On-Board Diagnostic Scanners, are diagnostic tools used to read and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) stored in a vehicle’s computer system.
These codes can indicate issues with the engine, transmission, emissions control system, and other critical vehicle components. OBD-II Scanners can be connected to a vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) port to retrieve the codes, allowing mechanics or do-it-yourselfers to diagnose problems quickly and accurately. Some advanced OBD-II Scanners can also provide real-time data, freeze frame information, and other features to help diagnose and repair vehicles.
1 – BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool
BlueDriver provides accurate and verified repair solutions for your specific vehicle from a database of millions of repairs. The BlueDriver Sensor and App combination offers a comprehensive repair solution, reading and clearing codes from all vehicle systems, including ABS, Airbags, TPMS and more. No more searching for unreliable fixes. BlueDriver offers a complete diagnostic picture and the ability to monitor your vehicle’s health in real-time. The app is available for iOS and Android devices and there are no additional fees or in-app purchases required.
Pro-Level Scanning Solution – The BlueDriver is the ultimate tool for vehicle diagnosis, providing professional-level results in the hands of DIYers. With the ability to read and clear check engine lights, it’s the ultimate solution for any driver.
Advanced Code Reading & Erasing – The BlueDriver’s powerful diagnostic capabilities allow you to access information not typically available to the average driver, including the ability to read and erase ABS, airbag, SRS, TPMS, and other codes.
Effective Repair Assistance – This is more than just a code reader, it’s a comprehensive diagnostic tool. Get unlimited access to detailed repair reports, including possible causes and reported fixes, for virtually every make and model on the road.
Wireless Connectivity – Say goodbye to messy wiring. The BlueDriver connects to your vehicle via Bluetooth, with a sensor that plugs into your car’s OBDII port. Get all the features of an expensive code reader and scan tool without any cords to worry about.
User-Friendly App & Repair Tutorials – The BlueDriver app offers a comprehensive solution, with an iOS and Android-compatible app that connects you to a vast database of repair tutorials and videos with step-by-step instructions.
No Hidden Fees – Your purchase of BlueDriver includes everything you need, with no additional in-app purchases or fees required.
Real-Time Monitoring – The BlueDriver provides real-time monitoring of your vehicle’s health, with the ability to view live data even while you’re driving.
Unbeatable Support – With 24/7 professional support, you can count on BlueDriver to be there when you need it. Get in touch with highly trained technicians by phone or in-app chat whenever you need help.
Pros
- Matches exact vehicle to a specific fix from a database of millions of repairs
- Verified fixes by ASE certified technicians
- Complete vehicle repair solution with sensor and free app
- Reads and clears codes from multiple vehicle systems
- Complete diagnostic picture of the vehicle
- Monitors the health of the vehicle in real-time
- No additional fees or in-app purchases required
- 24/7 professional support available
Cons
- Limited compatibility with older vehicles
- Relies on Bluetooth connectivity, which can be disrupted by other wireless devices
- May require a smartphone or tablet to use the app
- Possible compatibility issues with some operating systems
- High cost compared to some other OBD-II scanners.
Price: $119.95
(price at the time of this article)
2 – Innova 3160g Code Reader
The Innova 3160g Code Reader is a versatile tool that is both user-friendly for DIY enthusiasts and ideal for professional technicians. This scan tool is an excellent option for those looking to monitor live data, identify issues with the check engine, ABS, and SRS lights, reset oil and battery maintenance lights, or even initialize batteries.
Diagnose – Check engine light issues on OBD2-equipped vehicles from 1996 and later, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and hybrids
Analyze – ABS and SRS system faults on a wide range of domestic, Asian, and European OBD2 vehicles
Perform – Oil light reset on selected OBD2 vehicles and store up to 3 previous scans’ DTC and live data
Reset – Battery maintenance light and perform battery initialization
Capture – Real-time data and save it for future review using the tool screen or a Windows computer
Pros
- User-friendly and easy to use.
- Reads and clears check engine, ABS and SRS lights.
- Resets oil and battery maintenance lights.
- Initializes batteries.
- Saves Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) and Live Data from 3 previously scanned vehicles.
Cons
- Does not support all OBD2 vehicles.
- Does not provide detailed repair reports.
- Does not offer real-time data monitoring.
- Limited support options compared to other scan tools.
Price: $253.67
(price at the time of this article)
3 – Autel Maxisys MS906BT
This professional-grade scanner offers advanced features such as bi-directional control, coding and programming capabilities, and a full-color touch screen display.
Comprehensive Scanning: The Autel Maxisys MS906BT can read and diagnose a wide range of codes from multiple vehicle systems, including Engine, ABS, SRS, TPMS, and more.
User-friendly interface: The device comes with a large, high-resolution display and an intuitive user interface that makes it easy to access and interpret data.
Advanced Diagnostics: The Autel Maxisys MS906BT offers advanced diagnostic functions such as bi-directional control, coding and programming, and advanced graphing.
Wireless Connectivity: The device comes with built-in Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to transfer data to a mobile device or a computer.
Reliable and Accurate: The Autel Maxisys MS906BT is known for its reliability and accuracy, making it an ideal choice for professionals who need to diagnose and repair vehicles quickly and effectively.
Easy to Update: The device comes with free updates for life, ensuring that it remains up-to-date with the latest technology and capabilities.
Pros
- Advanced diagnostic capabilities: The Maxisys MS906BT offers advanced OBD2 diagnostic features for a wide range of vehicles.
- Comprehensive coverage: It covers a vast array of vehicle makes and models, including Asian, European, and domestic vehicles.
- User-friendly interface: The device comes with a large, high-resolution display screen and an intuitive user interface, making it easy to navigate.
- Wireless connectivity: The device can be connected wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to perform remote diagnostics and access live data.
- Extensive data analysis: The device provides detailed analysis of live data streams and historical data, allowing you to diagnose complex problems with ease.
- Regular software updates: Autel regularly releases software updates to improve the device’s performance and add new features.
Cons
- High cost: The Maxisys MS906BT is a relatively expensive device compared to other OBD2 scanners in the market.
- Steep learning curve: The device has a lot of advanced features, which can make it challenging for inexperienced users to learn and use effectively.
- Limited compatibility: Although it covers a wide range of vehicles, some models may not be compatible with the device.
- Requires a strong Wi-Fi connection: The wireless connectivity feature requires a strong Wi-Fi connection to function effectively, which may not be available in some remote areas.
- Complex software: The device comes with complex diagnostic software that may be challenging for some users to use.
Price: $1269.99
(price at the time of this article)
4 – Ancel AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner
Ancel AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner is a budget friendly basic but effective tool for checking the health of your vehicle’s engine system. It can read and clear generic and manufacturer specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and show their definition on the screen. It supports all 10 OBDII test modes, including the live data stream, freeze frame, and I/M readiness status. The device has a simple interface and easy-to-read large font display which makes it user-friendly. It can also be powered by the car’s battery through the OBDII cable, making it convenient to use without requiring an external power source. The Ancel AD310 is a budget-friendly option that provides basic diagnostic functions for vehicles manufactured after 1996.
Capability – The ANCEL AD310 is a highly recommended OBDII scanner that is capable of reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes, viewing live data & hard memory data, viewing freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collecting vehicle information.
Easy to Use – The AD310 is user-friendly with clearly labeled buttons and a large, clear display screen. It provides accurate and fast results and can be used without any prior car knowledge.
Sturdy and Compact Design – The scanner has a 2.5 foot cable made of thick, flexible insulation and a sleek design, making it both sturdy and compact. It weighs only 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches, making it easy to transport.
Wide Vehicle Compatibility – The AD310 supports all OBDII protocols and is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, and newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign.
No External Power Required – The device does not require batteries or a charger as it gets its power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in the vehicle.
Convenient and Worthy Investment – The AD310 is an excellent option for both home and travel use due to its lightweight and compact design. It is suitable for those who simply need a reliable code reader to check their car, making it a worthy investment.
Pros
- Easy to determine cause of check engine light
- Quickly reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes
- Reads live data and hard memory data
- Displays freeze frame information
- Can check I/M monitor readiness
- Collects vehicle information
- Portable and compact design
- Accurate and fast results
- Supports all OBDII protocols
- Compatible with various car brands and models
- Can be used at home without the need for a mechanic
Cons
- May not be compatible with all vehicle models
- May require additional research for users without car knowledge to understand the results.
Price: $20.99
(price at the time of this article)
5 – Bafx Products Wireless Bluetooth OBDII Scan Tool
The Bafx Products Wireless Bluetooth OBDII Scan Tool is a simple and easy to use diagnostic tool for your vehicle. It allows you to read and clear check engine light fault codes, view live real-time data, and check emissions system readiness. It is compatible with all cars and light trucks purchased in the USA model year 1996 & newer and is ELM327 compliant, meaning it works with a wide range of third-party apps. The Bafx OBDII scanner is guaranteed to work on all OBD2 protocols and comes with a 2-year warranty and friendly USA-based support.
Easy to Use – Simply plug the OBD2 scanner into your vehicle’s OBD2 port, connect it to your iPhone or Android device via WiFi, and download an app to start using it.
Cost-Effective Solutions – With this OBD2 Car code reader, you can read and clear check engine light fault codes, and check your emissions system readiness.
Live Data – Get real-time data such as O2 sensors, fuel pressure, engine load, freeze frame data, and map-based sensor tracking with certain apps.
Wide Compatibility – The OBD2 scanner works with all cars and light trucks purchased in the USA model year 1996 and newer, including Ford, GM, Chevy, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Toyota, Honda, and more.
ELM327 Compliant: Compliant with the ELM327 command set, this OBD2 reader and scanner will work with any app that states it is ELM327 compatible.
Apps – A third-party app is required to use the device, and several free or paid options are available, such as Piston for Android or OBD2 Car Scanner for iOS.
Guaranteed Performance: This OBD2 car scanner is guaranteed to work on all OBD2 protocols, including J1850, and provides faster readings than most other OBD wireless WiFi code readers.
Warranty and Support – Comes with a 2-year warranty and friendly USA-based support.
Pros
- Wireless: The Bafx scan tool is equipped with Bluetooth technology, which allows it to wirelessly connect to a smartphone or tablet and display live data from the vehicle’s engine.
- Compatibility: This scanner is compatible with all vehicles that are equipped with an OBDII system, which covers most vehicles manufactured after 1996.
- Easy to use: The Bafx scan tool is designed to be easy to use, even for people with no prior experience in diagnosing vehicle problems. With clear, concise readings and definitions of diagnostic trouble codes, it can help identify the root cause of the check engine light.
- Affordability: Compared to other diagnostic scanners on the market, the Bafx scan tool is more affordable and offers the same level of accuracy and functionality.
- Portable: With its compact size and lightweight design, this scan tool is easy to carry around and store.
Cons
- Limited functionality: Unlike more advanced diagnostic scanners, the Bafx scan tool is limited in terms of the data it can display and the functions it can perform. For example, it can only display live data and read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, but cannot perform advanced functions such as programming or coding.
- Bluetooth connectivity: The Bluetooth connectivity can be an issue for some users, as it requires a stable, fast connection to work properly.
- Mobile app compatibility: The Bafx scan tool requires a compatible mobile app to work, and not all devices may be compatible with the app. Users should check compatibility before purchasing the tool.
Price: $22.56
(price at the time of this article)
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