The OTC 3893 Encore Deluxe Kit is a powerful and efficient diagnostic tool at an affordable price for serious and professional technicians. As a matter of fact, Encore is OTC’s first integrated scan tool for Android, taking advantage of the operating system’s speed, ease of use, and functionality. The OTC Encore diagnostic tool took the strengths of its diagnostic programs and merged them with the Android system to offer not only a scanner but as a well a tablet that comprehends the technician’s mobile life. So in this OTC Encore review article, we will go deeper to get all its technical details.
This sturdy and compact scanner features a large and bright 7-inch LCD screen that displays all the info that you detect on your car computer. It offers full scan functionality with OEM coverage for domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. This device is far more advanced than the OTC 3111 pro scanner. Some of the notable functions that the OTC Encore 3893 performs relearns and resets, such as fuel trim, battery replacement, steering angle sensor, and much more.
Technical Specifications of the OTC Encore Scan Tool
| Features | OTC Encore Professional OBD2 |
| Operating System(OS): | Android |
| Memory Storage: | 32GB SSD |
| AutoDetect Repair Info Search: | Yes |
| Micro Training Videos: | Yes |
| Bluetooth Wireless TPMS Sensor Registration: | Yes |
| All System DTC Scan: | Yes |
| Maintenance Test: | Yes |
| Automated System Test: | Yes |
| Remote Technical Support Diagnostics: | Yes |
| Bidirectional Controls (Actuator Tests): | Yes |
| Code-Assist All System DTC Tech Tips: | Yes |
| Dom/Asian/Euro Subscription Length: | 12 months active diagnostics subscription |
| Batteries: | Lithium-ion Cylindrical |
| Software Updates: | Automatic Wi-Fi Updates Deliver in Background |
| Standard Warranty: | 1 Year / Lifetime |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
Summary of Contents
OTC Encore Review With Great Features and Functions
The OTC Encore 3893 diagnostic scan tool is a great scanner for professional technicians or mechanics who deal with a wide range of car makes and models. Thanks to its Android operating system, which kicks on in 15 seconds and boasts 30 years of superior OEM domestic coverage. With AutoID Can vehicles feature and a 1-year warranty, this is an amazing Bluetooth code reader to have in your garage.
Intuitive user interface
This is one of the most fun scan tools that you will come across. It has a 7-inch sunlight-readable capacitive touchscreen that clearly displays all the code definitions recorded. It is also sturdily made to withstand tough conditions. With the durable carrying case, you will be able to keep this scan tool when not in use safely.
Related article: Autel Maxisys Elite VS Pro: Which one is a better option to buy?
OTC Encore Has Wider Vehicle Coverage
With 30 years of OEM coverage for Domestic, Asian, and European vehicles, this is a very nice code reader for technicians or professional mechanics who deal with different car makes and models. This includes KIA, Nissan, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, GM, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Mercedes, Honda, BMW, and much more.
Android operating system
Like the Autel AP200 scan tool, it features an Android operating system that makes it fast and very effective. The Android has the ability to kick on in 15 seconds and boasts 30 years of coverage.
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Wireless Connection
Using this gadget is fun and easy as you can roam within the car repair shop as you perform different diagnoses. The diagnostic car scanner comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and it is embedded with Google search that, offers the user the ability to search for a vehicle and DTC with just a single touch.
Another exceptional feature of this device is the Deep-Link to Identifix Direct-hit that provides a one-touch login, vehicle, and DTC selection with a search started automatically.
Onboard battery for backup
In case the car runs out of power, this device will still function as it comes with an onboard battery for backup. So, you are assured of continuous use no matter the state of the car battery.
Related article: Need a more advanced OBD2 tool? Check the review of the Autel Maxisys Elite scanner
1-year subscription and limited warranty
You will get a free subscription for one year when you purchase this gadget. These are updated via the internet by turning the Wi-Fi function on.
OTC offers a lifetime limited warranty on this product, which shows that the brand stands 100% behind its product.
Troubleshoot of the OTC Encore Scan Tool
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The device won’t power on | Dead battery or faulty power cord | Charge or replace the battery; check the power cord |
| Unable to connect to the vehicle | Loose connection or compatibility | Ensure firm connection; check vehicle compatibility |
| Slow performance | Software out of date | Update software to the latest version |
| Screen freezes or glitches | Software or hardware issue | Restart the device; if persists, contact support |
| Error codes appearing | Various vehicle issues | Refer to the manual for specific code diagnostics |
| Cannot update software | Network issue or device error | Check the internet connection; reset the device |
| Unresponsive touch screen | Calibration issue | Recalibrate the screen or perform a hard reset |
Conclusion
Finding a quality, sturdy, and reliable professional diagnostic scan tool is not easy. But with the OTC Encore 3893 scanner, you can be certain that this is a code reader that will last for a very long while and enhanced data perform what it says it does. It has advanced features and covers a wide range of vehicles. The gadget comes with a charger, OBD II USB cable, Encore carrying case, Encore optional battery, and a 1-year warranty.
Positive Reviews:
- It is easy to perform as it automatically detects the trouble codes or repair information.
- This scanning device has an Android operating system for quick operation
- It has an intuitive user interface
- OTC has a wireless connection
- It has embedded Identifix assets present during every repair
- This great tool comes with Encore 1-year subscription
- Extensive vehicle coverage
- It has 70+ embedded training videos to train users to perform test procedures.
- A quick scan with the auto-detect technology
- Easy to store with its sturdy carrying case
- Lifetime hardware warranty
Negative Reviews:
- It is a long process to research trouble codes and print as you have to create a Google cloud account before using it.
- The diagnostic scanner is expensive, which makes it a costly investment for startup mechanics and DIYers. Startup mechanics should use the mid-ranged Autel MaxiCom MK908P or Autel Maxidas DS808K scan tool.
Despite its slightly high price, this is a wonderful diagnostic scanner to have in your car repair shop or busy garage if you want to diagnose complex car issues.
Try the Best Alternative- Autel Maxisys Elite
Works: ALL 1996 and later vehicles
OS: Minimum Android 4.4.4
Display: Retina display (2048×1536 dpi)
Power and Battery: 3.7V/13600mAH Lithium-polymer battery
Processor: NVIDIA Tegra® 4 (4-PLUS-1 Quad-core Processor) with ARM Cortex – A15 CPU
Speed: 1.8GHz
RAM: 2GB
Storage: 32GB
Rear Camera: 8.0 Megapixel
Front Camera: 2.0 Megapixel
SD Card: Support up to 32GB
Sensors: Ambient Light Sensor, G-sensor
Power Consumption: Max 20W
Vehicle Support: More than 80 US domestic, Asian, and European
Protocols: Both OBD1 & OBD2
Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
Weight: 24.9 pounds
Warranty: One-year warranty
FAQ
Question: Do you need to be connected to the internet in order to use the Encore 3893 diagnostic scanner?
Answer: No, you don’t. You can still erase or read OBD2 error codes without being directly connected to the internet. The Wireless Wi-Fi connection is very crucial when you want to update the gadget. It comes with Encore’s free 1-year subscription, and after that, you will have to pay for the updates.
Question: Snap On Plus vs. OTC Encore: What are the differences?
Answer: Though OTC 3893 Encore offers more advanced features, it is quite expensive and doesn’t provide advanced bi-directional services. Only Snap-On has complete onboard testing services and a useful troubleshooting guide. Also, you need to spend more money on OTC for yearly software updates. In terms of price, Snap-On would be better and last longer.
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Kevin Nicholas is an automotive technician who is a genius at software and hardware-related issues. He manually tested more than a hundred OBD scanners and gave his honest opinion on whether the device was worth the money or not. His in-depth OBD review articles help people choose the right product, whether it is a European, American, or Asian vehicle. He completed his Automotive Specialized Training Course at Universal Technical Institute and has more than 15 years of experience in the field.
