Are you trying to find code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools 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 26 code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools you can buy today
- 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.
- 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.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY - Recommended by YouTube star Scotty Kilmer on his channel. Works on most vehicles sold in the U.S. with a model year of 1996 or newer; Supports all OBDII protocols: KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN (Controller Area Network); Displays in English, German, French, Spanish, Finnish, Dutch, Russian and Portuguese; Requires no battery or charger as the unit is powered directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in the vehicle.
- CRITICAL FUNCTIONALITY - Quickly reads and clears stored emissions-related codes, pending codes, and displays code definitions. Turns off the MIL (check engine light), helps reset the monitor before you take the car to smog, and lets you know what's going on before you take the car in for repairs.
- ENHANCED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS - Supports O2 sensor and EVAP (evaporative control) system test. The AD410 code scanner can be used to initiate a leak test of a vehicle's EVAP system by monitoring the integrity of the fuel tank system. The O2 sensor test is used to monitor and adjust the air/fuel mixture, which can identify and correct problems related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions.
- QVGA DISPLAY & NEW UI - The AD410 code reader is a greatly improved upgrade from simpler diagnostic tools. It features a 2. 4" TFT true color display (262K) LCD for clear viewing of test results. With the clear design UI, users can easily access setup, OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness and DTC search and check. No need to read the manual to know what to do, even for a beginner.
- DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS & UPDATE - The Review & Print option allows you to save or print diagnostic reports as needed. The ANCEL brand offers lifetime free software updates for this unit to fix the latest bugs or add new parameters. Simply download the software from the ANCEL website and then follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- đ Elevate Your Car Diagnostics with Speed and Precision: This advanced OBD2 scan tool can provide comprehensive OBD2 functions. Effortlessly read and clear codes, check I/M readiness, capture freeze frame data, retrieve your vehicle's VIN, evaluate EVAP systems, and access live data streams with graph displays. Built-in 35,901 DTCs, O2 sensor tests, onboard monitoring, and component assessments. Keep your vehicle's health in check, saving you both time and money on unnecessary repairs.
- đšïž Seamlessly Print and Stay Upgraded for Life: Our OBD2 scanner brings cutting-edge features to your fingertips. Review data streams and replay DTCs with ease, and take advantage of the convenient printing function. Connect the scanner to your Windows computer and effortlessly print fault data, arming you with the information you need to dodge surprise costs at auto repair shops. Enjoy a lifetime of free upgrades, ensuring you're always equipped with the latest features and enhancements.
- đ Vibrant 2.8â Display & Intuitive New User Interface: Experience optimal clarity on our 2.8-inch color screen. Tailor your experience with dark or light modes and adjust brightness to your liking. The revamped user interface is designed for simplicity, making it the ideal choice for beginners and experts alike. Effortlessly navigate setup, OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness, and DTC search and check. Our intuitive UI guides you step by step, creating a seamless and stress-fr-ee journey.
- ⥠Swift Hot-Keys for Effortless Navigation: Simplify your experience with our car check engine code reader's 3 quick-access hot-keys. The "F2" key swiftly displays I/M readiness status, perfect for s-mog checks. Tap "F1" to instantly read current fault codes and pinpoint issues. When you're done, the "EXIT" key smoothly returns or exits the menu. Crafted for home mechanics, DIYers, dealers, novices, and auto repair shops, these hot-keys make every operation a breeze.
- đ Plug & Play for Real-Time Updates: Forget about batteries and chargers. Our OBD2 scanner seamlessly connects to your vehicle's OBD2 interface, keeping you informed about your car's health around the clock. The vehicle code reader's visual indicator light offers at-a-glance insights: red for faults, yellow for incompatibilities, and green for successful connections. Stay in the loop without the hassle.
- đ Universal Compatibility & Multilingual Support: Compatible with 9 protocols post-1996 in the USA, 2002 in the EU, and 2008 in Asia, our car diagnostic scanner is your versatile companion. Note that it isn't suitable for new energy or hybrid vehicles outside the OBD2 protocol. The OBD2 scanner supports 10 languages, including English, German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese. If you're uncertain about compatibility, we're here to assist on Amazon.
- â No-Hassle Returns and Extended 3-Year Replacement: Your satisfaction is our priority, backed by a 60-day return policy for complete peace of mind. If you're not entirely satisfied, we gladly offer full refunds. Plus, our industry-leading 3-year replacement service guarantees years of confident use. Have questions? Reach out to us for swift and effective solutions. Also, enjoy the added convenience of a Type-C cable to connect the OBD2 scanner tool to your computer, streamlining diagnostics.
- 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 WHATâS 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 ITâS 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.
- â Read, clear, and store fault codes: Quickly and easily clear check engine light codes, including generic, manufacturer-specific, and pending codes
- â Live data display: View live data streams in digits and graphs, allowing you to compare readings and identify potential issues
- â No battery or app needed: Simply connect to the OBD2 Port
- â O2 monitor test: Identify failures of the oxygen sensor and vehicle emissions-related errors with ease
- â Works on most 1996 and newer domestic and import vehicles (gasoline and diesel engines)
- â Freeze frame: Shows a captured snapshot of the vehicle's data at the moment a fault occurs.
- â I/M readiness check: Quickly verify your vehicle's state emissions readiness and drive cycle
- â Vehicle information: Check your vehicle's production year, VIN code, and other important details
- â DTC lookup: Look up fault codes and their definitions directly on the device, without the need for online searches
- â Multilingual support: The device supports 7 languages, making it accessible to a wider audience. (English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Dutch, and Russian.)
- â ăAccurate DiagnosticsăGet fast and accurate readings with this OBD2 scanner, which can diagnose issues with your car's engine, O2 sensor, EVAP system and more.
- â ăEasy to UseăThis code reader is easy to use, even for beginners. Simply plug it into your car's OBD2 interface and start scanning for trouble codes.
- â ăWide CompatibilityăThe OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool works on 98%+ vehicles manufactured after 1996, and supports 8 languages for your convenience.
- â ăClear DisplayăThe scan Tool features a clear LCD screen with backlighting, making it easy to read and use in any lighting conditions.
- â ăSatisfaction GuaranteedăWe offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime service, so you can buy with confidence. Contact us anytime with questions or concerns.
- [Multi Functional Vehicle Diagnostic Instrument] This is a multifunctional vehicle diagnostic tool that includes: car diagnostic scanner, reading and clearing codes, over 10000 error codes available for query, view freeze frames, I/M readiness and historical I/M data, real-time data streams and curves (vehicle speed, battery voltage, etc.), car information reading, oxygen sensor testing, evaporative emission testing, calculating load values, engine coolant temperature, etc, Obtain engine speed.
- [High Quality Product] The OBD2 scanner is made of high-quality materials, with stable performance, safety, and more accurate detection results. It has all the OBD functions you need. English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian and Dutch are supported. Compared to traditional OBD scanners, the Zmoon 2.8 inch high-definition color check engine code reader displays more and richer content, and long-term use will not cause eye fatigue.
- [Compact Design] The body design of the vehicle code reader is compact and practical, making it very suitable for single handed grip. The body is compact and easy to store or store in the drawer of the drilling rig or toolbox. Easy to access at any time.
- [Plug and Play] Car OBD2 scanner plug and play. No need to download an app, more accurate and stable than a wireless Bluetooth code reader! If your car has a malfunction, there are three status lights on the device to remind you, which is very friendly for beginners.
- [Applicable] Car scanner diagnosis is applicable to all American cars after 1996, European cars after 2002, and Asian cars after 2008.
- đCar Diagnostic Scanner with Full OBD/EOBD Function â â Read codes and clear codes, â 10000+ error codes available for query, â viewe freeze frame, â I/M readiness and historical I/M Data, â live data stream and live curve (car speed, battery voltage etc. ), â car information reading, â oxygen sensor test, â EVAP test, â calculate load value, â engine coolant temperature, â get engine speed. It has all the OBD functions you need.
- đ±2.8'' HD Color Screen â Compared with traditional OBD scanners, Zmoon 2.8'' HD color check engine code reader displays more and richer content, which will not cause eye fatigue after long-term use. And the body design is very suitable for one-handed holding.
- đCompatible with Most Vehicles & 7 Languages Available â OBDII/EOBD car scanner diagnostic for all American cars after 1996, European cars after 2002, Asian cars after 2008. Supports English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian and Dutch.
- đPlug and play: Directly powered by the car, even beginners can quickly master and use the car code scanner proficiently. No need to download APP, it is more accurate and stable than the wireless bluetooth code reader! And there are 3 statu lights on the device to remind you if your car is faulty, which is very friendly to beginners.
- đ§Worry-Free After-Sales Service: Zmoon OBD car scanner diagnostic tool has 30 days return policy and extended 3 years warranty! 7*24 hours customer service, if you have any dissatisfaction or questions, you can send us a message in the background, we will reply quickly within 24 hours.
- đăEasy to Use--Work out of boxă+ăFOXWELL 2024 New Versionă 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.
- đ ăAffordableă+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 cars and pinpoint the root cause. It will t-urn off the warning light car after the problem is fixed.đTIPS: Airbag crash/collision data can NOT be cleared even you replace the new airbag.
- đă5 in 1 Diagnostic ScannerăCompared 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 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.
- đ ăFantastic 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.
- đăSolid 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.
How to choose a good code readers scan tools
Does the idea of finding a fantastic code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools. 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 code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools 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: Â Would it be accurate to suggest that the code readers scan tools were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, Â 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 code readers scan tools, 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 code readers scan tools.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools. 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 code readers scan tools 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 code readers scan tools.
