We use the Innova CarScan Pro 5610 and test it through various scenarios to detect problems on 4 different vehicles. Based on its easy-to-use interface, extensive vehicle coverage and mobile phone support software – this tool tops our 'recommended' list OBD2 diagnostic tool.
advantage
- Intuitive buttons/functions are easy to use
- Extensive Vehicle Coverage
- More than just reading engine code
- Free Companion Mobile App
shortcoming
- Does not include storage bag or box
Innova CarScan Pro 5610 Overview
The Innova CarScan Pro 5610 is aimed at the more advanced DIY mechanic or the consumer who likes to do their homework before heading to the dealership or mechanic for repairs. this There are many other features built into the OBD2 code reader, allowing users to perform a variety of basic maintenance and diagnostic tasks on their vehicles.
While not a factory or dealer level diagnostic tool, it offers many useful features beyond the most basic code reading. You cannot "program" your car or modify ECU settings with this tool. However, you can figure out why an engine light or other indicator light on the dashboard might be on.
And, for those car junkies out there (you know who you are), you can also view real-time data and input/output data from various sensors while the vehicle is running. Once you've made the proper repairs or taken care of any flagged maintenance items, the Innova 5610 lets you clear or reset the lights to get the job done.
Vehicles tested with Innova CarScan Pro
As mentioned, we tested four different vehicles using the Innova CarScan Pro 5610 OBD2 reader tool. Before we get into more details, here's a quick summary:
- 2000 Ford F250 (Oxygen sensor and EGR valve faulty diagnosed)
- 2003 Jeep Liberty (battery and alternator test – bad alternator)
- 2008 Toyota Highlander (alternator test – bad alternator and bad TPMS sensor)
- 2011 VW CC (diagnosed as intermittent boost sensor failure)
A scanner tool like the $349 Innova CarScan Pro certainly has its limitations. It may not cover 100% of all possible manufacturer codes. However, for most people it should help point you in the right direction.
Over the past few weeks we have had the opportunity to try out the Innova CarScan Pro 5610 on several different cars. These include domestic, Asian and European models.
2008 Toyota Highlander Alternator
I first tried the Innova 5610 scanner on my wife's 2008 Toyota Highlander. Over the past two weeks, her SUV would not start on three different occasions without jumping out of my other vehicle. I got a "call" one afternoon after finding myself stuck in Hobby Lobby (a nice place to get stuck…). This time, however, I came to her rescue with the new Innova CarScan Pro.
After hopping off the Toyota with my truck, I proceeded to run the battery and alternator tests as instructed by the on-screen prompts. Each test contains clear instructions on what to do. In the end it let me know my battery was fine – but the alternator was not running to spec.
After putting in a new alternator (which took me 3 hours due to its almost inaccessible location – thanks to Toyota), the Highlander ran as good as new. Also, all the erratic electrical glitches we've also experienced seem to be gone.
2011 Volkswagen CC
Next, I had a periodically blinking check engine light on my 2011 VW CC. During the initial cold start, I noticed that the idle engine revs sounded like a jump before the car warmed up to a certain temperature. I plugged in the Innova CarScan Pro scanner and quickly discovered that I had a problem with my boost control valve. I got a new one. After clearing the code, I had no other issues.
2000 Ford F250
I have an old Ford F250 utility box van that I carry around for projects. I also loan it out to friends for projects, moving houses, etc. This truck is a real handy do-it-all. Unfortunately, at some point in its life, the check engine light on the dash "stopped" working. Out of curiosity, I proceeded to scan it with the Innova 5610 and found that the upper oxygen sensor had failed. Also, the EGR valve was shown not working properly. On a truck this old, the jury is still out on whether I would do these repairs. It's running fine now, actually getting decent gas mileage…probably due to stuck EGR.
2003 Jeep Liberty
The last vehicle we tested the Innova 5610 scanner on was the 2003 Jeep Liberty, which has been having some charging issues. After confirming that the battery is working, we move on to the alternator test. Sure enough, the alternator was out of specification. AutoZone confirmed the diagnosis when it returned for a warranty replacement. We like being able to diagnose alternator problems without having to remove the alternator and take it somewhere to troubleshoot.
RepairSolutions2 software
Connecting to Bluetooth and using RepairSolutions2 software can help you find more possible repair solutions. This includes instructional videos and other resources. I installed the software on my iPhone, followed the prompts to connect to the hardware via Bluetooth, and had the tool connected within minutes. It also works on Android phones using the Google Play Store. I do find it a useful tool for those more difficult problems that arise from time to time.
in conclusion
All in all, with the Innova CarScan Pro 5610 scanner, we probably saved ourselves about $500 in car diagnostics and service bills. Using this tool on four vehicles gave us a good idea of how it works, and we've had great results. It saved us time, let us do some basic repairs with ease, and cleared up all those pesky check engine lights.
We recommend this tool to any aspiring DIY mechanic for their personal use. You can get a more powerful system, but you may also have to pay more. Conversely, if you just want basic code cleanup and fewer features, you can pay less. Innova has very basic OBD2 scanners start at around $60.
You can get the Innova CarScan Pro 5610 for just $330.
Innova 5610 CarScan Pro Specifications
- Model: 5610
- Reads and clears codes for domestic, Asian and European vehicles
- Bidirectional Control/Active Test
- Enhanced view real-time data stream
- Whole car module scan
- Tire pressure monitoring system scan
- ABS/SRS scan
- oil lamp reset
- Battery initialization/reset
- SMOG check LED indicator
- code severity level
- DPF regeneration
- Delivers the RepairSolutions2 app to your phone via Bluetooth