, or 10 computer. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with Mac. However, you can download your data in the CSV file so you can open it on other devices.
Ancel AD510 FAQ
Are Ancel scanners any good?
Ancel scanners are among the most user-approved OBD II scanners because of their wide choice of models designed for newbie, intermediate, and professional mechanics.
Even their basic scanners are very helpful to car owners with their many features such as battery health monitoring, live data streaming, I/M readiness status tests, O2 sensor test, evap system tests, and several other tests.
These scanners also boast of extensive built-in DTC lookup library so you can readily see the meaning of your error codes. Some of the best budget-friendly Ancel scanners are Ancel AD310, Ancel AD410, and Ancel AD510.
How do you use Ancel AD510?
Ancel AD510 OBD II scan tool is just like other diagnostic scan tools, but if it's your first time using one, here's how:
- Turn off your car, then plug the OBD2 diagnostic link to the OBD2 port. The diagnostic link is the cable attached to your Ancel AD510 code reader.
- Turn the ignition key on, but do not start your car.
- Turn on the Ancel AD510, then wait for it to read your car's information.
- You can press the Help hotkey, marked with a [?]. This hotkey will give you instructions on how to use the scanner and other related information.
- Use the arrow keys to navigate the menu, then press OK.
- If you want to read your car's DTC, choose Diagnostics, then follow the instructions to read the code and look up the meaning in the DTC lookup library.
How do I choose the best Ancel scanner?
Ancel scanners range from novice, intermediate, and pro. Buy your Ancel OB II scanner that is best for your category. For example, beginners should buy OBD II scanners with a built-in DTC lookup library. Basic scanners are less expensive but have features that allow users to view the freeze frame data, fix error codes, turn off check engine lights, etc.
The versatility also ensures that you can choose the best way of using them when you prefer. Ancel scanners are much more versatile than the Ancel machines that you use for tight situations like garage work. However, if you’re looking for advanced features, like reading ABS and SRS codes, go for the pro models of this scanner.
Conclusion
We hope you've found this Ancel AD510 review helpful. With all its features, remember that this OBD II scanner is an entry-level device, and therefore its capabilities are limited.
Leave a comment below to tell us how you found the best OBD II scanner for your car.