Launch X431 PRO 5 Scan Tool – 2026 J2534 Tool, ECU Online Coding, Topology Mapping, Bi-Directional Diagnostics
The LAUNCH X431 PRO 5 is the 2026 upgraded original LAUNCH professional scan tool – a direct evolution of the PROS V , X431 PRO3, and V 4.0. Built to near-OE standards, it’s designed for repair shops and pro mechanics who need advanced diagnostics, ECU programming, and service functions in one tablet-based solution.
Highlights
- J2534 ECU Pro support plus SmartLink C V2.0 (wireless VCI) with CAN FD and DOIP support
- OE-level bi-directional (active) tests and full-system diagnostics
- Online ECU coding (connects to OEM servers) for many manufacturers
- New topology mapping to visualize vehicle data bus layout
- 50 service/reset functions across 150 makes
- 2 years free software updates (note: many competitors only include 1 year)
J2534 Pro and SmartLink C (wireless VCI)
- SmartLink C is the included wireless VCI that supports ISO9141, J1850, SAE J2610, CAN FD and DOIP protocols.
- Enables faster data transmission and advanced OEM-style J2534 reprogramming for many brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo, etc.).
- Allows the vehicle to transmit diagnostic data wirelessly to the tablet – no constant physical cable connection required.
- For OEM software download or driver issues related to SmartLink C, see the Support section below.
Topology Mapping (new)
- Available when the tablet is updated to firmware/software version V7.03.014 or later.
- Provides a clear visual of a vehicle’s data-bus and module topology, helping you locate issues faster and improving repair efficiency.
- A capability typically found on tools costing substantially more; verify vehicle compatibility by checking the VIN before purchase.
50 Professional Service Functions
Designed for professional shops, the PRO 5 provides 50 “hot” service and reset functions across 150 vehicle makes, similar to LAUNCH’s PAD series tools. Common service functions include:
- ABS bleeding
- TPMS reset
- Oil/service reset
- EPB (electronic parking brake) reset
- Suspension (air suspension) service
- Battery Management System (BMS) reset
- Injector coding and balance/power balance
- Throttle matching and relearns
- And many other maintenance and reset procedures
Active Tests and ECU Coding
- Bi-directional (active) test capability to command components and observe responses in real time – useful for pinpointing problems quickly.
- ECU coding and programming features for replacing/re-matching/relearning or recoding modules.
- Online coding for many OEMs (BMW, VW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, etc.) by connecting to the manufacturers’ servers.
- VAG-guided functions for VW/Audi group vehicles and vehicle personalization / ADAS calibration support to improve performance and safety.
Vehicle Coverage
- Covers diagnostics for 150 American, Asian, and European brands and supports roughly 99% of vehicle models on the road.
- Performs full-system diagnostics for Engine, Transmission, Airbag, ABS, ESP, TPMS, Gateway, Steering, Radio, HVAC, and more.
Updates, Support and Compatibility
- Includes 2 years of free online updates.
- If you have trouble downloading OEM software or installing SmartLink C drivers from the LAUNCH site, contact LAUNCH support:
- Email: launch-aftersales@outlook.com
- Toll-free: 1-888-756-2936 (Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM EST)
- Important: The J2534 reprogramming tool (PC-based J2534 application) is currently compatible only with Windows-based computers.
Notes and Recommendations
- For full topology mapping and the latest features, ensure your device firmware/software is updated to V7.03.014 or later.
- Always verify specific vehicle and module compatibility (for online coding or topology mapping) by checking the vehicle VIN or consulting LAUNCH’s compatibility resources before purchase or attempting reprogramming.
Víctor Martínez –
The scanner is a great tool. You can do a lot of things, upgrading Honda ecus and others modules (no reprogramaing) It’s an excellent scanner and I have solved a lot of problems with this Pro5. I have the j2534 issue, I couldn’t use it as passthrough at the first time but I had to figured out and now it’s working with an old software version over windows 11. I opened a case and they didn’t give me any feedback, poor launch customer support. Now I also got the immo plus and I’m testing it.
Naomy –
This is a handy tool. I like the vehicle coverage and all the tool features.
The technical support and manuals should be significally approved. The tech support responds raoughly once per day on my emails. There are options in configuring the tool and using its full functionality for codding and programming that are not explained at all. More work on the help files on this topic is needed. If not utilizing codding and programming or the support for this is missing, as I found, there is no point to spend money for it – there are many options on the marked 2 or 3 times cheaper that can do the advanced diagnosting at the same level.
Bottom line: Handy tool with many features but luck of help how to use it for codding and programming.
Amor –
Mostly I use the Code Reader for my BMW X5 to reset the Service and Engine Light, as well other codes, it also gives Information about the Car running Condition, Cylinder Pressure , and many things more, it does the Job, easy to read, good Value for the Money.
Angel Karagogov –
A few weeks back, my Toyota Matrix had exhaust malfunction, connection between the Catalytic converter and resonator broke. Had it fixed, the scanner picked it up quickly and even had explanation about the error code. I was able to remove the error code with ease. Only thing that I wish it came with was touch screen because for some reason I keep on tapping the screen but over all great scanner, works really well and very satisfied with the price. I absolutely recommend this product for DIY beginner like my self.
JSH –
This is my first OBD2 reader and it works as described. I was able to quickly retrieve the code and address the issue with little effort. As I am one who reads the manual which was easy to follow the device itself is easy to use and to navigate the various modules which gives a lot if information on the condition of the vehicle. If ask if this is a good product I would say YES. Launch has a large selection of devices and this one was the right one for my needs. I all so like the fact that it pulls it’s power from the cars OBD port and from the computer via a USB connection so no need for batteries.
Angel Karagogov –
I recently got a check engine light on my car. I wanted to get it fixed as fast as possible but after my friends got scammed pretty bad on car repairs, I decided to purchase an OBD II scanner to scan the error code first so I have an idea on what it needs repair on. I wanted to get a wifi OBDII scanning in the beginning, but after watching reviews online, it might not be that reliable so I decided to go with this one that is more professional but a bit more expensive instead. It arrived the same day, and I was eager to try it out. Setting up and get using is very easy, just plug it in to the OBD port on your car and select the error code reader option and it will start scanning immediately. The scan took less than a minute and I searched the error code online then I knew exactly what’s wrong with my car! Obviously, there are alot more options than scanning error codes, you can do some really professional stuff with this, it can read all the sensor information, exhaust testing, live engine data, oxygen sensor, all the fun stuff to play with! But, for my purpose it worked very well! I might be able to use some of the other features in the future. Recommended for everyone to get it, and to know what needs repair and not get scammed on car repairs!
Chole –
Be careful. Rufus reports support for various makes and models, but when I contacted the seller to ask why the Maserati make wasn’t linking I was told, “We are sorry the scanner can only do programming on Benz and BMW, and it is not compatible with the car, this is not a quality issue.
All Launch scanners sold on Amazon belong to the Online Product category.
All our products are imported from the LAUNCH TECH headquarters in China, and all our technical support and warranty services are provided by the Launch R&D department. We are competitors and sell different models, so LAUNCH TECH USA won’t offer support to the users who bought scanners from Amazon.”
I gave 2 stars because it did work well on both my BMW and Mercedes. I knocked of 3 stars because the product was misrepresented, and the seller is misleading, calling themselves the “Launch Store,” which implies you’re buying directly from the manufacturer when you’re not.
Víctor Martínez –
X431 pro5 is incredibly easy to useThe interface is intuitive and user-friendlyso even if you’re not tech-savvy, you can quickly navigate through the different features and functions.Plus,the tool comes with an extensive library of diagnostic information that covers a vast range of vehicles, so you can be confident that you’llbe able to diagnose and fix any issues that come
your way.
Another great feature of the Launch X431 Pro5 is its speed.It can perform quick and accurate diagnostic tests on your vehicle, saving you time and money in the long run.Plusthe tool is wireless, which means you can use it anywhere in your workshop without having to worry about cords getting in the way.
Ubermenscha –
i WOULD GIVE A 1 STAR IF I WAS REVIEWING JUST FOR ASURION, BUT THAT IS NOT FAIR TO THE SELLER AND I love this Launch X431 PRO 5 – it’s an excellent diagnostic tool and worked perfectly for my vehicles. Unfortunately, when it failed and I filed a claim under my Asurion/Verizon Home Device Protect coverage, Asurion required me to mail in the unit and then valued it at only about $63 after roughly one year of use, even though tools like this still sell in the $1,100–$1,500 range. Because of that huge depreciation and the claim fee I had to pay, I ended up without my scanner and with far less than it would cost to replace it. The scanner itself is great, but buyer beware of extended insurance through Asurion – in my experience, they did not come close to covering the real cost of this device.
Devala –
Nice scanner! I love it
Darwin Lemus –
This scanner is incredibly powerful and easy to use. It has tons of features for diagnostics, coding, and resets. Worked perfectly on several car brands. Highly recommend for mechanics or serious DIYers.
J & L Auto & Towing –
Very easy to use and seems to work for most vehicles that we repair
JSH –
This works flawlessly without any problem: start your car, plug it in, press diagnose, and in a few minutes time, will provide you with the codes (or no codes if your car works fine). This is something everyone should have once their car starts to age over 5+ years, it’d save you some hassle to just always needing to bring the car into the shop when a CHECK ENGINE light comes on. You’ll be able to figure out the code immediately and determine whether it’s actually a big problem.
A lot of the cheaper code readers needs you to connect to bluetooth and sometimes it doesn’t work the best because you need an app as well. This one has everything on screen and it’s powered by the car itself. It comes with a USB cable for updating firmware, a quick start guide, and the reader itself.