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:
The Ancel AD410 is a diagnostic scan tool that is designed to be compatible with OBD II compliant cars and vehicles. As an OBD2 tool, the AD410 can assist mechanics and vehicle owners with their servicing jobs, and help them uncover any issues within their vehicle systems. In this Ancel AD410 review, we’ll provide an …
The Autel Autolink AL319 is an OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool, designed to assist vehicle owners and mechanics in their servicing and repair jobs. The AL319 scan tool can be used to uncover problems with your vehicles, as well as adjust certain vehicle functions and tune cars to your own requirements. In this AL319 review, …
OBD2 scanners are one of the most valuable tools that a mechanic can own that will enable routine car services to be performed and allow check engine light warnings to be investigated and corrected. The Autel AutoLink AL329 is a scanner that has a great reputation in the car industry for being quick and easy …
Today’s vehicles arrive packed with technology and premium features, but the downside to this is that taking your car in even to get a small issue such as a brake light checked can be an expensive treat. However, thanks to OBD (Onboard Diagnostics) scanners, it is now possible to diagnose small and certain big issues …
For individuals in search of quality and advanced wireless diagnostic auto scanner, the Autel Maxisys MS906BT is a very good fit. The Autel Maxisys MS906BT boasts of such functions as covering codes, actuation tests, ECU, adaptations, and coding, etc. Hence, we have conducted proper research based on various user reviews and expert opinions. This is …
Autel Maxisys MS906BT Powerful Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Review Read More »
The Actron CP9690 is a professional standard diagnostic scan tool that is built with the workshop in mind. Actron are one of the most respected names in the diagnostic scanner marketplace, and this Actron scanner is just one of their excellent scan tools that aim to save mechanics time and money when conducting their vehicle …
Ideal for beginners and DIYers, the ANCEL FX2000 is a premium OBD2 scanner
The Ancel VD500 is an affordable, professional code OBD2 scan tool that can run a variety of diagnostic functions and clear a range of trouble codes. Whether you just need a diagnostic scanner to turn off the oil reset and check engine light, or you want to complete some more complex repairs, the Ancel VD500 …
The Ancel X6 is a bluetooth OBD2 scanner, built with the professional workshop in mind. This diagnostic tool has a wide vehicle coverage, and is able to complete a range of car diagnostics that improves the efficiency of vehicle servicing procedures. This review will take you through an overview of the scan tool, before going …
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile classic enhanced OBD II scanner, the Ancel AD310 is a great option. It’s one of the highest-rated scan tools on the market, and comes with an impressive range of features at an affordable price point. For those looking to quickly diagnose problems with their vehicle, a classic …