OTC releases software update for Encore scan tool

OTC last week released a software update to its Encore diagnostic tool to include 2015 model vehicles, fix bugs and enhance user experience.

Encore is an integrated diagnostics tablet, powered by Android, which can be used to automatically identify a vehicle and then help diagnose possible problems by accessing codes and information on millions of confirmed experience-based fixes. In the tire shop it’s particularly used for tire pressure monitoring systems.

What’s included in the upgrade?

The upgrade means Encore now covers a number of 2015 makes, including vehicles from General Motors, Chrysler and Jeep, Honda and Acura, Hyundai and Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Alfa Romeo and Fiat. There is also expanded coverage of earlier models for Ford and Lincoln, Honda and Acura, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Land Rover.

The upgrade also includes improvements to layout and design of the interface and its operation, advancements in the search by vehicle identification number (VIN) capability, and a fix for some cabling issues associated with Chrysler vehicles.

How does the Encore’s TPMS tool work?

Here’s a video from OTC showing the Encore being used for TPMS registration.

What are the tire-related improvements?

The upgraded Encore has 83 new adjustment-type special tests for Chrysler and Jeep vehicles, including:

Tire pressure monitor/wireless control module (WCM) — reset central computer (ECU), tire pressure sensor registration, update front and rear axle nominal tire pressure values, write VIN
Body control — program tire size
ABS — brake bleeds, brake pedal calibration, initialization, reset ECU, write VIN, longitudinal “G” sensor calibration, longitudinal sensor calibration

It also has hundreds of new actuation type tests including TPM/WCM, BTSI (brake transmission solenoid interlock) control, TPM sensor rolls, read VIN and TPMS warning light.

General Motors coverage improvements include tire pressure sensor registration and tire type and pressure selection.

Honda and Kia coverage improvements include tire pressure sensor registration. Hyundai improvements include tire pressure sensor registration, write VIN capability, and changes to the wheel alignment procedure.

Mazda coverage includes improvements to the TPMS identification mode. Coverage improvements to the Alfa Romeo and Fiat TMPS include tire pressure sensor registration and an update to front and rear axle nominal tire pressure values.

For a full list of what’s new, check out the OTC website.

Tagged: OTC

OTC releases software update for Encore diagnostic tool