Launch CR529 Review 2023: OBD2 Scanner for All Kinds of Drivers

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Launch is a well-known company that provides quality products for drivers of all kinds, including those looking for an OBD2 scanner. If you're one of the many people who enjoy driving, this article will show you some essential things to know before buying Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner.

Features

Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner

Engine

Highly advanced with multiple features

Screen

2.8-inch TFT - 320*240 dpi

Product size

7.04" X 4.05" X 1.18"

Weight

0.63 lbs.

Operating voltage

9-18V

Software upgrade

Free for life

Cable length

3-foot

Support language

English, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Spanish, French, German

Price

Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner
Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner

PROS

  • Supports all major OBD2 protocols
  • 3 LEDs for easy viewing of vehicle condition
  • Upgraded data streaming from engine sensors
  • Turn off check engine light faults
  • Detects and monitors intermittent faults

CONS

  • Slightly more expensive than other options
  • No system diagnosis/special function

Features and Benefits

Overall Performance

LAUNCH is committed to being a leader in the automobile diagnostic equipment industry, complying with the company culture of "innovation, quality, efficiency, professionalism, and competition." It provides an exceptional user experience worldwide using powerful technology and exceptional service.

The LAUNCH CR529 is an upgraded version of the basic OBDII code reader that works with all OBDII compliant vehicles. It is equipped with full OBDII functions such as DTC Lookup, Plug and Play, Printing, Client-side Online Upgrade, and more. It's a portable and affordable OBD2 diagnostic tool that allows entry-level DIY users to perform fast and accurate diagnoses.

The CR529 can display graphical data, conduct evaporative tests, and monitor onboard conditions. The gadget can be used with any OBD2-compatible automobile produced after 1996. It can generate diagnostic reports that can be emailed and printed. Users may save time and money by avoiding blind maintenance with the help of the report. 

Build Quality

LAUNCH CR529 is intended to allow car owners to check and repair typical vehicle problems without the need for expert assistance or incurring high costs. It will also be an intelligent and meaningful decision for any garage or automobile repair shop that purchases this scan tool since they may use it to provide fast support to clients.

I/M Readiness Tests and 3 LEDs

You may quickly access the I/M readiness function using the I/M shortcut key. The following three LEDs are used as visual aids to help identify the condition of the engine system.

  1. GREEN LED (No-Fault Code): Indicates that all engine systems are in an excellent operating system.
  2. YELLOW LED (Pending Fault Code): Indicates that the present DTC is a Pending DTC.
  3. RED LED (Permanent Fault Code): Indicates whether the present DTC is a Permanent DTC.

DTC Lookup & Help Key

The CR529 has a DTC Lookup feature that can save you time finding the meaning of a DTC on the internet by displaying a thorough description from the DTC library. Furthermore, the HELP shortcut may be used to access diagnostics' extensive reports and advice quickly.

Plug & Play + No Battery

The Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner is a "Plug and Play" device that does not require a battery, so you won't have to worry about battery drain. When you connect the code reader's diagnostic cable to the vehicle's DLC socket, it will receive power immediately and begin operating, which is relatively simple for beginners.

Compatibility

This LAUNCH OBD2 code reader is compatible with J1850 and CAN systems, unlike other OBD2 scan tools. The following protocols are supported: KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, and CAN.

As long as the car has a 16-pin OBD2 port, the LAUNCH CR529 will operate on most 1996 and newer vehicles, regardless of make or model sold in the United States, Europe, or Asia.

Accuracy

It correctly identifies the reasons for the check engine light and its turn-off. The vehicle's state is indicated by red-yellow-green LEDs, which eliminates the need for step-by-step operation. The scanner is quite accurate, and it identifies exactly why the Check Engine Light is lit, which might be for a variety of reasons:

  1. Defective O2 sensor
  2. Missing or losing fuel cap
  3. Faulty ignition coils
  4. Damaged spark plug wires
  5. Malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation valve 
  6. Faulty Thermostat
  7. Problematic fuel injectors
  8. Faulty catalytic converter
  9. Failing mass airflow sensor
  10. Malfunctioning spark plugs

Connectivity

This advanced universal vehicle scan tool has complete OBDII capabilities and many other features. One-click smog checker — at the press of a button, a quick and easy immediate test will assess smog levels to see if the car will pass an emission test.

The Launch CR529 is a one-click scanner for quick state readiness checks and drive cycle verification that displays the results of your vehicle's health status in a graphical format, indicating whether or not the vehicle's monitors have run and finished their testing.

This program examines all engine-related fault codes, determines the cause of check engine light warnings, and performs the necessary repairs using the DTC definitions and advice, as well as turning off the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).

Readability

The CR529 is a basic OBD2 vehicle scan tool with a 2.8" touch screen for improved visual effects. As a result, it can completely display the menu interface and its contents. Furthermore, the colorful LCD allows you to see test results clearly when the light level is low.

This OBD2 scan tool can record DTCs, Data Streams, and Freeze Frames so that you may review the data again when fixing it. You may also use a USB cable to connect to a PC and print the data, which you can later share with mechanics for professional help.

This code reader can read and clear the difficult code in just seconds. Launch CR529 displays the error code description, figure out what caused the check engine light to come on, and tell you how to solve it. The HELP button is helpful for quick access to common tips.

Functionality

This device showed clearly that the car's engine was on because it had a light, and it also had an explanation in its onboard database. No one can know if they will have a bad day until they use the CR529 OBD2 code reader. The CR529 is a great, cheap way to start learning about your car.

Easy of Use

The CR529 is a user-friendly OBD2 scanner with an error code database that meets your needs. With a built-in code library for looking up the OBD2 readings you've got in your scan, the scanner not only helps you diagnose your car. It also enables you to understand all the codes and scans signify, which is a considerable time saver compared to browsing the internet.

Value of Money

The Launch CR529 is a low-cost code reader that costs between $45 and $55. The CR529 is covered by a 5-year warranty that begins on the date of purchase. The manufacturer also provides a free lifetime update, which is fantastic for a code reader in this price range.

Tech Support

You may download and install the update tool from the LAUNCH official website, connect the scan tool to a PC via USB connection and pick the most recent version to update. As a result, the bug fixes will be accessible.

This Launch OBD2 scan tool can collect vehicle information such as the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID), and CVN (Calibration Verification Number), among other things, providing users with assistance and convenience while performing repairs or replacing parts.

This check engine code reader comes with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase. You do not need to update the system because Launch CR529 is presently installed with the latest version. Free lifetime updates keep you up to speed on the latest bug fixes, new vehicles, parameters, and functionality.

Launch CR529 FAQ

1. When to upgrade Launch CR529?

You can update Launch CR529 if you have any problems or aren't working properly. It is not necessary to upgrade it before using it.

2. How to register and update Launch CR529?

1. Download the upgrade tool of the product: https://eninfo.x431.com/prod_view.aspx?TypeId=68&Id=323&FId=t3:68:3

2. Connect the scanner to the computer after installation.

3. Launch the update tool on your computer after the tool is powered up, and the system will start to read the tool. When the tool information is acquired, click Device Upgrade and a registration box will appear.

4. To get straight to the update center, fill in the required information and click Submit.

5. To begin upgrading, click Upgrade and wait for it to finish.

Note: If the connection between the device and the computer is successful, the serial number will be detected immediately. If you cannot download the CR529 update tool, don't hesitate to contact Launch's customer support to get the Update Tool file.

3. What year of the car can Launch CR529 OBD2 Scanner cover?

The CR529 supports all OBDII protocols: KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, and CAN (Controller Area Network). This scanner is compatible with most American, European, and Asian OBD2-compliant vehicles built after 1996.

4. Why did Launch CR529 can’t clear the fault code?

It's usually caused by a loose connection or by the fault code reappearing due to the problem not being resolved.

5. What kind of code can Launch CR529 read?

Launch CR529 may retrieve Current Codes, Permanent Codes, and Pending Codes from the vehicle's onboard computer.

Conclusion

The OBD2 scanner delivers nearly the same function as specific pricey service center tools when using all 10 OBD2 service modes. The LAUNCH CR529 is an excellent choice for troubleshooting indicator lights and codes, as well as diagnosing and fixing vehicle problems.

Would you consider purchasing Launch CR529 after reading this review? What are your thoughts on other Launch products? Please let us know in the comments section.