Find a Code Reader and Scan Tool that perfectly fits your needs and pocket in 2020 from the reviews below.
The products listed in the reviews were tested and reviewed by Tim Miller, an automotive mechanic, and blogger in Denver, Colorado.
FOR CAR BRANDS:
* BY FUNCTIONALITY:
– Best OBD1 SCANNERS
– Best OBD2 Scanners
– Best OBD2 BLUETOOTH Scanners
– Best OBD2 Scanners with ABS SRS
– Best BI-DIRECTIONAL Scan Tools
– Best ELM327 Adapters
– Best Heavy-Duty TRUCK Scanners
– Best Transmission Code Readers/Scanners
– Best PROFESSIONAL Automotive Diagnostic Scanners
SCAN TOOL BRANDS:
Cannot find what you want? Send an email to timmiller.obdscanner@gmail.com, tell us about your needs and we will recommend the best choice for you.
That is a hard question to answer, as good scanners come in a variety of prices, with some being more affordable than others. A good scanner can cost less than $100, but it can also cost well over a thousand dollars.
There are certain things that will affect how much a scan tool costs – for example, whether the scan tool has Bluetooth functionality, how many vehicles it can be used on, as well as how many additional features it has.
A scan tool is a car diagnostic device that has a number of features. It usually includes a code reader, has the ability to read and sort live data, and contains some kind of knowledge base.
A professional scan tool includes more or less the same things, the difference being that the knowledge base is a lot more extensive, and they often include some other diagnostics tool, such as a built-in scope or milimeter.
Scan tools perform a variety of tasks, with their main function being reading and clearing codes. You can plug a scan tool into an OBD1 or OBD2 socket.
Some of the things they do include storing and playing back live data, presenting data in a graph form, reading both generic and specific for a manufacturer code, providing definitions of trouble codes, as well as providing you with troubleshooting procedures and tips.
A good can help you identify issues with your vehicle by providing you with data from different sensors. Once you test drive your vehicle, you will be able to go back to a recording from it and focus on the one you need to find out what the problem is.
There isn’t one answer to that, as what scan tool will be the best for a person depends on several factors, with the most important one being the brand of your vehicle and what you need your scan tool to do.
There are also some other things that you need to take into consideration – for example, if you want it to have Bluetooth functionality or if you want your scan tool to be more versatile and work on a variety of vehicles manufactured in different years.
Every mechanic will have a scan tool that they like to use, so picking out just one or two would be hard. However, there are a few that we consider to be the best for professional use. Those are:
In the end, however, which scan tools a professional will use depends solely on their personal preferences.
That depends. If you do your own mechanic work, then it is definitely worth it, as it makes it easier to know what is wrong with your vehicle. Keep in mind, though, that the basic scan tools usually display only the engine codes, while the more advanced models show issues with all the systems in your car.
Yes, all OBD2 scanners can both read and clear codes. It is very easy to do, and here is how you can do it:
Are you looking for simplistic and easy-to-use pocket scanner to get that Check Engine light turned off? Do you want a reliable scan tool that will quickly display diagnostic trouble codes? Are you on the hunt for a low-cost, feature-packed scanner? If so, you’re going to want to keeping on reading our Actron cp9125 review …
Are you a mechanic looking for a new automotive diagnostic scanner for your repair and service shop? Want a fast and reliable scan tool with excellent vehicle coverage? Then you’ve come to the right place. The Autel MS906 automotive diagnostic scanner is a favourite among professional technicians, offering accurate readings with an easy to use …
If you’re looking to upgrade your Professional Automotive Programmer and Scanner, the Autel MaxiIM IM608 might be exactly what you need. It is one of the latest models available, and comes with a variety of features to suit all your requirements. As an all-in-one diagnostic tool, it’s ideal for automobile technicians and provides in depth …
Whether you’re a new customer to Autel or a loyal purchaser, this review will provide a comprehensive and easily understandable outline of the Autel ts-508 in this TS508 review. As any professional will know, Autel are a leading company in the production of car diagnostic tools. Unsurprisingly, their latest offering does not let them down. …
Are you a car mechanic looking for a great quality car problem scanner? Or are you simply a DIY car enthusiast looking for scan tools that can make your life with your car easier? Then read this review of the Autel Maxicheck MX808 to see why this is the car scanner device for you. Installed …
Looking for a highly advanced and professional diagnostic scan tool and automotive code reader to tell you why that pesky check engine light keeps appearing? Need to find a reliable scan tool that displays easily understandable trouble codes efficiently? Seeking a scanner more than capable of performing even the most complex of diagnoses with a …
Veepeak OBD2 scanners are quite popular for a lot of reasons. The company is known to make customer-friendly products that are also very affordable. You can find a wide range of Veepeak scanners on the basis of their features. The basic ones allow you to check engine codes, perform smog tests, etc. The real test …
6 Most Powerful Compact Veepeak Scan Tools Review 2021 Read More »
Picking a scan tool is not simple, and it is always helpful to have a team of experts give you a clear view on what you need. If you are having engine problems, specifically those having to deal with ABS or SRS systems, this is a great option. The Autel Autolink AL619 will give you …
Autel Autolink AL619: Professional ABS/Air Bag OBD2 scanner Review Read More »
If you’re looking for the best Bluetooth OB2 scanner, look no further than the BAFX Product OBD2 Scanner. And here’s why! It rings in with a ton of premium features as well as can detect issues with any vehicle manufactured after 1996 in the USA. Why Choose the BAFX OBD2 Scanner? BAFX is one of …
BAFX Product OBD2 Scanner: Perfect Bluetooth Mechanic for Android Read More »
Are you looking for the perfect tool to help you not only diagnosis your vehicle, but also program new functionalities? If these two things match your search criteria, I would suggest having a look at the Autel Maxidas DS808. Of course, there are multiple bi-directional scan tools on the market that may meet these …
Autel Maxidas DS808: Budget-Friendly, Professional-Grade Scan Tool Review Read More »