[BrittonRacing]

Hi all, thanks for looking. I run a small independent used car lot, and need to update my scanner. I have the old snap on m2500 "red brick", but don't want to pay the snap on man $2500 for upgrades, nor do I want to spend 2500 for new scanner software.

I was thinking of getting AE thru Bill, the nice 1300 bundle for my laptop. I don't get big into European cars, or for that fact, much into imports at all. Pretty much domestic. I would like to read codes, along with diagnose Airbags, ABS, and Check E lights.

What do you guys think?

Please give me your opinions, and I appreciate it in advance.

Stephen

[soutthpaw]

I actually replaced my OTC Genisys with the AE software as I found it to be able to do more. between that and my Lab Scope I have everything I need..

[BrittonRacing]

Soutthpaw, have you had any connection issues? Does the software get more in depth than the genysis? Does it get as in depth as a factory Ford, Chrysler, and GM scanner?

Honestly I am just leery because the price is so low. Every time I buy something because it is cheaper, I get burned. I really don't want to do that here.

[soutthpaw]

I would say there is no replacement for a factory scan tool, but unless u specialize in one particular make its prohibitive to buy them... Yeah it does let you do some additional stuff that Genesis didn't, PATS programming for lost keys etc... Which may be a benefit in your business.. did you look at the AE website? it has a pretty good list of what it will do. Occasionally it doesn't always display a value (calculated load) doesn't work on my 7.3 diesels... but you will find quirks like that with all scan tools. no connectivity issues per se... Except yesterday on ym 02 F350 but that is cuz the OBD/cigar lighter fuse was burned out worked fine after that. did contribution test with it and found the bad injector.... If you are specifically looking at the 7.3's or any other vehicle that Minotaur will access then anything you can't do with the scan tool can be done with custom tuning. (in essence you are going beyond a factory scan tool)

I Haven't done anything with the on board tire pressure monitoring systems so I am not sure AE supports any of those functions or access.


I would love to chat with you more as I am considering getting an auto dealers license here in Colorado... (looking for a new business venture)

One thing with AE is you are paying for the software only, unlike a scan tool where you also are paying for the hardware to run it. I have AE, Minotaur, Alldata etc. all on my netbook which is real handy

[BrittonRacing]

I just fried my eyes looking at the AE website and all the enhanced interface screen shots for the last 3 hours. Man that's a TON of info. I was hoping it would also program key fobs, but I don't think it will. The Ford PATS key would be nice though.

All I can say about the car business, its slow in Ohio.

[soutthpaw]

yeah its pretty comprhensive for the price. they do advertise in Motor Magazine which is a trade publication.. they always seem to be working on improvements, enhancements and updates. I did call them about PATS before ordering and the sent me a ton of attached files and additional info..


I want to do more of a broker thing where take a deposit and a list of what all the person wants on the car with an agreed price then go find the car at dealer auctions.. Adessa has a facility 3 miles from my house so it would be pretty easy... Also have a unique captive customer base that I would have exclusive contact with nationwide... you can PM me if ya want to know more

[BrittonRacing]

Anyone else use this software?

I have used a Snap-on Solus also, and am just wondering how it stacks up?

Just looking for opinions here

[John Anderson]

We use AE in our shop for all diagnostic work. I also use it for datalogging sometimes when I'm tuning. To be honest, it should do everything you want to do. We use it on all three brands of diesel trucks along with gas vehicles on a regular basis. Works great. In fact, a few friends of mine who have their own shops stop by on a regular basis to have me check things their Snapon or other scanners won't.

I really liked it before the latest update, now I can't say enough good things about it.