The Best OBD2 Scanners Review & Buying Guide

The check engine light can be a scary thing to see. It's not always an emergency, but it is important to know what the light means.

If you're seeing your check engine light turn on, it could mean that there is something wrong with your car and you need to get it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. But don't worry!

In this situation, you can save yourself from a lot of headaches in the future, invest in an OBD-II scanner!

Whether you’re a do-it-yourself car owner or a skilled technician, the tool assesses auto problems, and some models locate the trouble spot and give you the solution to get it fixed. OBD2 scan tools plug in easily and read messages sent by the car’s onboard diagnostic system.

Every car manufactured after 1996 has a computer chip installed in it to monitor the engine. These car computers send their info to the scanner for reading and analysis.

This article explains why you should buy the best OBD2 Scanner and guides you to choose the best auto scan tool to fit your Budget. Click here to see our #1 pick on Amazon.com

Not Enough Time To Read Our Detailed Guide? Below Are Our Top 3 Best OBD2 Scanner Picks

What is an OBD Scanner, and what do I get for my money?

Let’s start with the name. OBD stands for On Board Diagnostics, which is exactly the description of its function, and the number 2 refers to the second generation of these tools. Ever since the use of On-board Diagnostics II was made mandatory for all vehicles in the U.S., more and more scan tools have been developed.

On-board diagnostic scanners were made mandatory for all motor vehicles in 1996. The OBD2 scan tool is a car diagnostic scanner that warns you when a problem arises in your car. The scan test can reveal problems with your car's transmission, exhaust, oil, and other important functions of your car.

The benefit of owning an OBD II scanner is that the scanner can be used with different vehicles. OBD II scanners use the same communication throughout all manufacturers.

Which OBD2 Scanner Is Suitable for You?

And now, the second question arises what type of OBD scanner is best for you. The answer depends mostly on your skill level. For example, code readers offer the essential capability to interpret and clear codes related to the problems of a vehicle which is equipped with the advanced onboard diagnostic scanner.

However, if you are a highly advanced user and familiar with the detailed know-how of your vehicle, you can go for the best obd2 scanner for the money, the more expensive, precise, and the best scan tools that provide a lot of accurate real-time data related to various mechanical issues and diagnostic trouble codes.

And lastly, be sure to double check whether the top best OBD2 scanner you have selected is truthfully universal and support the protocol used by your vehicle, although in today’s best OBD scanners are generally standardized to be compatible with each manufacturer.

At present, the car market is full of different OBD scan tools with a large-scale variety of price tags.

You might feel confused about deciding which should be the most suitable and best car scanner for you. But don’t worry, we have made a thorough analysis and compiled some of the best products that are currently available in the market. It will save much of your time and effort, and at the same time, help you pick the right choice.

Quick Review of The Top 10 Best OBD2 Scanners for You!

If you want to know how to go about buying an OBD2 Scanner as a win-win deal for both your budget and your car engine, scroll down. Here is a Quick Review of the Top Ten Best OBD2 Scanners manufactured by the best brands on the market.

1) BlueDriver – Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone®, iPad®, Android

Highlighted Features:

• The Professional OBD2 scanner trusted by mechanics and developed by Professional Engineers in North America.
• Officially licensed and certified for Apple and Android devices.
• Comes with a BlueDriver App and a BlueDriver Sensor that work exclusively together to ensure quality.
• Integrated with the capabilities of an expensive handheld scan tools plus the benefits of a smartphone or tablet (free app updates, portability, saving data, interactive graphing of live data).
• Free vehicle-specific Repair Reports drawn from a database of over 4.3 million fixes verified by certified auto mechanics.

Connecting this scan tool to my iPhone or Android devices is effortless. Once I get the BlueDriver device connected to either my Android tablet or iPhone, I get quick access to boundless options and information. Aside from being able to select several metrics and have them displayed real-time, I’m also able to reset the warning codes. One of the selling points of this scan tool is the Smog Readiness Status test. It runs a thorough check of your car and then lets you know if you’re going to pass the emissions test.

One complaint I have is the fact that you would have to pay extra for an App to be able to use some other features. So far, both the app and the hardware are working properly as they should. I’m looking forward to using this scan tool for several years.

2) Autel AL519 Color Screen OBDII/CAN Scan Tool

Highlighted Features:

• Patented one-click I/M readiness key provides quick state emissions readiness checks and drive cycle verificat
• Able to retrieve generic, manufacturer-specific, and pending codes including vehicle information
• Disable check engine lights, clears codes, and resets monitors
• Compact unit is portable, thus it can be taken almost anywhere
• Able to read, record, and playback live sensor data

For the price, this OBD2 scanner is really good. It’s lightweight and has an easy-to-read, colored display. Using this scan tool, I’m able to read trouble codes and likewise get some tips on how they can be fixed. It also gives freeze data and some engine parameters.

This happens at the same time trouble codes are raised. Along with the capacity to reset trouble codes, it gives a live view of information like acceleration, RPMs, and more.

If you want things ready for the smog test, which is often required to renew your automobile insurance, a readiness test may be performed to get details about any pending or permanent trouble codes. This is definitely helpful for those who prefer to do car maintenance themselves.

3) INNOVA 3160 Diagnostic Scan Tool with ABS/SRS and Live Data for OBD2 Vehicles

Highlighted Features:

• Can read “Check Engine” light warnings on all 1996 and newer cars (foreign and domestic), including C.A.N. or Controller Area Network
• Able to diagnose ABS and SRS codes on most 1996 and newer GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, and Honda vehicles
• Can provide SAE enhanced Live Data like views and graphs
• Can record and playback live PCM data streams on screen
• Displays OBD2 Freeze Frame Data and turns off check engine, ABS, and SRS lights
• The unit can be updated using a USB flash drive on a standard Windows® PC
• Includes a scan tool, OBD2 cable, USB cable, soft pouch, and a quick reference guide

The Innova 160 Diagnostic Scan Tool performs exactly as stated. It provides reliable information about your vehicle just like other scanning tools do. The screen can display about 25 pieces of car information at a time.

Moreover, it’s easy to use and is quicker when it comes to generating scan results. One downside I’ve found is the absence of some clear explanations for all of the manufacturers’ trouble codes, including ABS codes.

To interpret the codes, you have to check them online. In addition, there’s less information from the Innova 3160 when you’re checking for the generic codes of some European or Korean vehicles.

4) BAFX Products® – For check engine light & diagnostics, Android ONLY

Highlighted Features:

• Can read “Check Engine” light warnings on all 1996 and newer cars (foreign and domestic), including C.A.N. or Controller Area Network
• Able to diagnose ABS and SRS codes on most 1996 and newer GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, and Honda vehicles
• Can provide SAE enhanced Live Data like views and graphs
• Can record and playback live PCM data streams on screen
• Displays OBD2 Freeze Frame Data and turns off check engine, ABS, and SRS lights
• The unit can be updated using a USB flash drive on a standard Windows® PC
• Includes a scan tool, OBD2 cable, USB cable, soft pouch, and a quick reference guide

The Innova 160 Diagnostic Scan Tool performs exactly as stated. It provides reliable information about your vehicle just like other scanning tools do.

The screen can display about 25 pieces of car information at a time. Moreover, it’s easy to use and is quicker when it comes to generating scan results. One downside I’ve found is the absence of some clear explanations for all of the manufacturers’ trouble codes, including ABS codes.

To interpret the codes, you have to check them online. In addition, there’s less information from the Innova 3160 when you’re checking for the generic codes of some European or Korean vehicles.

5) ScanTool OBDLink MX Bluetooth Scanner for Android and Windows

Highlighted Features:

• Transforms phones, tablets, or PCs into a professional-grade automotive scan tool
• Safe to leave plugged in, won’t drain your car’s battery
• Free Android app and Windows software (compatible with third-party apps such as Torque and DashCommand)
• Works on all 1996+ cars and light trucks sold in the USA except hybrid or electric vehicles
• Supports all 5 OBD-II protocols, plus SW-CAN (GM) and MS-CAN (Ford)

In terms of reliability of performance and delivery of information, the ScanTool is a device you can trust. There’s no question about its accuracy in providing information to diagnose car problems.

What I like more about this scanner are the security features. It has an Auto-Shutoff feature that turns itself off automatically after the car is turned off. I also like how the Torque app informs you once the engine gets to its operating temperature.

6) ScanTool 427201 OBDLink LX Bluetooth Scanner for Android & Windows

Highlighted Features:

• Transforms phone, tablet, or PC into a professional-grade automotive scan tool
• Safe to leave plugged in — won’t drain the car’s battery
• Free Android app and Windows software (compatible with third-party apps such as Torque and DashCommand)
• Works on all 1996+ cars and light trucks sold in the U.S. except hybrid or electric vehicles
• Easy to use, installs in seconds and features hacker-proof wireless security

The OBDLink LX OBD2 scanner is very straightforward. Even novice users won’t have a hard time setting it up for first time use. As long as you know how to pair Bluetooth devices, you’re almost set.

The scanner is also designed to perform real-time monitoring of just about anything in your car, like the speed, oxygen sensor readings, and much more. So far, the Bluetooth connection is stable. Moreover, it works perfectly with other third-party apps.

It’s highly recommended to automotive technicians or auto enthusiasts who are into troubleshooting car problems.

7) Actron CP9680 Enhanced AutoScanner Plus

Highlighted Features:

• With CodeConnect, it quickly pinpoints and prioritizes the solution and not just the code
• Has provided over 4.3 million verified fixes specific to the vehicle’s make and model, year, and engine
• Compatible with OBD-II and CAN vehicles, 1996 and newer
• Includes expanded Asian and ABS code coverage record and playback data stream and on-screen graphing; also compatible with trilingual
• Custom data list for live data and graph live data
• Additional advance features such as freeze-frame data, drive cycle mode, state OBD check, and print data support
• Generic and manufacturer specific code definitions on screen and trilingual support

Actron CP9680A easily recognizes your car when plugged in and it scans fast. Scanner directions are sufficient enough and easy to use. It quickly finds errors and provides the appropriate repair info.

This is made possible by the Code Connect feature that gives information about possible fixes to some known errors. This scan tool has so far worked on all of the cars I’ve tested it on.

However, there have been reports that this device is not compatible with the firmware of certain respective cars. Contact Actron first before purchasing the device to see if it works with your car.

8) INNOVA 3100 Diagnostic Scan Tool/Code Reader with ABS and Battery Backup

Highlighted Features:

• Ability to quickly reveal the cause of “Check Engine” light warnings on any foreign or domestic 1996 and newer car, light truck, or SUV
• Read and erase ABS light trouble codes for most GM, Ford, Chrysler, and Toyota vehicles
• Features a patented all-in-one screen and LED display for quick state emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification
• Automatically refreshes data every 30 seconds when connected to the vehicle, making it easy to verify repair completion
• Battery backup memory provides off-car review and analysis

This INNOVA 3100 Diagnostic Scan Tool is a self-powered device that has the capability to provide any user with important information to troubleshoot car problems.

It can tell you about the pending and current trouble codes and what monitoring tasks have been run. It comes with a booklet that describes how OBDII works. It also includes a code chart for several different cars.

The only downside is you have to pay extra to get information through innova.com about some trouble code definitions, a full diagnostic report, and probable causes.

9) Launch Tech 301050116 ‘CRP123’ ABS, SRS, Transmission and Engine Code Scanner

Highlighted Features:

• Complete domestic, Asian, and European Coverage for ABS, SRS, transmission, and engine
• The enhanced data stream for ABS, SRS, transmission, and engine
• Support for all 10 test modes of OBDII with Enhanced OBDII Mode 6
• View freeze-frame data and I/M readiness monitor status
• Reads and clears codes on engine, transmission (A/T), ABS, and airbag (SRS)

This Launch Tech 301050116 is a great product. It can read and erase SRS codes on a few cars, which is beyond the capability of some other scan tools.

Its software can also be easily updated through the manufacturer’s website. If you have issues using it, you may contact their excellent and friendly customer support team.

Meanwhile, this scan tool does not have an internal battery. The only time it works is when you have it connected to the DLC. You may therefore observe some slow response times.

10) Autel DS708 Automotive Diagnostic and Analysis System

Highlighted Features:

• Extensive vehicle coverage for more than 50 Domestic, Asian, and European vehicle makes
• Complete function capability including live data, ECU programming, and many others
• Wi-Fi update functionality allows for easy software updates and wireless access throughout the workshop
• Immobilizers, key coding functionality, and component activation testing
• Sensor initializations, ECU adaptations, coding, and module set-up functionality

The Autel DS708 device works both as a scan tool and as a diagnostic instrument for your car. Like any other expensive scan tools, this budget-friendly device is capable of providing some important car information.

I’ve used it on several other cars and I was impressed at how it was able to give as much information I need, like the ABS, navigation, instrument cluster, and more. If there’s one thing I’d want to be improved, it’s the menu.

For some reason, the menu is not unified and is a bit confusing. It, therefore, takes a bit of familiarity for the user to efficiently make use of the information.

ultimate guide to buy a best diagnostic scanner

NFOGRAPHIC OBD2 Scanner Buying Guide

Step by Step INFOGRAPHIC from deciding to buy a best Scan Tool to the point of finally ordering one:

To summarize how to go about buying an OBD2 Scanner >> Click Here

What are the benefits of having a Scanner?

There is a wide range of Scan Tools in the market from $50 up to $3000 providing a huge number of diagnostic information and analysis. Here is a bullet list of problems which you can solve by purchasing an OBD2 Scanner:

• The most important warning; is your car safe to continue driving or you should immediately call a mechanic. Bearing in mind that scanners are portable you can easily check your car where ever you are.
• It saves you money. If you are a keen car driver you can diagnose your car before taking it blindfolded to the auto repair shop. Knowing what is exactly wrong with your car will surely cut many unnecessary costs, not mentioning that repair shops will charge you for checking your vehicle with their OBD2 scanners.
• It gives an efficient, up-to-date and uniform data relay in the different car setting as required by a regulatory body known as EPA which was mandated to ensure minimal emissions.
• Lastly, if you want to buy a second-hand car it is essential that you run a complete scan of the vehicle before buying it.

How does an OBD2 Scanner work?

You simply plug in your Scanner into the computer output port of your car. All the cars manufactured after 1996 have a 16- pin plugin connector.

You can just sit at your driver’s seat and plug in your scanner cable near the steering wheel. Immediately the scanner will read and analyze the data coming from the car’s computer telling you if it is safe to continue driving or not.

The OBDII scanner can be plugged to a computer to analyze the problem in more details. Here you have access to many software apps to work on the data received from the Scanner. You can find out the cost of the repairs and even the nearest repair shop to get it fixed.

What problems can a Scanner discover in your car?

This depends on which kind of Scanner you are using. But generally the problems which can be identified are as follow:

• Problems reported by the engine sensors including; air intake, exhaust, carburetor, oil temperature, fuel pressure.
• Problems in relation to the engine’s combustion system. This covers the function of the fuel injectors, injection pumps, turbocharger and the throttle.
• Problems with the function of the ignition and the output systems of the engine. It could be a malfunction in the ignition coil, crankshaft or the timing chain.
• Problems with the exhaust and emission settings, such as overheating.
• Problems with the electrical system, such as the fuse box or the wiring.

What kind of Scanner should I buy?

The difference between a bottom line Scanner at $50 and a cutting-edge Scanner at over $2000 is the kind of codes which they read and analyze.

Basic Scanners only diagnose the “basic on-board codes”(OBD), while there are professional Scanners assessing many more aspects of the engine performance.

They can read data about the brakes anti-lock mechanism, the pressure of the tires or check the safety of the airbag system and many more. Generally, Scanners can be divided into two groups:

Code Readers – Price range of $50

Scan Tools – Price range from $200 to over $3000

Other special features of Professional Scan Tools:

With the surge of High-Tech devices in the car industry, Professional Scan Tools in addition to providing Advance data reading, offer many more features such as:

• Assess to the comprehensive database and troubleshooting procedures providing repair solutions.
• ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) diagnosis, including ABS motor pumps and solenoids, brake switch, speed sensors, and control units.
• SRS Airbag coverage for 1996-2013 GM, Ford, The Chrysler, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and Toyota vehicles.
• Ability to connect to a computer to conduct research online about the codes saved in the memory of the Scan Tool.
• Ability to display graphs of the sensor code readings making it easier to analyze the data.
• Transmission scans.

Famous OBD2 Brands Trending in the market

INNOVA

INNOVA Electronics Corporation with 15 years of experience is one of the leaders in the Auto Scanner industry. INNOVA products are famous for their accuracy and durability. Their products are distributed directly from their base in California.

LAUNCH Tech

LAUNCH Tech, U.S. based in California has advanced to be a strong contender in the production of quality car Scan Tools. Their products are famous for cost-effectiveness and innovation. The company employs 350 highly skilled engineers researching on new designs to meet the growing demands of the customers.

AUTEL US

AUTEL.US is stationed in New York, focusing on the production of diagnostics tools and accessories. They offer a wide-ranging list of basic OBD2 Scan Tools. They are exceptional in developing their products to meet the exact needs of their customers.

Scan Tool

The Scantool.net, LLC is a company striving to produce, affordable yet intricate scan tools. They concentrate on the manufacturing of smartphones and PC based scanners.
They are well known for their strong customer support service.

Actron

Actron is one of the top Scan Tool and Code Reader producers in the market. Their OBD2 Scanners are well known for their quick and accurate data readings. They offer basic Code Readers up to cutting-edge advanced professional Scan Tools.

One of the well-known features of the Actron Scan Tools is the introduction of the “CodeConnect” technology which connects you to a huge database of car diagnosis fixes.

Points to consider when shopping for a best OBD2 Scanner

After deciding on the kind of Scanner you want to buy in your search on the internet you should answer the following questions:

Is it compatible with your vehicle?

You must make sure that the Scanner you are buying works with the computer installed in your car. There are 5 different kinds of communication systems used in OBD2 vehicles and not all Scanners are compatible with all five.

Can you upgrade it?

Each year new car models come into the market. Therefore, if you want your Scan Tool to be compatible fully with new vehicles, you must make sure that the Scanner you are buying has the necessary function to be updated. Professional Scan Tools have this ability although it costs more than $500 for each update.

Most of the cheaper Scan Tools are not upgradable. Also, make sure you inquire about the cost of each upgrade so that you won’t be taken by surprise.

Does it have a full code definition?

Check that the Scanner you are going to buy provides you with a full definition of each code. This is as important as having a How to Use Manual for any device you buy. The Scanner which gives you the definitions will save a great deal of time and frustration.

Can you store your data readings?

One of the special features of professional Scan Tools is that it gives you Live Data readings when the engine is running and you are on the road. If your device lacks the capability to store the data readings it is a thumb down for that Scanner.

Does it fit your Budget?

You have to be aware that the price of Scanners varies a great deal. It is necessary to know for what special feature you are paying extra money.

For example, a Scanner might be couple of hundred dollars more expensive just for the color graphics that it presents which might not be too significant for you. Therefore reading the features of each product in details is a MUST before purchase.

What Items are included in the package?

All Scanners need a connecting cable to link with the vehicle. Also they all need the software to get it running. Without any of these the Scanner is unusable. So make sure you find out what accessories are included in the package and what accessories you should purchase separately.

What is the view of the customers?

When searching on the internet always read the customer reviews in details, both positive and negative. If you have a friend who has a Scan Tool make sure to go and check your decision with him. The technical pit-holes are many and require your careful consideration.

Reading these guidelines it is all too obvious that buying a best diagnostic scan tool in the market is not easy. You reap what you sow, therefore the more time you spend in doing research the better end result you will get.

Check features and prices, read all the Pros & Cons and most important of all read the customer reviews and find out what the buyers say. Spend time online to research about different models and brands. Only then seal your decision and buy your Scan Tool.

Reading these guidelines it is all too obvious that buying a Scan Tool in the market is not easy. You reap what you sow, therefore the more time you spend in doing research the better end result you will get.

Check features and prices, read all the Pros & Cons and most important of all read the customer reviews and find out what the buyers say. Spend time online to research about different models and brands. Only then seal your decision and buy your Scan Tool.

Final Review of the Best OBD2 Scanners

Having your car break down in the course of the journey can in most cases cause a lot of emotional turmoil for most vehicle owners. However, most people used to suffer this phenomenon until the mid-1980s when the regulation to fit the cars with OBD scan machines was passed.

The new brands of OBD2 scanner have the unmatched efficiency to make your journey more enjoyable if you take heed of all the messages it relays. With proper fitting and maintenance, the OBD II scan tools are bound to take vehicle ownership to the next level.

Note: Besides the article about the best OBD2 Scanners, you can click on following links to get more information about Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner and Top Rated Car Diagnostic Tools 2022.