Practical knowledge
Buyer’s guides and straight answers for South African workshops: choosing the right LAUNCH tool, how software updates and territory work, and adding trucks to your diagnostics.
Buyer’s guides
Choose by the job, not the model number. The CRP123X Plus and CRP129X Plus diagnose every module on a car. The CRP919X adds bi-directional tests and ECU coding. Professional tablets add programming and J2534, the IMMO Elite handles keys, and truck modules add 24V to a compatible X431 tablet.
18 September 2026
Truck diagnostics
The SmartLink C 2.0 and HD3 add heavy-duty 24V diagnostics to a LAUNCH X431 tablet, but neither works on its own. The SmartLink C 2.0 works with X431 V+, PRO3, PRO3S and PRO5 series tablets. The HD3 is the older module and does not work with the X431 PRO5. Check your tablet before you order.
18 September 2026Read
Software & updates
A grey import is genuine equipment sold outside its intended territory. For LAUNCH tools that matters, because software updates are restricted by sales territory: a grey-import unit may never receive updates, so its coverage falls behind as new vehicles arrive. Check the territory before you buy, whoever you buy from.
18 September 2026Read
Talk to a technician
Tell us the vehicles you work on and the jobs you need to do, and we’ll point you to the right tool. Closed — opens tomorrow at 08:00.