Are you trying to find automotive diagnostic scanners among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling automotive diagnostic scanners on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 12 hours of research and did 66 automotive diagnostic scanners tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best automotive diagnostic scanners you can buy today
- 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.
- 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.
- ✔Full OBDII Modes Scanner for Car: As professional car scanner, ZM201 has all the OBD2 functions you need.🔎Read & clear codes, 💡turn off engine light or MIL, ❄view freeze frame, 📋read I/M readiness, 🚕retrieve vehicle VIN, 🔋battery voltage test, 📈live data stream (with graphing display), ✅built-in 35901 DTCs, O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc.
- ✔Enhanced OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool: Live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, you can connect it to a computer for fault data printing, prevent auto repair shops from charging randomly, save money and time. ZM201 obd scanner also comes with free-lifetime software updates, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements.
- ✔35,901 DTC Lookup: ZM201 car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, the old model obd2 usually only have 3,000-10,000. So the ZM201 car scanner has a huge advantage, which means that this obd2 scanner can better help diagnose and solve your vehicle faults. This is a great option if you want to replace or upgrade an existing car scanner.
- ✔Compatible with 98% Vehicles: ZM201 OBD2 scanner for car is compatible with most cars after 1996(USA)/2002(EU)/2008(Asia). If your car has an OBD2 port (16Pin), and the production time meets the above timeline, then your vehicle is compatible. But it is not compatible with new energy vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and models that do not comply with the OBD2 protocol.
- ✔Convenient Shortcut Functions: The addition of shortcut keys enhances the user experience. Pressing F1 enables you to quickly retrieve trouble codes, while F2 provides instant access to I/M readiness information. We've also introduced left and right navigation buttons (the previous model had only up and down buttons), making operation even more convenient.
- ✔User-Friendly Design: The scanner boasts a 2.8-inch color screen that allows you to choose between dark and light modes and adjust the brightness according to your preference. Audible beep notifications (which can be disabled) accompany key presses, providing an intuitive user experience. The vehicle status indicator light turns red when a fault is detected, yellow when there's an incompatibility/connection failure, and green when the car is successfully connected.
- ✔Customer-Oriented Services: Each package includes canvas storage bag for your storage, and Type-C cable to connect to your computer. And we offer 60-day return policy and 3-year replacement service, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind. If you have used this product and returned it, please mark it as unsellable so that the used product will not be resold to other customers, it is much appreciated.
- 【Easy to Use--Work out of box】+【FOXWELL 2024 New Version】 FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2024 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.
- 【Affordable】+【Reliable Car Health Monitor】 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 cars and pinpoint the root cause. It will t-urn off the warning light car after the problem is fixed.👉TIPS: Airbag crash/collision data can NOT be cleared even you replace the new airbag.
- 【5 in 1 Diagnostic Scanner】Compared with those auto scanners (50-100), 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 it’s 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.
- 【Fantastic AUTOVIN】+【No extra software fee】Through 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 don’t need to pay extra software fee.
- 【Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag】+ 【Lifetime update】Almost 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 don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- 【Great Ideal For Every Car Owner】Prefect choice for your father, husband, brother or boyfriend. EVERY CAR OWNER WILL NEED IT! It comes with h-igh-quality host with a strong box. Get LAUNCH CRP123 Elite car diagnostic scanner and give your lover a surprise!
- 【 Read & Clear/Reset Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission Diagnostic Scan Tool 】LAUNCH CRP123 OBD2 Scanner can test Engine, Transmission, ABS and Airbag four systems, also reads and resets code, displays data stream graphic, stores and playbacks dynamic data stream,helps to quick analysis and diagnosis.
- 【 Error Fault Code Reader】Except the full 10 modes OBD2 diagnostic functions like, retrieving I/M readiness, Freeze Frame Data, Read Dynamic Data stream and V-ehicle Information, O2 Sensor Test, EVAP Test of F-uel Tank System (Mode 8) and Advanced On-board Monitoring (Mode 6), launch crp123 obd2 scanner can not only reveal what error codes your car is producing, but also erase your v-ehicle’s check engine light after problem fixed, the DTC help and explanation also tell you the exact problem.
- 【 Live Data Graphing + Read/Record/Playback Data stream + Print diagnostic data 】Live Data Graphing,more intuitive to know your vehicle’s problem.Large size Color Screen ;Print Function:Print the diagnose result easily; with user manual and register & update tutorial video uploaded in the link by us,you can Look up it anytime by ONE-CLICK.
- 【 Find Your Vehicles Here】Launch CRP123 obd2 scanner Supports mainstream vehicles on the world,fit for ACURA VW AUDI AUST FORD BENZ BMW CHRYSLER FIAT GM HOLDEN HONDA HYUNDAI INFINITI JAGUAR ISUZU KIA LANDROVER LEXUS MAZDA MITSUBISHI NISSAN OPEL PORSCHE SAAB SEAT SKODA SMART MERCEDES SPRINTER SUBARU SUZUKI SCION TOYOTA USA FORD VOLVO PEUGEOT CITROEN RENAULT EUROFORD.Etc.
- 【F-ree Lifetime Updates & Reliable Customer Service】 LAUNCH provides life-time f-ree updates,you can upgrade the software via PC to keep your CRP123 stay the latest software version,also 24/7/365 Hassle-fre e servic-e suppor-t make you choose it and enjoy it,fits for Technician,advance DIY, garage, car dealer, used car dealer, auto repair shop, automotive engineer, home mechanic, DIY beginner etc.
- 🔥【On-Screen DTC Definition, Save Time & Easy To Use】Autel MS309 OBD2 code reader with UPGRADED CHIP to retrive and clear generic(P0, P2, P3 and U0), manufacturer-specific(P1, P3 and U1) and pending codes, and display DTCs(Diagnostic Trouble Codes) meanings under the codes based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes). Don't need to spend much time to search meanings on the internet. This advanced plug-and-play MS309 scanner saves you time - a must-have obd2 scanner for each car owner.
- 🔥【Retrieve Freeze Frame Data &Vehicle info】The more specific the information available, the clearer the problem. The OBD2 scanner MS309 can retrieve freeze frame data, including important engine parameters like RPM, fuel pressure, fuel trim, engine coolant temperature, etc. Also it can retrieve Vehicle Information such as VIN number, Calibration ID(s), Calibration Verification Nos. (CVNs), etc, which is useful to check whether the ECU matches when you are buying a used car.
- 🔥【Read Codes & Clear Codes】Knowing the codes in advance will brace you for the repair cost estimate so that you won't be fooled and get overcharged by the repair shop.This Autel MaxiScan MS309 obd2 scanner scans OBD2-compliant vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in seconds to pinpoint emission-related issues. The little guy can do many basic but necessary works: read/clear codes, view DTC definition, turn off check engine light, check I/M Readiness status, retrieve freeze frame data and vehicle info.
- 🔥【Turn Off Check Engine Light】When your car detects an emission related problem, Check Engine Light will be turned on. Do you want to spend hundreds of dollars to turn off this light every time, maybe it's just a gas cap that's not tightened or needs to change bad parts like spark plugs and ignition coils? With Autel MS309 scan tool, you can read code to quickly find out why the check engine light is on and reset it.
- 🔥【Ready For Annual Smog Check】If the OBD II Readiness Monitors on your car are not “Ready”, your car may fail the smog check. MS309 OBD2 scanner can retrieve I/M Readiness status to check the monitors like misfire monitor, fuel system monitor, comprehensive components monitor, catalyst monitor, O2 sensors, EVAP, etc, to help your car ready pass the annual smog check. That way you won't waste time and money on a failed smoke check.
- 🔥【Works on 99% Vehicles】Autel MaxiScan MS309 compact pocket code reader supports all OBD2 protocols: KWP2000, ISO2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN. This OBD2 code scanner 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.
- 🔥【No-Worry Purchase】Automotive OBDII scan tool MS309 comes with a 12-month warranty and free lifetime technical support. If you need any technical support, please feel free to contact us at 📞autelofficial @ outlook . com📞. NOTE: It does not support the full engine system, if need, pls consider ML629/ MK808BT, etc.
- 🔥🔥【2024 New Functions Making NT624E the Top Dog】Big Surprise! 2024 FOXWELL scanner NT624E has upgraded to cover 3 more special features with same cost, including ✅Injector Coding✅Battery Registration✅D-&, P-&, F regeneration. The All Systems best car scanner is lifetime update which allows you to get the newest version, new functions and vehicle coverage anytime! It even can fix some bugs via update and save you 200+ extra update fee every year!
- 💎【Intuitive OEM All System Diagnosis】Same as Snap-on car diagnostic code reader, the NT624 Elite obd2 scanner can scan ALL available systems to ✔read/clear codes✔view live graph data of sensors✔retrieves freeze-frame✔read car info. to check the status of EPB/SAS/ESP/Suspension/Headlamp/Car radio/Center lock etc, More than ABS/SRS/Engine/Transmission modules.This obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is Easy to use for novice and amateur mechanic who are not familiar with car diagnostic field.
- 🌄【Pro-Level 8 Popular Maintenance Services】After repairing the new part, your car ecu need to reset, relearn, calibrate, or match related parts. The NT624 Elite automotive scanner diagnostic tool can easily get works done by ABS Bleeding, SAS Calibration,Throttle Match, EPB/Oil Reset, Injector Coding, BMS. So it's a cost-effective code scanner car diagnostic tool choice for DIYers who want to save unnecessary repair charge. Meanwhile, it can output accurate data you need in minutes
- 🚒【Lifetime Update】+【Comprehensive Applicable People Range】This scan tool is free to update lifetime, no need to pay extra 200+ software fee every year. You can update it to fix bugs, get newest software and more car coverage. Besides, the obd2 scanner with abs and srs takes the user-oriented and hot keys design, so the nt624e obd scanner diagnostic tool is easy to use for home mechanic, DIYER, novice, amateur mechanic, dealer and auto repair shop.
- 🚗【Multiple Display of Live Data + DTC Code Definition】FOXWELL car diagnostic tool nt624e car computer diagnostic tool can merge PID Text and Graphics in a single graph, multi- graph, and merge two graphs for intuitive display. From the data of oil temp, pressure, transmission temp, engine speed, engine coolant temperature, and short-term fuel trim, you will know which car part is abnormal. So this automotive diagnostic tool is convenient for car owner to purchase auto parts and replace it by yourselves
- 🌎【Wide Car Compatibility + Fantastic Auto VIN】With the featured auto VIN scan, the car code reader can read accurate vehicle info quickly and help you resolve compatibility issues. So you don’t need to put the VIN manually. The foxwell nt624 elite diagnostic scanner for all vehicles can diagnose over 10000+ vehicles worldwide mainstream car makes(USA/ASIA/EUROPE), works on OBDI and OBDII most after 1996 vehicles including the latest 2021/2022models
- 🎀【Reliable Service】If you have any Function Coverage, Used goods problems, we will be responsible for it. We prioritize your use experience and strive to meet your expectations. As Airbag, this diagnostic scanner for all vehicles only can clear fault codes, cannot clear crash data. Foxwell nt 624 elite is NOT a bidirectional scanner. Please check special function compatibility with us before purchase.
- EASY-TO-USE OBD2 APP & CAR CODE READER - The FIXD car scanner and OBD app instantly translates 7000+ engine fault codes into plain English on your phone. Wireless Bluetooth connection. Set up in minutes. No car knowledge needed.
- FIND OUT WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOUR CAR - Even beginners can use the FIXD OBD2 scanner and app to find out what the check engine light means, how serious it is, and possible fixes before going to the repair shop. You can even clear the check engine light, saving time and money.
- SAVE MONEY & AVOID RIP-OFFS - Walk into the repair shop confident with the accurate info you need to save on car repair. The FIXD car scanner and OBD2 app provides helpful how-to guides and video tutorials so you can save with DIY repairs.
- FIXD WORKS WITH YOUR CAR - FIXD OBD2 reader is compatible with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer and all diesel vehicles 2008 or newer. Perfect diagnostic scan tool for Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, BMW, Porsche, Subaru, Nissan, Cadillac, Volkswagen, Lexus, and more. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, & Android.
- KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME FOR YOUR NEXT OIL CHANGE - FIXD is the only car code scanner that also tracks maintenance and wear items and automatically notifies you when your car is due for service.
- PROTECT THE WHOLE FAMILY - Connect one or more FIXD OBD code readers to your vehicles to monitor the whole fleet from one account. See battery voltage, get notified about car problems, schedule service appointments, & more from your iPhone or Android device.
- VIEW LIVE CAR DATA - Monitor the health of your vehicle in real time. See O2 sensor voltage, vehicle speed, fuel trims, & more on your phone, for a fraction of the cost of an expensive OBD scanner.
- UPGRADE YOUR SENSOR - FIXD Premium members can also talk to a certified mechanic about car care questions and DIY repairs, get guaranteed cost estimates for repairs, & much more. This subscription is optional and not required to use the OBD2 scanner or free app.
- Martin, Tracy (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 200 Pages - 08/01/2015 (Publication Date) - Motorbooks (Publisher)
- [Effortless Diagnosis & Repair] - Harness the full potential of the automotive code reader to quickly identify issues with your vehicle. Our advanced OBD2 reader not only reads and erases codes but also provides live data, battery/alternator tests, and detailed code severity levels. It's the ultimate tool for DIYers and mechanics seeking a comprehensive car tester diagnostic for all cars.
- [Top Rated App] - Pair our auto scanner diagnostic code scanner with our exclusive app for comprehensive diagnostics and verified fixes by ASE Certified Technicians, tailored to your vehicle. With our zurich OBD2 code reader, accurately diagnose and efficiently solve issues. Plus, access Maintenance Schedules, Dealer Recalls, Technical Service Bulletins, and RepairPal. This car scanner diagnostic for all cars offers premium features for seamless upkeep, compatible with iOS & Android.
- [Get Free Updates] - Stay ahead with the OBD2 reader, designed for longevity and precision. Benefit from firmware updates that ensure your car tester diagnostic for all car remains at the forefront of vehicle diagnostics technology. Our OBD 2 scanner code reader is the smart choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking future-proof tools.
- [Unrivaled Compatibility & Language Support] - Our OBDII Scanner sets the standard for versatility, supporting 1996 and newer OBD2 compliant vehicles across brands and regions. Whether you speak English, Spanish, or French, our scanner for car ensures no detail is lost in translation.
- [Designed & Supported in the USA] - Proudly based in Southern California, our OBD reader is the brainchild of local Master Technicians. Experience unmatched customer support and product expertise designed to empower every mechanic. For queries or guidance, our friendly team is just a message away, ensuring you get the most out of your car scanner.
How to choose a good automotive diagnostic scanners
Does the idea of finding a fantastic automotive diagnostic scanners make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in automotive diagnostic scanners. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top automotive diagnostic scanners products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top automotive diagnostic scanners on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top automotive diagnostic scanners brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top automotive diagnostic scanners based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the automotive diagnostic scanners were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good automotive diagnostic scanners, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your automotive diagnostic scanners.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting automotive diagnostic scanners for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our automotive diagnostic scanners. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what automotive diagnostic scanners should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on automotive diagnostic scanners.
