Kane Dan
A good, reliable and efficient OBD2 scanner is a great device to have if you are a car owner.
It comes in handy when you need to troubleshoot your car, because it can easily help you pinpoint what’s wrong with it.
An On-Borad Diagnostic 2 scanner is a device designed to to monitor a car’s engine and other systems that has something to with its performance.
If you haven’t got one with you, make sure to consider getting one, because it will be an essential and helpful device.
To choose the best OBD2 scanner, this comprehensive buying guide will be able to help you pick the ideal one for your needs.
In A Hurry? Here’s My Top Picks…
Table could not be displayed.10 Top Rated OBD2 Scanners Comparisons
I completely understand that choosing the top-rated or the ideal OBD2 scanner is a daunting task that will take a lot of effort and work.
So, what I did is prepared a list of the top models below to aid you in your search.
In this list, I only included what I think the best of the best in the market, you can consider some of the models on the list as your options.
Just make sure that the one you will pick is the ideal model that suits your needs.
1. Autel’s DS808 OBD2 Automotive Scanner
High-class and sophisticated, the OBD2 scanner manufactured by Autel is one of the best of its kind.
Not only that, it offers excellent coverage that allows it to work well with Asian, European, and American vehicles.
This remarkable device is also designed to provide more details compared to the normal OBD2 out there.
The DS808 OBD2 scanner offered by Autel is engineered to provide a comprehensive diagnostic system for vehicle models released in 1996 until today.
It has a WiFi capability that makes this model very convenient to use.
Another great thing about this model is that it has a wide range of functionality that supports every protocol of OBD2.
This impressive model of scanner has a built-in seven-inch display with an 800×400 pixel resolution to provide better status monitoring.
The large screen display offers a lot of functionality like recording, playback, and live streaming of data.
This allows users to have a better idea of the status of every vehicle system.
If you are looking for a comprehensive OBD2 scanner that works well with a wide range of vehicle makes, then this scanner from Autel is the right model for you.
As a sophisticated scanner that offers a lot of great features like providing a complete reading of all systems, this is a great investment to consider.
However, you will spend a bit more to get it to your toolbox.
Pros
- Wide range compatibility
- Impressive performance
- Quick and comprehensive
- Has an ECU support
Cons
- Expensive unit
- Suitable for shops
2. BlueDriver’s Pro LSB2 OBD2 Scanner Tool For iPhone & Android
Sophisticated and very convenient, those are the qualities that this next one on the list promises.
As one of the models that offer the dongle connectivity, the Pro OBD2 Scanner tool manufactured by BlueDriver allows users to analyze all the vehicle’s system status through an Android or iPhones. Very convenient, right?
The scan tool of BlueDriver is a practical tool designed to use the Identifix database that allows it to match a multitude of vehicle builds.
This model is engineered to have a sensor to let users scan vehicles and view them as an app using their smartphones like iPhones and Android.
This makes it very convenient to use since users can scan the vehicle in the comfort of their smartphones.
This scanner model is precisely engineered to have an enhanced reading ability to provide more advanced data, which allows users to have a better idea of all the status of the various vehicle systems.
This model is programmed to provide suggestions on how to fix the errors it has on its readings.
For drivers looking for a very comfortable and convenient way to scan their vehicle systems for troubleshooting. BlueDriver’s scan tool is the model to check out.
With its amazing features and impressive technology, this model is considered to be one of the most sought after scanners in the market today.
Pros
- Very convenient
- Compact build
- Provides suggestions
Cons
- Lack of info on readings
- Inconsistent data
3. ANCEL’s Professional AD510 OBD2 Scanner
Sleek, modern, and high-end, these are the qualities the AD510 Professional OBD2 Scanner manufactured by ANCEL has to offer.
For drivers looking for a unit that supports all ten modes of a scanner, this is the model to check out.
Apart from it offers complete diagnostics, this unit also supports a wide range of vehicles.
This professional-grade OBD2 Scanner is built to have an I/M Key feature, which is exclusive.
The feature allows it to see if the vehicle and discharge test is nearly needed, and it the entire drive cycle of the vehicle.
The scanner model is cleverly engineered to provide suggestions on how to fix the errors on the vehicles to make it easier for users.
The scanner model is designed and built to have an enhanced monitoring system, allowing it to constantly monitor a vehicle’s engine.
With this, it will have the ability to inform users about the abnormality that happens with the various vehicle systems, giving them the early heads up.
On this note, drivers that use this unit will have a better chance to enhance their car’s performance.
Despite having some issues on its outer casing, the ANCEL AD510 Professional Scanner is a great unit that has a lot to offer.
Apart from it is capable of operating in all of the ten modes a scanner has to function.
It is also an impressive model that can work with a wide range of vehicles, and it can provide excellent data analysis.
Pros
- Built-in backup memory
- Provides printable readings
- Supports graphed data and interpretation
Cons
- Durability issues with casing
- Slightly inconvenient
4. Innova’s 3150 Code Reader cum OBD2 Scanner For Vehicles
Sophisticated and high-end, Innova’s 3150 OBD2 Scanner is an excellent model that supports a wide range of vehicle makes, including hybrids, SUVs, and light trucks.
For the drivers looking for a reliable and modern unit that will provide an impressive and excellent data analysis, this is the model to check out.
This reliable tool from Innova is masterfully and carefully built to be very easy to use that both professionals and newbie drivers can use.
It is cleverly engineered to have the patented RepairSolution feature that will provide repair solutions that will help to fix errors that the scanner reads.
The scanner model is built to be a versatile unit that will work well with a wide variety of vehicle builds.
It is designed to support the outdated OBD1 scanner vehicle builds that makes this unit very flexible and very handy, which makes this unit recommended to hybrids, SUVs as well as light trucks.
Despite not being able to read the ABS and SRS vehicle builds, the OBD2 Scanner tool manufactured by Innova is still an excellent unit to consider.
As a great unit that has a lot of impressive features to offer, this unit has plenty of benefits to offer.
This makes this unit one of the most recommended scanners in the market today.
Pros
- Supports both OBD1 and OBD2 makes
- Designed for very easy operations
- Fast delivery of live data
Cons
- Unable to analyze both SRS and ABS
- Short coverage
5. Autel’s AL519 OBD2 Scanner
Cutting-edge and sophisticated, the AL519 OBD2 Scanner manufactured by Autel is an excellent model that is equipped with impressive technology.
If you are looking for a model that will provide a comprehensive reading as well as easy to read analysis, this is an excellent model that every driver has to consider.
The OBD2 scanner from the brand Autel is cleverly engineered to allow it to turn off the engine check light. This allows users to have better access when it comes to fixing the errors.
The model is built to have an impressive smog feature that will give the users to realize if the vehicle will pass a smog test or not.
This particular scanner model is built to have an integrated notification system that will sound an alarm if there are any issues with regard to the vehicle’s systems.
The unit is built with internal speakers that are engineered to provide audible warnings to give users a heads up when it comes to issues that need to be fixed.
In conclusion, this Scanner tool manufactured by autel is a smart investment that offers a lot of excellent features.
Apart from offering a comprehensive reading of all the data of a vehicle, this unit also offers a lot of benefits, which will be very beneficial to all drivers and technicians alike.
Pros
- Simple yet integrated user interface
- Better notification feature
- Reasonable yet affordable unit
Cons
- Unable to read the SRS and ABS builds
- Incompatibility issues
6. Actron’s CP9580A Models Of OBD2 Scanner For Vehicles
The CP9580A OBD2 Scanner is considered to be among the few scanners that offer the maximum value of money today.
Not only that, it works well on a multitude of vehicle builds, but it is also programmed to provide fixes on plenty of issues.
So, if you are looking for an excellent and impressive unit, this is the right model to check out.
This OBD2 Scanner model from Acrtron is built to have the CodeConnect Technology that allows it to provide a detailed reading—giving the users the opportunity to provide the proper fix for any problem.
It is equipped with a technology that provides the verified fix to the issues it reads.
The scanner also offers plenty of additional benefits that can be very handy to a lot of situations.
These benefits include cycle driving mode, live graphs as well as data freeze time that will help users to provide the proper fix.
This makes this model very efficient when it comes to fixing the issues of the vehicle.
With its simple yet elegant design, this scanner from Actron is an excellent model to check out. Despite that, it has some downsides to overcome.
Once that is settled, it will be a great unit to consider. So, if you are looking for a reliable unit that offers impressive features, this is the model that you have to check out.
Pros
- Simple yet stylish design
- Easy to use
- Comprehensive data reading
- Provides accurate analysis
Cons
- Incompatibility issues
- Sensitive unit
7. Autel’s MS-300-CAN OBD2 Scanner
As a highly efficient beneficial OBD2 scanner, the MS-300-CAN model from Autel is an excellent model that offers a lot of exceptional features.
This makes this model one of the most sought after scanner models in the market today. Offering comprehensive compatibility, this model is a great unit to check out.
The scanner is engineered to have an extensive catalog, this allows this model to work well with plenty of makes. Because of its expansive catalog, it can work with various vehicles.
This unit has a simple design that makes it very ergonomic for both new users and professional technicians.
This is a model built with an efficient LCD display that shows a very detailed reading of all the vehicle systems.
This display shows a comprehensive reading that shows all of the statuses of every vehicle system, which gives a full idea of how the vehicle stands and what they need to get fixed.
In conclusion, Autel’s scanner is a great unit to consider. However, this downside is a thing that you have to overcome.
Once this downside is overcome, the unit is still an excellent model to check out since it has plenty of great features to offer.
Pros
- Wide range compatibility
- User-friendly design
- Good amount of storage
- Offers great monetary value
Cons
- Long loading time
- Slightly inconvenient
8. Innova’s 3100i OBD2 Scanner For Vehicles
Considered as one of the most famous OBD2 scanner models today, the 3100i Scanner from Innova is a model that every professional mechanic and newbie has to check out.
Aside from its excellent efficiency and great performance, this model also works well with a lot of vehicle builds. Which makes this model a great one to consider.
The OBD2 scanner manufactured by Innova is built to have easy to apprehend trouble codes, which makes this model an excellent option.
This model is built to have a system that provides smart operations, making it a great device for both newbie and professional technicians.
This scanner model is built to have a smog text alert that allows users to get a heads up when the vehicle needs a smog fix.
The unit has an amazing feature that makes it work very well for a lot of vehicle builds. This also makes it an excellent option for everything.
If you are looking for a unit that is sleek and sophisticated enough to provide the comprehensive reading that you need, then this model ofi OBD2 scanner from Innova is the right product to check out.
Pros
- Provides tips and suggestions
- Durable build
- Reliable and high-end
Cons
- Connectivity issues with PC
- Compatibility issues
9. Launch’s VII+ Creader Plus OBD2 Scanner
This unit delivers a technically sound reading of various systems and mechanics of a vehicle.
It is the main reason why Launch’s VII+ Creader Plus is one of the most sought after models of today.
With its amazing features and excellent efficiency, this model is a great model that every driver has to check out.
The scanner model is built to support both the OBD2 and EOBD systems, allowing it to work well with plenty of the common vehicle builds.
This model is built to have playback of the data stream that allows users to have heads up with regards to repairs.
With this feature, drivers will have plenty of options to fix the vehicle.
This particular unit is built with an effective display for DTC that shows a lot of information with regard to those errors.
It is built to have support memory cards that allows this unit to store plenty of information with regards to the vehicle.
This memory backup will be a great feat that will be excellent for future references.
Having a lot of excellent features, this is a scanner model that is very great for investment.
So, despite having a bit of drawback, this model has plenty of excellent features that are far beneficial from the drawbacks.
Pros
- Extremely accurate
- Upgraded through the internet
- Read real-time PCM stream
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Impractical choice
10. OBDLink’s 426101 OBD2 Scanner For Vehicles
Sophisticated as it is, the 426101 OBD2 Scanner manufactured by the OBDLink brand is an impressive model that offers excellent readings.
With its amazing features, this model has plenty of great features to offer.
This is a model that every driver has to check out. Comparing this one to its counterparts, it is better.
The scanner model from OBDLink is engineered to work with plenty of vehicle makes, it is built to provide a great reading.
Since this unit is built to work with a multitude of brands and this is engineered to be used as an app, making it very convenient and comfortable.
This scanner model is built to have an unmatched security system, allowing this model to provide an excellent reading.
This is considered to be a model that has a security system that will make it very unstable.
On that note, this model is not as efficient as the other models on this list.
As an excellent model, this scanner from OBDLink is an excellent model to check out. Despite its drawbacks, this unit still has plenty of great features to offer.
Features that can be very handy to a multitude of situations. This makes this a great unit to invest in since it has great usability.
Pros
- Supports graphs
- Comprehensive readings
- Overvoltage protection
- Sleep mode
Cons
- Communicates with plenty of apps
- Inconsistency issues
Buying Guide For OBD2 Scanners
As a driver, if you are looking for the best OBD2 scanner to save money or for any reason, this is the list for you. However, picking the best one will not be assured by this list.
This will only increase your chances of getting a good model for you. So, if you are a driver looking for a good unit, I highly suggest you to read my buying guide below.
What Is An OBD2 scanner, And How It Works?
An OBD2 scanner is a tool that is used to read a vehicle’s system to provide a detailed reading of what are the errors they have.
It is a device that will show every status of each system and tell if they have issues to be fixed.
With an OBD2 scanner, drivers will have the opportunity to read what is wrong on the vehicle.
This device works when they are connected to the vehicle’s board, and then the device will see if there are systems that are affected by various issues.
However, when it comes to functionality, an OBD2 scanner works by connecting it to a vehicle, and then the on-board system of the vehicle will respond with all the status of every system that has. This gives an idea of the issues the vehicle has.
On that note, the device will give all the errors or issues that need to be fixed. Then from there, the technician or driver will provide a great and excellent reading.
What Are The Most Common Problems OBD2 Reads?
OBD2 scanners detect a lot of various issues, here’s a list of the common issues that most scanners read. Check it out!
- Engine Issues: The first issue that OBD2 scanners read are the errors an engine has. Fixing issues like this will ensure the best performance, and without these fixes, there won’t be any smooth running for a vehicle.
- Scan Tools: Having a scan tool will allow users to have a heads up with regards to what are the issues the vehicle will have in the future. This gives drivers the chance to optimize the performance of their vehicles.
3 Types Of OBD2 Scanners Available Today
When it comes to OBD2 Scanners, this said technology comes in various types.
Being familiar with each type will give you a better idea of what is better, depending on your vehicle.
Let’s check out and take a closer look at the different types of on-board diagnostic system 2.
- Bluetooth Scanners: This is the type of OBD2 scanner that allows users to get the vehicle’s reading through smartphones or gadgets like iPhones and Android devices. This is considered to be the most convenient type of scanner nowadays.
- Computer-Based Scanners: This is a type of scanner that makes use of its computer connection. From that said connection, the reading is viewed on a computer, which makes it pretty inconvenient.
- Hand-Held Units: Considered to be the most used type of OBD2 technology. This type often comes in a device that looks like a cellphone is any related device.
This type of device is often built to have plenty of buttons and a large display to show the readings.
Significant Factors To Consider In Choosing An OBD2 Scanner
If you are going to look for the ideal OBD2 scanner that will perfectly suit your vehicle, a list of the best won’t do it. Even a good knowledge about won’t cut it.
So, to help you come up with a good decision, here’s a guide with a list of all the significant things you have to consider before making a purchase.
Make sure to take some notes because this is very helpful in your search!
1. Considering The Brand
One of the most obvious to all buyers is to consider the brand of the product they are going to purchase.
The main reason behind this is that a branded product always projects a product that will last longer compared to the normal ones.
This only means that going for an OBD2 scanner branded with a popular name will either provide plenty of features or will ensure longevity that most consumers look for.
So, going for a good branded device will be very beneficial as long as you stick to your plan of getting the best product.
2. Accurate Reading And Data Analysis
If you are looking for the an OBD2 scanner, one of the things that you have to check is the accuracy of the reading a model has to offer.
This is simply because having a unit that delivers a consistent reading will allow the user to apply the proper fix that won’t lead to any issues.
Having a unit that provides inconsistent reading will not only confuse the user but will also lead to steps that won’t fix the problem directly and might also lead to more issues.
So if you are looking for an OBD2 scanner, make sure to get a unit that will provide an accurate reading for all the vehicle systems.
This is just to make sure that every fix you will apply will save you the time, effort, and money.
3. Good Size Screen Display
A unit that has a large display of the reading will obviously post an advantage.
Not only that it will display much clearer figures with regards to reading, but it will also provide a better idea of how each system does.
This will give a better picture of the status of each system that will lead to better troubleshooting, which will eventually lead to a good fix.
Small displays are not that bad; however, having a better view will ensure clear reading that will lead to a much better fix.
So, if you are shopping for an OBD2 scanner, go for the one that has a bigger display if possible.
4. Live Data Streaming
An OBD2 model that has the ability to provide live streaming of the data of the vehicle systems will always be a great thing.
Not only that, it will provide the users the ability to fix the issues on the fly, but it will also give users the idea of the errors that come up while the engine is running.
This provides the users the chance to provide a much suitable fix compared to the fix that will have to wait for the results.
5. Price Of The Unit
You have to consider the price of the unit that you will be purchasing.
Most people will go for the most expensive unit available without thinking that their models are priced reasonably, which can provide almost the same features at a better price.
When shopping for the best unit, considering the price will give you the best value for every penny that you will be spending.
Having a deal like this spells a WIN since you are spending the amount of that will give you a unit that has its worth.
Unlike spending a good amount of money (which is expensive) for the same unit or a unit that is slightly better.
So, make sure to consider the amount of money a unit asks for its features.
6. Storage Space
The next thing you have to consider is the data storage or the total amount of data the device can store.
Considering the storage space of the device will determine how much data it can backup, which can be used for future reference.
Having a good amount of saved data will only mean plenty of readings that you can refer to in the future. This will lead to easier fix and quicker solutions.
7. Type Of Scanner
Thinking about the type of scanner to buy will also be beneficial to your cause since it will determine the convenience of the unit you will buy.
Here you are going to consider your preference whether you are comfortable using the hand-held devices or more fond of the application type of scanner that you can use with smartphones.
If you are a type of person that loves to use gadgets and maximize the use of smartphones, then you’ll have to consider the application type of scanners.
On the other hand, if you are the type of person that loves to have a tool for everything, then the hand-held devices are the thing for you.
No matter the type of scanner, as long as it approves your preference, that is the one that you will go for in this situation.
Conclusion
Now that you have the list as well as the knowledge that you need with regards to OBD2 scanners. You are now ready to search for the best model for your vehicle.
As long as you stick to your knowledge and then make sure that you are looking for the right thing, basing your decision in accordance with this guide.
The chances of you getting the best OBD2 scanner model for your needs will be great. You have all the resources that you need, good luck to your search!
