Best OBD2 Scanner: Top 10 Picks Review & Comparison 2021

Hey guys,

Are you looking for the Best OBD2 Scanner for your car? Then, you are on the right page.

Thanks to an array of manufacturers and models, you can find an OBD2 scanner named in different ways: OBD2 Code Reader, OBD2 Scan Tool, OBD2 Diagnostic Tool, etc.

On this post, we will bring you the 10 Best OBD2 Scanner Reviews. Thanks to it, you will be able to make an educated decision and buy the best one for you.

Best OBD2 Scanners (OBD2 Code Reader/OBD2 Diagnostic Tool) Review

1

ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced OBD2 Code Reader

Best for DIY-ers

ANCEL AD310

4.6 / 5

ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced OBD2 Code Reader  Best for DIY-ers

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Don’t let the classic and simple design of the ANCEL AD310 fool you because this unit can handle more than just basic functions.

This is arguably the best OBD2 scanner on the market for DIY-ers.

Features

It won’t take you long to get used to this code reader, either.

With its large LCD screen (128 x 64 pixel), white backlight and contrast adjustment, you’ll easily navigate the menu and read the codes.

The Ad310 only has 4 buttons – The Up/down buttons for navigating the menu and the Enter/Exit buttons for entering and leaving the menu.

As for compatibility, the AD310 works with MOST 1996 US-Based cars as well as with 2000 Asian and EU-Based cars.

It’s also well-suited with newer domestic or import vehicles that are in accordance with OBD2 protocols & CAN.

However, it doesn’t support all protocols so you need to check if it works with your car before buying it.

This unit is capable of fast scanning as well as clearing trouble codes. Not only that, but it can also determine what’s wrong with your vehicle and maybe give you a solution.

Moreover, the AD310 views freeze frame data, discovers the reason of why the check engine light is on, reads memory, as well as historic and pending codes.

The last feature worth mentioning is a 2.5 feet long cable. It makes easy work of connecting this code reader to your vehicle.

The cable is also durable and sturdy, thanks to a thick flexible insulator.

User-friendly interface, well-built design, high functionality, and affordable price make the AD310 the best Obd2 scanner for DIY-ers.

2

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional for iPhone, iPad & Android

Best for portability

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool

4.4 / 5

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBD2 Scan Tool for iPhone, iPad & Android – the Best for portability

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If you have a collection of cars, the BlueDriver Bluetooth is just what your babies need. Thanks to its impressive functionality, portability, and convenience, this could be the best OBD2 scanner for car enthusiasts.

This model differs from similar OBD2 scanners in terms of design and connection. Most OBD2 scanners have a standard design. Meaning, they have a small LCD display, buttons, and are powered by the battery or your vehicle.

Well, what we have here is actually a tiny device that features a code for the BlueDriver Bluetooth app. There’s no display and other features that we mentioned just a second ago.

This device gives you extraordinary user experience and convenience since it is used with Android and Apple devices.

It has Bluetooth thus it connects to a phone or tablet in seconds.

You just need to scan a code on this scan tool and download the BlueDriver Bluetooth app.

From there, you’ll have access to a database of more than 30 million fixes. These fixes are trustworthy as they are certified by experts.

Thanks to that, you won’t have to worry about unreliable fixes.

Features

• Reads and clears all the codes
• Extensive coverage (ALL GM, Ford, Toyota, Chrysler, and Nissan brands as well as all BMW and Honda brands sold in North America)
• Gives you significant info such as Climate Control, ABS, Airbag, vehicle specifications, recalls, TSBs, Maintenance schedule
• Checks if your vehicle will pass the emissions test
• Freezes frame data
• Live data
• Free app update

However, this device doesn’t provide fuel economy info and transmission fluid temperature. So, it’s not exactly the best Obd2 scanner for mechanics.

The BlueDriver Bluetooth bring you the best of both worlds – features of a top-notch OBD2 scanner and benefits of a smartphone, turning it into a must-have tool for any serious mechanic.

3

ANCEL AD410 One of best handheld obd2 scanner

Simple and efficient 

ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD II Vehicle Code Reader

4.3 / 5

ANCEL AD410 One of best handheld obd2 scanner – Simple and efficient 

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If you want more than a basic code reader, this is the way to go. This unit gives you a lot for the price, making it a good choice for DIY-ers, and average car owners.

This is an upgrade to AD310. It offers more features yet it doesn’t cost much more than the first model on our list.

With an STM 32-bit CPU, the AD410 quickly reads data and gives a steady performance. It will detect the problem on your vehicle in seconds. Thanks to the DTC lookup, you’ll be able to also solve the problem.

The 2.4″ TFT true color LCD display makes reading clear and effortless. The simple layout allows quick and easy access to options and settings. Because of that, this scan tool is great for average car owners.

This unit does basic functions such as turning check engine light off, reading and erasing codes and resetting the monitor.

But, compared to the AD310, this one offers OBDII diagnostics, supports ALL OBDII protocols and CAN.

Moreover, it supports EVAP and supports O2 sensor test. Thanks to that, you can detect problems related to fuel and vehicle emissions.

What customers love is the option to save and print reports when needed. This is great for DIY-ers.

On top of all, you get a lifetime FREE software update to keep you updated with changes and bugs.

Now, this device can’t read transmission and ABS, so for that, you’d have to go to the mechanic.

But, for smaller issues, and checking your car’s health, the AD410 works like a charm.

The ANCEL AD410 is the best OBD2 scanner in comparison to the other competitors in the same price range.

Besides basic functions, this unit offers exclusive OBDII diagnostics and free updates.

4

OBDLink MX: Best Obd2 scanner for Android & Windows

Fast and Versatile

OBDLink MX Bluetooth

4.3 / 5

OBDLink MX the Best Obd2 scanner for Android & Windows -Fast and Versatile

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Packed with remarkable features, the OBDLink MX offers fast and easy access to log, graph, and live engine data.

It’s a great choice for anyone who wants versatile and reasonably priced OBDII scan tool.

The OBDLink MX is a diagnostic scan tool 4 times faster than its competitors when it comes to Bluetooth connection.

It works with Android devices, Windows Phone 8, but it also supports Windows PC and tablets. Thanks to this, you’ll have convenience and simplicity of this unit wherever you are.

Firstly, this scan tool is versatile. It works on ALL 1996 cars as well as newer cars and light truck that are sold in the USA. It supports all 5 protocols.

Not only that, but OBDLink MX supports EOBD, JOBD, and other worldwide variants of OBD-II.

What’s more, you get access to advanced Ford and GM support and you can use third-party apps.

What customers also appreciate about this scan tool is its safety. Namely, this tool is hacker proof due to 128-bit data encryption. Since this device won’t show the PIN publicly, rest assured that hackers won’t get to your car.

Speaking of safety, the OBDLink MX is the only one to feature overvoltage protection, giving you peace of mind.

Thanks to the battery saving feature, the second you turns off your car, Bluetooth goes into a sleep mode.

That way, your battery won’t let you down when you need it.

Finally, you get FREE updates, and FREE android app and Windows diagnostic software. Oh, and we almost forgot a 3-year warranty.

The greatest vehicle coverage, fast connection, wide protocol support, hacker-proof design, and free updates make this unit one of the best OBD2 scanner on the market.

5

Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 Scanner

Best basic OBD2 scanner

Autel MaxiLink ML619

4.4 / 5

Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 Scanner –one of the Best basic OBD2 scanner

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If you’re looking for a good quality basic code reader, this one is a real deal.

The Autel MaxiLink ML619 is just an ordinary code reader, but it certainly does what it’s supposed to.

With this unit by your side, you’ll easily do small repairs on/in your car, saving money on a mechanic.

Like most OBDII scanners, it reads and clears data, turns of MIL, views freeze frame data, and offers live data.

In addition to that, this device gives you ABS/SRS diagnosis on most vehicles manufactured from 1996 as well as on many newer vehicles.

The Autel MaxiLink ML619 is compatible with GM, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Volvo, BMW, VW, Nissan, Kia, Mercedes, Hyundai, Fiat, Peugeot, Mitsubishi, Citroen, Jaguar, and Land Rover.

This device comes in a carrying case, thus it’s portable and easy to store. On the downside, the cable is short, so you won’t have much flexibility.

The Autel MaxiLink ML619 is best for beginners and average car owners, due to its basic performance and ease-of-use.

6

Innova 3100j Diagnostic Code Reader

Best if you own many vehicles

Innova 3100j

4.3 / 5

Innova 3100j Diagnostic Code Reader is the best if you own many vehicles

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If you have many vehicles to check and repair, the Innova 3100j Scan Tool will be your guide.

Just imagine finding out what’s wrong with all those vehicles without a hassle. It would save you plenty of time and money.

Let us be clear right away: this device won’t do miracles. Yes, it will tell you why the check engine light is on, read and erase trouble codes.

However, it doesn’t provide an explanation of codes, so you have to do research on your own.

On the other hand, this unit features oil reset, giving you step by step procedures. It also reads and erases Anti-lock Braking System codes as well as Supplemental Restraint System codes.

But, it does that on selected models. In addition, there are battery and alternator tests so you can see how your car’s charging system works.

The customer service is definitely worth mentioning. If you have questions, and doubts, you can contact these ASE certified technicians.

They’re available from Monday thru Saturday, which is plenty of time to ask and get help.

Because of all these features, the Innova 3100j is popular among DIYers.

It is also used by professionals who appreciate some help along the way.

Keep in mind that the instructions aren’t comprehensive, so you won’t have much use of them.

Thanks to its excellent customer support, and great performance, The Innova 3100j makes easy work of detecting problems on your vehicles.

7

Autel TS401 MaxiTPMS Activation Tool

Best for activating TPMS sensors

Autel TS401 MaxiTPMS

4.2 / 5

Autel TS401 MaxiTPMS Activation Tool is the best for activating TPMS sensors

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The Autel TS401 TPMS activation tool is a great choice for your car workshop. It’s accurate and easy to use.

Because of that, your job will be much easier. Let’s take a closer look at the TS401.

This TPMS diagnostic and service tool offers supreme sensor coverage as well as great performance.

In addition to that, this unit provides code definitions, sensor data, and audio responses.

All that makes solving a problem with TPMS faster and easier.

Moreover, this diagnostic tool has a well-built design. This unit is sturdy and trustworthy, coming with a 1-year warranty to prove that.

The Autel TS401 is designed with straightforwardness in mind and as such provides a great user experience.

This diagnostic tool tests and reads TPMS sensors. Nonetheless, it won’t reset them. In other words, you’d only know that there’s something wrong with TPMS sensors, but you won’t have the solution.

For that, you will have to take your car to the professional.

Because of that, this unit would be much more helpful for mechanics

A mechanic would know how to solve the problem and this unit will let him know what the problem is.

On the other hand, having this unit by your side means preventing troubles with your tires.

So, it wouldn’t hurt to buy this one and detect the problem.

Keep in mind that this unit doesn’t work as an OBD2 code reader thus it won’t read and clear codes.

With the Autel MaxiTPMS TS401 detecting faulty TPMS sensor will be quick and easy. Thanks to that, you’ll be able to work faster and impress your customers.

This would lead to more work, happy customers and, most importantly, happy you!

8

Innova 3160g Code Reader

Best overall OBD2 scanner reviews

Innova 3160g

4.2 / 5

Innova 3160g Code Reader – the Best overall OBD2 scanner reviews

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Here we have another model coming from Innova – the Innova 3160g. Think of it as a better version of the Innova 3100j.

The 3160g is for those who aren’t afraid to spend a bit more on the OBDII code reader. Let’s see why this unit is more expensive than the Innova 3100j.

Firstly, this device does what any code reader will – turn off that annoying check engine light. It will do that on any foreign and domestic cars manufactured from 1996.

It will also work with newer OBDII cars, light trucks, hybrids, and SUVs.

In addition, the 3160g Reads and erases ABS & SRS trouble codes on MOST domestic, European and Asian vehicles that are OBDII compliant.

Apart from those functions, this not-so-little guy will reset oil light and battery maintenance light and Initialization.

Now, compared to the Innova 3100j, this model can do something else– stream and record live data.

Thanks to that, you can have access to old reports anytime you like. However, reading live data for the very first time will be a tad slow.

And, there’s one more thing that makes this unit worth the money – ergonomic and clever design. The Innova 3160g is a pleasure to work with since it fits well in a hand.

Also, the buttons are well organized and responsive. Add to that a large screen and great readability and this unit is hard to beat.

If you don’t expect fancy features but would rather want a high-quality OBD2 scanner – the Innova 3160g could easily be the best OBD2 scanner for your needs.

9

Autel Maxisys MS906 OBDII and Automotive Diagnostic Scanner

Best obd2 scanner for mechanics

Autel MS906 Maxisys

4.4 / 5

Autel Maxisys MS906 OBDII and Automotive Diagnostic Scanner one of the Best obd2 scanner for mechanics

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Whether you’re a car enthusiast or own a small workshop, the Maxisys MS906 will blow your mind away. This Autel device comes with everything one would need to take care of their car(s).

Based on Android OS, this unit works quickly and is capable of handling different tasks at the same time.

It will give you an in-depth diagnostics and analysis of your car.

Moreover, this unit has impressive vehicle coverage – for about 80 US, European and Asian vehicle brands.

It also can cover all electronic systems, thanks to OE-level diagnostics.

What’s more, the Maxisys MS906 can give you complete codes, active test, live data, ECU information, matching and much more.

Add to that the Smart AutoVIN technology that will help you identify vehicles in seconds, and you’ve found a doctor for your cars.

With 8.0” 1024×768 LED-backlit Touch display and ergonomic design, using this device is smooth and easy.

Thanks to the touch function, you’ll easily navigate the menu and find what you need.

There’s even Cloud-based MaxiFix online community so you can access a vast database of repair tips.

The  Maxisys MS906 also comes with a Built-in rechargeable battery, so you won’t have to worry about the connection.

The Autel Maxisys MS906 is a serious OBD2 scanner, also making it the perfect choice for professional who leave nothing to chance.

10

Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P Automotive Diagnostic Scanner

Best OBD2 scanner for professional technicians

Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P

4.4 / 5

Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P Automotive Diagnostic Scanner – Best OBD2 scanner for professional technicians

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As the name itself implies, the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P is designed for professional technicians. This device isn’t only the OBD2 scanner.

It’s also an automotive diagnostic scanner that features ECU coding and J2534 Reprogramming.

Just like the previous model on our list, this one also offers Comprehensive OE-Level diagnostic, Auto-Vin technology, and widespread OE-Level vehicle coverage.

But, this unit offers some unparalleled features which justify a high price tag.

Features

• Unsurpassed speed

With an A9 quad-core processor, 32G hard drive and highly sensitive 9.7”LED capacitive touchscreen, this unit work like a charm.

In addition, the system is 5 times faster compared to similar products on the market. This greatly reduces diagnostic time.

It also performs multiple tasks so you’ll scan vehicles much quicker.

• EDU coding and Programming

Thanks to this feature, your vehicle’s computer will be up to date. You’ll also be able to reprogram data after repairing your vehicle or replacing certain parts.

• J2534 Reprogramming Capability

The device is compatible with both SAE J2534-1 and J2534-2 reprogramming standards.

The Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P allows you to do some fancy things with the ECUs and the vehicle’s software.

For instance, you’ll be able to fix drivability and emission issues, replace the existing software in ECUs, as well as to program new ECUs.

Being such a complex device, many users need more than just the manual to figure out the features of this unit.

But, unfortunately, the customer service isn’t very responsive. So, you probably won’t get the answers quickly.

With all this being said, we think it is clear why this device costs more than the others in this list. However, it certainly is a worthy investment for any professional technician.

If you want only the best for your vehicles and customers, look no further.

Best OBD2 Scanners: Editor’s Top 3 Picks Comparison Chart

	Best for DIY-ers	Best for iOS and Android devices	Best for beginners	Best for Professionals
	Ancel AD310 Check Price	BlueDriver Check Price	Autel MaxiLink ML619 Check Price	Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P Check Price
Customer Rating	4.5 / 5	4.4 / 5	4.4 / 5	4.3 / 5
Price
Weight	12.3 ounces	2.4 ounces	1.95 pounds	22.4 pounds
Dimensions	8.9 x 6.5 x 1.2 inches	2.2 x 1.9 x 1 inches	7.3 x 10.2 x 3 inches	0.1 x 0.5 x 0.3 inches
Support OBDII Modes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Read and clear ABS/SRS	Yes	Yes	Yes	N/A
ECU Coding	N/A	N/A	N/A	Yes
Freeze frame data	Yes	Yes	Yes	N/A
DTC Lookup	Yes	N/A	N/A	N/A
Live data	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Bottom Line	It is highly recommeded for DIY consumers.	It is a great choice for iOS and Android devices.	It is best for beginners and average car owners	It certainly is a worthy investment for any professional technician
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Bonus: Ancel AD510 review

Final Thoughts

Having a car is like having a child – you always have to take care of it. We think the best way to do that is with an OBDII scanner. Thanks to this handy device, you’ll be able to at least do some basic functions, such as reading and clearing codes.

So, we included many best ODB2 scanners that every average car owner or car enthusiasts can afford.

On the other hand, if you’re a professional, and need a high-quality OBDII diagnostic tool

Either way, we gave our best to write detailed reviews so that you can make an educated decision. So, we hope you would.

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