If you want to keep your Chrysler running smoothly without having to cart it off to the auto shop, then picking up an OBD2 scanner is the best thing you can do. Luckily for us, there are several OBD2 diagnostic tools on the market made specifically with Chryslers in mind.
Since Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep are all owned by the same parent company, Chrysler scan tools are fully compatible with all of these brands. By plugging a high-quality scan tool into your vehicle, you’ll have access to a range of useful features, including live data streams, error code diagnostics, and reprogramming capabilities.
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Our Top Picks for Chrysler OBD2 Scanners Right Now
When you first look into buying a Chrysler scan tool, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of products on the market. But by looking out for a few key things, the buying process quickly becomes more manageable.
Firstly, you need to ensure that any scan tool you buy is compatible with your vehicle. A product labeled as an OBD2 Chrysler scan tool will be compatible with many Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles built after 1996. If your Chrysler was first sold before this date, then you’ll need to find yourself an OBD1 tool.
You should also keep the feature set in mind when choosing between scanners. If you want to run some ECU coding on your car, securing a tool with this capability is essential. If you just need something to read basic error codes, then you’ll have more options to choose from.
A final thing to bear in mind is some OBD2 scanners may require a PC connection to operate. Specifically, you might need a tool called a “Diesel Laptop.” You can find out more about what diesel laptops do and the best products on the market at OBD Station.
With that said, here are our top picks for Chrysler scan tools:
- Autel Maxisys Elite
- WiTech Micropod 2
- Foxwell NT301 Professional Scanner
- Autel MaxiCOM Scanner
- iCarsoft CR PRO
- Launch Creader VII+
1. Autel Maxisys Elite
The Maxisys Elite is one of Autel’s flagship products. It’s also one of the best tools around for Chrysler vehicles and will work with any Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep manufactured after 2018. The Maxisys Elite connects to your car’s OBD port via a wireless connection, giving you the freedom to walk around the vehicle while diagnosing problems.
The scan tool features over 36 different service functions. This Chrysler diagnostic software can read and erase error codes, display ECU information, provide live data streaming, and much more. ADAS Calibration is a particularly great feature, which allows the user to reconfigure parking sensors and other driver assistance functions.
Pros:
- Extended battery life & intelligent power saving
- 10-inch full-color screen
- Can perform ECU coding, IMMO, ABS bleeding, A/C initialization, Auto VIN, oil reset, and injector programming
Cons:
- Chrysler 12+8 Adapter needed for vehicles with a Secure Gateway Model
- Only usable for cars manufactured after 2018
2. WiTech Micropod 2
The WiTech Micropod is a simple, affordable diagnostic tool packed with useful features. This device is an updated version of the WiTech Pod scanner, extremely popular amongst DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The Micropod 2 has taken the crown of the premier OEM diagnostic and programming tool for dealerships, mechanics, and roadside repair teams.
The scanner will work well with any Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Fiat OBD2-compliant vehicle. The tool itself plugs directly into the OBD of a car and outputs data to an external computer. Although this means you’ll need a PC to use the device, you’ll have access to extremely accurate live data plotting, a fantastic error code database, and a wide range of other service functions.
Pros:
- Small & pocket-sized for convenient storage
- No smart cables are required
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Provides live data insight into your Chrysler diagnostic software
Cons:
- Requires a PC connection
- Cannot operate with Android & iOS software
3. Foxwell NT301 Professional Scanner
The Foxwell NT301 is another scan tool widely used in professional automotive settings. It’s also an exceptional device for DIY mechanics, offering impressive features such as live freeze frame data, an emissions checker, and an incredibly intuitive user interface.
One of the best things about the NT301 is that it provides accurate trouble code definitions as it detects them. There’s no need to spend time trawling forums to find out what your codes mean.
Pros:
- Compatible with any vehicle made after 1996
- On-screen DTCs and definitions help tell you why your check engine light is on
- Has a 3-foot long connector cable to make it easy to use
- Supports all ten service modes on your car
Cons:
- Does not perform ABS, SRS, or transmission diagnostics
- Does not come with a protective case
4. Autel MaxiCOM Scanner
The Autel MaxiCOM is one of the most versatile OBD2 scanners on the market. It works with over 80 car makes manufactured after 1996, including the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and FIAT group.
This diagnostic tool has a fantastic 7″ LCD touch screen, making navigation an absolute breeze. In seconds, you can switch between service functions such as SAS calibration, oil reset, battery registration, and even IMMO key coding. The MaxiCOM is also built to an incredibly high standard and can certainly take a beating in the workshop.
Pros:
- 32GB of memory and a 7″ LCD touch screen
- Reasonably priced, especially for features such as IMMO and fuel pump control module coding
- Standard 1 year warranty
- Standard 1 year of free software updates that add more car diagnostic software
Cons:
- Updates can be expensive after the first year
- Wireless connection does not use Bluetooth
5. iCarsoft CR PRO
Like the Autel MaxiCOM, the CR PRO from iCarsoft has been designed to offer a wide range of compatibility. It’s an ideal tool for DIY enthusiasts who want to have a go at repairs at home, but it’s also suitable for professionals, thanks to its impressive feature set.
The CR PRO completes all the standard OBD2 functions you’d expect from a scanner, such as trouble code reading and check engine light disabling. But it’s the additional functions where the device stands out from the crowd: electronic parking brake (EPB) maintenance, ABS bleeding preparation, and injector coding are a few examples of these features.
Pros:
- Supports oil service reset
- Fast connection & easy to read trouble codes
- Connects via USB to PC
- Supports all ten service modes on your car
Cons:
- Need a WiFi connection to connect to USB
- No Bluetooth connection
6. Launch Creader VII+
Launch is one of the most well-respected diagnostic brands on the market, and the Creader VII+ is one of their best products. With functions such as live data streaming and accurate error code reading, the Creader has all the essential tools a mechanic needs to diagnose vehicle problems.
The device is compatible with a wide range of car makes and models, including the Dodge and Chrysler vehicle brands. It’s an affordable entry into the diagnostic world and is a tool you can always rely on to get the job done.
Pros:
- Inexpensive – only costs about $130.
- Provides clear definitions for each code, making them easier to read
- Wide range of vehicle coverage, including Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep
Cons:
- PC connection only – cannot connect to a Mac, Android, or iOS device
- Only compatible with vehicles built after 2006
Why Should You Get An OBD-II Scanner for Your Chrysler?
One of the biggest reasons to buy an OBD2 scanner is that it can save you a ton of time and money. Taking your car to the auto shop every time it has an issue can be a pain, as well as a drain on your wallet. Being able to diagnose problems quickly will help you decide whether you need to consult a professional or if you can attempt the repair yourself.
OBD2 scanners can catch a wide range of vehicle issues before they develop into something more serious. Whether your car has a problem with the transmission, fuel injection control module, throttle body alignment, or the steering angle sensor, a scan tool will help you uncover it.
Some of the best OBD2 tools will even let you perform ECU coding and reprogramming on your Chrysler. This handy feature gives you a whole new level of access to your vehicle. However, we always recommend that you do plenty of research and consult professionals before attempting any ECU coding procedures.
Learning How to Read OBD2 Scanners for Chrysler
To summarize, it’s clear that there are plenty of reasons to invest in an OBD2 scanner for your Chrysler. But, how do you read codes from your Chrysler scan tool?
At OBD Station, we’re here to help you learn more about OBD2 scanners and how to use them effectively. Our website is the best place to stay up to date on all the latest OBD2 news and pick up great DIY troubleshooting tips.
