Are you looking for a highly advanced and professional diagnostic tool and automotive code reader to get that Check Engine light turned off? Do you want a reliable, high quality scan tool that will display error codes quickly and efficiently? Are you on the hunt for a diagnostic scan tool laden with features that boast impressive compatibility?
If this sounds like you then you’re going to want to keeping on reading our Ancel FX6000 review to learn more about why this is one of the best OBD scanners on the market today. Ancel is a go-to brand for professional mechanics and general car owners alike; the Ancel FX6000 is ideal for those seeking a scanner capable of performing even the most complex of diagnoses.
As all mechanics know, having a professional OBD2 scanner is vital. In this Ancel FX6000 OBD2 scanner review, we’re going to outline all of the functions that this diagnostic tool holds because we know that the market is flooded with a whole range of scan tools, often with overly complicated, jargon-filled product descriptions.
We’ll begin with an overview which will include a list of the pros and cons of the Ancel FX6000 OBD2 scanner. Towards the end, we’ll explain its compatibility, its functionality, and the following five key features: design, diagnostics, emission tests, advanced functions, and reliability. Following this, we’ll give you our overall verdict to summarize just why it is that we think this is one of the best, professional scanners for cars. We’ve also made sure to answer some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to both how the Ancel FX6000 works and what it is that makes a good scan tool.
Product Overview
The Ancel FX6000 OBD2 scanner is an advanced functional coding and programming tool for use by professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Compatible with vehicles built in 1992 and after, this scan tool is one of the most compatible on the market and can be used with over 40 different car brands across the globe. The FX6000 offers basic and advanced diagnostics of the vehicle’s systems such as the engine, ABS, SRS, transmission, air bag, car radio system, battery check, as well as immo ECU programming, coding, EPB, oil reset, TPMS sensor reset, pump module, and auto HVAC.
Designed to be easy-to-use, the Ancel FX6000 has an accessible interface with a 4.3″ LED screen. It has 7 simplistic buttons: ‘OK’ for selecting an item, ‘Esc’ for exiting, four navigation arrow buttons, and the ‘FN’ key which allows the user to customize the main menu.
Pros
- Supports OBD2 and some OBD1 vehicles.
- Boasts an impressively functional code reading process.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Supports multiple languages.
- Comes with Ancel’s free software updates for 2 years.
Cons
- On the bulkier side due to its rugged design.
- Has a higher price point than models which offer less advanced functionalities.
Compatibility
Of course, any OBD scanner review must explore the device’s compatibility; vehicle coverage is a critical factor when it comes to selecting the best system diagnosis tool for your needs. The Ancel FX6000 is pretty comprehensive in terms of its compatibility because it’s capable of diagnosing vehicles that were manufactured as early as 1992 and is designed to cover all OBD2 vehicles. Included with your purchase of the FX6000 are 11 OBD connectors for a variety of different vehicle brands. In addition, you’ll be provided with free software updates for two years which ensures longevity by being compatible with future vehicles too. From our point of view, it really would be a challenge to find others within the same price range as the Ancel FX6000 that are also able to support both OBD1 and OBD2 diagnostics.
Functionality
When in use, the Ancel FX6000 is designed to provide the user with the vehicle’s diagnostic trouble codes, to then erase these error messages, and to perform a number of advanced functions that are to be expected from a piece of equipment geared towards professional mechanics.
When you plug the FX6000 into the vehicle’s data link connector, usually located on the driver’s side under the dashboard, you’ll be able to perform a full system diagnosis, read the trouble code, and determine its meaning using the information manual or readily available online resources. Following the necessary repairs, you’ll then be able to erase any codes and the Check Engine light will turn off. As we highlighted earlier, the Ancel FX6000 offers both standard and advanced diagnostics which include, but are not restricted to, the engine, ABS, SRS, transmission codes, a battery check, and immo ECU programming.
Make sure to take a look at the diagnostics section of our review of the key features of the Ancel FX6000 as this will provide additional details on this piece of equipment’s functionality.
Key Features
In this section of our Ancel FX6000 review, we will be outlining some of this diagnostic tool’s key features: its design, its diagnostic capabilities, its capacity to run emissions tests, its advanced functions, and its overall reliability as a professional mechanic’s companion tool.
Design
Weighing just over 3lbs and measuring 9.45 x 6.69 x 1.97 inches, the Ancel FX6000 scanner is lightweight, portable, and won’t be any trouble to carry around while working at the auto repair shop or in a home garage. The device also comes in a compact carrying case where you can store all of its components. In terms of its components, you’ll receive a diagnostic cable, an OBD2 connector, a CITROEN-16C connector, a USB cable, and an information guide with your parcel.
As mentioned in the initial overview, the easy-to-use interface features 7 buttons for navigation purposes and allows the user to favorite functions they plan on using frequently. At the center of the scanner is a large TFT LED display which provides crisp, clear images, similar to that of a smartphone’s. Another shared characteristic with the standard smartphone is that this scanner comfortably fits into your hand while you work. An ergonomic grip around the outer-edges of the Ancel FX6000 also helps the user to maintain a steady hold while simultaneously offering protection from damage if it’s dropped.
Diagnostics
The Ancel FX6000 scanner has a whole host of diagnostic features that are worthy of review. To begin with, it can diagnose the vehicle’s full system in a number of different ways; you can view live data as either a graph or in a text format. You will be able to freeze frame data too, something that is handy feature for both a professional mechanic and the average car owner. It is reliable in performing O2 sensor tests and component tests and will read and erase a full range of codes associated with the engine. If you’re looking to reset the oil light and service light, the Ancel FX6000 OBD2 scanner will similarly be of practical use.
Unlike comparable code readers on the market, this diagnostic tool also features advanced ECU programming coding. Error codes arising from the battery system, the AC, central locks, the headlamps, and more, are likewise easily read thanks to the Ancel FX6000. Useful for reading other codes which include, but are not limited to, ABS, SRS, TPMS, EPB, and SAS, this is an all-round highly functional tool.
The Ancel FX6000 can, in short, read a vast array of error codes and will allow you to reprogram any required functions.
Emission tests
In addition to checking for engine codes, you will also be able to use the Ancel FX6000 for emissions tests. Self-testing the vehicle’s emission control systems to evaluate their performance is straightforward and will provide reliable results. By supporting I/M readiness and being able to carry out an O2 sensor test, this unit’s capacity to conduct smog tests is impressive and easy to do, not only for the seasoned mechanic but also for car owners and DIY enthusiasts.
Advanced functions
Often praised for having more capabilities than your average code reader, the Ancel FX6000 has advanced functions which can provide a detailed insight into the vehicle’s full system. In essence, the FX6000 offers similar functions to those you would expect from top dollar, high-end code readers.
As the Ancel FX6000 is able to perform immo ECU programming coding, users will be able to monitor and optimize the operation and performance of their vehicle’s engine. Additionally, the Ancel FX6000 will also be able to diagnose the vehicle’s powertrain, body system, chassis, SAS, DPF and TPMS sensors.
Reliability
The Ancel FX6000 is particularly reliable in two aspects. Firstly, the rugged construction of the FX6000 is intended to be durable, long-lasting, and drop resistant. Unlike other models on the market, the Ancel FX6000 has anti-skid, gaming-style edges to provide the user with a solid, reliable handheld grip.
Secondly, the diagnostic codes read are highly reliable and easily defined using either the information manual or online resources. From there, the necessary repairs will need to be made to ensure that full system functioning is achieved. By having a reliable piece of equipment, it means that, if you’re an at-home car enthusiast, then using the Ancel FX6000 may help you in carrying out a full system check which you can then directly communicate about with your local repair shop.
The Verdict
Well-suited to car owners and DIY enthusiasts who are looking for a tool which offers more than the majority of other devices situated within the same price range, or professionals looking for a new addition to their kit, the Ancel FX6000 is an all-round great option. It’s surprisingly affordable when you take into consideration its wide ranging capabilities; it’s able to read your vehicle’s full system, solve almost any error code, and it allows for a level of advanced coding and programming that you wouldn’t typically expect from a unit of its price. Consistently praised in reviews by its users as being reliable and effective, we have no issues in recommending the Ancel FX6000.
FAQs
Here we have compiled a number of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to using the Ancel FX6000 OBD2 scanner, while also making sure to add some of the more general queries which are often posed when looking for the best code reader.
Ancel is among the most popular manufacturers used by professionals across the world, pointing to the respectability of the brand as a whole. Their scanners receive consistently high ratings from their users and so we feel confident in saying that yes, Ancel scanners are good.
Included with your purchase, you will receive a full 2 years worth of free software updates from Ancel. You will first need to register your diagnostic tool online through the Ancel website – instructions on how to do this are included inside the information manual you will receive with your FX6000. When you visit the company’s website, you’ll need to download the Update Client program and input your registration details. When you have completed this stage, you’ll need to follow the next few steps to perform the update process each time it is required.
Step 1.
Connect your Ancel FX6000 to your home or work computer using the USB cable that comes included in your parcel.
Step 2.
A list of the available upgrades will appear within Ancel’s Update Client popup window.
Step 3.
Select the software update that you require – you will have the option to Select All if you wish.
Step 4.
Once the update is complete, you can close the Update Client window. You will then be able to unplug the USB cable and your updated Ancel FX6000 from your computer.
These free online upgrades are intended to fix any bugs which may arise within the software, while also providing all new parameters to keep your code reader up-to-date.
The purpose of our review is to explore the functionalities and the pros and cons of the Ancel FX6000 diagnostic scan tool and, overall, we firmly believe that this is one of the best scan tools on the market. Packed full of advanced features, the Ancel FX6000 has an impressive price-to-value ratio. With most scanners, you’ll generally find that the price will correlate with its quality and its capabilities. Although the FX6000 is by no means a budget option, it’s still incredibly reasonably priced when you compare it’s abilities with its competitors.
The market for plug-in OBD2 scanners is brimming with competition and so it can be a challenge to sift through each device to find the best model. Ultimately, the best scanner for one person isn’t going to be the best for another. When looking for the best scanner OBD2 for you, you’re going to need to match it to what you intend on using it for. The range of features and functions available vary greatly and so it’s a good idea to work out exactly what it is that you want from your device before you begin searching.
That being said, a diagnostic tool from a reputable, well-known manufacturer is a good move. The bottom line is that Ancel are undoubtedly up there among the industry leaders for diagnostic units and by purchasing one of their scanners you’ll have access to their helpful customer services, to their warranty, and to a long-lasting, reliable device. Similarly, the more well-known the brand is, the easier it will be to find and read through the online buyer reviews from those who have first-hand experience with using it.
This is one of the most frequently asked about topics when it comes to choosing between Ancel’s scanners; let’s begin by outlining the key differences between the FX6000 and Ancel’s other popular scanner, the FX4000.
On the surface, the 4000 is slightly lighter despite being the same size as the 6000. It’s also considerably more affordable. That being said, the real differences lie in their functionalities. The 4000 is more limited in its compatibility with a variety of vehicles and it isn’t able to perform the advanced functions seen with the 6000. The most significant difference is that the 4000 is unable to carry out ECU programming.
When you’re using the two, there are actually very few differences between their interfaces. Both have ergonomic gripping around the edges, both have the same sized TFT screen, and both have the same 7 buttons used for navigation.
Essentially, the two key differences are that the Ancel FX4000 is not capable of performing ECU programming coding and, consequently, it has a lower price tag. If you’re a professional mechanic, it’s unlikely that you would want to compromise on the tool’s ECU programming coding capacity and so the 4000 may be more suitable for car owners who enjoy DIY as a precursor to visiting their local autoshop.
4.5 / 5