The Autel AutoLink AL539 OBD-II automotive diagnostic scanner is a versatile tool designed for car enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike. This device not only reads your car’s vital signs but also incorporates an electrical multimeter, making it a valuable asset in diagnosing a wide range of automotive issues, from intermittent electrical shorts to blown fuses. Priced around $75, the AL539 stands out in the crowded OBD2 scanner market, earning its place as a strong contender among the best OBD-II scanners available. While it offers a unique combination of features, it’s worth noting that the diagnostic scanner and multimeter functions cannot be used simultaneously.
Let’s delve into a detailed review of the Autel AutoLink AL539, exploring its pricing, design, performance, and overall value in the realm of automotive diagnostics.
Autel AutoLink AL539: Pricing and Market Position
The Autel AutoLink AL539 distinguishes itself by offering more than just standard OBD-II scanning capabilities, integrating a functional electrical multimeter at a competitive price of approximately $75. Autel’s product lineup includes a spectrum of diagnostic tools, catering to various needs and budgets. From the entry-level MS300, priced around $17, to the professional-grade MaxiSys Ultra Scanner, which can reach up to $5,000, Autel provides solutions for everyone from the DIY enthusiast to the seasoned automotive technician. The AL539 comfortably sits in the mid-range, offering a balance of features and affordability that appeals to a broad audience seeking a reliable and versatile OBD2 scanner.
Design and Build Quality of the Autel AL539
Despite incorporating both an OBD-II scanner and an electrical multimeter, the Autel AutoLink AL539 maintains a manageable size and weight. Weighing in at just 10.6 ounces and measuring 6.7 x 3.6 x 1.4 inches, it’s designed to fit comfortably in any toolbox without taking up excessive space. Comparing it to other scanners, it’s positioned between the bulkier Innova CarScan Inspector 5310 and the more compact SeekOne SK860, striking a good balance between screen size and portability.
(Image credit: Autel)
The AL539 is built to withstand the rigors of a garage environment. Its robust black and red casing features ribbed, soft rubber edges, providing excellent protection against drops and impacts common in automotive repair settings. It also comes with a practical padded case, spacious enough to store the scanner, its OBD-II cable, and the included multimeter test leads, keeping everything organized and protected. A unique and convenient feature is the built-in pull-out stand, allowing the AL539 to be positioned upright on a fender or workbench for hands-free operation and easy viewing during diagnostics.
(Image credit: Autel)
The Autel AutoLink AL539 is equipped with a 2.8-inch color screen, placing it on par with competitors like the Innova CarScan 5310 and SeekOne SK860 in terms of display size, though slightly smaller than the 3-inch screen found on the Bosch OBD1300. The scanner utilizes an intuitive icon-based software interface, making navigation straightforward and user-friendly.
The home screen provides quick access to essential functions such as Diagnostics, Ready Test, and fault code lookup, as well as options to review and print stored data. The Settings menu allows for customization of the scanner’s parameters to user preferences. Notably, a dedicated icon launches the electrical tester function, seamlessly integrating the multimeter capabilities.
The AL539 features an eight-key interface, which is simple yet effective. Navigation is managed via a four-way control pad, with a central button for confirming selections, ensuring ease of use even for those new to OBD2 scanners.
Performance and Diagnostic Capabilities of the AL539
While the Autel AL539 doesn’t automatically retrieve vehicle make, model, and year directly from the car’s computer, it effectively displays the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
In practical testing, the scanner performed reliably with various vehicles, including a 2014 Audi A4 AllRoad and a 2016 Infiniti Q50. It promptly identified a deliberately introduced fault—a disconnected oil-temperature sensor—and successfully allowed for the Check Engine Light to be turned off.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
When connected to a vehicle’s computer system, the Autel AutoLink AL539 excels at displaying live data streams, such as engine speed and coolant temperature. This real-time information is invaluable for diagnosing intermittent and complex issues that are not immediately apparent. Furthermore, it offers specialized tests for cylinder pressure, charging system health, and starter motor performance, providing a comprehensive diagnostic overview.
The ReadyTest feature is particularly useful for pre-inspection checks. It runs a series of tests and displays results with clear visual indicators: a green checkmark signifies that a system is operating correctly, while a yellow exclamation mark or a red octagon indicates areas requiring attention. A green result on the ReadyTest is a strong indication that the vehicle will likely pass emissions inspections.
The integrated digital multimeter is a key differentiator for the Autel AutoLink AL539. However, it’s important to remember that this function operates independently of the OBD-II scanner and requires the AL539’s internal battery to be charged. The device is supplied with a USB charging cable, but does not include an AC adapter. Despite this, the AL539 stands out as one of the few OBD-II scanners capable of measuring AC and DC voltage, as well as testing circuit continuity and current flow, significantly expanding its diagnostic utility.
Setup and Ease of Use
Setting up the AL539 is remarkably straightforward. Upon plugging the scanner into a vehicle’s OBD-II port, it establishes communication with the car’s computer within approximately 10 seconds and begins displaying data. The generous 58-inch cable provides ample reach from the passenger cabin to the engine bay and also functions effectively with an extension cord, offering flexibility in various diagnostic scenarios.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
The scanner body is equipped with clearly labeled ports for the OBD-II cable and multimeter test leads, along with a 5-volt input for battery charging. A mini-USB port facilitates connection to a PC for firmware updates, ensuring the device remains current with the latest vehicle diagnostic protocols.
The Autel Autolink AL539 comes with a one-year warranty. While the included instruction booklet provides basic operational guidance, users may need to spend some time exploring the AL539’s features to fully leverage its capabilities.
Final Verdict: Is the Autel AutoLink AL539 the Right OBD2 Scanner for You?
The Autel AutoLink AL539 presents a compelling package for those seeking a versatile OBD2 scanner with added electrical testing capabilities. While the multimeter function requires battery charging and cannot be used concurrently with the scanner, its inclusion is a significant advantage. The AL539 effectively combines essential car diagnostic tools with basic electrical troubleshooting in one device, potentially saving space in your toolbox and offering a cost-effective solution for both vehicle maintenance and electrical fault finding. For DIY enthusiasts and mechanics looking for a reliable, dual-function tool, the Autel AutoLink AL539 OBD2 scanner is definitely worth considering.
