Thinkcar Thinktool Expert 394 Car Diagnostic Tool

The Thinkcar Thinktool Expert 394 is an advanced, modular car Diagnostic Tool of the latest generation, designed for professional workshops working on passenger cars, electric vehicles (EV), and heavy-duty commercial vehicles (HD, optional). The system is built around a powerful 12-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen tablet and runs on the specially developed TCOS operating system, optimized for diagnostics, programming, and workshop management. Thanks to the modular design, functions can be expanded with, among others, an oscilloscope, TPMS module, ADAS calibration kit, or Battery tester.

The Thinktool Expert 394 communicates wirelessly via the included THINKLINK PRO VCI, which supports modern protocols such as CAN-FD, DoIP and J2534 Pass-Thru. This guarantees fast and stable communication even with the newest vehicle platforms. The device comes standard with two years of free software updates for passenger cars and EVs (including Tesla). After this period, the system remains fully usable with the last installed software, but an annual license is required for access to updates, cloud features, and brand servers.

Diagnostic functions:

The Thinktool Expert 394 offers top-level diagnostic capabilities, including support for AI-driven analysis, visual network analysis, and direct control of vehicle components. The device is suitable for passenger cars, EVs, and (optionally) heavy vehicles.

• AI diagnostics: Analyzes fault codes and real-time vehicle data using artificial intelligence. Automatically generates a list of most probable causes, related fault codes, and recommended repair steps based on historical diagnostic data and user experiences.
• Complete system diagnosis: Reads fault codes and checks all electronic systems, including engine, transmission, ABS, airbag (SRS), comfort systems, ADAS, HV Battery modules and climate control.
• Intelligent topology mapping: Visualizes the entire vehicle communication network in an interactive module map. The status of each ECU (active, fault, offline) is visually displayed, helping to quickly identify network issues.
• Active tests (bidirectional control): Sends direct commands to actuators, such as turning on the fuel pump, controlling EGR valves, testing door locks, or opening valves, to verify component functionality in real time.
• Live datastream with split-screen: Displays real-time data from multiple sensors simultaneously, supporting split-screen view. This allows active tests and data monitoring to be performed simultaneously for efficient troubleshooting.

Maintenance and service functions:

The Thinktool Expert 394 supports more than 41 special maintenance and reset functions, allowing essential vehicle systems to be initialized, adjusted, or recalibrated after repair or component replacement. These functions are suitable for passenger cars, electric vehicles (EV), and – in combination with the HD module – also for heavy vehicles (24V).

• Oil service reset (Service): Resets the maintenance interval and service light after oil change.
• Electronic parking brake (EPB): Releases and initializes the electronic handbrake during brake system maintenance.
• Battery management system initialization (BMS): Registers a new Battery and optimizes the charging strategy.
• Steering angle sensor initialization (SAS): Calibrates the steering angle sensor after alignment or steering component replacement.
• Diesel particulate filter regeneration (DPF): Starts forced regeneration of the soot filter and clears related fault codes.
• ABS pump bleeding (ABS): Activates the ABS system to remove air from the brake system.
• Tire pressure monitoring system reset (TPMS): Recognizes and learns new tire pressure sensors after replacement.
• Throttle body initialization (ETC): Restores the default values of the throttle body after cleaning or replacement.
• Injector coding: Programs the correct IMA/IQ codes of new injectors into the engine control unit.
• Transmission adaptation (CVT): Resets learning values of automatic transmissions for smooth shifting.
• Crankshaft sensor learning (TEC): Relearns the position of the crankshaft after sensor or part replacement.
• AdBlue system reset: Resets level measurement and warnings of the SCR system after refilling or maintenance.
• Air suspension calibration: Resets the ride height on vehicles with adaptive air suspension.
• Headlamp adjustment (AFS): Calibrates adaptive or steering headlamps for correct light distribution.
• Windows/roof initialization: Restores automatic functions of electric windows and sunroofs after power loss.
• Start/stop initialization: Adjusts the settings of the start/stop system or switches it on/off.
• Initialize seat occupancy sensor (SRS): Calibrates passenger detection for correct airbag activation.
• Activate/deactivate transport mode: Switches the vehicle in or out of factory or transport mode.
• Initialize system language: Changes the displayed language on the vehicle infotainment system.
• Reset air/fuel ratio (A/F): Restores the adaptive values of the engine control after sensor replacement.

Programming and coding functions:

The Thinktool Expert 394 supports advanced programming and coding functions at OE level, allowing vehicle modules not only to be read out but also fully reconfigured or programmed.

• Online programming (ECU flashing): Supports full reprogramming of ECUs with original factory files. This function is essential when replacing complex control units or performing system updates. Supported brands include BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar, Nissan and Subaru.
• Online coding: Communicates with the manufacturer's servers to adjust the software configuration of modules. Used for learning new parts, activating hidden functions (such as coming-home lighting or start/stop deactivation), and restoring factory settings.
• Guided functions (VAG): For vehicles within the Volkswagen group (VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda) the system offers step-by-step support when performing advanced tasks such as key programming, component protection, adaptations, and basic settings. This significantly reduces the chance of errors.

Cloud and reporting features:

The Thinktool Expert 394 offers extensive cloud and communication features that make sharing, managing, and securing diagnostic data more efficient. This contributes to professional workshop documentation and direct remote support.

• Cloud storage and management: All diagnostic reports, vehicle history, and customer data are automatically stored in the Thinkcar cloud. This ensures a central and secure backup, enables multi-device synchronization, and facilitates retrieving and sharing data with customers or colleagues.
• Professional reports: Generates complete pre-scan and post-scan reports, including fault codes, module information, and system status. The reports are customizable with the workshop's logo, address, and comments and can be exported as PDF, printed, or sent directly by email.
• Remote diagnostics (TeamViewer): Thanks to the integrated TeamViewer functionality, remote technicians or suppliers can take over the device remotely for support with complex diagnostics. This speeds up troubleshooting without physical presence on site.

Additional features and special capabilities:

The Thinktool Expert 394 is designed as a future-proof platform that supports the latest vehicle technologies, electric drivetrains, and complex communication protocols. The system offers features beyond standard diagnostics and is prepared for developments in modern vehicles.

• Support for modern protocols: The THINKLINK PRO VCI is fully compatible with CAN-FD and DoIP, two protocols essential for fast and stable communication with the latest vehicle platforms from among others GM, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo.
• J2534 Pass-Thru: The VCI functions as a J2534 interface, allowing original OEM diagnostic software (such as ODIS, ISTA, Techstream) on a PC to be used for programming, coding, and deep diagnosis at dealer level.
• ADAS calibration: Compatible with the ADAS calibration frames from Thinkcar, allowing camera and radar systems to be precisely adjusted after replacement or realignment. Supports systems such as lane assist, front assist, and adaptive cruise control.
• Electric vehicle (EV) diagnosis: Includes comprehensive EV diagnostic packages, including HV Battery status, Battery cooling, charging systems, and electric drive. Support for, among others, Tesla, BYD, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Ioniq/Kona EV, and more.
• VCI display function: The VCI shows live vehicle voltages, active communication protocols, and connection status directly on the tablet's main screen. This provides extra control and insight during fault diagnosis or voltage monitoring.

Optional expansions and modules:

Thanks to the modular design, the Thinktool Expert 394 can be easily expanded with various professional accessories. This makes the system suitable for specialized applications in diagnosis, maintenance, and vehicle security.

• Printer: For direct printing of diagnostic reports, fault code summaries, and maintenance forms via Bluetooth or USB.
• Videoscope: A digital inspection camera for visual inspection in hard-to-reach parts of the vehicle, such as cylinder heads, EGR channels, or dashboard structures.
• Battery tester: Measures the voltage, capacity, internal resistance, and charging capability of the Battery. Also supports testing of the starting and charging system.
• Oscilloscope: A 4-channel oscilloscope for analyzing electronic signals. Suitable for troubleshooting sensors, actuators, communication buses, and ignition systems.
• Thermal Imaging Camera: Quickly detects temperature differences in components such as fuses, relays, wiring, electric drivetrains, and air conditioning systems.
• ThinkTPMS G2: A TPMS module for reading, activating, programming, and learning tire pressure sensors. Supports OEM and universal sensors.
• HD Module: Provides diagnostic functionality for heavy vehicles (24V), including trucks, buses, and agricultural vehicles. Includes separate HD software license.
• Key Programmer (PROG): An external module for advanced IMMO functions, including key learning, erasing lost keys, reading PIN codes, and programming immobilizers for selected brands.

Supported Car Brands:

• European brands: Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Citroën, Dacia, DR, Ferrari, Fiat, FordEU, GAZ, Iveco, IZH, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lancia, Land Rover, Maserati, Maybach, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Opel, PAZ, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Rolls-Royce, Rover, Saab, Seat, SeAZ, Skoda, Smart, Sprinter, UAZ, Vauxhall, VAZ, Volvo, Volkswagen, Volkswagen CV, ZAZ
• Asian brands: Acura, Daewoo, Daihatsu, GTR, Holden, Honda, Hyundai, IKCO, Infiniti, Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Luxgen, Mahindra, Maruti, Mazda, Mitsubishi, MVM, Nissan, Perodua, Proton, Samsung, SsangYong, Subaru, Suzuki, Tata, Toyota, United Pakistan
• American brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Jeep, Lincoln
• Chinese brands: BAIC, BJEC, Brilliance, BYD, Changan, Changhe, Chery, DFSK, FAW, Foton, Geely, Gonow, GWM, Hafei, Haima, JAC, JAC Refine, Jinlong, JMC, Joylong, Lifan, 394us, MG, Polarsun, Qoros, Senova, Senoua, Soueast, SGM, SGMW, Shineray, Spark, Trumpchi, Weiwang, Xinkai, Zotye, Zhongxing

Package Contents:

• Thinkcar Thinktool 394 Diagnostic Tool
• Thinkcar ThinkLink Pro Interface
• Thinkcar 15 Pins DB15 - 16 Pins OBD2 Extension Cable
• USB-A - USB-C Adapter Cable
• USB-A - RJ45 Network Adapter Cable
• RJ45 Network Cable
• Charging Plug
• Manual
• Storage Case
• Thinkcar Battery Clamps Power Cable
• Thinkcar Cigarette Lighter Power Cable
• Thinkcar BMW F-Series Ethernet Adapter Cable
• Thinkcar 15 Pins DB15 - 16 Pins OBD2 Adapter Cable
• Thinkcar Honda 3 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar Chrysler 6 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar GM/VAZ 12 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar Toyota 17 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar BMW 20 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar Toyota 22 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar Mercedes-Benz 38 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter
• Thinkcar Fiat 3 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter Cable
• Thinkcar Mitsubishi/Hyundai 12+16 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter Cable
• Thinkcar Nissan 14+16 Pins OBD1 - 15 Pins DB15 Adapter Cable

License information:

• Including 2 years of updates: A 24-month update license is included with purchase.

After the first year, the license can be renewed for an annual fee. The Diagnostic Tool remains fully functional for already supported models, even without license renewal. However, new software updates can no longer be installed, and some online features may be limited or no longer supported.