Top 10 Best OBD2 Scanner (Review) In 2023
The best obd2 scanner will assist you in diagnosing your vehicle problem through different codes. This universal scanner has worked well on all U.S. vehicles manufactured since 1996.
Using an obd2 scanner, you can learn vehicle problems and possible solutions for the problem.
For example, an odb2 scanner can diagnose why your vehicle’s ABS is not working. Also will let you know how you can get rid of this problem.
OUR TOP 3 PICKS
OBDLink MX Bluetooth OBD-II
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Actron CP9680 Elite AutoScanner Kit
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Bluedriver LSB2 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
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Top 10 Best OBD2 Scanner Reviews
This article is all about the obd2 scanner, where I have reviewed the top 10 obd2 scanners. Also, a buying guide will assist you in finding the best product.
1. Bluedriver LSB2 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
When an OBD2 scanner receives more than 10,000+ positive reviews on Amazon, then I have no other choice but to give it the 1st position in the list. The Bluedriver LSB2 Bluetooth OBD2 scanner has all the unique features like dongle connectivity, making repair suggestions and warns of recalls, etc., making the OBD2 scanner one of the best of all OBD2 scanners in the market.
It comes with efficient sensors which are providing correct results, and the app is responsible for showing codes in an easily readable format. Compared to some other models, it is a bit pricier, but you will be satisfied getting value-adding service from the scanner.
The tool is eligible to read updated data like misfire counts and shared innovative codes interrelated to transmission, ABS as well as airbags proposing significant control over the car. Without making any late, it will connect to your tablet or iOS device. Identifies the car fault and turns off the check engine light.
The Bluetooth range of the Bluedriver is 32ft, and the app is entitled to show you speed, RPMs of the engine, and other operational data as numbers. Freeze frame is one of the best features of the device in that it delivers a slice of data to let you analyze quickly.
Key Features:
Dongle connectivity.
Updated readings.
Value-added device.
Pros
- After detecting a problem, the gadget also proposes possible solutions.
- Easy to use that a beginner will also find it straightforward to handle.
- Long Bluetooth range.
Cons
- Expensive.
2. Actron CP9680 Elite AutoScanner Kit
If you are an updated technician and experienced user, the Actron CP9680 Elite AutoScanner Kit will be the best solution for you to scan your vehicle efficiently. It has the capability of reading data, presenting data into a graph, allowing you to take a printout from a PC, reading DTCs, plating stored information, and many more.
It is available with all standard features following some innovative ways. When the scanner shows DTCs, the CodeConnect feature takes the responsibility to explain the causes behind the problem and shares the most natural fixes so that you can troubleshoot it in the quickest and fastest way.
It is backed up with a locator feature that describes where the various components are in the car and again gives a name to the parameter ID for instant interpretation of the data. It is one of the rarest features that you will find in an OBD2 scanner.
Some other silent features of the scanner are reset options for battery and oil, active status, the status of GM DTC, charging system monitor, double PID graph, code standards, as well as hands-free car link.
The Actrol CP9680 is also updated using the USB port and is patented via TrueLink technology, which confirms that the link interconnects with the vehicle efficiently.
Key Features:
- Large screen.
- Trilingual (English, Spanish, and French) instruction manual.
- Up-gradable.
- Eligible to take a printout.
- Easy to read for a large screen.
- It is compatible with recording data and playing it as per requirement.
- Upgradation is possible using Windows OS only.
3. OBDLink MX Bluetooth OBD-II Automotive Scan Tool
The OBDLink MX Bluetooth OBD-II Automotive Scan Tool is the most popular scanner of the manufacturer OBDLink. Compared to its competitor, it offers 300% faster performance. And compatible with both Android and Windows devices. It is a pocket-sized OBD2 scanner that delivers unmatched performance and comes at an affordable price too.
Don’t get fooled by its small size because it is full of stunning features. With all the features such as a chart, logging, and exporting real-time engine data, you will never find it complicated to use.
Additionally, the scan tool is hacker-resistance, allows 3rd party software and apps, and you will get firmware as well as a software update for free.
Interestingly, it has a unique feature named LX’s new sleep function that will give you peace of mind by saving battery chargers. Even if you plug in the tool and leave unknowingly, a discharge will not happen.
In terms of performance, you will not find any rival of the tool. It is because the device is 4X faster than its competitors. Being faster, don’t assume it will give you any wrong data. It has a reputation for providing 100% precise, accurate, and detailed graphs. Without any confusion, you can rely on it to get the correct diagnosis.
Key Features:
- Portable.
- Safety mechanism.
- Wide-ranging vehicle coverage.
- Fast and reliable performance than its competitor.
- Compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
- Assist in saving power.
- The PID read rate is slow.
4. LAUNCH Code Reader OBD2 Device
Are you diagnosing an extensive choice of vehicles daily? The LAUNCH Code Reader OBD2 Device will give you the best companion during a diagnosis session of any vehicle. You can use the whole OBD2 options for any sort of car harmonious with OBDII & CAN procedures, and the 4 Systems Analyses can be used for 2006 as well as newer vehicles.
You will be glad to know; it can show you data analysis in a total of 8 languages (English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Portuguese). This feature makes the scanner a universal one that can be used in many countries without any hassle on your language preference.
The scanner will diagnose your vehicle’s engine, ABS, Transmission, manual or graphical data stream, as well as other ECU information. Once you fix the identified problem, this tool will also assist you in clearing DTC’s info. After then, you will get an automatically switched-off warning light.
Another great feature of the tool is; it will not only assist you by analyzing DTC’s information but focus on any doubtful data factors by supporting updated live data.
Additionally, you can get the printout of all diagnosis reports by connecting it to PC.
Key Features:
- 8 individual languages.
- Full OBDII functions.
- Lifetime free update.
- Compatible to work with a wide range of vehicles.
- Read and clear DTC’s information.
- Provides printout.
- The update process is a bit tricky.
5. Innova 3100RS Diagnostic Scan Tool
If you are an OBD2 scanner user, you must have heard of Innova OBD2 scanners. Innova has introduced a lot of OBD2 scanners to their customers, and out of them, the Innova 3100i Diagnostic Scan tool is one of the best scanners. In terms of performance and value, no similar performer is there in the OBD2 scanner industry.
Through the 3100i scan tool, you can analyze codes of ABS, emission tests, check engine codes, possible solutions for a problem, and battery or alternator status. All this information will be demonstrated on the easy-to-read big display screen.
Also, its LCD screen has backlit, and during low light conditions, you will not face any problem reading the data. These features make the tool an ideal scan tool for both DIY livers and professionals.
You will love to hear; the tool displays analyzed data following ordinary language so that a novice also can read and understand the analysis. Impressively, a mechanic will get more in-depth information to let the mechanic work precisely to solve any problem.
Moreover, the detailed information ensures you don’t need to research a lot regarding the issue. This way, it assists you in saving your valuable time too.
Key Features:
- Attractive color screen.
- Quick diagnosis.
- Compact design.
- Hassle-free use.
- Backlit in the LCD screen so that you can read data comfortably.
- Assist you in checking your car’s battery status.
- A bit expensive for the beginner but a value-added device.
6. Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner
The Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner has taken a gentle breeze to those mechanics who have a lack of scanning tools in their toolboxes. It is compact and lightweight; this way, it can take its place in your front pocket without any hassle. Vehicles from the USA, Asia, and Europe are compatible with the tool, and you can learn DTC definitions from the machine on its LCD backlit screen.
Although the Autel MS300 scanner is not an alternative to a more massive scanner, it will add a vibe to your toolbox. It contains 2 buttons. One button will assist you in reading any trouble codes, and the other one will help you to clear those codes.
You will receive a CD catalog with the gadget that will allow you to control the device more efficiently with 7,000 trouble codes. All in all, you will find it a much more user-friendly tool.
Additionally, it is designed in such a way that you can use it for bilingual use. Both beginners and novices will not face any issues with the easy-to-understand interface.
Just after plugging the device into the vehicle’s computer, within a few seconds, it will show you codes. After resolving the issue, you can plug it in again into the computer to erase the codes. Isn’t it much simpler to handle?
Key Features:
- LCD screen.
- Affordable.
- CD catalog with 7,000 trouble codes.
- No hassle to use the device.
- Show trouble codes within the shortest possible time.
- Durable computer plugs for OBD2 scanner.
- ns: Too small in size.
7. Autel AutoLink AL529 OBD2 Scanner
Every vehicle has a computer system, and day by day; the system is getting more complicated. To assist you in scanning the system, the Autel Autolink AL529 OBD2 scanner is one of the best for reading computer systems. It is not only an efficient performer, but also you will get the computer system code much faster compared to other scanners.
A large and full TFT screen will allow you to read the codes much more relaxed and clearer. The fact is, these gadgets are plugged into a less light area where reading any screen is hard to read.
But Autel AutoLink AL529 OBD2 Scanner is out of this problem. Besides, it is equipped with a unique built-in speaker. With the help of the speaker, you will get audio cues of the diagnosis of the vehicle.
Additionally, you can record the data so that you can read them at a later date.
Moreover, the gadget gets updated through the internet, and thus a mechanic can access newer codes without any trouble. It comes with a beautiful carrying case which keeps you worry-free in terms of storing the device.
Key Features:
- Built-in-speaker.
- Carrying case.
- TFT color display.
- Easy storing in the handy carrying case.
- Saves data so that you can see them in the future.
- Provides accurate and fast reading.
- No prominent cons are available.
8. Innova 3150 Diagnostic Scan Tool
You will fall in love at first sight with the Innova 3150 Diagnostic Scan tool because of its gorgeous sleek design. Don’t think that the plan is its only best feature; it has other buzzing features that will simply amaze you. It will troubleshoot your vehicle much more quicker and easier. And it is affordable, easy to use, and offers many other features that you can rely on on without any confusion.
The manufacturer knows about the continuously changing technology, and the automotive industry is also not out of this change. OBD2 and CAN are the 2 essential systems that are used for communication with the vehicle computer.
And without a scan tool, you can’t make communication with the vehicle’s computer. Through a USB port, the Innova 3150 scanner keeps them updated with the latest system.
It is not uncommon for scanning gadgets to disconnect and remove them from a vehicle while placing information on the screen. Regular OBD2 scanners are not battery-backed up, and during this type of situation, you may face problems reading the data. But Innova 3150 item is battery backed up, so removing the tool from the vehicle will not create any problem in obtaining the screen.
Key Features:
- Excellent design.
- Battery backup.
- Multilanguage screen.
- Easy to read and access.
- Fast performance.
- LED display.
- Inconsistent performance.
9. Autel Maxidas DS808 OBD2 Scanner
The Autel Maxidas DS808 OBD2 scanner is an upgraded version of the DS708. It is harmonious with a varied range of cars named Bentley, Ford, Volvo, Land Rover, Audi, Bugatti, BMW, GM, Toyota, Renault, and many more.
Its sleek innovative design makes it easy to operate the device in poorly lit areas, too, with the LED light on the screen. It is built sturdily and comes in an ideal size not to let you feel any discomfort while carrying it.
Upgrade features in the gadgets are cloud-based maxifix, smart AutoVin options, and a shop manager. All these features make the item better than its previous version DS708.
Are you worried, thinking whether the device will work in your country or not? Say bye-bye to your worries because different users can operate it using its multilingual menu feature. Besides, it is battery-powered, and its 500Ah Lithium-Ion battery gives 4.5 hours of continuous service without any disturbance.
Key Features:
- Powerful Lithium-Ion battery.
- Multilingual menu.
- 7” large screen.
- Comes with a storage case.
- Free 1-year update.
- Enabled with Wi-Fi connection.
- Highly expensive.
Best OBD2 Scanner Buying Guide
Many key factors play a vital role while purchasing the best obd2 scanner. Even if you have used an obd2 scanner before, it would be best if you brush up on your knowledge because everyday technology is upgrading.
So, let’s learn about the key factors.
Scanner
Excellent scanning capability is the most basic function of an obd2 scanner. This is a bit of a misconception, as the scanner itself doesn’t monitor the car. Instead, the scanner communicates with online boards that use sensors to monitor various objects.
As a result, different obd2 scanners will share different information. Some scanner models can have access ability to typical trouble codes, whilst others come with several access abilities.
Information Processing
OBD2 scanners show problem codes using wrapped language along with a modest solution.
The top-quality obd2 scanner comes with all advanced features, but the first or budgeted versions only show problem codes the car provides. The problem codes are rarely understood unless the scanner code is translated or you need to research online to find the meaning of the codes by yourself. And this process is tiresome work for sure. Because if you are unaware of the codes, you will not be able to find the right solution for the problem.
A high-quality obd2 scanner not only shares problem codes but also shares solutions for those problems. As a result, you can save both valuable time and money.
Connectivity
Every vehicle has an obd2 connecting port. And most of the obd2 scanner gets a connection from this port.
These types of scanners have few advantages since they don’t require battery power to diagnose any vehicle problem. For convenience, the wireless obd2 scanners are available with a separate plug, and an app assists you in plugging in the scanner with the vehicle while working.
- Related Articles: Best Toyota Scan Tools
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the benefit of the obd2 scanner?
An obd2 scanner can detect different error codes of vehicles and provide a possible solution. If you have minimum knowledge of error codes, you will be able to do the maintenance of your vehicle on your own.
Can the obd2 scanner do any harm to anyone?
Yes, it can do damage to your vehicle if the tool is adapted to low voltage. Other than this, the obd2 scanner is fully safe for any vehicle.
Do I require any practice before working with an obd2 scanner?
It is advisable to learn a few error codes to take care of your vehicle without going to a workshop.
Last Words
As I have stated earlier, finding the best obd2 scanner is a tricky task. But if you read this article intently, I believe you now have enough confidence to grab the best product from dozens of options.
Never purchase a cheap product because an inferior product will cost you more in the long run. And a quality product will give you the best performance for an extended period.
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