Experiencing a check engine light in your car can be frustrating, especially when you’re unsure of the cause. For many car owners, the first step is to find a reliable and affordable way to diagnose the issue themselves. The Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner is often touted as a budget-friendly option for DIY car diagnostics. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into a review of the KW808 to see if it’s the right tool for your needs.
The Konnwei KW808 is an entry-level OBD2 scanner designed for basic diagnostics. It’s marketed towards car owners who want a simple device to read and clear fault codes related to the check engine light. This scanner plugs into your car’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard, and communicates with the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU).
Key Features of the KW808 OBD2 Scanner:
- Reads Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): The primary function of the KW808 is to read generic OBD2 fault codes. These codes are standardized across most modern vehicles and can pinpoint issues within the engine and emissions systems.
- Clears DTCs and Turns Off Check Engine Light: Once you’ve addressed the problem, the KW808 allows you to clear the fault codes and turn off the check engine light.
- Live Data Stream: Some basic live data parameters, such as engine RPM, coolant temperature, and vehicle speed, can be viewed. This can be helpful in identifying intermittent issues or monitoring engine performance.
- I/M Readiness Test: This function checks the status of emission-related systems to ensure your vehicle is ready for smog testing.
- Vehicle Information (VIN): The KW808 can retrieve your vehicle’s VIN, which can be useful for identification and accessing vehicle-specific information.
- User-Friendly Interface: The KW808 is designed to be simple to use, with buttons and an LCD screen for navigation and code display.
Pros of the Konnwei KW808:
- Affordability: The most significant advantage of the KW808 is its price. It’s one of the most budget-friendly OBD2 scanners available on the market, making it accessible to almost any car owner.
- Ease of Use: Its straightforward interface and simple operation make it easy for beginners to use without prior diagnostic experience.
- Basic Functionality for Check Engine Light Issues: For common check engine light problems related to the engine and emissions, the KW808 can be a useful tool for reading and clearing codes, potentially saving you a trip to the mechanic for basic diagnostics.
- Portability: Its compact size makes it easy to store in your glove compartment and use whenever needed.
Cons of the Konnwei KW808:
- Limited Advanced Features: The KW808 is a basic scanner and lacks advanced features found in more expensive professional tools. It typically does not read codes for systems beyond engine and emissions, such as ABS, airbag, or transmission. As one eBay listing notes, “Please note doesn’t cover airbag, DPF, ABS, gearbox or other modules – these need a special scanner.”
- Generic Codes Only: It primarily reads generic OBD2 codes. While these cover a wide range of common issues, they may not provide the detailed, manufacturer-specific codes that can be crucial for pinpointing more complex problems in vehicles like Mercedes-Benz.
- Build Quality: Being a budget tool, the build quality may not be as robust as higher-end scanners.
- Compatibility Concerns: While it is advertised as an OBD2 scanner compatible with most OBD2 compliant vehicles, including brands like Mercedes-Benz, compatibility can sometimes vary depending on the specific model and year. It’s always advisable to check compatibility before purchasing, especially for specific makes and models.
KW808 vs. Other Budget Scanners:
When considering budget scanners like the KW808, you might also encounter options like the MaxiScan MS309 and U480, often available at even lower price points. These scanners generally offer similar basic functionalities like reading and clearing engine codes. However, they often share the same limitations as the KW808 regarding advanced system diagnostics.
For users needing more comprehensive diagnostics, including ABS, airbag, and other system codes, scanners like the iCarsoft i980 (mentioned in the original forum post) offer more advanced capabilities but come at a higher price. These scanners are often brand-specific and provide deeper diagnostics for particular car makes like Mercedes-Benz.
Conclusion: Is the Konnwei KW808 a Good Choice?
The Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner is a decent entry-level tool for car owners looking for a simple and affordable way to address basic check engine light issues. It’s easy to use, reads and clears generic OBD2 codes, and can be a helpful first step in DIY car diagnostics.
However, it’s essential to understand its limitations. The KW808 is not a professional-grade scanner and lacks advanced features. If you need to diagnose issues beyond the engine and emissions systems, or require detailed, manufacturer-specific codes, you will need to invest in a more advanced diagnostic tool.
For car owners who simply want a budget-friendly scanner to understand and clear basic check engine light codes, the Konnwei KW808 can be a worthwhile investment. Just be aware of its limitations and consider your diagnostic needs before making a purchase. If you suspect issues beyond the engine light, or drive a vehicle requiring more in-depth diagnostics, exploring more advanced scanner options would be advisable.
