The 10 Best Obd Scanners Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII
With the NT301 OBD2 Scanner, you can scan and read data live from your vehicle with a single device. No battery required, the device is charged directly from the 16-pin DLC connector in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and one of the best gifts for home or auto mechanics. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner offers the most comprehensive coverage with live parameters such as ABS, SRS, TPMS, etc. It also delivers more live parameters than any other scan tool. The OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner is compatible with many popular apps such as FORScan and Torque. Read Review
3. Best Adjustable: ANCEL VD500 OBD II Diagnostic Scanner for Volkswagen VW Audi Skoda
The Ancel VD500 OBD II Diagnostic Scanner for Volkswagen VW Audi Skoda makes it easy to keep your car in top-notch condition. This diagnostic tool provides life-time free software updates to fix the latest bugs or add new parameters. Simply download the software from the official website, then follow on-screen instructions to install it. Read Review
4. Best Reliable: INNOVA 6030P OBD2 Scanner ABS Code Reader-Check Engine
With the Innova 6030P, you can test your vehicle’s charging system for battery and alternator voltage. This tool features a built-in computer that draws a quick reading of your car’s battery and alternator voltage. After this, it provides an instant OBDII Code Readout and location of the problem. It also includes a code reader with ABS codes (check engine), MIL light, & emissions diagnostic codes. Read Review
After reading this article you will know which are the best OBD devices to use while servicing your vehicle. Whether you own a car or want to become a mechanic, servicing cars is an essential part of owning one. If you have access to a garage then that’s even better; however, servicing your car without an access to one is not as challenging as you might think.
It is important that you check the condition of any OBD device before purchasing it so that you know the reliability of the brand. Some devices can be had for very little money and others cost several hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Therefore when checking for reliable brands, make sure you do some price comparison first. Keep reading this article and find out which are the best OBD devices that serve various automotive repair needs from home mechanics and auto enthusiasts alike.
We think FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.
RELATED: We've found the top best audi obd2 scanner based on 6,395 customers’ feedback. Our top picks & buying guides help you to get budget-friendly products.
Products Suggest
【Home Necessity】Open to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and one of the best gifts for Home and Autoshop Mechanics.
【Accuracy & Streams】Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
【Please Note】Dear customer, if you are not pleased with your NT301 and choose to return it, please kindly mark it unsellable to avoid an used one is resold again to other customers. Appreciate very much!
【Worthy to Own】Recommended by Mechanic Scotty Kilmer on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen, Free Lifetime Update and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team.
【Warm Tips】NT301 car scanner can be used directly with no need for registration or update, as it is already the latest version. Your Foxwell's screen is with a tightly-fitting screen protector. If any scratches are found, just tear off the screen protector from the upper left or upper right corner. :)
【Smog Check Helper】Read/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident emissions test.
【Vehicle CEL Doctor】The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, locate bad O2 sensors, access to emissions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle.
Clear Check Engine Light and get more live parameters (ABS, SRS, TPMS, etc) than any other scanner
Recommended adapter for FORScan, Torque, BimmerCode, Dashcommand, AlfaOBD, Carista and many more
Enhanced OEM support for Ford, GM, Mazda, Nissan/Infinity, Toyota/Lexus/Scion, Honda, Hyundai, Kia
Over-voltage and battery drain protection, firmware updates
Turn your iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC into a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool
The VD500 diagnostic offering for Volkswagen vehicles covers the following vehicles: VW (CC, EOS, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Passat, Phaeton, Polo, Rabbit, Sharan, Tiguan, Touran, Touareg); Audi (A3, A4, A6, A7, A8, A5, Q3, Q5, Q7, R8, RS3, TT, RS, RS5, S4, S6); Skoda (Octavia, Rapid, Yeti, Kodiaq, Fabio, Superb); SEAT (Leon, Ateca, Ibiza, Altea, Cushion, Cord, Alhambra) Diagnostics.
The VD500 OBD2 scanner is specifically designed to diagnose Volkswagen Group (VW/Audi/Skoda/ SEAT) 12-volt 16-pin vehicles, but can also be used with other 12-volt (non-Volkswagen) and light trucks (non-electric) vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later that are OBD II -compliant with standard 16-pin OBD II protocols (J1850 VPM, J1850PWM, ISO9141, KWP 2000 and CAN).
With English and German as display languages, this diagnostic tool provides life-time free software updates to fix the latest bugs or add new parameters. Simply download the software from the official website, then follow on-screen instructions to install it.
For Volkswagen (VAG) vehicles diagnostics, the device can not only read and clear codes on engine, ABS, transmission, SAS (not all cars), ESP, TPMS and other systems, but also reset the oil, brake pad and throttle position adaption.
For other OBD II vehicles (non-Volkswagen), the VD500 can read and clear fault codes, display fault code definitions, turn off the CEL (check engine light) and retrieve VIN information ONLY.
DO IT YOURSELF---Not only can you read codes to diagnose your car problem directly, you can also see key information about your vehicle in real time (RPM, Oil Temp, etc.) to aid in diagnosis. And we are glad to tell that Innova 6030P has been selected to "Amazon Editorial Recommendations" as "Best OBDII Scanners" and "Amazon's Choice Code Reader". :)
CEL & ABS FIX FOR FAMILY---Compared to other complicated scanners on the market, Innova 6030P obd2 scanner is designed for all US family at an affordable price to assist with the most common automotive warning lights issues, namely check engine light(CEL) and ABS(brake) light faults.
DEVELOPED IN USA---Buy with Confidence. Innova 6030P car scanner empowers the home mechanics with its professional-level functionality but entry-level difficulty, for it is designed and developed in the US and supported by unmatched technical assistance from a staff of all ASE certified technicians. At the same time, it is also the perfect gift for your family and friends. ;)
GET RID OF ANNOYANCE---During this difficult time, it can be annoyed when you found the warning lights on. With Code Severity Levels function of 6030P ABS scanner, you can quickly identify if your vehicle needs an immediate fix or if it can wait until you get home to fix it yourself.
BATTERY TEST TO SAVE TIME---Innova 6030P enhanced scan tool provides battery & alternator tests to check the performance of a vehicle's charging system. It does so by checking if the batteries and alternators are in line with voltage specs recommended for the vehicle. When troubleshooting a no start/hard start condition, carrying out this test really helps in knowing where to look, hence saving time.
WARM TIPS---Dear customer, your Innova's screen is with a tightly-fitting screen protector. If any scratches are found, just tear off the screen protector from the upper left or upper right corner. :) If you are not pleased with your innova 6030P code scanner and choose to return it, please kindly mark it unsellable to avoid an used one is resold again to other customers. Appreciate very much! For any issues, contact us directly for a fast reply and solution by clicking "Romondes" the seller. :)
MADE FOR BIMMERCODE and recommended by the BimmerCode Team (app sold separately)
EASY IN-APP PAIRING TO IOS & ANDROID, advanced sleep mode and overvoltage protection allow OBDLink CX to be left plugged in
ROCK-SOLID CONNECTION avoids data corruption and dropped packets, won’t brick your ECU
100% COVERAGE of vehicles, protocols and advanced features supported by BimmerCode
BimmerCode app not included in purchase price
FREE OBDLINK APP — monitor live parameters, perform diagnostics, clear check-engine light
EASY SELF-DIAGNOSIS OF EMISSION STATUS AND OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Know your smog check results before your state does. This car check engine light reader determines whether you’ll pass a state vehicle smog test. This OBD2 scan tool can also provide trip cycle procedures for completing your smog check. This engine reader includes functions for ABS (Brake) to make sure you’re always driving safely.
LIVE DATA FOR MORE ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS - With the Innova 5210 obd scanner live data you can see your vehicle’s essential information like RPM, speed, and oil temperature in real-time to help identify and correct problems. You can also check and test your battery and alternator, so you know whether you need to bring your car to a technician or not.
PREMIUM OBD2 CODE READER WITH ENHANCED COVERAGE AND FUNCTIONALITY - This car diagnostic tool empowers home mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, and service & repair technicians with professional-level functionality. It is a vehicle code reader that reads and clears OBD engine codes and displays all vehicle information from when a trouble code was triggered. This Innova scan tool supports English, Spanish, and French.
MAINTAIN PEAK PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY ON THE ROAD - The 5210 OBD2 Scanner helps you easily find the problem and fix the problem. Use the mobile application RepairSolutions2 on Apple App Store or Google Play for real-time solutions and fixes to your automotive issues. With this app, get verified fixes, find and purchase the exact part required for repair, view maintenance schedules, buy parts, receive technical bulletins, dealer and safety recalls, and access to Innova’s best-in-class database.
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE WITH USA DESIGNED AND SUPPORTED PRODUCTS - Our California-based, ASE-Certified Customer Support Team is glad to assist you as you navigate through this product. It's a perfect diagnostic car scanner for all cars compatible, use it on any foreign or domestic 1996 or newer OBD2 car, light truck, SUV, or hybrid vehicle. Questions? We’re here to assist you.
🔥【Powerful 5 RESET FUNCTIONS】+【Get Work Done Efficiently】2022 New Ver. scan tool NT624 Elite ADDS NEW SPECIAL FUNCTIONS--ABS Bleeding/SAS Calibration/Throttle Matching at the base of EPB&Oil Reset. Before the trip to mechanic, the foxwell nt624 elite can do deeper diagnosis for ABS/SAS/Throttle/Oil/EPB system and react with accurate data in minutes. Compared with auto repair, the code reader for cars can save some unnecessary repair fee and long repair time.
🌻【Accurate & Intuitive All System Diagnosis】This obd2 scanner checks not only the basic system like ABS/SRS/Engine/Transmission, but also diagnose thoroughly on all available systems to read/clear codes, turn off flashing warning lights on dashboard like EPB/SAS/ESP/Suspension/Headlamp/Car radio/Center lock etc.. This obd scanner diagnostic tool is easy to use and friendly to novice and amateur mechanic, even for those who are not familiar with car diagnostic field.
⚠️【Warm Purchase Note】If you encounter incompatibility or defective issues, kindly provide the model, year, VIN of your vehicle info. via Amazon message immediately to us. Our staff and engineer will help you. Please attention the Foxwell car scanner only have 5 special reset functions mentioned above. It doesn't have IMM key fobs, Crankshaft Relearn, Battery codes Reset,TPMS coding or programming. As the Airbag, it only can clear fault codes, cannot clear crash data.
✅【Wide Car Compatibility + Fantastic Auto VIN】The NT624elite foxwell scanner can diagnose over 60(1000+vehicles)worldwide mainstream car makes(USA/ASIA/EUROPE) of their available car systems, find the root cause of warning light and reset it via 5 popular reset service. With the featured auto VIN scan, the obd2 scanners can read accurate vehicle info and help you resolve compatibility issues. Easily, so you don’t need to put the VIN manually.
👍【Multiple Display of Live Data + DTC Code Definition Explanation】FOXWELL NT624e automotive scanner diagnostic tool can get car live data with Text and Graphics. From the data of oil temp, pressure, transmission temp, engine speed, engine coolant temperature, and short-term fuel trim, you will know which car part is abnormal. And these data can be shown in a single graph, multi- graph, and merge two graphs. It’s convenient for car owner to purchase auto parts and replace it by yourselves
🍀【Seller Warranty 1 Year + Data Record and Playback & Print】The update tool FoxAssist allows you to update & uninstall software, save & print data, gain more available vehicle models and language on the original basis free lifetime. OBDZON offers 1-year warranty for any quality problems. Any update issues and compatibility issues can be sent via Amazon message.
🍁【Comprehensive Applicable People Range】 +【No Subscription fee】The obd2 scanner diagnostic tool takes the user-oriented and hot keys design, so the foxwell nt624e code reader is easy to operate and do quick scan for home mechanic, DIYER, novice, amateur mechanic, dealer and auto repair shop. Besides, this automotive scanner is free to update lifetime, no need to pay extra 200+$ software fee every year. It can help you save time & thousands of dollars in diagnosis and auto repair!
Advanced Version of AL319: Compared with AL319，MS300 and MS309, ML329 code reader add the Advanced AutoVIN Function to give the details of the given car, and brings you convenience in testing the car models after 1996 (including Ford, Honda, VW etc.)
Quick Accurate Info Retrieval: the scan tool also offers I/M Readiness to quick check the emission-related systems healthy status and drive cycle verification, and it can also read Freeze Frame Data to check the problems quickly
Lifetime Free Online Update: This OBD2 Scanner code reader comes with free lifetime online update for timely fix potential bugs, via a Mac-based or Windows-based computer. 12 months warranty from the date of purchase and lifetime free update are offered by this Automobile OBDII scan tool
Plug-and-Play: No built-in battery with ML329 code reader, and no worry about the battery drain. After the scan tool is plugged into the car, Quick diagnostic results will be displayed in the TFT color display which shows DTC definitions more clearly
Quick Read/Clear Codes: This OBD2 scanner can retrieve generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes, and clear DTCs thus turning the annoying MIL off
This easy-to-use tool is perfect for both novice and moderately experienced do-it-yourself mechanics who want to determine the cause of Check Engine Lights without relying on a repair shop
Bosch OBD 1000 reads engine Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) on ALL 1996 & newer import/domestic vehicles sold in the USA (OBD II & CAN) as well as 1994-1995 OBD II compliant vehicles
Gives the user the ability to quickly determine the cause of a Check Engine light coming on - once repairs are made, PocketScan allows the user to clear the DTCs and turn off the Check Engine Light
PocketScan also displays the number of DTCs, Malfunction Indicator Light status, and Emissions status
Gives the user the ability to quickly determine the cause of a Check Engine light coming on - once repairs are made, PocketScan allows the user to clear the DTCs and turn off the Check Engine Light
【Live Data】 Monitor your vehicle’s health in real time. Understand on-going issues as well as expected future problems such as oil change and maintenance schedules.
【Modern Features】 Get access to professional features such as an all system scan normally available only on high-end scanners. Read and clear ABS, SRS, check engine light, and more fault codes. Reset oil lights, view brake pad life, oil life, tire pressures, and transmission temps.
【Buy With Confidence】 Compatible with 1996 or newer OBD2 vehicles. All of Innova’s products are American-based and have been researched at state-of-the-art facilities. We are America’s No.1 diagnostic tool brand.
【Fix With Confidence】 Scan and diagnose DTCs with pinpoint accuracy through Innova’s car code reader. Get real solutions for your car’s specific make and model verified by ASE Master Technicians.
【Easy Application】 Innova’s in-app features will tell you exactly what the problem is and how to properly diagnose it with professional advice.
Our Tips to decide which one among best obd scanners is the best
Researchers all know how difficult it is to make a decision when there are so many options. It's something that originally stood out, and you want to get the most bang for your buck, but our advice will help you make good decisions.
Before making a purchase, please read the following key factors to save oneself time and prevent trouble later.
Code Reading
If the scanner's screen is too small it will not be possible to clearly define every check engine light code. You might consider getting a bigger screen for better definitions.
Information Processing
Connectivity
Compatibility
You want your car to be included when you are choosing the right scan tool. These devices should have most of the domestic brands such as Toyota and Ford. You will need to search for scanners that are specifically designed for your particular vehicle if it is a foreign model.
Scanner
O2 Sensor Test
Live Data Scanning
Live scanning can be a very powerful tool because it allows you to track the vehicle over time and pinpoint potential issues before they cause an issue. You can, for example, determine why your vehicle is losing fuel mileage.
Complete OBD Support
The canner can show freeze frame data, and it can also clear DTCs and free frame data. The canner should have an EVAP function if you want to start your vehicle's EVAP leak test. This function is not supported by most OBD2 instruments.
Types Of OBD2 Scanners
OBD-II scanners can be plugged directly into an OBD port using a cable. It is an excellent option to scan a small area with no battery power. However, you won't be able to drive around your vehicle while working on the engine bay. Many wired scanners come equipped with a USB cable that can be connected to a computer to translate codes.
WIRED
Wireless connectivity allows you to connect to your car from anywhere and cut out the need to wire. To connect to another device or application, wireless code scanners can be connected via Bluetooth or WiFi. Although this can be challenging to setup initially, it is incredibly convenient when you are working on your vehicle.
RELATED: We've researched 6,387 customer reviews to create a list of 10 best obd2 scanners from well-known brands for you.
FAQs
Are Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners Any Good?
Bluetooth OBD2 scanners offer more functionality and flexibility. They can be used to read and enter data via a smartphone, tablet or laptop. Bluetooth can be imperfect, just like any other wireless app. It is possible for connections to drop, or become difficult to establish. Bluetooth devices can be range sensitive. Bluetooth devices are range-sensitive. What works one way may not work the next.
Can OBD2 scanners be left plugged in?
The scanners draw very little power so leave them plugged in to a running car. This could eventually drain the battery. One manufacturer suggests that you don't leave your product connected to the OBD2 port. Make sure you do this first.
How Many Types Of OBD2 Scanners Are There?
Three types of code readers are available. The cheapest code readers are available. These scanners will tell you what's wrong, and that's it. The full-featured scanner is an upgrade to that. These scanners provide more detailed information on the vehicles systems. Professional OBD2 scanners are available with more functionality, greater diagnostic power and additional features.
Where Is The OBD2 Port?
It's easy to locate your car's OBD2 port and hook it up to your scanner. Look underneath the steering wheel, and under the paneling. This is usually located to the left side of the steering wheel, and connects underneath the dash.
How Accurate Are OBD2 Scanners?
The scanners are accurate in large part. It can be difficult to decipher the codes. You can use full-featured scanners to do this, both natively and through tablet or smartphone apps.
Can You Use A Scan Tool While Driving?
You can use your OBD2 scanner tool while you drive once you have it hooked up. Although you should be cautious not to cause an accident while using the OBD2 scan tool, it can provide valuable information during troubleshooting.
You can view these data with the scanner tools when you return from a drive.
Is It Worth Buying An OBD2 Scanner?
OBD2 scanning can be a cost-saving option. However, most major parts shops will offer OBD2 scans at no charge. You may also have the opportunity to take the scanner into your garage to complete the job yourself. It is important to make a realistic estimate of how frequently you will use each tool.
When Do You Need An OBD2 Scan Tool?
An OBD2 scanner tool will tell you the meaning of check engine lights on your car. OBD2 scanners can read engine light codes but not transmission codes or ABS codes.
These capabilities are available in some OBD2 scan tools, however, this feature is not part of the OBD2 scanner.
Do OBD2 Scanners Work On All Cars?
These scanners are expected to be compatible with all cars and light trucks made after 1996, when OBD2 was established. However, there are very few exceptions. Some vehicles manufactured before 1996 have OBD2 systems. However, it is best to verify with the manufacturer details before purchasing a scanner.
What Can An OBD2 Scanner Do?
Two things can be done by the most basic models: find out why a check engine light came on and then turn it off. Higher-end models are able to do this as well. They can also check hundreds of functions and perform dry runs.
Conclusion
Follow these guidelines to ensure that you purchase best obd scanners in 2024. Take into account what characteristics are most essential for your topmost issue right now, and then look into different products that meet those requirements. If you are unable to choose a product, please see BOSCH Automotive Tools 1300 Scan Tool with Enhanced OBD II Capability for another option.
With this advice, you should be able to find a great new product with much less difficulty! Do you have any inquiries? Please notify us as soon as possible.
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