TOPDON ArtiDiag900 Lite (AD900 Lite) Scan Tool: features and who it suits

The TOPDON ArtiDiag900 Lite (model AD900 Lite) is a tablet-style automotive diagnostic tool that talks to a car's computer modules over Bluetooth. It reads fault codes, shows live data and can send test commands to parts of the vehicle. It is aimed at home mechanics and small workshops that want more than a basic code reader.

What "bidirectional" means

A basic OBD2 reader only listens: it reads codes and data. A bidirectional tool can also send commands to the vehicle's control modules, which is called an active test. TOPDON says this lets you check components such as injectors, coolant pumps, windows, wipers, headlights and mirrors by switching them on and off from the tool, which can help separate a faulty part from a wiring or software problem. Which tests are available depends on the make, model and year, so confirm coverage for your vehicle.

Full-system diagnostics

Reading only engine codes misses most of a modern car. TOPDON states that the AD900 Lite can scan all available modules, including engine, transmission, airbag, ABS, ESP, TPMS, gateway, steering, radio and air conditioning. From each it can read ECU information, read and clear codes, show live data streams and retrieve freeze-frame data, which is a snapshot of conditions when a fault was logged.

The reset services

Maintenance often ends with a reset that only a scan tool can perform. The listing names eight popular services:

• Oil reset
• Throttle adaptation
• Electronic parking brake (EPB) reset
• Steering angle reset
• DPF regeneration
• ABS bleeding
• Battery management system (BMS) reset
• Airbag reset

TOPDON says the list is still growing. Support for each service varies by vehicle, and procedures such as airbag work should always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Hardware and wireless range

The tool runs Android 11 on an 8-inch touchscreen and has a 10,000 mAh battery that TOPDON rates for about 12 hours of continuous operation. The vehicle communication interface (VCI), the small unit that plugs into the car's diagnostic port, connects by Bluetooth 5.0 with a stated range of up to 33 feet (10 metres). VCI cables are also included for a wired connection. The tool measures about 11.5 x 5.4 x 8.6 inches (29 x 14 x 22 cm), including its packaging dimensions as listed, and weighs 4.8 lb (2.2 kg).

Repair guide and coverage

A DTC repair guide gives fault code definitions and guidance. TOPDON says this currently works with Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Fiat vehicles from 2010 to 2014, with more to follow through updates. The tool is described as working on vehicles from 1996 to 2023, with more than 10,000 vehicles covered and 12 languages. The brand lists a one-year warranty and two years of free software updates.

Who it suits

It suits people who do their own maintenance and want to go beyond reading codes, and small shops that need quick access to module data and resets. Anyone who only wants to know why a check-engine light is on may find a simpler reader enough.

What to check before you buy

• Vehicle coverage: confirm that your make, model and year are supported for the tests and resets you need.
• Update terms: check how long updates are included and what happens afterwards.
• Optional extras: the listing describes battery testing as optional, so check what is in the box.
• Connection: check that your vehicle's diagnostic port is accessible and that Bluetooth range suits your workspace.
• Skills: active tests and resets can change how systems behave. Follow the service manual and the tool's on-screen instructions.

The short version

• A tablet-style scan tool with an 8-inch screen and a Bluetooth 5.0 interface.
• Bidirectional control for active tests on supported vehicles.
• Full-system scanning of modules, live data and freeze-frame.
• Eight reset services, including oil, EPB, steering angle and DPF.
• Stated coverage for 1996 to 2023 vehicles, with a one-year warranty and two years of software updates.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.