Why spend money on an obd2 scanner which isn't reliable? As a professional mechanic, I know how important to have a quality diagnostic obd2 scanner.
But, What is the best obd2 scanner for the money? Which scanner has lots of advanced features and support quick diagnosis like "check engine light" issue?
You will find lots of scanner brands and various ranges of their pricing. Thus, it is not easy to select the best OBD2 scanner that works great. The most popular scanner brands are Innova, Autel, Launch, Foxwell, Actron, etc. As a car owner, you don't need to spend thousands of dollars on a scan tool. But, if you are a mechanic or technician, then you need to spend a lot to get a professional automotive diagnostic scanner. To make things easier, I have listed scanners based on users like DIYers, PRO DIYers, Beginner Mechanics, Advanced Mechanics, etc.
Comparison Chart of the Best OBD2 Scanners
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick | Autel MD802 |
| View Latest Price |
Best Budget Option | Autel AL619 |
| View Latest Price |
BlueDriver LSB2 |
| View Latest Price | |
INNOVA 3160g |
| View Latest Price | |
Autel AL519 |
| View Latest Price | |
Ancel AD310 |
| View Latest Price | |
Actron CP9690 |
| View Latest Price | |
Launch CRP123 |
| View Latest Price | |
Autel Maxisys Elite Diagnostic Tool |
| View Latest Price | |
LAUNCH X431 V+ |
| ||
Innova 3100j |
| ||
FOXWELL NT301 |
| View Latest Price |
Importance of OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner
- The scanner lets you know that if your car is safe for driving or if you need to visit a mechanic right away.
- It provides you with an efficient up-to-date and uniform info in different car settings as needed by EPA regulatory body to ensure minimal emissions.
- It saves your money as you know which part of your vehicle needs to be repaired. You can repair it yourself as well if it’s not a delicate part.
A high-quality scan tool will offer more functions than just reading and erasing fault codes. You may find lots of cheap scanners on the market and these type of tools might end up costing you more. Because most of them don’t give accurate results and fail to read the fault code properly.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying?
- Does it have full code definitions?
- Is it compatible with my car or not?
- Can I upgrade it?
- Does it make it possible to store your data readings?
- What features does the scanner have?
- Is it within my budget range?
- Do I need a code reader or diagnostic scanner?
- What other accessories does the device come with?
- What are other clients saying about this code reader?
Quick Take - Best OBD2 Scanners
In a hurry? Here's a snapshot of the best OBD2 scanners:
Review of the Best OBD2 Scanners
Time to dive into our review of the best OBD2 scanners:
Best Overall:
Autel MD802
If you are looking for the best obd2 scanner for the money, then Autel MD802 Maxidiag Elite is the best scan tool to buy. It is a perfect tool for beginners, DIYers or Pro DIYers. Even beginner mechanics can use this scanner.
Runner-up:
Autel AL619
PROS
CONS
The Autel AL619 autolink diagnostic code reader is an ideal tool for professionals as well as DIY enthusiasts. At such a great price, the scanner is able to cover all 1996 and newer vehicles that are OBD2 and CAN compatible. The device is very easy to use as it has a large display screen with a backlit. This enables the mechanic to read outcomes even in the dark or in dimly lit areas. Use it to read, store, and playback live PCM data stream and live sensor data.
Related: Autel ML619 Review [MaxiLink ABS,SRS,CAN OBD2 Scanner]
The AL619 scan tool is lightweight and very portable. Carry it anywhere without much trouble. Its ability to retrieve generic as well as manufacturer-specific codes sets it above other scan tools in the market. With the multilingual menu, the AL619 OBDII can be utilized by people from different parts of the world. It has Spanish, English, and French languages to choose from.
Features
- Reads, stores, and playback live PCM datastream
- Retrieve and clear codes in supplemental restraint system
- Multilingual menu and code definitions
- Retrieves vehicle information
- Displays monitor and I/M readiness status
- Views freeze frame data
- Read and erase codes on all 1996 and newer domestic, European, and Asian vehicles
Best for the Money:
BlueDriver LSB2
PROS
CONS
As versatile as this scan tool is, it is very simple to connect to your iOS or Android device. It has a BlueDriver sensor and BlueDriver Bluetooth app that you have to connect in order to begin scanning.
The BlueDriver bluetooth professional obdii scan tool performs a wide range of functions such as checking whether the vehicle is ready for a smog test, reads and clears codes, view live data, and read & clear CEL codes, etc. Also, it provides free vehicle-specific repair reports got from a database of more than 6.6 million fixes verified by certified auto mechanics from North America. This is the best obd2 scanner for iphone and android.
The convenience and durability of this diagnostic scan tool make it a favorite to many DIYers as well as professional mechanics. Furthermore, it covers different vehicles that are OBD2 compatible.
Features
4. Innova 3160g
PROS
CONS
Innova is a top brand with outstanding car diagnostic code readers. The Innova 3160 scanner does what it says it does. It is very effective in terms of reading error codes. The results are then displayed on the large display for easy interpretation.
Related: Innova 3140 Review: Latest version 3140e & 3140g
Some of its functions include reading and clearing check engine lights, reset oil light, reads and clear ABS light, reset the battery, and test the charging system. Also, it is compatible with Bluetooth for easy use. If you have the newest car model, you can simply update the diagnostic scan tool over the internet. With a great customer support, you will find this Innova code reader to be very amazing to have. Use it on different OBD2 compatible vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. The Innova 3160g is the best obd2 scanner for home use.
Features
- Reset battery maintenance light and initialization
- It reads and clear check engine light
- Reset oil light on popular OBD2 vehicles
- Stream and record real-time data
- 5-inch display screen
- Bluetooth app compatibility
- Powered by 3 AAA batteries
- Free lifetime updates
PROS
CONS
Approved by technicians as well as mechanics, Actron CP9690 trilingual elite scan tool is a powerful tool for checking the cause of the check engine light.
The scanner reads, playback, and records live data. It is very easy to use with the hotkey definitions and large LCD color screen that displays diagnostic results. The quality code reader always provides accurate and quick outcomes. CP9690 performs various functions like reading manufacturer-specific DTCs, graph engine data, turn off check engine light, and much more. This is the best obd2 scanner for obd1 and obd2 because it supports both.
Related: Actron cp9670 Review: Autoscanner Trilingual OBD II & CAN Scan Tool
It is compatible with OBD2 1996 and newer vehicles. In addition, it has OBD 1 cables for 1984-1995 Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota vehicles and reads engine data for both OBDI and OBDII vehicles. This makes it be versatile and loved by many professional mechanics as they work on different car types and models.
Features
PROS
CONS
- Quickly diagnose and repair your vehicles with the Launch CRP123 obd2 scanner. It supports all the 10 OBD2 test modes, which is a feature that many mechanics look forward to. In addition, it can be updated via the internet by simply connecting the USB cable to a PC.
- Read and clears DTCs, read datastreams, and view freeze frame data
- Read and erase codes on engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS
- It supports DLC location hints/DTC help/Data stream display/Historical data record, and playback
- Supports O2 sensor test on-board monitor test and EVAP system test
- 5-inch TFT color screen
- Built-in menus and code definitions
- Internet upgradeable
- Support large extension memory card
- Support all 10 test modes of OBD2 scan tool
Related: Launch CRP129 Review: ENG/AT/ABS/SRS EPB SAS Code Reader
Also, it covers different OBD II compatible car makes and models that were manufactured from 2006 and newer. Using this scan tool to read and clear fault codes is easy as it has a large LCD screen with a multilingual menu. Choose English, French or Spanish for easy and quick use. Moreover, it allows you to insert a large extension memory card if you have lots of things to save. When you purchase the product, Launch offers the buyer with a one year warranty and a free lifetime software update. Launch is one of the best obd2 scanner brand on the market.
Features
PROS
CONS
Among the diagnostic scan tools that we’ve reviewed on our list, the Launch X431 scan tool is the most diverse and sophisticated code reader. Not only is it costly, but as well it performs a wide range of functions. The Launch X431 is robustly constructed for long-term use.
Also, it has a large display screen for easy reading of diagnostic outputs and erasing of error codes. The color LED display measures 10.1-inches and has a 5MP camera. So, you can use it to take photos. In addition, it comes with a 16GB memory card for storage of results and images captured. The Launch x431 v+ is the best obd2 scanner for mechanics.
The Launch X431 diagnostic scanner is both grease and water resistant. It takes less time to read error codes as it has a 1.4GHz quad-core processor. Unlike other code readers, you can connect this device using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Simply touch on the screen to read or erase different fault codes on your vehicle. A great aspect of this Wi-Fi scan tool is that it covers more than 68 car brands and 220 car models from America, Europe, and Asia. At such a price, this is not a device that everybody can acquire as it is costly. So, it is best suited for industrial and commercial use. But if you can, get it and you will never have to buy another code reader as it is also upgradeable. Launch x431 v+ is a xpensive tool. If you are a mechanic and looking for professional automotive scanner, then you have to spend this amount for advanced features.
Features
8. Innova 3100j
PROS
CONS
The Innova 3100 code reader one of the popular model from Innova brand. The Bluetooth compatible diagnostic scanner is very easy to use with the hot-keys, multilingual menu, and large color LCD screen.
This is a top rated best obd2 scanner to buy. It reads and erase error codes, views freeze frame data, and performs battery and alternator tests.
The 3100j code reader functions on all 1996 and newer OBD II light trucks, cars, SUV’s, hybrid, and minivans.
Actually, it is an ideal tool for startup technicians and mechanics as it quickly determines the cause of the check engine light.
One of the advantages of using this code reader is that it can be used in both well lit and poorly lit places as it is backlit. With its sturdy construction, this scanner will save you the cost of visiting a repair shop.
Search online and fix some of the easy errors found on your vehicle.
Features
- Oil reset feature
- Read and erase ABS and SRS light
- Battery and alternator test
- Quickly determines the cause of the check engine light
- Large color LCD screen with backlit
- Freeze frame data
- Work on all 1996 and newer OBD2 cars, light trucks, SUV’s, hybrids, and minivans
- Multilingual menu
9. Autel AL519
PROS
CONS
Save on the cost of visiting a mechanic by acquiring this reliable and accurate code reader. Autel AL519 scan tool is compactly designed for versatile use. It performs various functions like viewing freeze frame data, retrieving codes, reading and erasing error codes. In addition, this device is portable and can be carried to anywhere. The carry case makes carrying the scan tool to be easy and safe. The large TFT color screen and audio tones enable the user to have an easy time reading error codes and other tests. If you want to buy an affordable but best obd2 scanner then choose this.
Related: Basic but Cheap - Autel AutoLink AL319 Review: OBD2 Code Reader
One of the reasons as to why motorists and DIYers love this diagnostic scan tool is because it is fairly priced and can be used to diagnose different car makes and models. This includes all vehicles built from 1996 and newer. The AL519 scanner will help you get rid of the check engine light by erasing the error codes. It can be used in well lit as well as dimly lit places.
Features
- Retrieves generic codes, manufacturer-specific codes, pending codes, and vehicle information
- It disables check engine lights, clear codes, and resets monitors
- Patented one-click I/M readiness key provides quick state emissions readiness checks and drive cycle verification.
- Reads, records, and playback live sensor data
- Turns off malfunction indicator light
- Views freeze frame data
- Large TFT color screen and built-in speaker
- Carrying case
10. Ancel AD310
PROS
CONS
Ancel AD310 scanner is built for use by startup mechanics, DIYers, and professional mechanics. The sleek and compact code reader has a large LCD screen that is backlit. So, it allows reading of error codes even in poorly lit areas. The AD310 performs various functions despite its fair price. You can use it to view freeze frame data, retrieve vehicle info, read live data, and read & clear error codes for check engine light. This is for both generic and manufacturer-specific codes. This is the best cheap obd2 scanner for home use.
Moreover, the code reader supports all OBD2 protocols including J1850 PWM, CAN, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, and KWP2000. You can use this device on most 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based, and Asian, and newer obd 2 and CAN domestic or import vehicles. This scan tool ensures that the monitor is set before you perform a smog test. It is easy to use and you will save the cost of visiting a mechanic from now and then as you can fix some of the error codes.
Features
11. FOXWELL NT301
PROS
CONS
Even though the Foxwell NT301 obd2 code scanner is offered at a great price, this device performs functions of high-end diagnostic scan tools. On top of that, it is sturdily constructed and can withstand the toughest conditions that the mechanics and technicians work in.
Related: FOXWELL NT630 Review: Automotive ABS, SRS OBD2 Scanner
The large colored screen and built-in speaker make using the gadget be easy as they both provide visual and audio results. You don’t need to have an extra battery as it charges directly from the OBD2 car scanner interface in your car.
Simply set the menu to the language you understand best from one of English, Spanish, French, Swedish, or Portuguese for easy use. You will be able to read and clear error codes from 1996 and newer vehicles from the US, Europe, and Asian vehicles. Just check for compatibility. Then, use it to read and erase DTCs, and several other error codes. This is an amazing tool for DIY enthusiasts as well as professionals.
Features
- Read and clear vehicle error codes for 1996 US-based, 2001 EU-based, and Asian vehicles, and newer OBD2/Eobd and CAN domestic or import vehicles.
- LED screen and built-in speaker
- Read and erase engine fault codes
- Multilingual menu with English, Spanish, French, Swedish, and Portuguese
- 1-year product warranty and free lifetime upgrades
- No need for additional battery
- Reads live O2 sensor/On-board monitor test data
- Reads, records, graphs, and playbacks live sensor data
- And reads freeze frame data
Features of the OBD2 Scanners
Features | Autel MD802 |
---|---|
Works | ALL available systems for most of the European, |
Check Engine Light | |
Freeze frame Data | |
Transmission | |
ABS,SRS,EPB | |
Retrieving I/M Readiness status | |
Live Data | |
Component test | |
ON-board monitor test | |
Oil Reset Service | |
Mode | 6 |
Viewing vehicle information | |
Automatic VIN Acquisition | |
Software Update Option | Yes, Life-time free Update |
Broad Vehicle Coverage | Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota, Honda,Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Scion, |
Warranty | One-Year Warranty |
Price |
Features | Autel AL619 |
---|---|
Works | All 1996 and newer major vehicle models (OBDII & CAN) |
Check Engine Light | |
Anti Lock Braking System (ABS) | |
Freeze Frame | |
Airbag (SRS) Codes | |
Live Data | |
Oil Reset | |
Clears Codes | |
Emissions Readiness | |
Plays back live PCM data stream | |
Vehicle Coverage | GM, Ford, Chrysler, Volvo, VW, BMW, Mercedes, |
Update Option | Free updates |
Warranty | Limited One Year Warranty |
Price |
Features | BlueDriver LSB2 |
---|---|
Works | ALL 1996 and newer vehicles |
Check Engine Light | |
Live Data | |
Freeze Frame | Vehicle snapshot when a code is stored |
Important Vehicle Information | |
Repair Reports | Code Definition, Possible Causes, Reported Fixes (Vehicle-specific for each DTC) |
ABS, Airbag, Transmission, etc | |
Smog Check | Determine if your vehicle is ready for an emissions test |
Mode | 6 mode |
Update Option | Free updates |
Warranty | One year warranty |
Price |
Features | Innova 3160g |
---|---|
Check Engine Light | |
Live Data | |
Freeze Frame | |
Airbag (SRS) Codes | |
Oil Reset | |
Read & Erase Brake(ABS) Codes | |
Emissions Readiness | |
Repair Solutions | |
Battery Test | |
Update Option | Free updates |
Warranty | One year |
Price |
Features | Actron CP9690 |
---|---|
Works | ALL 1996 and later vehicles |
Display | Easy to read color LCD screen |
Check Engine Light | |
Support | OBD I, OBD II |
Powertrain and ABS Vehicle coverage | |
Views freeze frame data | |
Record, playback and graph live engine data | |
Code Connect | |
OBD I cables and coverage | |
Oil light and battery reset | |
Battery system monitor | |
Update option | Yes (Via internet) |
Warranty | 12 months warranty |
Price |
Features | Launch CRP123 |
---|---|
Works | ALL 1996 and later vehicles |
Display | 4.3.5inch TFT color Display |
Eng/Tcm/Abs/Srs | |
Read/Erase codes | |
O2 sensor test | |
Reads, stores Data | |
CAN (Control Area Network ISO 11898) | |
Check Engine Light(MIL) | |
Live data stream Graphical | |
Views freeze frame data | |
DTC Reading and Clearing Displays | |
Prints data via PC | |
On-board monitor test | |
VIN, CIN and CVN | |
Supports all 10 test modes of OBD2 functions | |
Update Option | Lifetime Free Online Update |
Warranty | Two years warranty |
Price |
Features | Launch X431 V+ |
---|---|
Works | Over 68 car brands and 220 car models from America, Europe, Asia |
Operating System(OS) | Android |
View live data | |
Check Engine Light | |
ABS, SRS, Body control module | |
View freeze frame | |
Active Test | |
Tooth Learning/Anti-theft Matching | |
Oil Reset Service | |
Wifi, Bluetooth functionality | |
Battery Register /Battery Maintenance | |
Software Update | 2-Years Free Update |
Warranty | One-year warranty |
Price |
Features | Innova 3100j |
---|---|
Works | All 1996 and newer vehicles |
Live data | |
Oil Light Reset | |
Check Engine Light | |
ABS/SRS Codes | |
Views freeze frame data | |
Emissions Readiness | |
EVAP Codes | |
Repair Solutions | |
Batteries | 3 AA batteries required. (included) |
Software Updates | Free updates |
Warranty | One year limited warranty |
Price |
Features | Autel AL519 |
---|---|
Works | ALL 1996 and newer vehicles |
Display | TFT color screen |
Check Engine Light(MIL) | Yes, determines the cause |
Reads, stores Data | |
Graphs, Records & Plays back OBD2 Live Data | |
Clears Codes & Resets Monitors | |
Views Freeze Frame Data | |
Emissions Readiness Checks | |
ABS, SRS | Coverage for 50+ Domestic, Asian & European Vehicles |
Retrieves Vehicle Information | VIN, CIN and CVN |
Voltage | 12v |
Displays Live O2 Sensor Test Data | |
Get Transmission Codes | |
Software Update Option | Free update online lifetime |
Warranty | One year warranty |
Price |
Features | Ancel AD310 |
---|---|
Display | DTC definitions automatically displayed after reading |
Reads, stores Data | |
Check Engine Light | |
Playbacks live sensor data | |
ABS,SRS,Air bag | |
Clears codes & resets monitors | |
LED Notifications | Red-Yellow-Green LEDs and build-in speaker indicate |
Update option | |
Views freeze frame data | |
Reads live PCM datastream | |
Prints data via PC | |
Foxwell nt301 Vehicle Coverage | Covering but NOT Limited: Buick, Cadillac, Bmw, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, |
VIN Retrival | Automatic VIN acquisition and decoding make it much easier to read manufacturer specific codes |
Software Update | Life-Time Free |
Dimensions | 8.7 x 3.1 x 6.7 inches |
Weight | 2.87 pounds |
Guarantee | One Year Money Back Guarantee |
Price |
Features | Foxwell NT301 |
---|---|
Display | DTC definitions automatically displayed after reading |
Check Engine Light | |
Playbacks live sensor data | |
Views freeze frame data | |
Reads, stores Data | |
ABS,SRS,Air bag | |
Clears codes & resets monitors | |
Reads live PCM datastream | |
LED Notifications | Red-Yellow-Green LEDs and build-in speaker indicate |
Prints data via PC | |
VIN Retrival | Automatic VIN acquisition and decoding make it much easier to read manufacturer specific codes |
Software Update Option | Lifetime Free |
Guarantee | One year Money Back guarantee |
Price |
Features | Autel Maxisys Elite |
---|---|
Works | All 1996 and newer vehicles |
OS | Android 4.4.4 KitKat |
Processor | NVIDIA Tegra® 4 (4-PLUS-1 Quad-core Processor) 1.8GHz with ARM Cortex – A15 CPU |
Display | 9.7” Retina display with 2048X1536 resolution & Capacitive touch screen |
Memory | 2GB RAM & 32GB Embedded Memory |
Sensors | Ambient Light Sensor, G-sensor |
Camera | Rear: 8.0 Megapixel, Autofocus with Flashlight |
Connectivity | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac WIFI |
Input Voltage | DC/12V/3A |
Power and Battery | 3.7V/13600mAH Lithium-polymer battery |
Audio Input/Output | Microphone |
Power Consumption | Max 20W |
Storage Temperature | -20 to +70°C |
Operating Temperature | -10 to +55°C |
WiFi, Bluetooth | |
Protocols | Most OBD1/OBD2 |
Models | More than 80 US domestic, Asian and European |
Check Engine Light(MIL) | |
Playbacks live sensor data | |
Reads, stores Data | |
Clears codes & resets monitors | |
Remote Control Tech Support | |
Get transmission codes | |
Real-Time push message notifications | |
Views freeze frame data | |
Software Update Option | 2-years free update |
Warranty | One year warranty |
Price |
Features | Autel Maxidas DS808 |
---|---|
Operating System(OS) | Android 4.4.4 |
Memory | 32GB |
Display | 7-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen with 1024x600 resolution |
Processor | Cortex-A9 processor (1.5 GHz) |
Sensors | Ambient light sensor for brightness auto changing |
Operating Temp | -10 to 60°C(14 to 140°F) |
Storage Temp | -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158°F) |
Tested Battery Life | Around 4.5 hours of continuous use |
Audio Input/Output | Input: N/A • Output: buzzer |
Connectivity | Mini USB 2.0 • USB 2.0 • Wi-Fi • Micro SD card (supports up to 32GB) |
Power and Battery | 3.7 V/3200 mAh lithium-polymer battery • Charges via 5 VDC power supply |
Battery Charging Input | 5 V/1.5 A |
Oil Reset | |
ABS ,SRS, TPMS, EPB, SAS, DPF, BMS Resets | |
Live data | |
Reset transmission CVIs | |
Injector coding | |
Perform active tests | |
Power Consumption | 500 mA (LCD on with default brightness, Wi-Fi on) @3.7 V |
Vehicle Coverage | More than 80 U.S., Asian and European vehicle |
Models | Acura, Audi, Bentley, Bmw, Bugatti, Benz, |
Update Option | Free Online Update |
Warranty | One-year warranty for any product problems |
Price |
Conclusion
Now that you have gone through our best obd2 scanner review, you should be able to find a code reader of your choice depending on your needs and budget. Consider a brand that offers warranty and the scan tool should have the features that you want. For professionals, I can recommend the Launch X431 scan tool due to its durability and versatility. But for beginners and DIY enthusiast, they can go for the FOXWELL NT301 scanner. It is cheaper but has lots of features to offer. All the best with your new On-board diagnostics auto scanner.
People Also Ask
What is OBD and How Does it Benefit the User?
OBD in full means “on-board diagnostics”. This is a computer-based system built into all vehicle models manufactured from 1996 and latest. The OBD monitors the performance of some of the engine’s main parts, including personal emission controls. If there is an issue, the system presents it in form of a warning “check engine light” that come son. With this signal, the OBD protects the environment and it also lets users know that their car has an issue before it escalates into a bigger problem.
Is My Vehicle Equipped With OBDII?
It is a mandatory in the USA for your vehicle to be equipped with the OBD2 scanner. Identifying if your vehicle has OBDII is very simple. The OBDII in the current vehicles are installed below the driver’s seat. Just pull the seat and see whether the OBD 2 feature is there or not. You can also take the car to the mechanic to check.
What is the Reason of the Check Engine Light Coming on?
When the check engine light comes on and stays on, this means that your car has a problem. The car may be having a problem that causes excessive air pollution, fuel wastage, shortens engine life, etc. You need to address this issue immediately or it will lead to costly repairs.
How to Identify the Best OBD2 Scanner?
It depends a lot on your budget. If you want an advanced features scan tool, then you have to spend $500 or above. For normal users or DIYers can buy a decent scanner under 300 bucks. Support vehicle, Check engine light, ABS, RBS, etc most common features you should look at.
A car owner don't need to spend thousands dollar for a quality scan tool. In this best OBD2 scanner reviews article, I have listed most popular and best selling scanners. Still, have a question? Comment below.