Page 1
Version: V1.00.000 Revised date: 12-26-2020 Statement: All information, specifications and illustrations in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of release. LAUNCH reserves the rights to make changes at any time without notice.
Page 2
LAUNCH is not responsible for any use of this information as applied to other units. Neither LAUNCH nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this unit or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or...
Page 3
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Important Safety Precautions Important: To avoid personal injury, property damage, or accidental damage to the product, read all of the information in this section before using the product. Never collide, throw, or puncture the tool, and avoid falling, extruding and bending it.
Page 4
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Precautions on Using this tool Before using this test equipment, please read the following safety information carefully. Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment. If the VCI remains unused for a long period of time, it is suggested to unplug the connector from vehicle’s DLC to conserve battery power.
Page 5
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Do not place any magnetic objects near the ECU. Disconnect the power supply to the ECU before performing any welding operations on the vehicle. Use extreme caution when performing any operations near the ECU or sensors.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ..................... 1 1.1 P ..................1 RODUCT ROFILE 1.2 P ACKAGE NLY FOR ASSENGER EHICLE ONFIGURATION ERSION 1.2 P & D ) .. 3 ACKAGE NLY FOR ASOLINE IESEL...
Inspection and Maintenance testing. Tech 2 Tech: This option aims to help repair shops or technicians launch instant messaging and remote diagnosis, making the repair job getting fixed faster.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 1.2 Package List (Only for Passenger Vehicle Configuration Version) Common accessories are same, but for different destinations, the accessories (such as diagnostic software, testing connectors) may vary. Please consult from the local agency or check the package list supplied with the tool together.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual cable kit sockets, it may be necessary to use one of the adapter cables included within the kit. For detailed adapter cables, please check the package box. 1.2 Package List (Only for Gasoline & Diesel Configuration...
Page 12
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Quick Start Guide For different vehicle diagnostic Non-16pin adaptor sockets, it may be necessary to use cable kit (For one of the adapter cables included (Optional) passenger within the kit. For detailed adapter vehicles) cables, please check the package box.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 2 Components & Controls There are two main components to the diagnostic system: Display tablet – the central processor and monitor for the system (See Chapter 2.1). VCI – the device for accessing vehicle data (See Chapter 2.2).
Page 14
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual forced shutdown and restart. Volume +/- Adjusts the system volume. Speakers Front Camera • To connect to AC outlet for charging. USB/Charging Port • To connect to PC for data exchange. Microphone Rear Camera...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 2.2 VCI (Only for Passenger Vehicle Configuration Version) The VCI works as a vehicle communication interface device, which is used to connect to the vehicle’s DLC (Data Link Connector) socket directly or via OBD II extension cable to read the vehicle data and then send it to the tablet via Bluetooth.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual It flashes when the connector is communicating ECU communication indicator with the vehicle. This port is temporarily disabled and reserved for USB port subsequent function extension. 2.2 VCI (Only for Gasoline & Diesel Configuration Version) Compatible with Passenger &...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Diagnostic socket Connects the diagnostic cable. DC-IN power jack Connects the power adaptor. It is defined as follows: Vehicle: While communicating with the vehicle, the indicator lights up and flashes. Otherwise, it will not illuminate.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Working temperature 0℃ ~ 50℃ ℃ Storage temperature 70℃ 1.3.2 VCI (Only for Passenger Vehicle Configuration Version) Working voltage DC 9 ~18V Average working current About 128mA Standby current About 50mA Working temperature 0 to 55℃...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 3 Preparations 3.1 Charging 1. Plug one end of the included charging port of the tool, and the other end to the power adaptor. 2. Connect the other end to the AC outlet. appears on the screen, it indicates it is being charged. If the logo changes into , it indicates that the battery is fully charged.
Press [POWER] for about 10 seconds to perform a forced shutdown and restart. 3.4 Tips on finger operations Single-tap: To select a item or launch a program. Double-tap: To zoom in so that the text on a webpage appears in a column that fits your device’s screen.
The tablet has built-in Wi-Fi that can be used to get online. Once you’re online, you can register your tool, surf the Internet, get apps, send email, launch the remote diagnosis, and check for software updates etc. 3.9.1 Connect to a Wi-Fi Network 1.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 4. When Connected appears, it indicates the Wi-Fi connection is complete. Note: When Wi-Fi is not required, this should be disabled to conserve battery power. Once it is connected successfully, tap the desired Wi-Fi network from the list to view its name, link speed, security type, IP address etc.
Note: If AutoDetect function is performed, this step shall not apply. 4.2 Register & Update 4.2.1 User registration On the home screen, tap the application icon to launch it, a dialog box similar to the following will pop up on the screen:...
Page 24
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual A. If you are a new user and want to register your tool directly, tap New Customer to start your sign-up. a) Create App Account: Fill in the information in each field (Items with * must be filled).
Page 25
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Product SN Product SN Activation code Note: To exit and activate it later, tap Skip. In this case, please activate the VCI by tapping Profile -> VCI Management -> Activate VCI. For details, please refer to Chapter 9.2.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual (If you have registered to be a member, go to a) to login the system directly.) (In case you forgot password, refer to b) to reset a new password.) a) If you have registered to be a member, input your name and password, and then tap the Login button to enter the main menu screen directly.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual I/M Readiness indicates whether or not the various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating I/M Readiness properly and are ready for Inspection and Maintenance testing. Software Upgrade Updates vehicle diagnostic software and APK.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Generally once a vehicle diagnosis is performed, the tablet will record the every details of diagnostic session. The History function provides direct access to the previously tested vehicles and users can resume from the last operation, without starting from scratch.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 4.3 Connections 4.3.1 Preparation Normal testing conditions The ignition is turned on. The vehicle battery voltage is 9~18V. The throttle is in a closed position. 4.3.2 DLC location The DLC (Data Link Connector) is typically a standard 16 pin connector where diagnostic code readers interface with the vehicle’s on-board computer.
Page 30
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual A vehicle not equipped with an OBD II management system supplies communication through a DLC connection, and in some cases supplies 12V power through the cigarette lighter receptacle or a connection to the vehicle battery.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 4.3.3 Vehicle connection (Only For Gasoline & Diesel Configuration Version) The method used to connect the VCI module to a vehicle’s DLC depends on the vehicle’s configuration as follows: A. OBD II Vehicle Connection: Plug one end of the diagnostic cable into the vehicle’s DLC, and the other end into the diagnostic socket of the VCI module,...
Page 32
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual tablet automatically. Users have no need to make any setting any more. Once the communication failure occurs, the diagnostic app will pop up some prompt information. In this case, just follow the on-screen prompts to...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 5 Diagnosis Three methods are available for vehicle diagnosis: Smart Diagnosis (AutoDetect), Manual Diagnosis and Tech to Tech Remote Diagnosis. Tap Diagnose on the Job Menu to enter the Diagnose main menu. 5.1 Smart Diagnosis (AutoDetect)
Page 34
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Note: If the VCI is not paired up with the tablet before doing this step, a prompt message box will appear on the screen. Check all the possible reasons of Bluetooth connection failure carefully, and then tap OK to the following screen.
Page 35
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual If the VCI was once used with other devices, please go to Profile -> VCI Management -> Deactivate matching to cancel the pairing of the VCI. Tap Scan to start searching for the VCI and pairing up with it.
Page 36
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual • Tap Diagnostic to start a new diagnostic session. • Tap Maintenance record to view its historical repair record. If there are records available, it will be listed on the screen in sequence of date. If no...
Page 37
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual • Tap View record to view the details of the current diagnostic report. • To perform other functions, tap Quick access to directly go to the function selection screen. Choose the desired one to start a new diagnostic session.
Page 38
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual In this mode, you need to input the VIN manually or tap to scan it. to launch the VIN recognition module. Place the VIN inside the viewfinder rectangle to scan it. The most recognizable location for this number is in the top left corner on the vehicle’s dashboard.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual • In case the tablet failed to detect it, tap to enter it manually. • To turn the flash on, tap After scanning, the screen automatically displays the result. • If the VIN scanned is incorrect, tap the result field to modify it and then tap OK.
Page 40
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual On-screen Buttons: Vehicle Coverage: Tap to view the vehicle models that the current diagnostic software covers. What’s new: Tap to view the optimized items and enhancements. Introduction: Tap to check the software function list.
Page 41
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 3). Read vehicle information: After reading the vehicle information, double check if the vehicle information is correct or not. If yes, tap Yes to continue. 4). Select test item: Select the desired test item to proceed.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 5). Turn the ignition key to ON: Set the ignition switch to on and tap OK. 5.2.1 Health Report (Quick Test) This function varies from vehicle to vehicle. It enables you to quickly access all the electronic control units of the vehicle and generate a detailed report about vehicle health.
Page 43
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual The tested system with fault code appears in red and the system with OK displays in black (normally). Note: Diagnostic Trouble Codes or Fault Codes can be used to identify which engine systems or components that are malfunctioning. Never replace a part based only on the DTC definition.
Page 44
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Note: Diagnostic report is classified into three categories: Pre-Repair report, Post-Repair report and Diagnostic Scan. No matter which type you saved the report as, the report type will be appended as a tag on the upper right corner of the diagnostic report for easier identification.
Page 45
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Note: For workshop information, tap the input box to enter it. Alternatively you can also set it in Profile -> Settings -> Shop Information. Once you configured the information, it will be automatically generated every time you saved the diagnostic report.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual comparison of the pre- and post- repair reports, you can easily identify which DTCs are cleared and which remain unfixed. • Post indicates DTC status of post-repair. • Pre indicates DTC status of pre-repair.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Tap the desired system to go to the diagnostic function selection screen. For detailed operations on diagnostic function, please refer to Chapter 5.2.3. 5.2.3 System Selection This option allows you to manually select the test system and function step by step.
Page 48
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Note: Different vehicle has different diagnostic menus. A. Version Information This function is used to read the version information of system mode, vehicle VIN, software and ECU. B. Read Fault Code This function displays the detailed information of DTC records retrieved from the vehicle’s control system.
Page 49
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual On-screen Buttons: Freeze Frame: When an emission-related fault occurs, certain vehicle conditions are recorded by the on-board computer. This information is referred to as freeze frame data. Freeze frame data includes a snapshot of critical parameter values at the time the DTC is set.
Page 50
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Tap YES, the system will automatically delete the currently existing trouble code. Note: After clearing, you should retrieve trouble codes once more or turn ignition on and retrieve codes again. If there are still some trouble codes in the system, please troubleshoot the code using a factory diagnosis guide, then clear the code and recheck.
Page 51
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual On-screen Buttons: Select Page: Tap to select all items of the current page. Select All: Tap to select all items. To select certain data stream item, just check the box before the item name.
Page 52
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual displays in blue (normal mode). 2. The indicator 1/X shown on the bottom of the screen stands for the current page/total page number. Swipe the screen from the right/left to advance/return to the next/previous page.
Page 53
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual • Combine: This option is mostly used in graph merge status for data comparison. In this case, different items are marked in different colors (maximum 4 items can be displayed on the same screen simultaneously).
Page 54
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Compare Sample: Tap to select the sample DS file. All the values you customized and saved in process of DS sampling will be imported into the Standard Range (See below) column for your comparison.
Page 55
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Report: Tap to save the current data in text format. All reports are saved in Profile -> My Report -> Health Reports. For details on report operations, please refer to Chapter 9.1. Record: Tap to start recording diagnostic data. Recorded live data can serve as valuable information to help you in troubleshooting of vehicle problems.
Page 56
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual data stream items and save it as DS sample file. Each time you run the data stream items, you can call out the corresponding sample data to overwrite the current standard range. Tap it to start recording the sample data (Note: Only data stream items with...
Page 57
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual E. Actuation Test This option is used to access vehicle-specific subsystem and component tests. Available test vary by vehicle manufacturer, year, and model. During the actuation test, the display tablet outputs commands to the ECU in...
5.3 Tech 2 Tech This option aims to help repair shops or technicians launch instant messaging and remote diagnosis, making the repair job getting fixed faster. Tap Tech 2 Tech on the Job menu, a disclaimer page will pop up on the screen:...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 5.3.1 Interface Layout Home button Tap it to navigate to the Job menu screen. Directly input the registered username of the tool to Search bar start searching, and then tap the desired one to add it into your friend list.
In the search bar, input the partner’s username and tap Search button next to the search bar to starts searching from Launch’s golo business database. The partner must be the users who have registered their Launch’s diagnostic tools. They may be the following: ...
5.3.3 Start Instant Messaging Note: The I/M (Instant Messaging) function is open to all users who had Launch’s diagnostic tool equipped with this module. After adding your friends, tap the desired one’s photo to enter a screen similar to...
Page 62
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Tap the input field and use the on-screen keyboard to enter the text message, and then tap Send to send it. to send the voice message. to send the emoj. to call out more function options.
5.3.4 Launch Remote Diagnosis (Device-To-Device) The display tablet is allowed to launch remote diagnosis with other diagnostic tools (including but not limited to the X-431 Torque series) of Launch family, which are equipped with this module. Note: Before performing this operation, please make sure the following no matter which side sends the remote request: ...
Page 64
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Tap “Request control remote device” Wait for partner’s confirmation Start connecting after request confirmed Start Diagnosis Generate diagnostic report If you need support, just use this option to invite a technician to perform a remote control on your tool.
Page 65
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Cancel To cancel this operation.
X-431 Torque III User Manual 5.3.5 Launch Remote Diagnosis (Device-To-PC) Except that the remote diagnosis can be done between different Launch’s diagnostic tools that come loaded with the module, user also can ask for remote control from PC client technician.
Page 67
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 1. Slide the switch Allow device to be connected to the WEB client remote diagnostic device to ON so that the partner can find and connect to this device while using the PC. 2. Notify the partner of the PC client website http://remote.x431.com/cn/. When...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 4. Tell the partner to check the box Series number and enter the Serial Number provided by you, and then tap Start remote diagnosis to control your device remotely. In process of remote diagnosis, please note the following things: 1) You are not suggested to execute any actions.
Page 69
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual • Tap certain vehicle model to view the details of the last diagnostic report. • To delete certain diagnostic history, select it and then tap Delete. To delete all historical records, tap Select All and then tap Delete.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 6 Diagnostic Feedback This item allows you to feedback your diagnostic problems to us for analysis and troubleshooting. Tap “Feedback”, a pop-up message will appear: Tap “Confirm”, the following 3 options will be displayed on the left column of the screen.
Page 71
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 7 I/M Readiness An important part of a vehicle’s OBD II system is the Readiness Monitors, which are indicators used to find out if all of the emissions components have been evaluated by the OBD II system. They are running periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure that they are performing within allowable limits.
Page 72
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual I/M refers to Inspection and Maintenance that is legislated by the Government to meet federal clean-air standards. I/M Readiness indicates whether or not the various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly and are ready for Inspection and Maintenance testing.
Page 73
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Note: means not available on this vehicle, means incomplete or not ready, means Completed or Monitor Ok.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 7 Software Update This module allows you to update the diagnostic software & App and set frequently used software. If you did not download the software in process of product registration or a pop-up message prompting you that some new software can be updated, you may use this option to download it or keep it synchronized with the latest version.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 7.2 Set Frequently Used software To easily locate and quickly update some frequently used software, you can use the Common Software option to create a frequently used software list. Tap Common software, the screen displays as follows: , a pop-up window appears.
Page 76
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual renew your subscription and a Renewal button will appear on the bottom of the update page. There are 2 ways available for you to make payment: PayPal and Subscription Renewal Card (*need to buy it from the local dealer where you purchased this tool).
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8 Profile This function allows users to manage personal information and VCI etc. 8.1 My Report 8.1.1 Health Reports This module stores all diagnostic reports generated in process of vehicle diagnosis. All diagnostic reports are sorted by Date and Make. Tap the desired type to re-arrange and filter it.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8.1.3 ROXIE Reports This option stores all vehicle inspection reports generated by the ROXIE W device that has been bound to the tool. 8.1.4 Recorded Data If user records the running parameters or waveform graphs while reading data stream, it will be saved as diagnostic records and appear under this tab.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8.2 VCI Management If several VCI devices are activated on this tool, a list of VCI devices will be displayed on the screen. If your tool extends to support heavy-duty trucks, you need to switch to the corresponding VCI module before diagnosing it.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual Input the Serial Number and Activation Code (can be found from the included Password Envelope), and then tap Activate to activate it. Note: please be sure to keep the VCI powered on while performing the operation.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8.4 My News This option allows you to receive some commercial and promotional activity messages. 8.5 Data Stream Sample This feature allows you to manage the recorded data stream sample files. 8.6 Vehicle Voltage It provides you with the ability to perform a check of the vehicle’s battery to...
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8.10 Change Password This item allows you to modify your login password. 8.11 Settings 8.11.1 General 1). Units It is designed to set the measurement unit. Metric System and English System are available. 2). Diagnostic Software Auto Update This option is designed to turn on/off the automatic diagnostic software update function.
The App is compatible with the LAUNCH Wi-Fi Printer (sold separately) and System (external printer). For LAUNCH Wi-Fi mini printer, follow the steps below to connect the printer. 1. Tap Printer Set. A. If it is the first time you have operated this printer, please proceed the...
Page 84
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual following: 1. For initial use, you are suggested to reset the printer: Press and hold [MODE] & [FEED] for 8 seconds, the following resetting command will be printed out: at + default = 1 at + reboot = 1 rebooting...
Page 85
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual tablet (Go to Google Play or use the Browser to download and install it). Follow the steps below to proceed: 1. Set the default printer as System. 2. Go to Settings -> Network & Internet -> WLAN, set the WLAN switch to Off.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 6. Select the desired Wi-Fi printer from the list. If the chosen Wi-Fi printer hotspot is open, the tablet can connect it directly. If it is encrypted, a password may be required. Refer to the Wi-Fi printer user manual to get the default password.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 8.12 Diagnostic Software Clear This item allows you to hide/clear the diagnostic software that is not frequently used. Tap Diagnostic Software Clear to enter. Under the Hide Software tab, select the desired diagnostic software and tap Hide, it will become invisible.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 9 Synchronization You can transfer media files, screenshots and APK between the PC and tablet. 1. Connect one end of the included charging/data cable to the charging/data I/O port of the tablet, and the other end to the USB port of the PC.
LAUNCH X-431 Torque III User Manual 10 FAQ 1. How to save power? Please turn off the screen while the tool keeps idle. Set a shorter standby time. Decrease the brightness of the screen. If WLAN connection is not required, please turn it off.
Page 90
Note: Before registration, please make sure the network is properly connected. After the tablet has been successfully reset, follow the steps below to download the App: 1. Launch the browser and the default official Launch website opens (If a blank page pops up, just type in www.x431.com in the input bar).
Page 91
The exclusive remedy for any automotive meter found to be defective is repair or replacement, and LAUNCH shall not be liable for any consequential or incidental damages.
Page 92
If the unit is determined to be out of warranty, it will be repaired for a nominal service charge plus return freight. Send the unit pre-paid to: Attn: LAUNCH Tech USA 1820 South Milliken Ave. Ontario, CA 91761...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the X-431 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers