Are you trying to find diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 30 hours of research and did 29 diagnostic 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 diagnostic scan tools you can buy today
- Operation Behind the Different PIDs
- OBD II Generic PIDs
- PID calculated and actual values
- Calculated data relationships
- Base injection timing
- English (Publication Language)
- [Accurate and Fast] The obd2 scanner diagnostic tool can help you or your mechanic understand whether your car is in good condition, provide extremely accurate and fast results, and read and clear the engine fault code within a few seconds.
- [Compact Design] The car diagnostic scanner is equipped with a 2.5-foot long cable made of very thick flexible insulator. There are six buttons on the OBD2 scanner: scroll up/down, enter/exit, and quickly query the VIN vehicle number and DTC fault code.
- [Plug and Play] The vehicle inspection engine code reader is designed with a clear LCD screen (128 x 64 pixels), which is powered directly by the vehicle without any battery or charger. Even beginners can master and use the vehicle code scanner skillfully. There is no need to download the APP. It is convenient to use, which is very friendly for beginners.
- [Necessary for Car Owners] The OBD2 scanner for car is light and portable. You can easily put it in your backpack or on the dashboard to facilitate your use at any time. It is a very practical necessity for car owners.
- [Extensive Functions] The auto engine fault code reader supports 9 protocols compatible with most of the 1996 U.S., 2000 European Union and Asian cars, as well as the updated OBD II and CAN domestic or imported vehicles. Support 6 languages - English, German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian.
- 【Extensive Compatibility】After the upgrade, the compatibility is wider and more accurate! HD601 PRO heavy duty truck scanner supports all major truck models that comply with standard protocols (SAE J1939, SAE J1708, ISO 14230-4, ISO 15764-4 and ISO 9141-2, ISO 27145-4 and Euro6). Such as Cummins, Paccar, Detroit, Perkins, Freightliner, International, Peterbilt, Ford, Class 4-Class 8 trucks, etc. It also check engine diagnosis on most cars, minivans and light trucks from 1996 and latest.
- 【OE-Level Full System Diagnostic】HD601 PRO Diesel Scanner supports all system scans of heavy trucks compliant with standard protocols SAE J1939 & J1708, such as Engine, ABS, Transmission, Braking System, ESP, EPS, Fuel System, etc, It is a great scan tool for Cummins, Caterpillar, Detroit, Perkins, Maxxforce, BendixWabash, Wabaco, Haldex, Allison, Eaton heavy trucks, With this truck tool, you can get deep analysis data about the system and do some repairs by yourself, saving much time and money.
- 【Enhanced Diesel OBD Scanner】As a 2-in-1 code reader, it supports the latest ISO27145 and Euro6 protocols and enables diagnosis of car and truck engines. In addition to reading codes, clearing codes and displaying live data in a text or graphic format for trucks, you can also retrieve vehicle information, view freeze frames and look up DTCs. To ensure that this device works with different engines, it is also equipped with 6, 9 and 16 pin cables that allow you to easily turn off the CEL light.
- 【DTC Library】+【Life Time Free Update】The built-in DTC library allows you to retrieve the codes directly without searching for the definition in the book. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a DIY car owner, HD601 diesel scanner explains the existing problem, makes it easier for you to understand the codes definition and fix the problem faster. Plus, you get a lifetime free internet updates, so you always have the latest software for diagnostics in English and Spanish languages.
- 【Friendly Design, Easy of Use】This scanner is plug and play, simple and convenient, and very friendly for beginners. With improved buttons for easy menu navigation. The excellent 2.8 inch LCD color screen makes it easy to view the displayed results and gives you a better overview of your car's problem areas and the identified codes. In addition, the processor is super-fast and responds without lagging, providing maximum comfort and efficiency in diagnostic and service work.
- 【Shop Worry-free and Save Big! 】🎁Now buy ANCEL HD601 PRO Heavy Duty Truck Scanner get a FREE Official Box valued at $24.99 !Just click "E-xtra S-avings" under the p-rice and add both to your c-art. Also get lifetime technical support and one-year warranty! ✅ High-Quality Heavy Duty Truck Scanner ✅ Reliable Performance and Peace of Mind✅ Exceptional Customer Service
- Concepcion, Mandy (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 62 Pages - 10/06/2011 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)
- Vehicle CEL Doctor: The W4 obd2 scanner allows you to read fault diagnostic codes, access electronic readiness status, turn off the CEL (Check Engine Light) or MIL, reset monitors, read real-time data, and retrieve the vehicle's VIN.
- Multi-functionality: The practical obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with a built-in OBD2 DTC database to help you identify reasons for the engine light, read and clear codes, test car voltage, query fault code information, view freeze frame data, check I/M readiness, access data stream and playback functions, view real-time curves, read vehicle information, obtain speed data, calculate load value, and monitor engine coolant level.
- Plug and play: Simply locate the OBD port below your steering wheel to easily connect to our obd2 scanner for a fast and stable connection that won't disconnect. The user interface is user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to use. You can conveniently use this car code reader at home, in the garage, at car rental companies, auto repair shops, or on the road. This car scanner is also an excellent gift for those who need to diagnose vehicle issues.
- Your car assistant: The W4 code readers & scan tools is the ideal choice for self-maintenance and household use, saving on maintenance costs and monitoring vehicle health. It can assist in repairs, test drives, pre-diagnosing engine light issues, and checking performance data. Both DIY mechanics and professionals in the automotive industry can utilize this code reader effectively. With support for 9 protocols, this car diagnostic scanner is compatible with most American cars from 1996, EU cars from 2000, Asian cars, as well as newer OBD II and CAN domestic or imported vehicles.
- Premium Materials and Color Screen: This device revolutionizes the traditional concept of scanner for car by featuring a stylish 2.8-inch IPS color display screen, offering a comfortable handheld experience. Additionally, it is constructed with the latest PV material, ensuring durability with resistance to high temperatures and impact.
- Perfect Design: The car scanner diagnostic for all cars is equipped with a 2.5-foot long cable made of highly durable flexible insulation material. The AMTIFO W4 obd2 scanner features 4 buttons: up/down scrolling, enter/exit, and three warning lights (green light: vehicle detection support; yellow light: indicates vehicle malfunction; red light: product powered normally), allowing for quick status comprehension.
- Warranty and Service: Benefit from a two-year warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are unsatisfied with the code reader, please contact AMTIFO's 24-hour customer service team for easy returns and refunds. Save your money and time.
- 🔥【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.
- 💪Professional and Quick Full OBD2 Diagnosis for Cars: This car scanner offer all the necessary OBD2 functions you require. Read and clear codes, turn off engine lights or MIL, read I/M readiness, view freeze frame data, retrieve your vehicle's VIN, test EVAP systems, access live data streams with graphing displays, conduct battery voltage tests, and built in 35,901 DTCs. Additionally, it performs O2 sensor tests, onboard monitoring, and component testing. Stay informed about car's condition.
- 🔧Convenient Data Printing & Lifetime Free Upgrades: The OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool offers advanced features such as review data stream and DTC replay, along with a convenient printing function. Connect the OBD2 scanner to your computer (compatible with Windows systems ONLY) to easily print fault data, empowering you to prevent random charges at repair shops and save time and money. We offer lifetime free upgrades for it, ensuring you always have access to the latest feature and improvement.
- ✅2.8” Color Screen & Intuitive New UI: With a 2.8-inch color screen, the OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool ensures optimal visibility. Choose between dark or light modes, and adjust the brightness according to your preference. Our advanced car code reader boasts a new UI design, making it incredibly user-friendly. Even if you're new to diagnostics, you won't need to spend hours reading the manual. The clear design UI guides you through the process, providing a hassle-free experience.
- 👆Efficient Hot-Keys: The check engine code reader features with 3 hot-keys: “F2” key is One-Click I/M Readiness key which can quickly show the readiness status for check. “F1” key can quickly read the current fault code, and help you find the reason. “EXIT” key can return or exit, making your operation easier. Best choice for home & amateur mechanic, novice, dealer, DIYER and car repair shop.
- 👍Plug & Play: No need any extra battery or charger, simply plug it into the OBD2 interface of your vehicle to power it on. Stay informed about your vehicle's status at all times. The vehicle status indicator light of the OBD2 scanner is a visual cue that keeps you updated. It turns red when a fault is detected, yellow when there's an incompatibility or connection failure, and green when the car is successfully connected. With a quick glance, you'll always know what's happening.
- 🚗Wide Compatible & Support 10 Languages: The car diagnostic scanner supports 9 protocols compatible with most cars after 1996(USA)/2002(EU)/2008(Asia). But it is not compatible with new energy vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and models that do not comply with the OBD2 protocol. Supports 10 languages, including English, German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian, Russia, Chinese, Japanese and Portuguese. Car compatibility may be various, if you cannot confirm it, we are free to provide any help.
- 💯Hassle-Free Returns and Extended Replacement: Your satisfaction is guaranteed with our 60-day return policy. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, we'll gladly accept returns and provide a full refund. Furthermore, we offer an industry-leading 3-year replacement service, allowing you to use our product with confidence for years to come. We provide a high-quality Type-C cable to effortlessly connect the OBD2 scanner to your computer, streamlining the diagnostic process.
- 🔥🔥🔥【2024 NEW VERSION OF MX808S MK808, SAME AS MK808BT PRO】Big Surprise! Autel has upgraded the MK808 to the 2024 MK808S. With the same cost, you are experiencing 5X faster diagnostics and 150 wider car coverage from 1996-2023-2024. Function as MK808BT PRO MK808K-BT MK808Z-BT, the pro-level MK808S enjoys powerful CPU ROCKCHIP RK3566, improved Android 11, larger 4+64GB, 5G & 2.4 GHz Dual WiFi, newly added Wi-Fi Print, Bi-directional Control and FCA Autoauth for Chrysler Jeep Dodge Fiat etc.
- 【2024 NEWLY RELEASED BI-DIRECTIONAL CONTROL】As the 2024 upgraded version of MaxiChek MX808, our Newest MK808S auto diagnostic scanner for all cars inherits the powerful Bi-directional Control which makes it the most cost-effective Autel scanner (without breaking the bank, same as MP808BT and MS906BT). Active test is widely used on car subsystems to help you check if the car actuators are all in good condition. Such as windows, rear mirrors, sunroof, wipers...
- 【28+ MOST POPULAR RESET SERVICE FOR 150 MAKES】Autel versatile OBDII scanenr MK808S, full level-up of MX808, supports 150+ car brands worldwide & FCA AutoAuth, Like the OBD2 code reader MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro, MK808S is equipped with 28+ hot services including Oil Reset, SAS Calibration, IMMO, ABS Bleeding, Injector Coding, Battery Registration, etc. MK808S ranks top in professional automotive tablets and keeps updating to support more newer modes from 2023 to 2024.
- 【ALL SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS, FACTORY-LEVEL SCANNER】The MK808S dealer-level scanner, like Snap-on tools, effectively works all cars for all system diagnostics. It reads/clears codes, provides ECU info, displays Live Data, performs active tests, and special functions for all available modules. With a few clicks, you can easily understand the vehicle's condition. The convenient Wi-Fi printing feature allows you to generate a detailed report, highlighting the exact nature of the problem.
- 【AUTO SCAN & AUTOVIN, 5X FASTER】How much have you spent on car maintenance? Even a minor issue can take up a significant amount of time. The MK808S is designed to improve your work efficiency. With its AutoVIN technology, you can identify your vehicle's make, model, and year information with just one click. The convenient AutoScan feature automatically scans all of the vehicle's ECUs and detects any fault codes. Check AutoVIN compatibility, please contact us at 📞 MotorzoneUS @ outlook . com 📞
- 【WHY MK808S STANDS OUT】✅Autel's escaner automotriz professional, MK808S, provides the same funcntions as the MK808BT PRO at a lower cost. MK808S not only helps you save on subscription expenses (124.5 USD vs. 150 USD) but also ensures flawless utilization of all functions even without updates. ✅As Autel's flagship model, MK808S is the upgraded version of the old MX808. It covers global coverage for 150 car brands, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice.
- 【𝐖𝐇𝐎 𝐖𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐖𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓】As the largest Autel officially certified seller on Amazon for 9 years, we prioritize user experience and strive to meet your expectations. If you have any questions, please reach out 📞MotorzoneUS @ outlook . com 📞for assistance. We are available 24/7/365 to support you and offer the following: a 1-year brand warranty, 12-month free updates, lifetime technical support, and free return and replacement policy.
- 🚗【Professional OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool with Powerful Functions】:OBD2 scanner code reader feature built-in 35901 OBD2 DTCs lookup library, As professional car scanner, the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool will help you to determine the cause of the engine light,📋read I/M readiness, 🔎Read & clear codes, 💡turn off engine light or MIL, ❄view freeze frame, 🚕retrieve vehicle VIN, 🔋battery voltage test, 📈live data stream,O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc
- 🔍【OBD2 Scanner Built-in 35,901 DTC Lookup】 The OBD2 scanner car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, other obd2 scanner diagnostic tool usually only have 3,000-10,000.the OBD2 Scanner of DTC library covers tens of thousands detailed fault code definitions that will quickly determine the fault cause and the potential problems before they cost you a fortune.you don't need to google the meaning of each fault code.If you are looking to replace a car code reader, this code reader is an excellent option
- ✅【OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner Tool Compatible with 98% Vehicles And 10 Languages】 The code reader OBD2 scanner for cars is designed to be compatible with most vehicles manufactured after 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars. If your car has a 16-pin OBD2 port and was produced within the specified timeline, it should be compatible with the code reader and the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool support languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese
- 👍【Car Scanner Diagnostic offers Convenient Data Printing】The code reader for car offers advanced features such as live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, Connect the OBD2 scanner to your computer to easily print fault data, empowering you to prevent random charges at car repair shops and save valuable time and money. Additionally, WEJOWE offer lifetime free upgrades for the device, ensuring you always have access to the latest features and improvements.
- 💯【Super Compact & What You Will Get】 The OBD2 scanner tool is easy to carrying and storage,With each package, you will receive a canvas storage bag for convenient storage and a 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.
- 🎄【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.
How to choose a good diagnostic scan tools
Does the idea of finding a fantastic diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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: Would it be accurate to suggest that the diagnostic scan tools 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic scan tools.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic 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 diagnostic scan tools.
