Which scanner should i buy

FIXD works with multiple vehicles using the same app, similar to driving tracking devices offered by car insurance companies. If you're a mechanic who does most of your own repairs and wants a Bluetooth option, the Autel MaxiAP AP M is the best without breaking your budget. This multifunction scanner turns your smartphone into a vehicle diagnostic powerhouse and includes maintenance service features that rival a mechanics scan tool. The Autel MaxiAP AP M is an all-system diagnostic tool that is capable of performing most of your regular maintenance services, including:.

The Launch CRPX comes with a large 5" color display HD touchscreen for easy viewing and is rechargeable, so it's ready whenever you need it. The Launch CRPX also includes a battery voltage tester and automatic VIN technology to help you identify your car quickly without having to enter it manually. You can update the software anytime when connected to Wi-Fi with free lifetime updates with just one click.

The updated battery is new in , upgraded from mAh to mAh to provide an even longer time between charges. The 4-in-1 live data graph creates a diagnostic report that can be shared with a mechanic as needed. If you have the budget and want a quality OBD2 scanner and car code reader that rivals dealership level diagnostic tools, the Innova FixAssist RS is a great choice. With bi-directional control, this scanner can test the functionality of electric motors, clutches, and actuators.

It performs all reset functions to complete repairs or maintenance like steering angle reset, DPF regeneration, and parking brake calliper resets for newer vehicles with an electric parking brake. If you're unsure if your particular car is covered, you can enter your vehicle information or VIN at the Innova website to confirm it will work before purchase. The criteria used to choose these products include the cost of the tool, functional features, smartphone access abilities, system usage and ability to use with multiple makes and models.

I also spoke with a few mechanics in my local area who work at dealerships and independent shops to get their recommendations on brands and features they use and have had positive experiences with. The best OBD2 scanners and car code readers listed above come at various price points with different features and range from basic automotive knowledge to professional needs.

When shopping for the best OBD2 scanner and car code reader, consider what you need the tool to do. If you only want the ability for checking an engine light, then one of the budget models may be enough. However, if you do your own mechanical work and need an advanced model similar to what a dealership has, consider the higher end scanners with more capability. Once you've narrowed down your choices, make sure to check that the OBD2 scanner and car code reader will work with your particular make and model.

With limited stock in new and slightly used cars, the average used car buyer is looking at cars seven or more model years old. While you may get a great purchase price, the likelihood of a problem is greater with an older model vehicle. Buying the best OBD2 scanner and car code reader for your make and model can help you save even more by diagnosing and fixing your car yourself.

Most OBD2 scanners and car code readers do not work on all cars. If you are looking for an OBD2 scanner or car code reader, you should check if it works with your particular make and model before buying it. It may be worth buying an OBD2 scanner if you can do your own mechanical work and need a tool to scan your malfunctioning lights. Some of the more advanced models can check all the car's systems, while the basic models only read check engine light codes.

As discussed above, there are several different kinds of OBD2 scanners that are available in the market. So the process of setting different kinds of scanners up also varies a bit from each other but the below discussed guide might provide you with a generic overview in this regard.

The most basic steps involved in setting up OBD2 scanners are listed below for your convenience and understanding. There are several OBD2 scanner applications available in the market. Some of the scanners even have their own applications designed according to their specific requirements.

So in order to use an OBD2 scanner properly, it is critical to have the right kind of application on your mobile or any other hand held device. It is highly recommended to use the official application of a certain scanner if it available. Otherwise you may choose any other suitable app. The data ink connector DLC is a 16 pins connector that is the gateway for your scanner into the vehicle.

Majority of the vehicles normally possess this connector and its location may vary from one model to another. See here for DLC locator. If proper connection is established, you would be able to see the icons and keypad lights turned on.

Otherwise, something might be wrong and you need to find it out. So it finally comes to the point where you are able to run the first scan on your car. This would allow you to make sure of the fact that your scanner is properly functional.

For instance, in case the check engine light on your car is on while the scanner does not report any issues with the car, you might want to return the scanner to the retailer and ask for a replacement because something might be wrong with it. Keep in mind that it is really important to take the right precautions in order to avoid any unpleasant experience.

The most critical thing to consider in this regard is the fact that you may want to take extra care while plugging your scanner into the car. The connections must be proper and you need to ensure that it is being connected into the right port.

These include manifold pressure sensors, engine knock sensors, oxygen sensors and many others. Every one of the sensors is designed to generate a signal and send it to the Engine Control Unit or the computer of the car.

This information is then used by the ECU for adjusting different elements to the most optimum levels. It is somewhat safe to drive the car in this scenario until you find the time to get it properly checked.

In case the light starts blinking, the ongoing issue is likely to require immediate attention. Otherwise the engine might sustain some serious damage.

So when you plug your OBD2 scanner into the car, it transmits signals to the ECU and retrieve the relevant information on what actually is going on in there. On the basis of the received information, it displays the DLC code on the screen. High end models also provide a few details on the ongoing issue along with the proposed solution. The OBD2 scanner is a very handy device that may serve you as a life saver by enabling you to avoid some serious damages to your car.

In order to ensure the safe and sound operation of your car, it is really important for you to be on top of what is going on in the inside of it. OBD2 scanners allow you to do so in a very easy and convenient fashion. All you need to do is to plug it into the vehicle and it would come up with the necessary details on the current situation of your car.

You would be able to be fully aware of the fact that it is working properly or going through some kind of trouble which may lead you towards making an appropriate action. Keeping in view the fact that it could allow you to save yourself from a lot of car trouble, it seems to be an easy and useful investment. The NT Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first. Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this foxwell scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your lovely cars and pinpoint the problem for you, which saves time and money for you.

It will turn off the warning light for you after you fix the problem, making you to know more about your cars and do your own repair. In addition, Creader built in fault codes definition lookup library. NOTE: Supported services functions vary from vehicle to vehicle. The detailed report reveals the exact nature of the problem, with possible fixes to help greatly plan the budget for repairs.

Each time you lose the key, Autel Maxicom MK can add the new key and remotely disable the lost one. In order to determine the best OBD2 scanner for your vehicle, we considered the products most accessible to the widest swath of consumers in the U. We also considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple testers. New Cars For Sale. Used Cars For Sale. Sports Cars. Used Cars. Vehicle Care. Ford Edge vs Ford Escape. Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4Runner.

Kia Telluride vs Hyundai Palisade. Honda Pilot vs Toyota Highlander. Toyota Camry vs Honda Accord. Toyota Avalon vs Toyota Camry. Toyota Tundra vs Ford F Ford F vs Chevrolet Silverado Back To Forbes. Wheels Accessories. Mike Hagerty. Updated: Sep 1, Forbes Wheels independently tests and reviews cars and automotive accessories. We may earn an affiliate commission from links on our site. The analysis and opinions are our own.