Craftsman Auto Assist

Navigating the complexities of vehicle diagnostics can be daunting, especially with the myriad of tools available on the market. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Craftsman Auto Assist (model CMMT77695), a wireless Bluetooth OBD2 dongle designed to simplify vehicle monitoring and diagnostics through a smartphone app. Here's my detailed review of the tool based on my hands-on experience.

Setup and Initial Impressions

Setting up the Auto Assist was a breeze. The package includes a single OBD2 dongle and a concise instruction manual. The device itself is compact, lightweight, and feels well-constructed. I appreciated the straightforward design, which made it easy to plug into the OBD2 port of my vehicle without hassle.

Downloading the corresponding app on my smartphone was also simple. The app is available for both Android and iOS, and I found it on the Google Play Store without any issues. Once installed, the app guided me through the setup process, which involved pairing the dongle with my phone via Bluetooth. The connection was established quickly, and I was ready to start diagnosing my car.

Features and Performance

The Auto Assist offers a range of features aimed at providing comprehensive vehicle diagnostics:

1. Continuous Vehicle Monitoring: The dongle remains plugged into the OBD2 port, allowing for continuous monitoring of the vehicle's health. This feature is particularly useful for keeping track of ongoing issues and maintenance needs.

2. Reads and Clears Check Engine Light Codes: The device can read and clear check engine light codes for vehicles made after 1996. This is a standard feature for OBD2 readers, but the convenience of doing it via a smartphone app adds a modern touch.

3. Diagnostic Reports: The app provides detailed diagnostic reports with code definitions and severity levels. This feature helps users understand the urgency of the issues detected.

4. Freeze Frame and Live Data Monitoring: The freeze frame feature captures data at the moment a fault occurs, while live data monitoring allows real-time tracking of parameters like O2 sensor readings and battery values.

5. Maintenance Reminders: The app can set reminders for various vehicle maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and tire rotations. This is a handy feature for staying on top of routine maintenance.

6. Instructional Videos: The app includes videos explaining common diagnostic codes and potential fixes, which can be a lifesaver for those who are less mechanically inclined.

7. Repair Scheduling and Parts Browsing: Users can schedule repair appointments and browse for tools and parts directly through the app, making it a one-stop solution for vehicle maintenance.

Real-World Usage

I tested the Auto Assist on two vehicles: a 2006 Honda Pilot and a 2012 Jetta. The dongle worked seamlessly with both cars, quickly identifying diagnostic codes and providing detailed reports. The live data monitoring was particularly impressive, offering real-time insights into various engine parameters.

However, I encountered some connectivity issues when trying to use the dongle with my older Samsung Galaxy S7 Tablet. The app specified that it should be used with a phone, and indeed, it worked flawlessly on my Samsung Galaxy S5. This minor hiccup aside, the overall performance was reliable and consistent.

One of the standout features for me was the ability to clear check engine light codes directly from the app. This saved me a trip to the mechanic and gave me peace of mind knowing that I could diagnose and address minor issues on my own. The instructional videos were also a valuable resource, providing clear and concise explanations of the diagnostic codes.

Areas for Improvement

While the Auto Assist offers a robust set of features, there are a few areas where it could improve:

1. App Interface: The app's user interface, while visually appealing, could be more intuitive. Navigating through the various features was sometimes cumbersome, and I would have preferred a more streamlined experience focused on functionality rather than aesthetics.

2. Compatibility Issues: The device did not work with my 2005 Toyota Highlander, which was disappointing. Ensuring broader compatibility with older vehicles would enhance the tool's utility.

3. Battery/Charging Monitoring: Although the tool claims to monitor battery and alternator charging levels, it only measures the battery's rest voltage. A more comprehensive monitoring system would be beneficial.

4. Customer Support: I found the customer support response time to be lacking. When I encountered connectivity issues, it took several days to receive a response, which was not ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Auto Assist is a valuable tool for anyone looking to take control of their vehicle's health and maintenance. Its ease of use, comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, and convenient smartphone integration make it a practical addition to any car owner's toolkit. The ability to read and clear check engine light codes, monitor live data, and set maintenance reminders are standout features that provide significant value.

However, the tool is not without its flaws. The app interface could be more user-friendly, and broader compatibility with older vehicles would enhance its appeal. Additionally, improved customer support would address some of the frustrations users might encounter.

Overall, I would recommend the Craftsman Auto Assist to anyone who wants a modern, tech-savvy approach to vehicle diagnostics. It offers a wealth of features that can save time and money, making it a worthwhile investment for both novice and experienced car owners.