Gone are the days when people run after automotive Engineers to troubleshoot their vehicleâs mechanical fault. But now, with a vast improvement in technology, you can on your own, detect problems arising from your or an object of mobility such as cars and trucks through the help of the best OBD2 scanner.
Best OBD2 Scanners Comparison
Since there are several OBD2 scanners with different uniqueness, price range, and features, finding the best can be a daunting prospect. Therefore, this article will expose you to the best OBD2 scanners to make the right choice.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best OBD2 Scanners Reviews
You must understand that there are some certain things to look out for before making a choice. And it is better to be in the know than gamble and waste funds.
Donât be in a rush to select what is trendy but rather go for that which can serve you and satisfy your need. Here is the list of the best OBD2 scanners with their specifications, benefits, and drawbacks.
1. BAFX PRODUCTS
If you are in need of an OBD2 scanner that is compatible with all vehicles located in the USA which is sold after 1996, BAFXf Products is your bet.This is one of the best low-cost, high-quality scanners that works perfectly with a good connecting service.
This Bluetooth connecting device has an extensive coding capacity that covers over 3,000 manufacture specific and generic codes. Another thing is that the code reader is reliable.The device is durable and suitable for android phones or window laptops with a third party app such as Torque or Pc program except for iOS device.
The tool works smoother when reading and clearing codes and also transmit real-time rpm data compared to some other code readers. This tool also has an instruction manual and a guide to troubleshoot.
This video will go over how to setup the BAFX Products OBD reader with either Torque Pro or Torque Lite.
BAFX Products scanner adapter is rated as the highest best selling code reader and scan tool on Amazon. The product is covered with 2 years warranty when there is flaw and it utilizes a fast and free shipping method.This tool guarantees its compatibility with vehicles within the united state while other countries are required to purchase based on enquiry from the support service. Safe yourself some little stress and buy your tool now.
Pros:
- Ability to read and reset check engine light
- Covers a wide range of vehicles
- It is easy to use and durable
- The product is cost-effective
- Affordable, yet a mega value for money
Cons:
- Not compatible with iOS device
- No substantial battery safe mode
- [DATA] Read & Clear your Check Engine Light (CEL); Check emissions testing readiness; Read real time vehicle sensor information;
- [ANDROID] Our Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for use with Android devices ONLY! For iOS devices, please purchase our WiFi OBD reader.
- [3RD PARTY APPS] A 3rd party app is required to use our OBD reader. Obtainable from the Google Play store. Free & Paid apps available. Recommended free: Piston; Recommended paid: Torque Pro (Not Torque Lite), OBD Fusion, Car Scanner & OBD Auto Doctor
- [COMPATIBLE] Works with ALL consumer vehilces located in USA model year 1996 & newer; Works on ALL OBD2 Protocols including J1850 & ISO9141 which are problematic for other OBD scanners
- [ELM327 COMPLIANT] Fully ELM327 compliant. works with any app stating an ELM327 code reader is needed
- [2 YEAR WARRANTY] Every OBD reader we sell is backed with a 2 year warranty with freidnly USA based support staff
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. AUTEL MAXISCAN MS300 CAN DIAGNOSTIC SCAN
This is a self-diagnostic OBD2 scanner that can retrieve manufacture concrete and genetic diagnostic trouble code. It is a standard 16 pin OBD2 connector that does not require an additional cable.
Autel maxiscan MS300 has an inbuilt backlit LCD screen with a multilingual menu. A list of 7,000 diagnostic trouble codes are installed on the device, and they are displayed on the LCD screen.
It is compatible with post-1996 US, Asian and European cars. It is designed with two buttons which makes it easy to operate.
You need no battery to power it because when connected, it is fuelled by the vehicle electrical system. It is affordable yet very effective.It is compatible with several protocols including controller area network.
The feature that makes it more acceptable to the consumer is the ability to reset codes during car emission inspection. It also retrieves 2002 and vehicles that support mode 9 Vehicle identification number (VID).
Autel maxiscan MS300 is the handiest made-easy scanner to move around with. The most amazing part of it all is the free shipping of the product with a good support service.This tool is a well packaged arrived quickly, super cheap, easy to use product. The tool has proved to have helped a lot of people with diagnostics of their vehicle. Enough of trial by error and purchase your tools now.
Pros:
- A handy and easy to use device
- The product is lightweight
- Covers a huge range of vehicle
- Hallmark of a capable scan tool
- A compliant scan tool
- It is affordable
Cons:
- No built-in power supply
- No software update
- ăFor Car DIYers And BeginnersăThis plug-and-play Autel scanner MS300 can pay for itself in the first use. It communicates with vehicles through standard 16-PIN OBD2 cable and itâs powered by vehicle directly (no battery needed). It capable of scanning vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in seconds to pinpoint emission-related issues. The little guy should be a member of your toolbox, always in your car and ready to be taken out and used.
- ăRead Codes & Clear Codes In SecondsăGetting diagnostic codes(DTCs) should be the start of all repairs if you don't want to be ripped off. You can use MS300 to read the codes in seconds and look them up to quickly locate the problem areas, then determine if you can do the repair yourself or go to a mechanic, and clear the codes to get everything back to normal.
- ăTurn Off Check Engine LightăThe check engine light is always annoying you, most of the time because of a little thing, isn't it? Maybe it's just a gas cap that's not tightened but you paid hundreds of dollars for it? With Autel MS300 scan tool, you can read code to quickly find out why the check engine light is on and reset it.
- ăHelp You Pass Annual Smog CheckăTo pass annual smog check, you are better to make the OBD II Readiness Monitors on your car âReadyâ. You donât want to pay for a failed smoke check. MS300 OBD2 scanner can retrieve I/M Readiness status to check the monitors like misfire, fuel system, catalyst, O2 sensors, EVAP, etc, to help your car ready pass the annual smog check.
- ăWorks On 99% Vehicles & No-Worry PurchaseăAutel MaxiScan MS300 car code reader supports all OBD2 protocols: KWP2000, ISO2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN. It is compatible with 99% OBDII-Compliant vehicles, passenger cars or light trucks. For OBD2 cars, usually, post 1996 for US market, post 2006 for EU market and post 2009 for Asian market. It comes with a 12-month warranty and free lifetime technical support. If you need any technical support, please feel free to contact us.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. AUTEL AUTOLINK AL319 OBDII SCANNER
This scan tool is an easy pathway to the knowing the cause of the indicator light malfunction and turns off indicator light.
For drive cycle verification and a quick state emissions readiness check, it has an outstanding patented one click I/M readiness key. This tool can even restore live information that is, RPMs.
It also retrieves manufacture specifics (P1, P3, and U1) and generic (P0, P2, P3 and U0). There is a built-in coded LED and an audible indicator for readiness verification in the scan tool.
How about the multilingual menu to make it easily accessible and DTC definition display. Without worries, it can retrieve vehicle information numbers such as VIN, CVN, and CIN.
This tool is easy to work with and befitting for beginners. It is the fourth best selling code reader and scanner on Amazon graced with free shipping.On the other hand, you can get two-days free shipping with Amazon prime or a guaranteed one-day delivery. This scanner worth every bit of it, now is the time to purchase your tool.
Pros:
- Easy to use and saves time
- Compatible with 1996 vehicles and above
- Can be upgraded through the internet
- Reads and keep life sensor data
- well-detailed manual to guide you
Cons:
- Inconsistency while updating OBD 2 scanner
- ăTURN OFF CELă This AL319 car diagnostic tool supports Reading DTCs, displaying Live Data, Freeze Frame & I/M Readiness etc to figure out the root cause of the Check Engine Light (CEL) and turning it off, to help you detect any potential problems, and to avoid excessive costs for unnecessary repairs.
- ăEXTENSIVE APPLICATIONă Autel AL319 Compatible with 7 languages (English, French, Spanish, etc.) and various post-1996 OBD II protocol vehicles (Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, etc.), this OBD II scanner provides accurate and fast diagnosis for worldwide car owners.
- ăFOR END USER & DIYERSă This error code reader AL319 is âplug and playâ and comes with an easy interface. Even if youâre not familiar with vehicle repair, you can quickly take control of this obd2 scanner, and get the information you want.
- ăUSER-FRIENDLY DESIGNă This check engine code reader features a patented One-Click I/M Readiness Key, TFT color display, built-in speaker, LED Indicator etc. The cable is long enough without being too long and getting in the way. No batteries are needed.
- ăHIGH-QUALITY SERVICESă 12 months warranty from the date of purchase and lifetime free update are offered by this Automobile OBDII scan tool. Welcome to contact us via Q&A, email, or hotline, and our after-sale-service team for technical support.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. ANCEL AD310 CLASSIC ENHANCED UNIVERSAL OBD2 SCANNER
This scan tool is a scanner suitable for every 1996 vehicle owner and newer model of 16 pins OBD 2 protocol. It is a fast and accurate scan that quickly detects the source of the check engine light.
When it comes to scanning, it is quick. It reads and clear trouble code for both generic and manufacturer specific codes. The scanner shows historical code and definition.
Aside from that, It is endowed with a thick insulator that is flexible and long cable of 2.5 feet. Support service of the product is available in different official languages.
Its features are limited, but still, it works a great deal.It is fast and reliable, saves you battery and Bluetooth connection drama.
This tool is a powerful good quality product available at an affordable price with a year warranty and free shipping.In the same light, the company guarantees a 100% return and refund if not compatible with your vehicle model. What else? Why not Save yourself a trip to the mechanic workshop and buy your tool now.
Pros:
- View freeze frame data
- Huge backlit LCD screen
- It read life date stream
- It can retrieve vehicle information
Cons:
- No built-in battery
- It works on 12v vehicle battery only
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed device with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble codes in seconds. If you want to find out the cause of the check engine light, this device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. This is not the case with the AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. ACTRON CP9670 AUTOSCANNER
Actron CP9670 scanner designed to read and display live engine data, pending DTC and erase DTC. It has more than 15,000 manufacturer’s specific and generic.
It contains trilingual (English, French and Spanish) menu and displays OBD2 drive cycle mode. Another feature of this scanner is that it reads and display I/M monitors emission.
It also contains LCD backlit display and not only compatible with all vehicles that are 1996 model and above, but also 1994 and 1995 OBD2 compliant.
The system menu setup includes keypad test, display test, memory test, tool information and program mode. This scan tool can also read and display caller ID, VIN, and CVN.
It gives an advanced analysis of data produced by your vehicle. It is a well packaged product with a fine print manual for right directions.
Actron CP9670 is a professional grade tool which is only shipped within US for free on amazon. If you wish to explore a more advanced functionality of an OBD2 scanner, this tool is suitable for you. It worth your investment.
Pros:
- Super easy to use
- Updateable via USB port
- Read live date
- Advanced analysis of data produced by vehicle
- Freeze frame data display
Cons:
- Higher price tag
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Necessary Things To Know About OBD2 Scanner
First, you must understand the meaning of OBD2 scanner which only means âOn-board diagnostic 2nd generation scannerâ. It was developed and implemented by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to detect problems in vehicles and point out its source.
The fault can be detected by the computer module that receives data from every sensor in charge of the vehicle system. But only vehicles manufactured in 1996 and beyond can make use of this device.
However, the United States Environmental Protection Agency mandate every 1996 model and above vehicle owners to be OBD2 scanner equipped.
Since there are several OBD2 scanners with different uniqueness, price range, and features, finding the best can be a daunting prospect. Therefore, this article will expose you to the best OBD2 scanners to make the right choice.
CONCLUSION
With all the best OBD2 scanner and their features listed above, you should be able to choose what you need. If you are in need of an easy to use and move around useful scan tools, these OBD2 scanners will serve you even, more than what you bargained. Consider using any of these devices because they possess better data transfer rate and are most suitable for analyzing fundamental problems of your vehicle.
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- Multi-Functions - Practical Multi-Functions OBD2 code reader features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, view freeze frame, I/M ready, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed.
- Wide Capability - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian.
- LCD Display - Designed with a clear display LCD screen (128 x 64 pixels) - white backlight and contrast adjustment. No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector.
- Compact Design - Car diagnostic scanner is equipped with a 2.5 feet long cable and made of a very thick flexible insulator.There are 6 buttons on OBD2 Scanner:scroll up/down,enter/exit and buttons that quick query VIN vehicle number& the DTC fault code.
- ABS / Airbag codes NOT Supported - It is able to read and clear check engine information which is part of OBDII system, but it cannot work with non-OBDII systems, including ABS / Airbag / Oil Service Light, etc.
- ăVehicle CEL DoctorăThe NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to emissions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle.
- ăAccuracy & StreamsăLive data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
- ăWorthy to OwnăRecommended by Mechanic Scotty Kilmer on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen, Free Lifetime Update and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team.
- ăSmog Check HelperăRead/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test.
- ăHome NecessityăOpen to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and one of the best gifts for Home and Autoshop Mechanics.
- ăPlease NoteăDear customer, if you are not pleased with your NT301 and choose to return it, please kindly mark it unsellable to avoid an used one is resold again to other customers. Appreciate very much!
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed device with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble codes in seconds. If you want to find out the cause of the check engine light, this device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. This is not the case with the AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
- đăEasy to Use--Work out of boxă+ăFOXWELL 2023 New Versionă FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2023 new version from FOXWELL, which is designed for those car owners who want to figure out the cause issue before fixing the car problem via scanning the most common systems like abs srs engine and transmission.The NT604 Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first.
- đăAffordableă+ăReliable Car Health Monitoră Will you be confused what happen when the warning light of abs/srs/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this foxwell scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your lovely cars and pinpoint the problem for you, which saves time and money for you. It will t-urn off the warning light for you after you fix the problem, making you to know more about your cars and do your own repair.
- đ„ă2 in 1 Diagnostic ScannerăCompared with those auto scanners (50-100 USD), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also it can be an abs/srs scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When itâs an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it.
- đăFantastic AUTOVINă+ăNo extra software feeăThrough the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You donât need to pay extra software fee.
- đ„ăSolid protective case KO plastic carrying bagă+ ăLifetime updateăAlmost all same price-level obd scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold on the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you donât need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- đăGreat Gift Ideaă: Top present choice for your father, husband, brother or boyfriend.EVERY CAR OWNER WILL NEED IT! It comes with protective case with rugged and handy design.Get NT604 Elite car code reader and give your lover a surprise! đ©Kindly note that this foxwell nt604 elite car scanner CAN NOT support maintenance reset function.
- ăTURN OFF CELă This AL319 car diagnostic tool supports Reading DTCs, displaying Live Data, Freeze Frame & I/M Readiness etc to figure out the root cause of the Check Engine Light (CEL) and turning it off, to help you detect any potential problems, and to avoid excessive costs for unnecessary repairs.
- ăEXTENSIVE APPLICATIONă Autel AL319 Compatible with 7 languages (English, French, Spanish, etc.) and various post-1996 OBD II protocol vehicles (Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, etc.), this OBD II scanner provides accurate and fast diagnosis for worldwide car owners.
- ăFOR END USER & DIYERSă This error code reader AL319 is âplug and playâ and comes with an easy interface. Even if youâre not familiar with vehicle repair, you can quickly take control of this obd2 scanner, and get the information you want.
- ăUSER-FRIENDLY DESIGNă This check engine code reader features a patented One-Click I/M Readiness Key, TFT color display, built-in speaker, LED Indicator etc. The cable is long enough without being too long and getting in the way. No batteries are needed.
- ăHIGH-QUALITY SERVICESă 12 months warranty from the date of purchase and lifetime free update are offered by this Automobile OBDII scan tool. Welcome to contact us via Q&A, email, or hotline, and our after-sale-service team for technical support.
Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API