The Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD2 scanner is a popular choice for car owners and DIY mechanics looking for a user-friendly and portable tool to diagnose check engine lights and perform basic vehicle diagnostics. Its straightforward design and essential functions make it an accessible entry point into the world of automotive scanning. This guide will walk you through how to effectively use the Autel AL319 OBD2 scanner to understand your vehicle’s health.
Getting Started with Your Autel AL319
The Autel AL319 is designed for simplicity right out of the box. Setting it up and connecting it to your vehicle is a quick process, allowing you to start diagnosing issues without delay.
Unboxing and Device Overview
Upon unboxing your Autel AL319, you’ll notice its compact size and simple interface. The device features a bright color screen and three buttons:
- Scroll/Navigation Buttons (UP/DOWN Arrows): These buttons are used to navigate through the scanner’s menus and options.
- ENTER/EXIT Button: This central button is used to select menu options and confirm actions.
Alt text: Autel AL319 OBD2 scanner device with color screen and simple three-button interface.
Connecting to Your Vehicle’s OBD2 Port
To use the Autel AL319, you first need to connect it to your vehicle’s OBD2 port. This port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side of most vehicles.
- Locate the OBD2 Port: Look for a 16-pin connector, usually within reach under the steering column or dashboard area. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you are unsure of the exact location.
- Turn Ignition OFF: Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is turned off before connecting the scanner.
- Connect the AL319: Plug the OBD2 cable from the Autel AL319 firmly into your vehicle’s OBD2 port.
Alt text: Close-up showing the Autel AL319 scanner’s cable being connected to a vehicle’s OBD2 port under the dashboard.
Once connected, the Autel AL319 will power on automatically, drawing power from the vehicle’s OBD2 port.
Basic Navigation
Navigating the Autel AL319 is done using the three buttons.
- Power On: The device powers on automatically when connected to the OBD2 port.
- Scrolling: Use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to scroll through menu options.
- Selecting Options: Press the ENTER/EXIT button to select a highlighted menu option.
- Returning to Previous Menu: Navigate to the “Return” or “Back” option within the menu and press ENTER/EXIT. This might require a slight learning curve initially, as there isn’t a dedicated “Exit” button, but it becomes intuitive with use.
Key Features and How to Use Them
The Autel AL319 offers several key features to help you diagnose and understand your vehicle’s condition.
Reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Reading DTCs is the primary function of the AL319 and helps identify the cause of a check engine light.
- Enter Diagnostic Menu: From the main menu, use the scroll buttons to select “Diagnostic” and press ENTER/EXIT.
- Read Codes: Select “Read Codes” and press ENTER/EXIT. The scanner will retrieve and display any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- View Code Definitions: The AL319 will display the code and a brief definition on its color screen, helping you understand the potential issue.
Alt text: Autel AL319 scanner screen displaying diagnostic trouble codes and their descriptions during a vehicle scan.
Clearing Trouble Codes
Once you have addressed the issue causing the check engine light, you can use the AL319 to clear the codes and turn off the light.
Caution: Clearing codes without addressing the underlying problem will only temporarily turn off the light. It will likely reappear if the issue persists.
- Enter Erase Menu: From the main menu, select “Erase Codes” and press ENTER/EXIT.
- Confirm Erase: The scanner will prompt you to confirm the code erasure. Select “Yes” and press ENTER/EXIT.
- Verify: After erasing, the scanner will indicate if the process was successful.
I/M Readiness Check (Emissions Test)
The I/M Readiness feature quickly checks if your vehicle is ready for an emissions test.
- Press I/M Button: The AL319 has a dedicated “I/M Readiness” button. Press this button.
- Interpret Results:
- Green Light: Indicates all emission monitors are ready, and your car should pass an emissions test.
- Yellow Light: Indicates some monitors are not ready. You may need to drive your car for a bit longer to complete the drive cycle and get all monitors ready.
- Red Light: Indicates that there are emission-related issues that need to be addressed before your car will pass an emissions test.
Alt text: Close-up of the Autel AL319 scanner highlighting the dedicated I/M Readiness button for quick emissions checks.
Live Data Stream
The Autel AL319 can also display live data parameters from your vehicle’s engine, providing real-time information for troubleshooting.
- Enter Live Data Menu: From the main menu, select “Live Data” and press ENTER/EXIT.
- Select Parameters: Choose the parameters you want to monitor (e.g., coolant temperature, O2 sensor readings, etc.) using the scroll and ENTER/EXIT buttons.
- View Live Data: The AL319 will display the selected parameters with a fast refresh rate, allowing you to observe changes in real-time as the engine runs.
Manufacturer-Specific Codes
While primarily an OBD2 scanner focusing on generic codes, the AL319 can also detect some manufacturer-specific codes. If it detects such a code, it will prompt you to select your vehicle’s make and model for more accurate interpretation. Note that it primarily reads engine-related codes and not systems like ABS, Transmission, or Airbags.
Pros and Cons of the Autel AL319
Based on user experience, here are some pros and cons to consider when using the Autel AL319:
Pros:
- Fast Boot-up: The device starts up quickly, allowing for immediate diagnostics.
- Bright Color Screen: The color display is clear and easy to read in various lighting conditions.
- Dedicated I/M Readiness Button: Provides quick access to emissions readiness status.
- Reads Generic and Some Manufacturer-Specific Codes: Offers broader diagnostic capability than basic OBD2 scanners.
- Live Data Stream with Fast Refresh Rate: Useful for real-time monitoring of engine parameters during troubleshooting.
- Responsive and Fast Navigation: Menu navigation is generally quick and efficient.
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Works with most OBD2 compliant vehicles across various makes and models (Honda, Toyota, VW, Nissan, etc.).
- Portability: Compact and easy to keep in your car for on-the-go diagnostics.
Cons:
- User Interface Navigation Learning Curve: The single ENTER/EXIT button for both actions can be slightly confusing initially, requiring users to learn the menu navigation logic.
- Short Cable Length: The 2-foot cable might be restrictive in certain situations, such as when using a lift or trying to observe live data while driving (passenger seat observation recommended for safety if doing so).
Conclusion
The Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD2 scanner is a valuable tool for anyone wanting to understand and maintain their vehicle’s health. Its ease of use, essential features like code reading, clearing, I/M readiness check, and live data, coupled with its portability, make it an excellent choice for DIY car owners and those seeking a reliable, basic OBD2 scanner. While there is a minor learning curve with the navigation and the cable length is limited, the AL319’s strengths in functionality and speed make it a highly recommended tool for basic automotive diagnostics.
