Because of this its extremely user-friendly even if you dont have a strong automotive background. But if you have your own shop or you work on a ton of cars, you want the Autel MaxiSys Elite. It also has built-in WiFi, flashlight, 8 hour battery life, 32GB SSD hard drive, 9.7 inch LED touch screen and much more. OBD2 compatible vehicles can connect to a range of diagnostic tools and provide standardized error codes, which makes researching the issue much easier. It provides an outstanding mix of price and performance, especially considering it comes with free lifetime upgrades. This is information about your vehicles systems at the time when an error code occurred. Every OBD2 scanner recommended in this review was attached to a 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid. BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro Best Automotive Scan Tool Overall, 2. This will give you a strong indication to whether it is compatible with your phone and features work as they should. This 5.0-inch touchscreen comes with an internal battery, so you dont have to keep the car running to use it. The most basic OBD function (which every OBD2 scanner should be able to do) is to read and clear error codes. Discover more about the small businesses partnering with Amazon and Amazons commitment to empowering them. If the SAS is improperly calibrated, your vehicle will be difficult to steer and may handle strangely (the wheel turning too easily, or only with difficulty). Overall, the Launch X431 is the best alternative to theAutel Maxisys Pro MS908 as its cheaper and provides other functions that may be required. Car Diagnostic Tools Streetwize OBDII Fault Code Reader Product Code: 553997350 (190 Reviews) In Stock Qty. When youre looking for the best OBD2 scanner, Bluetooth connectivity is worth considering. Many professional OBD2 scanners even perform real time tests for further diagnostic data. However, its fairly expensive and has many complex features that most people wont use. Its a compact tool so it doesnt take up much space in the garage or car. Amazon Review Score: 4.3 out of 5 based on more than 2,400 ratings. While the scan tools on our list are compatible with most vehicles, plenty only work with certain makes or models. You dont need a ton of information on each code though because you can always research further troubleshooting information on your own. Scanners with the most consistently positive reviews scored highest in this category. $100 to $200: Scanners in this range offer a wider range of functionality, such as live data and monitoring of ABS and airbag systems. The first thing we noticed about the Foxwell NT201 is how lightweight it is. The only real exception to this is if youre a professional mechanic and you need a tool thats going to work on everything and save you a ton of time. Innova ScanTool with ABS Part # 3040RS SKU # 273341 1-Year Warranty $10499 Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up SELECT STORE Home Delivery Standard Delivery Estimated Delivery May 04-05 Add TO CART Innova 3100 CanOBD2 Diagnostic Tool Part # 3100RS SKU # 987694 $14699 Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up SELECT STORE Home Delivery Standard Delivery Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Automotive Scan Tool, 6. 4. 5. Not to mention these diagnostic tools for cars move through any job quickly with 5-second or less boot up and One-touch Code-scan and Clear. What differentiates products is their ability to clear codes from certain vehicle systems. First, they should be able to read the codes. This is the most basic feature, so any automotive scan tool should be able to do this. Introducing the all-new LendingTree Win Card. The Launch CRP129E comes with data code protocols from nearly 60 carmakers and over 1,000 models, so this scanner likely knows something about your vehicle. If there is a match, the application suggests a fix, which could potentially eliminate hours of research. If you need to reset a check engine light and dont have a scan tool all you need to do is remove the negative battery terminal. View policies. The Innova CarScan Advisor can read and clear the check engine light with one button and run battery and charging system tests. The smaller devices are the cheapest and perform the basic tasks such as reading and clearing error codes. For those that have never used a scan tool before, there are thousands of videos on YouTube with mechanics providing detailed tutorial videos. Other features of the Launch Creader 6001include: The Launch Creader 6001 is a cheap diagnostic tool that allows you to simply view and remove car error codes with ease. If you plan to use your OBD2 scanner with a specific vehicle or set of vehicles, make sure it is capable of reading error codes for that manufacturer. Those who want an OBD2 scanner packed with features will appreciate the Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Scannerfor toeing the line between advanced scanning features and business-friendly applications. However, for some car owners, this may be all thats required, which makes them perfect. For more information on this great OBD2 scanner, check out our dedicated review page here. You may need to enter the VIN, the type of engine, or other information. Check with your public library. For the average car owner that wants a simple to use car diagnostic tool to remove error codes, the NT301 is a great option. This gives you more information to figure out whats going on with your vehicle and fix the problem as soon as possible. A Budget-friendly scanner to read generic trouble codes from most compatible vehicles on the market. Crest Capital can finance a range of equipment, from hand tools to major equipment like alignment machines and computer diagnostic stations. If you are looking to check basic engine codes, the Foxwell NT301 might be a better choice (and at a lower cost). The battery testing feature is a nice addition for the Ancel BD310 since many other scan tools dont come with this feature. Other features of the Actron CP9690 Car Scannerinclude: The Actron car scanner is similar to the Innova 3160g and Autel MD808 in terms of the compact design. But there are less expensive scanners available for those who only require basic OBD2 functions. But for at-home mechanics, its not the most common job, so you probably dont want to spend the extra money for these features. When your cars computer registers an error, it will activate the check engine light, but an OBD2 scanner is needed to learn the specific issue. Some also complain about advanced features not working, such as key programming. We would never recommend a product that we wouldnt use ourselves and we use our experience, research and testing to make your job of choosing the best product as easy as possible. Autel might have a few more products on our list than Ancel, but Ancel is another outstanding automotive scan tool company you have to choose from, and one of their best products for DIY mechanics is the Ancel FX2000. The touchscreen is laid out logically, and it made my job easy. Dr. Ken. And since in the automotive field time is money, its only a matter of time until the Autel MaxiSys Elite pays for itself with the amount of time it saves. It is compatible with 96 vehicle manufacturers and a good choice for those who need a tool capable of advanced OBD2 functions. A car diagnostic tool also called an OBD scanner, is, as the name suggests, a car scanner that is a diagnostic scanner for your car. It gives you codes, sensor data, battery information, real-time monitoring, and live data analysis to help you figure out whats going on with your vehicle. However, the majority of people will be using this car scanner to remove basic faults such as the Check Engine Light (EML). Tools include the X431 Eurotab 2 , X431 Pro 4 and the X431 Pro-s. There are a few times that the software is not supported for certain functions, and thats pretty frustrating. Stephen. Autel AutoLink AL319 Reader. At 3.1 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches and 2.7 ounces, the ThinkDiag is 15% larger and more than twice as heavy as the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool. Best car diagnostic tools. At ProCarReviews, we have been testing OBD2 scanners for many years and currently have over 50 within our garage. Many tool distributors, online lenders and retailers offer financing options for automotive tools from basic hand tools to larger specialty equipment. Amazon Review Score: 4.4 out of 5 based on around 480 ratings. Scan Tool. It works with over 10,000 vehicle models, and each device comes loaded with 24 different languages so everyone in the shop can use it. As of August 2021, Sears offers two credit options: Lowes carries various automotive hand tools and specialty tools both in stores and online. This little scanner reads not only engine codes, but also reads codes from transmission codes and BCM codes. Keith S. Some question the datas reliability and say the device isnt compatible with as many vehicles as advertised. Place a wanted ad on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace offering to trade or barter repairs in exchange for tools. A wireless option with advanced abilities for the price. The Launch X431 is a direct competitor of the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 as both are targeting professional mechanics. The device is connected to the car via the so-called OBD port and an OBD cable (if needed). Still, while its an outstanding choice for DIY mechanics, it doesnt have all the advanced features a professional would want, and you need a smart device to use it. At least one SAAB owner said this scanner did not work with their vehicles computer. Many retail stores sell automotive tools and offer store credit cards that can be a viable option for mechanic tool financing. Included with the Launch CRP129E Scan Tool are: The Launch has an easy-to-use touchscreen interface and a long connection cable. If youre just starting out and dont want to go into debt financing your tools, you may be able to find free or low-cost mechanic tools. Snap-on. Its not the most complicated either, but its going to take time to get from screen to screen, and using the live stream and freeze frame functions can get confusing. Diagnostic Loaner/Rental Tools for Cars, Trucks & SUVs - AutoZone.com It does not include hybrid battery testing, and the ABS testing failed when we tried to use it on a Ford Fusion. Each diagnostic scanner was given a rating out of 5 stars based on these criteria. A guide to car diagnostic tools - Parkers Products Past credit problems dont have to hold you back from getting the mechanic tools you need to work. Therefore, for the average car owner, the Bluetooth BlueDriver is the best alternative that connects to a smartphone appplication for diagnostics. Crest Capital is an online lender that caters to small and medium-sized businesses. Examples range from turning off a check engine light to assessing the supplemental restraint system (SRS). It gives you verified fixes for specific problems and even helps you track down the right parts you need to get your vehicle back on the road. Moreover, its easy to use and comes with a 5-year warranty, so you know it will last a long time for you. While every OBD2 scanner has different buttons and a different interface, : Indicates an issue with the powertrain (the engine, transmission, and fuel system), : Indicates an issue with the body (cabin interior parts such as the steering system, airbags, and seatbelts), : Indicates an issue with the chassis (components underneath the car such as the axles, ABS, wheels, and power steering), We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. An inexpensive scanner that accurately and reliably pulls OBD2 engine codes. However, some reviews say updates to this OBD2 scanner dont fix system bugs. Market Leading Car Diagnostics Tools By Launch Second, you want an automotive scan tool that will give you live data. Another car diagnostic tool by the Launch brand is their budget option known as the Creader 6001. Autel MaxiPRO MP808K Scan Tool Premium Choice, 4. LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace. A scanner with some excellent features and a lower price point. Some OBD2 scanners have shorter cables that make it difficult to hold the device in your lap once connected. On the downside, some customers report slow customer service and say the device fails within a year. The BlueDriver is one of the easiest-to-use OBD2 scanners we tested. 3. It doesnt seem like the NT201 would survive many drops onto a hard floor. Everything about this car diagnostic tool is high quality and well thought out. Its a responsive touchscreen tablet with an Android operating system and wireless internet. They offer tons of information you cant get any other way, and it takes a lot of guesswork out of things when youre trying to figure out whats going on. The average car owner will easily be able to use this error code reader with its intuitive button layout and clear instructions from the color display. Should there be a problem, you can address it before you take your vehicle out for an inspection. OBD and OBD2 are two different generations of automotive diagnostic car code readers. Compatible with most car models. It works on over 10,000 vehicle models, and you can view any codes the vehicle might have. A car diagnostic tool is often referred to as an OBD2 scanner and theyre designed to diagnose and clear error codes. We started by searching Amazon for top products, looking at factors like Prime shipping eligibility, customer ratings, Amazon superlatives, and prices. For example, these tools can include services, products, and special offers by businesses. Once a connection has been established, it allows you to check for error codes such as engine management lights, airbag/SRS warnings and much more. You can check your eligibility online in just a few minutes. It also checks the SRS, ABS, and transmission systems and breaks everything down for you. This can be a wonderful option if youre looking for a set it and forget it tool that collects data while youre driving, but it also frees users to look under the hood while running a diagnostic. Code reading is completely free at AutoZone. Whether youre a DIY mechanic looking to fix your own vehicle or a professional looking for something for their shop, these are ten of the best options on the market today. The global automotive diagnostic scan tools market size reached US$ 35.2 Billion in 2022. Depending on the age of your car will be a major factor in which car diagnostic tool is best. Checkout and select a payment plan in minutes. No joke, I work on cars all the time. Remember that you should check your car's compatibility with any of them first. These distributors often offer financing that allows mechanics to make weekly payments. After providing Matco with your local distributor information, your credit approval depends on verification of your full-time employment as an automotive technician and a credit application. All you need is a smartphone with Bluetooth capability and the scanners corresponding app (which may not be free), and you can review data directly from your phone. How Long Does it Take to Charge a Car Battery? Business Lines of Credit. If you go with a higher-end scan tool like the Autel MaxiPRO MP808K, Autel MaxiSys Elite, or the Launch X431 V+ PRO youll notice that theres a mention of subscriptions and updates. An easy-to-use OBD2 scanner with a wide range of functions. Automotive Industry Experience Matters Are you having trouble getting financing for your customers? The Loaner Tool Program includes over 80 tools for rent, including steering and suspension, electrical and diagnostic, engine and clutch, air conditioning and cooling, ball joint, pullers, exhaust, power steering, tie rod and pitman arm, tube bending, and brake, tire, and wheel loaner tools. Check error codes yourself so that you arent tricked into paying for extra repairs by a dishonest mechanic. The Launch X431 is the cheaper of the two and by far the best looking car code reader within this article with a tablet-like design thats easy to handle. Its also easy to use and works with all OBD2 vehicles. Buyers applaud the user interface, data output, and customer service. A full list of monitoring functions can be found here. It may not have been reviewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. While there is no instruction manual included, using the NT201 is very simple to operate, as there arent many buttons or menu options. This is mainly due to the intuitive OBD2 Bluetooth connection that connects with the brands Android or iOS smartphone application, which is then used to read and clear error codes. Launch UK are the official UK supplier of Launch automotive diagnostic tools, air conditioning servicing equipment and aftermarket garage equipment including the acclaimed X431 range of OE level diagnostic equipment and the CRP range - the most functional OBDII diagnostic tools aimed at the consumer market. It is extremely easy to use and will be able to test areas such as the fuel management system and the 02 sensor. For the price of this, you cannot go wrong. LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appear on this site (such as the order). Car Care Corner If you like the Ancel FX2000 but want a few more features and dont mind spending a little more for them, thats where the Launch OBD2 Scanner CRP129E fits into things. Along with conducting basic diagnostic tasks, you can set up customizable monitoring of basic information like engine RPMs and exhaust pressure. These may provide far more details than necessary and you may only want to find out the error code thats stored on your cars ECU. So one problem with a Ford could read differently on a Toyota or Honda. You can also perform a smog test with this scanner, and it will recommend possible repairs for specific codes. The market is fairly saturated with many OBD2 scanners under $100 being the most popular for the average car owner or home mechanic. The enthusiast diagnostic range offers smaller garages and DIY home mechanics a variety of affordable solutions for diagnosing a wide range of problems via the vehicles OBD system. The tool itself is also durable and even comes with a 12-month warranty, but with how durable this scan tool is its not like youll need to use it. The first letter indicates what part of your vehicle has an issue. The company has several store credit cards. From tool companies toonline business lenders to big-box retailers, you have several choices for mechanic tool financing. We think the TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT is the best overall OBD2 scanner. It reads every system in my car, from VIN number to transmission codes. Therefore, you may need to purchase an adapter to convert the OBD2 connection to an OBD1. It doesnt look like much, but thats part of the appeal. The age of the vehicle determines what type of car diagnostic tool it will accept. But keep in mind that not all OBD2 scanners work perfectly with every make and model of vehicle. OBD2 scanners can be a great tool for someone doing car maintenance at home or just assessing the overall health of a vehicle. At that point, the code reader is ready to do its work. Magnus is the owner and main author of Mechanicbase. 10 Best Stores To Buy Cheap Car Batteries, 10 Best Online Car Auction Websites of 2023, Car Rattles When Accelerating Causes & Fixes, Car Leaking Oil? Please enter a minimum of three characters. Automotive Tools & Equipment | NAPA Consider these ideas. Freeze frame data is useful for diagnosing problems. In terms of the compatibility, its designed to work with a range of manufacturers from 1996 and newer. There are a ton of automotive scan tools on the market today. The Bluetooth dongle slots into the scanner itself and is easily removed with a push. We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. This car diagnostic tool plugs into the OBD-II port ("OBD" is an acronym for on-board diagnostics, and the "II" designates the second generation of these ports, in use since 1996) and delivers a wide range of information gathered from your car's computer.. You may notice a wide range of prices on these tools. I scanned a Jeep Renegade and a code came out of a short circuit in the daytime running lights, a code that the Launch and the Thickcar [OBD2 scanners] had not given. Nik, via Amazon. The Innova 5210 is another extremely affordable scan tool for you to consider if youre an at-home mechanic trying to improve your troubleshooting and repair skills a bit. At a minimum, any OBD2 scanner should be able to read and clear DTCs. All US vehicles must meet certain emissions standards. Car diagnostic tools have improved massively over the years due to the modernization of new cars. In short, if youre a professional mechanic all the additional service functions are more than worth it, but if youre only looking for a scan tool for your own vehicles you probably dont need the extra service functions most of the time. This 7.0-inch HD touchscreen behemoth has a seven-hour battery life, so buyers arent tethered to the vehicle for work. As technology has improved, so have car diagnostic tools in terms of their compatibility and features. However, these days most brands will provide detailed instructions in the box or online. Shop products from small business brands sold in Amazons store. Get up to 2% cash back on every purchase. Its not the most advanced scan tool out there, but it is one of the most affordable considering all the functions you do get. All you have to do is connect the scanner into the port and you are on your way. You cannot pass inspections by running tests at home, but you can determine beforehand if your vehicle will pass an emissions test. Learn Automotive Computerized Diagnostics | Udemy Those dissatisfied with this OBD2 scanner say that the battery drains quickly. Best Car Insurance For Teens And Young Drivers. At this price point, you really cant complain too much, but if youre looking for a more advanced automotive scan tool, this isnt it. If thats the case the Autel Autolink AL319 probably doesnt have it. A basic OBD2 scan tool will display an error code that youll then need to look up in an owners manual or online. How Much Should You Pay for a Car Diagnostic Test? : 4.4 out of 5 based on around 480 ratings, : 4.3 out of 5 based on more than 2,400 ratings, : 4.6 out of 5 based on more than 48,000 ratings, : 4.5 out of 5 based on more than 1,800 ratings, : 4.5 out of 5 based on more than 8,600 ratings, : 4.5 out of 5 based on more than 2,300 ratings, You dont need a Maximus 4.0 right out the gate. You can find your local Snap-on franchisee online. This tool can be used even by those without advanced auto maintenance knowledge. Additionally, it comes with 24 months of updates for free, keeping the software completely up to date with all the newest vehicle information year after year. Here are the best automotive scan tools for car diagnostics to buy. 10 Best Automotive Scan Tools Car Diagnostics There are a ton of automotive scan tools on the market today. If you can get your vehicle to the store theyll typically read the code for you for free. LendingTree, LLC is a Marketing Lead Generator and is a Duly Licensed Mortgage Broker, as required by law, with its main office located at 1415 Vantage Park Drive, Suite 700, Charlotte, NC 28203, Telephone Number 866-501-2397, How to qualify for mechanic tool financing, Commercial Truck Financing: How It Works and Where to Find Lenders, Heavy Equipment Financing: What to Know and Where to Find Loans, A minimum of two to three years in business or in the same line of work, Business bank statements for the past three months, Proving you have enough income to repay the loan. This device is made to help users check engine codes and perform emissions tests. KONNWEI KW480 BMW Full System OBD2 12V Car Fault Scanner Diagnostic Tool R 1,499.00 KONNWEI KW460 Full System Diagnostic Instrument For Mercedes-Benz OBD II + EOBD Scanner R 1,499.00 -34% Vident iMax4304 Car Diagnostic Tool | GM, Chevrolet, Cadillac | Full System Diagnostic Scan Tool (Special & Service Functions) R 2,900.00 R 1,900.00 -34% In terms of how we rated the scan tools in this article, there are a number of factors we considered. Most OBD2 scanners have an emissions test function. The Foxwell NT201 fills these criteria at a low cost. Automatically detects VIN, vehicle make, and vehicle model, Includes oil reset, steering angle calibration, and throttle position reset, Free app works with iOS and Android devices, A set it and forget it tool to record vehicle information, One-step tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) check, Automatic vehicle identification number (VIN) lookup, Code severity levels to quickly identify repair needs, RepairSolutions2 app allows for smartphone connectivity, Works with most domestic, Asian, and European cars with model years 1996 and newer. Still, its easy to use, just know that now all the service functions work on every car. Loaner Tool Program | O'Reilly Auto Parts However, for a simple plug-in device, this may be a good option. How Much Does It Cost To Install A Car Stereo? Fortunately, mechanic tool financing, a form of equipment financing, can make the cost more manageable. For reading and removing error codes, this fault code scanner is more than ideal. But the more you learn about scan tools, the more questions it can cause. Setting up the TOPDON requires an internet connection as youll need to input the included activation code. This feature is not something that the layperson is likely to find useful, however. Through this website you can purchase . 2. Its a good pick for the blossoming shade tree mechanic for this reason. Finally, with 128 GB of storage space, you can quickly screenshot data on a particular vehicle and save it for later. And while it might look like a more advanced scan tool, Ancel knew they were making the FX2000 for amateurs. If youre looking for the most feature-rich OBD2 scanner with the broadest possible range of diagnostic capabilities, consider the Autel MaxiCOM MK808, though this device will cost quite a bit and updates are not free. Bi-directional scanners are capable of reading information and sending commands to another device. Mechanics who we speak to typically tell us that the most important feature of any OBD2 scanner is that it can read engine codes. BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro - Best Automotive Scan Tool Overall Yes! The scanner itself worked well on both a VAG Skoda and Hyundai. The below image is an example of a OBD2 connection that you will plug in to a port. 1996-2023, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates, BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android, VDIAGTOOL OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool VD10 Car Code Reader Engine Fault Code Reader for Turn Off CEL with Live Data/Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All OBDII Protocol Cars, 2023 New Version, ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool-Black, MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Code Reader Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow, FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light, | Based on star rating and number of customer ratings, Acum MS309 Pro Auto OBD2 Scanner, Live Data & Battery Tester OBDII Engine Fault Code Reader Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool to Check Engine & Fix All 1996 and Newer Cars & Trucks - Upgrade Version, BLCKTEC 400 OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool - Car Diagnostic Scanner for All Cars OBDII Compatible - Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool with Reset - Comes with Free OBD App On iOS & Android, FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car - Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone & Android - Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool to Check Engine & Fix All Cars & Vehicles 96 or Newer (1 Pack).