Are you looking for an automotive scanner that can help you to perform most diagnostic functions? LAUNCH X431 CRP429C will be one of the best choices for you.
The packaging may be excellent, but it’s probably the least essential thing in an OBD scanner. Performance and functionality are crucial. So how does the Launch CRP429C automotive diagnostic tool perform when it comes down to the real business?
Well, let’s find that out. We will start by comparing it with two competitors.
LAUNCH CRP429C vs. Launch CRP429 vs. Autel MD808 Pro
 Launch CRP429C |  Launch CRP429 |  Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro |
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| Customer Rating |  |  | |
| Price |  | | |
| Product Dimensions | 11.4" x 7.6" x 3.3" | 11.5" x 7.7" x 3.5" | 12.8" x 7.6" x 3.4" |
| Item Weight | 2.65lbs | 2.64lbs | 2.59lbs |
| Full OBDII Diagnostics | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ABS/SRS | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Transmission | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Oil Reset | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| EPB, TPMS, SAS | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Key Programming | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fuel Injector Coding | ✔ | ✔ | -- |
| TPS | ✔ | -- | -- |
| Electronic Throttle Position Reset | ✔ | -- | -- |
| Battery Maintenance/Register | ✔ | -- | -- |
LAUNCH X431 CRP429C Overview
The Launch X431 CRP429C is a fairly new scan tool. It only became available for purchase in the last half of 2018. And so far, it has been received with a lot of enthusiasm from car owners, dealers, and mechanics.
But is this OBD1/OBD2 scanner worth your hard-earned buck? Read on and find that out. You may want to know that we prepared this review after a hands-on experience with the device.
First things first, when you purchase the Launch CRP429C scan tool, it will be shipped complete with all the accessories. That includes the CRP429C scanner, an OBD2 diagnostic cable, one charging cable, a user manual, and a carrying case.
The carrying case is a nice little bag that is entirely black, save for the large LAUNCH’s red imprint. It makes a great addition to the package, especially for those who may want to walk around with the device. That is unavoidable if you are a car dealer or mechanic who goes far and wide, either buying/selling or repairing vehicles.
LAUNCH X431 CRP429C Detailed Review
You may have noticed that the Launch X431 CRP429C trumps both devices that we’ve compared it with above. But that’s not all there is to this scanner. In case you are deliberating on buying it, here are a few features that may give you the green light.
Offer Full-OBD2 Functions
As soon as you plug the Launch X431 CRP429C, it will automatically detect your car. It will show you the make, model, year, and (in some cases) mileage of the vehicle. After that, it will lead you to diagnostics, where you can choose the systems to scan.
Note that the auto-detect feature doesn’t work on every single vehicle. For example, there are reported auto-detection issues with the 2006 Nissan Teana and 2002 Mazda B2300 pickup. Just in case it fails on you, don’t worry; you can choose your car make and model manually from the built-in database.
Once the Launch X431 CRP429C scan tool has identified your car, it will start doing an automatic scan while displaying the top’s battery monitor. Battery monitoring shows the actual voltage of your car battery. Be careful not to do many tests with a low car battery as it may give faulty diagnostic data.
Speaking of diagnostic data, you can read and erase codes from the car’s central systems. They include ECU, ABS, SRS, transmission, powertrain, body, chassis, etc. By clearing all the codes of a particular system, you will be able to reset that system’s warning light. For example, after clearing ECU codes, the Check Engine Light will reset. Alongside the DTCs, this device also gives part numbers of faulty components just if you need to buy replacements. It also runs I/M readiness and O2 sensor tests.
One of the handiest features of the Launch X431 CRP429C scanner is its built-in database with DTC definitions. It also features a Wi-Fi module. You can connect this scan tool to the internet and do a DTC lookup or find replacement parts.
The other important feature is the 8GB built-in memory. It saves each scan session automatically so that you have that info for future reference.
Perform 11 Special Reset Functions
In addition to full OBD2 diagnostics, the Launch X431 CRP429C also supports 11 other advanced functions. They are ABS bleeding, oil service reset, gear learning, injector coding, BMS, TPS, IMMO, SAS reset, DPF regeneration, EPB, and TPMS reset.
Solid Construction
Navigation combines both buttons and a touchscreen for more convenience. There’s a HOME button at the bottom left that can return you to the main menu with just one click. The top left has an Auto-VIN button for detecting cars automatically. On the immediate right of the Auto-VIN button is an I/M button for checking emissions instantly.
The other handy button is the Screenshot button that allows you to do just that – take a screenshot of whatever is appearing on the scanner’s screen at any given time. Whether it is DTCs live data or vehicle info, you may need the record for future reference.
Once you connect the scanner, it will start detecting your car and display the vehicle info using Automatic VIN. Pressing the OK tab will then display the vehicle health after about 10 minutes (of generating the report). The report basically consists of trouble codes with a brief description of each.
Once you’ve saved and/or analyzed the diagnostic report, you can go back to the home screen. There you will find six icons, each with its set of functions.
The first is the ‘Diagnose’ icon, which generates a diagnostic report. Use it when the scanner fails to do so automatically after connecting it to a car.
Secondly, there’s the ‘OBDII’ icon for checking specific OBD2 systems. For example, if you want to check ABS only, you select this icon and then proceed to ABS.
The third is the ‘Reset’ icon, which resets the Check Engine Light and other warning lights.
Fourthly there is the ‘Upgrade’ icon, which does exactly that – updates the scanner’s software. The ‘Data’ icon is where all your reports, screenshots, and diagnostic files are stored.
Finally, there is the ‘Settings’ icon, where you will find all the device’s settings. You can change such things as location and units of measurement. This is also where you will find information such as the scanner type, its software version, and so much more.
Live Data and Graphs
Besides DTCs, the Launch X431 CRP429C feeds a user with a ton of data in text and graph formats. You can do a data stream, view freeze frame data, and run on-board monitor tests. It gives diagnostic reports that are printable and also allows you to record diagnostic reports. You can playback the data at a later time.
The other likable thing is graphing of data and comparing of graphs. Additionally, the scanner keeps historical codes. If you’re a mechanic and a customer claims the code wasn’t there before, you can pull out the history and show them the code and when it first appeared.
Extensive Compatibility
Primarily an OBD2 scanner, the Launch X431 CRP429C is a full system scan. It works on all mainstream OBD2 vehicles. Launch Tech claims that it covers 46 car brands, including Ford, GM, VW, BMW, Toyota, Jaguar, Audi, Hyundai, Honda, and many more.
The scan tool can also diagnose OBD1 cars. But you will need to buy an OBD1 cable because it doesn’t come with the package. That’s not a big problem for OBD2 car owners, but compatibility issues might prove to be inconvenient.
For example, there are reported failures on some Asia and EU made cars like the 2006 Nissan Teana, Nissan Altima, and 2002 Mazda B2300 pickup.
Shortcomings of LAUNCH X431 CRP429C
The Launch CRP429C automotive diagnostic tool is undoubtedly a great tool. But it’s not short of flaws. Here are the main highlights:
- Compatibility issues with some EU and Asian-made cars
- Doesn’t support such functions as relearn, coding, and programming that professional mechanics frequently need
- Has a cheap feel because it’s made of plastic. The rubber surrounding the case makes it look better though
Who Is It For?
This tool is ideal for experienced enthusiasts and mechanics. The combination of full OBD2 functions and 11 special functions makes it perfect for detecting faults in various on-board systems. Enthusiasts are particularly likely to love the wide range of advanced diagnostic functions.
Check Price at AmazonBonus: What’s the difference between OBD1 and OBD2?
FAQs
- Is the Launch X431 CRP429C compatible with my car?
The simple answer is YES. If your car is OBD2-compliant or if you have an OBD1 connector, you may use this scanner. But you should visit Launch Tech’s website to confirm that your vehicle is listed.
2. Which functions can I perform with this tool?
It supports both basic and advanced diagnostics. You can do all OBD2 test modes and ABS bleeding, oil service reset, gear learning, injector coding, BMS, TPS, IMMO, SAS reset, DPF regeneration, EPB, and TPMS reset.
3. The scanner can’t detect my car, what can I do?
It allows you to choose manually for cars that are not auto-detected. Scroll down to where the car makes are listed and select the make of your vehicle.
4. Can I use the CRP429C to turn off the Check Engine Light?
YES, by clearing all ECU codes.
5. Do I need to update the tool before use?
NO, it comes with already updated software.
BONUS: Launch Creader VII+: ABS SRS OBD2 Scanner Honest Review
This can be use for throttle relearn?
Sure, Jeff. Beside electronic throttle position reset, it also offers ABS bleeding, DPF regeneration, TPMS reset, battery maintenance, injector coding, etc.
Mine only read the eobd, read DTC and erase DTC. No abs test, No brake test, no transmision test and no nothing. Resets not work at all. I use on subaru exiga 2010.
The scan tool doesn’t offer all the functions universally. Which country do you live? I want to know the country where your vehicle was sold.