You are a DIY-er, and you are looking for an effective code reader? Autel AutoLink AL329 is one of the code readers that can help you to diagnose your vehicle efficiently.
This is an upgraded version of AL319, meaning that it is more reliable and can do more diagnostic functions. Yet the price remains extremely attractive.
You will be able to reset monitors, clear codes, and turn off malfunction lights with this code reader.
Read on to find out the key features, strengths, and weaknesses.
Table of Contents
Autel Autolink AL329 Vs. AL319 Vs. AL519 Comparison Chart
 Autel AutoLink AL329 |  Autel AutoLink AL319 |  Autel AL519 AutoLink |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price |  | | |
| Product Dimensions | 9.3" x 6" x 1.8" | 63" x 17.7" x 92.5" | 7.8" x 4.1" x 1.5" |
| Item Weight | 11.2oz | 6.2oz | 2.05lbs |
| Pros | Has one-click I/M readiness button; Displays OBD2 Live Data; Reads & Erases OBD2 DTCs; Supports 1996 and newer OBDII and CAN; Retrieves VIN; View freeze frame and play back live data. | Has one-click I/M readiness button; Displays OBD2 Live Data; Reads & Erases OBD2 DTCs; Supports 1996 and newer OBDII and CAN; Retrieves VIN; Reads live PCM data stream. | Has one-click I/M readiness button; Displays OBD2 Live Data; Records, Graphs, and Plays back OBD2 Live Data; Mode 6; DTCs lookup; Bi-Directional Functionality; Reads & Erases OBD2 DTCs; Supports 1996 and newer OBDII and CAN; Retrieves VIN; View freeze frame and Reads live PCM data stream. |
| Cons | No DTCs lookup and definition; May retrieve outdated codes. | No in-built DTCs Lookup library. | Customer support issues; Compatibility problems (check carefully before buying) |
| Bottom Line | Autel AutoLink AL329 is primarily built for average car owners who are interested in performing basic diagnosis. | Autel Al319 suits beginners who want to turn off the CEL and do simple diagnosis. | Autel Al519 is perfect for DIYers and average car owners. |
Read more: Autel AL519 Full OBD2 Scanner Detailed Review
Detailed Review Of Autel Al329
One-click I/M Readiness Test
Strength
Whenever there is an emission problem in your vehicle, the Engine Service Light usually pops up. But there is one major problem with this service light.
It does not provide much information other than pointing out that there are emission problems in your car.
Lucky for you, Autel AutoLink AL329 has a one-click emission readiness button. You will be able to check all the emission monitors and clear all the readiness flags’.
The emission monitors in your car are designed to check the quality of gases being released into the air. Whenever these monitors detect an anomaly, a diagnostic trouble code is generated and stored in the onboard computer.
Autel AutoLink AL329 code reader will help you to retrieve the stored emission diagnostic trouble codes. You will be able to tell if you are dealing with a misfiring engine, faulty spark plug, defective catalytic sensors, or even a loose gas cap.
Resolving emission issues is crucial as it will help you to pass the annual emission tests.
Weakness
Autel AutoLink AL329 has no return to home button’ when updating, and you have to unplug the code reader and plug it in again to access the main menu.
Clear The Engine Malfunction Lights
Strength
You may find that after servicing your vehicle, the engine malfunction lights may come on.
You can drive your vehicle to an auto shop and have a mechanic clear the MIL displayed on the dashboard. But this comes with a major disadvantage. You will end up wasting time and money on a simple procedure that you can easily do.
Worse still, you may have to make the trips quite often since even a loose gas cap can turn on MIL.
The second option is to buy Autel AutoLink AL329 and use it to clear MIL. Having this code reader will help you make your life a lot easier.
You will be able to clear the MIL and know the reason why the light is on.
Weakness
Autel AutoLink AL329 fails to establish a connection with some models such as the 2001 Suzuki Swift. You will find that the code reader displays ‘waiting for response message.’
Autel AutoLink AL329
Bonus: Autel AL519: AutoLink OBDll VIN MIL Scan Tool with Mode 6 Review
Auto VIN Retrieval
Strength
There are significant advantages of using a code reader with auto VIN retrieval.
You will establish that the scanner can automatically identify the vehicle and perform a quick scan. This will allow you to read and retrieve diagnostic trouble codes easily.
Secondly, auto VIN retrieval plays an important role when choosing the right firmware when performing an update.
You will be able to quickly match the right software that will enhance the diagnostic capabilities and resolve compatibility issues.
Besides, retrieving VIN will help you easily track the previous records of a vehicle. Retrieving previous records of a car is essential, particularly if you want to buy a used car.
The records will show the performance of the vehicle and other important aspects such as millage.
As a result, you can make a more informed choice when purchasing a used car.
The best part is that Autel AutoLink AL329 can reliably retrieve VIN, allowing you to track a vehicle’s records.
Weakness
One major downside is the lack of accuracy when retrieving VINs. It sometimes displays incorrect codes after performing a scan.
Compatibility Of Autel AutoLink Al329
You will notice that it is compatible with OBDII/EOBD vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer models.
These makes and models can either be domestic, European, or Asian models.
It is also compatible with windows software, allowing you to connect to a PC when making an update.
Who Is Autel Autolink AL329 Built For?
Autel AutoLink AL329 is primarily built for average car owners who are interested in performing basic diagnosis.
You can perform simple functions such as clearing the check engine light or establishing your vehicle’s emission status.
Autel AutoLink AL329
The Bottom Line
Autel AutoLink AL329 is an effective code reader that can comfortably help you resolve the most fundamental issues.
You will be able to perform basic diagnosis without necessarily going to a mechanic shop. You also can turn off Engine Malfunction Lights and check I/M readiness status.
This compatible-price code reader is a highly recommended scanner for average car owners.
