Diagnostic Scan Reviews

This OBD-II scanner provides you with a race-level tool at the price of a basic car scanner. This diagnostic tool boasts over 15,000 DTC codes definitions and comes pre-loaded with over 3,000 repair suggestions for common vehicle malfunctions. Plus, the OBD-II, CAN & ABS Diagnostic.

1. Thinkcar Pro (Thinkdiag mini), based on thinkdiag, is a smaller, more efficient and affordable professional diagnostic tool for mechanics and DIYers.It gives you a complete solution for vehicle diagnosis, just connect Thinkcar Pro to your vehicle’s OBD2 port and scan your car, turn your smartphone or tablet into a professional OBD2 scan tool.
2. The AL519 is an easy-to-use scan tool that features live data graphing. It includes thousands of troubleshooter code tips to help save diagnosis and repair time. This device supports all 10 modes of OBD-II.
3. X431Tool.com is Original Launch X431 Official Online Shop, with 24/7 Online Service for technical support and free update. X431Tool provids all kinds of Launch X431 scanner including Launch Professional Diagnostics Launch X431 V, X-431 V+, X431 Diagun IV and X431 Pro Mini, Pros Mini; Heavy Duty Diagnostics.

Adobe premiere pro cs5 mac full download. There are many different models of diagnostic scan tools available to choose. We will reveal to you just how valuable a diagnostic scanning tool can be as well as give you information on the kinds of problems that these convenient tools can detect.

Having a diagnostic scan tool can help you save time and money at the repair shop because the technician will not have to figure out what it wrong when you bring it in. The codes that the tool has will give them the information they need to fix your vehicle fast and get it back on the road.

1. INNOVA 3100

Best Overall Diagnostic Scan

The INNOVA diagnostic scan can help you discover the reason your vehicle has the “Check Engine” light on and will work on both foreign and domestic vehicles that are 1996 and newer. You will be able to read as well as erase the ABS light trouble codes for most Toyotas, Chryslers, Fords and GMs.

The LED display and patented all-in-one screen provides quick State Emissions readiness and also drive cycle verification.

When you connect the INNOVA Diagnostic Scan Tool to your vehicle, it will refresh its data every 30 seconds so not only will you get up to the minute information, you will know when the repairs have been completed and the vehicle is back in working order.

Thanks to the battery backup memory, you can review and analyze the information you have found out when the Diagnostic Scan is not connected to the vehicle. (This is after the scan has been performed)

This convenient diagnostic scan tool is easy to hook up and use; just plug the diagnostic scanner into your vehicles DLC port, Make sure the PC link software is downloaded on your computer and connect the diagnostic tool to your computer which will give you instant access to important information about the trouble your vehicle may be having.

– Jonathan Maxwell

2. Actron CP9660

Best Overall Diagnostic Scan – Runner Up

If you want a fast and easy way to figure out what is going on with your vehicle, the Actron Pocketscan Plus is just what you need.

They are one of the best ways around to diagnose issues your vehicle has and can be used to turn off the check engine light as well.

The Actron Pocketscan is able to be used with vehicles that are 1996 and newer. You can get emissions displays as well which will help you have the information you need when it’s time to register your vehicle.

A benefit to using the Actron Pocketscan Plus is that you will also have access to RepairPath.com which is a website that will provide even more diagnostic and repair information about your vehicle.

Not only can you diagnose trouble, it can also freeze frame data that you need to refer to or write down, give you VIN information and does Inspection Maintenance Readiness testing to alert you to anything that would prevent your vehicle from passing inspection. Use it to diagnose problems and then to verify that the repairs have been made and the problem no longer exists.

If you have an automobile do-it-yourself-er, this is a perfect gift that they will find very valuable. Photoshop cc 2014 oil paint. The compact size makes it easy to carry in a glove box or even your pocket. Having the Actron diagnostic Scan tool helps you figure out what is wrong with your vehicle when the check engine light comes on.

Instead of just seeing the light and having NO idea, you will be able to take it to the mechanic with information that will be helpful and prevent repairs that DON’T need to be made from being made. Your Actron Diagnostic Scan tool can read DTCs when it is connected so you get super fast diagnostics. It also reads and displays OBD-II generic code definitions, malfunction indicator light statuses, I/M monitors, pending codes, freeze frame data, the vehicle’s VIN, and more.

The easy to see and read backlit display makes reading what is on it simple and straightforward. You can power this diagnostic scan tool by car battery through your vehicle’s OBD-II connector which is located under the dashboard in most vehicles.

– Jonathan Maxwell

3. Autel AL519

The patented One-Click I/M readiness key, TFT color display and built in speaker make this diagnostic scan tool one you definitely want to have in your tool box. This scanner supports all 10 modes of OBD-II testing to provide car owners with a thorough and complete diagnosis.

Along with complete diagnostics, you will get thousands of troubleshooter code tips that can make the technicians working on your vehicle not have to waste yours or their time and your money trying to figure out what is wrong.

The Autel diagnostic scan works with all vehicles that are 1996 and newer, whether they are domestic or foreign makes. You power the diagnostic scan tool with the vehicle’s battery for your convenience. You also get CD software and a USB cable as well.

You will be able to retrieve generic and manufacturer specific codes for your vehicle as well as pending codes too. It can turn off the check engine light, clear codes and resets the monitors as well.

Another customer favorite feature is that is can read, record and play back live sensor data and has an I/M readiness status for checking emission compliance. Something very handy when you need to get your registration renewed.

You will find the lightweight and compact size easy to take anywhere so you are never caught without you diagnostic tool, should you need it for your vehicle or to help someone else figure out what is going wrong with theirs. Since you have both brightly color-coded LED lights and a built in speaker you will get both visual and audible tones that can signify readiness verification.

– Jonathan Maxwell

Summary of Our Top Picks
Any one of these diagnostic scans work great to provide you with valuable information and insight as to what could be going wrong with your vehicle. They are all also able to give you emissions information so you know whether you will pass vehicle the inspection or not BEFORE you get to the garage.

Below we have a detailed buyer’s guide that will give you even more information about what a diagnostic scan tool can do and how you can benefit from having one around if you need it.

Once you have the information that we provide in this buyer’s guide and have the read the reviews of the top rated diagnostic scans, you will be able to be confident in your choice and have something that will fit your needs and preferences.

Diagnostic Scan Buying Guide

What is a Diagnostic Scan?

Diagnostic scanners are very useful to have around when your car breaks down or starts acting funny and you don’t know what’s wrong. Every vehicle from 1996 and newer has information ports, usually under the dashboard, that are a part of the vehicle. Plug the diagnostic scan tool into one of these information ports and you can determine where the problem might be originating from.

The messages that the diagnostic scan accesses are decoded through the on board system in the vehicle. The scanner pulls these codes and narrows down the potential origination spot of the trouble. All vehicles since 1996 have computer chips that have been installed. These computer chips monitor the system and this is where the diagnostic scan pulls the information from.

Why You Should Buy a Diagnostic Scan Tool

Car owners will reap a lot of benefits from having a good quality diagnostic scan tool handy, Aside from determining if the car can be safely driven when a problem arises, they help car owners same money and time at the garage by determining what the problem is. Thanks to the information that the scan tool provides, you will know before you even speak to the technician, what the problem probably is and where the problem is.

One place having a diagnostic scan can be really valuable is when you are looking to purchase a used car. If the car is newer than 1995 (1996 and newer) you can plug the diagnostic scan into the port and find out exactly what is wrong with that used car you are considering. It definitely helps with weeding out the lemons or the surprise you would have from buying a vehicle you think is okay.

Garages oftentimes charge for diagnostics to be run, so having this step taken care of and having the information to give the technician saves you a lot of both money and time.

How do Diagnostic Scanners Work?

It may seem just like magic, but diagnostic scanners work very simply: plug the scan tool into one of the data output ports. You will find this is close to the steering wheel and under the dashboard than anywhere else. Once plugging it in, the scanner will tell you that the car is safe to still drive or whether you have to have it towed to avoid more serious damage.

Once the scan has been done, the scan tool can be hooked up to a computer and more specific information can be obtained. Some car diagnostic software even has cost information for your local area.

After 1996, car manufacturers added built in computers that contained a diagnostic system that car owners or technicians could access through the data ports. There are several different computer chips that take care of monitoring different vehicle systems such as transmission, brakes, engine and more.

When the check engine light comes on it gives you the opportunity to plug in the scan tool and access the on-board system which will in turn provide a DTC. or diagnostic trouble code. The scanner can read the codes and then will translate them into understandable terms that will tell you what the problem most likely is.

What the Diagnostic Scan Can Find Out

Diagnostic scan tools are designed to uncover many different problems that can occur in a vehicle. Each problem has its own Diagnostic Trouble Code. There are several different code ranges that deal with different parts of the vehicle.

Code P0100 to P0199 – These codes will be dealing with your vehicles engine intake exhaust and carburetor sensors. If anything is wrong with the oxygen sensor, oil temp sensor, fuel pressure sensor or mass airflow sensor, it will have these codes attached to the problem.

Code P0200 to P0299 – Next the codes will alert the car owner or technician that there is something wrong with the engine’s combustion cylinders. That could include something like the injection pump, fuel injectors, combustion cylinders, or turbocharger if it has one. It can also include problems with the throttle position sensors.

Code P0300 to P0399 – Now we’ve moved into the vehicle engine’s output and ignitions systems. Timing chains, ignition coils, crankshaft and camshaft all fall under this set of codes.

Code P0400 to P0499 – Exhaust and emissions control falls under the 4^th set of codes. This will cover problems like gases soiling from the engine, overheating, excess pressure in the exhaust system, evaporative emissions control system failure and problems with the catalytic converter.

Code P0500 to P0599 – Electrical system problems will be labeled with the 5^th set of codes. It could be the power steering or cruise control as well as the idle control system or the electrical wiring.

The Different Types of Diagnostic Scan Tools

There are a few different types of diagnostic scan tools and the main difference is in the types of codes it reads. This will determine which system the scan tool can access to alert users to the problem. Many users or technicians will only access the problems using the basic OBD.

Applications for apple mac. Other scan tools will be more complicated but also provide more diagnostic capabilities. The more in depth ones can often diagnose problems with the anti-lock brakes and tire pressure monitoring. The more expensive scanners tend to diagnose the potential problems in many different systems.

Conclusion

The best diagnostic scan tool that you choose will depend on the amount of money you want to spend on it and also how much of a detailed report you need. For just detecting trouble codes, you don’t need to worry about spending a ton of money and can handle a more basic tool.

For those who want to get all of the diagnostic information including analysis and I/M information, you will want to invest in a higher grade and quality diagnostic scan. The model car and age will determine how much information you can get.

Most people will want the midrange priced model. These middle of the road diagnostic scan tools are reasonable in price, so they make great diagnostic scans for the budget minded who still want to ensure the safety of their family and friends as well as have some knowledge of what is going on with their vehicles.

If you have a car newer than 1996, you will find that the majority of them, if not all of them, have these on-board computers. If you know how to read the codes and decipher what is going on it can prevent the chance of you being taken for a financial ride with the technician or garage.

Now that you have the information you need, you can start your search for the perfect diagnostic scan tool for your vehicle and your needs. With education comes confidence and you will definitely have what it takes to make the decision, fear free.

Whether it is one of the three top rated Diagnostic Scan Tools reviewed here, or something you find on your own, having a tool that you can use to troubleshoot problems going on with your vehicle and not be at the mercy of a technician in a garage that you may not know. You will love having the answers to issues that arise with your vehicle right there at your fingertips instead of being in the dark about it and hoping the garage only fixes what is actually wrong.

A car diagnostic tool is often referred to as an OBD2 scanner and they’re designed to diagnose and clear error codes. OBD2 ports have been standardized in the majority of cars since 1998 and are usually located below the steering column.

The best OBD2 scanner is the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P, which features advanced diagnostics and ECU programming for professional use. However, it’s fairly expensive and has many complex features that the average car owner won’t use. In terms of value for money, the Bluetooth BlueDriver OBD2 automotive diagnostic scanner is the best alternative.

Using a car diagnostic tool is fairly straightforward as they simply plug straight into the port. Once a connection has been established, it allows you to check for error codes such as engine management lights, airbag/SRS and much more. Many professional OBD2 scanners even perform real time tests for further diagnostic data.

Table of Contents

• The Best Automotive Diagnostic Scanner
• Car Diagnostic Tool Buying Guide

Car Diagnostic Tool Comparison

OBD2 Scanner	Suitable For	Includes Adapters
Autel Maxisys Pro MS908P	Professional	Yes
Launch X431 PROS	Professional	Yes
BlueDriver Bluetooth	Home Mechanic	No
Innova 3160g Bluetooth	Home Mechanic	Yes
Autel MaxiDiag MD808	Home Mechanic	Yes
Actron CP9690	Home Mechanic	Yes
Autel MaxiLink ML619	Affordability	No
FOXWELL NT301	Affordability	No
Launch Creader 6001	Affordability	No
ANCEL AD310	Affordability	No

For owners of classic cars from 1980 to 1998, they may offer an OBD1 port for diagnostics. However, compared to an OBD2 alternative, they are usually very basic and don’t provide as much diagnostic data. If you own both classic and modern cars, some OBD1 scanners are integrated into OBD2 tools. This makes them even more versatile and compatible with the majority of the vehicles on the road.

As technology has improved, so have car diagnostic tools in terms of their compatibility and features. You are now able to communicate with your car using the OBD port via a wired connection to the scanner or to a smartphone via a Bluetooth or WiFi connection.

Below is a list of the best automotive diagnostic scanners that allow you to effectively diagnose errors with your car.

The Best Automotive Diagnostic Scanner

1. Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 Professional OBD2 Scanner

Autel are one of the largest car diagnostic brands in the US that produce scanners suitable for professional to home mechanics. The Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 OBD2 scanner is their flagship model and by far the best professional OBD2 scanner on the market.

In terms of the technical specification, this car diagnostic tool really is quite special. It has an A9 Quad Core 1.40 GHz processor that uses an Android operating system, which is designed to be simple to use. It also has built-in WiFi, 5MP camera, flashlight, 8 hour battery life, 32GB SSD hard drive, 9.7 inch LED touch screen and much more.

Other features and functionality of the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 include:

• Read and clear error codes
• Live data streaming and actuation tests
• Adaptation and ECU coding
• Configure display options and set triggers
• Record and playback of problematic sensor outputs
• Diagnose vehicles of manufacturers from America, Europe and India
• Includes various adapters and wires to suit a range of cars
• TPMS Reset Functionality
• Reset all service lights
• Print out reports and graphs
• Freeze frame data
• Update car firmware to latest version
• Flash programming
• … and so much more

As this OBD2 scanner will mostly be used in professional garages or workshops, it has padding all round to protect it from any heavy impacts. Everything about this car diagnostic tool is high quality and well thought out. There is also 4 versions of the Autel Maxisys Pro, which include the DS808, MS906, MS908 and MS908P to best suit your requirements.

The Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 is the ultimate car diagnostic tool. It can also be made even better with the available add-on features such as the oscilloscope, J2534 reprogramming module and much more.

2. Launch X431 PROS Professional Car Diagnostic Tool

The Launch X431 is a direct competitor of the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 as both are targeting professional mechanics. 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.

According to the brand, it has the ability to work with the majority of car manufacturers with car specific connectors and adapters for both OBD1 or OBD2 ports. The bundle includes 14 different connectors and other diagnostic standards for cars in the EU and Asia.

Other features of the Launch X431 PROS include:

• Bluetooth and WiFi connection
• Reading and clearing error codes
• Component activation
• Oil reset service
• Steering angle calibration
• Electronic car brake reset
• Battery testing and maintenance
• ABS bleeding
• Electronic throttle position
• DPF regeneration
• Immobilizer matching
• Fuel injector coding
• … and much more

In terms of the display, the HD 6.98 inch screen is highly responsive and provides excellent feedback for live streaming graphs and other tasks. It also runs on the Android operating system, which is known to be easy to use and update to the latest firmware.

Overall, the Launch X431 is the best alternative to the Autel Maxisys Pro MS908 as it’s cheaper and provides other functions that may be required. It also doubles up as a tablet because it can connect to the internet, play music, take photos and so much more.

3. BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner

The BlueDriver is by far the most popular car diagnostic tool on the market. This is mainly due to the intuitive OBD2 Bluetooth connection that connects with the brands’s Android or iOS smartphone application, which is then used to read and clear error codes.

In terms of using the tool, simply plug the BlueDriver into the port, let the blue light appear and then connect to it via the application. The stored error codes that you diagnose using the BlueDriver are then checked against a database of 6 million verified fixes. If there is a match, the application suggests a fix, which could potentially eliminate hours of research.

Other features of the BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner include:

• Live data analysis
• Smog check
• Freeze frame data
• Misfire counts
• View and clear codes
• Save and export code/reports
• Vehicle information
• Real time data

The user interface of the BlueDriver application is intuitive and easy to navigate with graphics that allow you to read data more clearly. There are also no wires whatsoever and it can be easily stored in the car and out of sight as the device itself is very compact.

Overall, the BlueDriver is by far the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for a home mechanic to use. It can also be very useful for mobile mechanics to keep with them out on the road for emergency call outs or quick error code scanning.

4. Innova 3160g Bluetooth Car Diagnostic Tool

The Innova 3160g is a mid range car diagnostic tool that can be used with all cars, trucks, SUV and hybrids from 1996. The Innova brand are well-known and are at the forefront of the top automotive multimeters and other vehicle electrical troubleshooting devices.

If you are a home mechanic, you will be able to use this diagnostic tool with ease but there are more enhanced features for you to play around with. The 3160g has also recently been upgraded and now features Bluetooth and a color screen for additional usability.

Other features of the Innova 3160g include:

• Engine management light diagnostic and removal
• Erase error codes (including ABS & SRS)
• Reset oil lights and battery maintenance
• Stream and record live data
• Charging system testing
• 3.5 inch color display
• Bluetooth via smartphone application

The Innova 3160 series has gone through many variations and has been tested by many professional mechanics. The 3160g is the brand’s most popular car diagnostic tool and a contender for the best car code reader for the money. If you are loyal to the Innova brand, this is the one to go for out of all of the 3160 series and it won’t disappoint.

5. Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Automotive Scan Tool

As mentioned above, Autel are a huge brand in the car diagnostic tool industry with plenty to choose from and the MD808 device is one of their latest models. It has a modern, sleek full color display (800 x 480) and a compact design, which you can comfortable grip in one hand.

The benefit of purchasing an OBD2 scanner from Autel is that you receive a 1 year limited warranty and free updates for life. On top of this, you have the reputable brand backing along with the compatibility of most car manufacturers.

Other features of the Autel MaxiDiag MD808 include:

Automotive Diagnostics Tools

• Read and remove car error codes
• Oil light reset
• EPB and SAS calibration
• DPF regeneration
• Battery management system
• ABS and SRS
• Live data graphing
• Includes heavy duty storage box and adapters

If you are servicing your car and want a diagnostic tool to clear service lights, the MD808 does this and much more. The Autel MD808 is an excellent all-rounder that uses the latest technology to provide great performance and a 6 second load time.

6. Actron CP9690 Trilingual Diagnostic Scanner

Actron are another reputable brand that develop a range of car error code readers and their new and improved CP9690 model is perfect for for home mechanics.

Unlike similar priced alternatives, the CP9690 is also compatible with OBD1 vehicles and includes all of the connectors and adapters you would possibly need. It also benefits from a large LCD screen for easy viewing of graphs and reports.

Other features of the Actron CP9690 Car Scanner include:

• Powertrain and ABS coverage
• Vehicle identification
• Battery system monitor
• Battery and oil light reset
• ABS and airbag light reset
• OBD1/CAN support
• Live data streaming

Best Car Diagnostic Tool

The Actron car scanner is very similar to the Innova 3160g and Autel MD808 in terms of the compact design. However, the capability to diagnose OBD1 cars makes it more appealing for owners of both classic and modern cars.

7. Autel MaxiLink ML619 CAN OBD2 Scanner

The Autel AL619 is the brand’s latest and cheapest car diagnostic tool. It uses a single lead to connect from the OBD2 port to the car scanner and you are up and running. In terms of the compatibility, it’s designed to work with a range of manufacturers from 1996 and newer.

Autel state that this car code reader works on all domestic cars with an OBD port and is able to retrieve both generic and manufacturer specific error codes. However, the majority of people will be using this car scanner to remove basic faults such as the Check Engine Light (EML).

Other features of the Autel AL519 include:

• Read and clear stored faults
• Turn off engine management light
• Display freeze frame data
• Show vehicle data and VIN
• Help guides for errors
• Graphs and live data feedback
• Print out data
• Color display

This is the cheapest OBD2 scanner that performs all of the basics and much more. The average car owner will easily be able to use this error code reader with its intuitive button layout and clear instructions on the color display. It also has the reputable brand backing and a 1 year warranty for complete peace of mind.

8. FOXWELL NT301 Car Code Reader

The Foxwell NT301 OBD2 scanner is another popular device that falls into the budget category. For the average car owner that wants a simple to use car diagnostic tool to remove error codes, the NT301 is a great option that won’t disappoint.

Other features of the Foxwell NT301 include:

• Read and remove error codes
• Live vehicle sensor data
• Turn off engine management light
• Freeze frame data
• 2.8 inch wide color display

Overall, the Foxwell NT301 OBD2 is a compact car scan tool that runs fast via the windows operating system and comes with a 1 year warranty for peace of mind. For reading and removing error codes, this fault code scanner is more than ideal.

9. Launch Creader 6001 OBD2 Scanner

Another car diagnostic tool by the Launch brand is their budget option known as the Creader 6001. It’s their cheapest diagnostic tool they produce and is compatible with the majority of 1996 US based manufacturers as well as 2001 EU and Asian manufacturers.

Other features of the Launch Creader 6001 include:

• View and remove car fault codes
• 2.8 inch TFT LCD screen
• Display text in a range of languages
• 7 intuitive buttons
• Freeze frame data
• O2 sensor
• I/M readiness checks

The Launch Creader 6001 is a cheap diagnostic tool that allows you to simply view and remove car error codes with ease. Launch are known for their premium automotive scan tools but this scanner is suitable for those that want to remain with the brand whilst on a budget.

10. ANCEL AD310 Universal Car Scanner

The Ancel AD310 is the cheapest OBD2 scanner within this article that reads and clears error codes. There aren’t many other scan tools with a brand reputation at this sort of price range. If you opt for an unknown brand, you may be disappointed by its functionality and compatibility.

Other features of the Ancel AD310 include:

• Read and erase codes
• Live data
• Freeze frame data
• Vehicle identification
• large LCD display (128 x 64)
• 2.5 feet long cable

To the average car owner that wants to simply view error codes to tell their mechanic or fix themselves, this scan tool is ideal. The AD310 is simple to use and definitely worth the small amount of money.

Car Diagnostic Tool Buying Guide

The number of different car diagnostic tools that are available to buy is increasing every month. The market is fairly saturated with many OBD2 scanners under $100 being the most popular for the average car owner or home mechanic.

However, there are many people that are professional mechanics or enthusiasts and wish to purchase a premium car diagnostic tool. Equipped with a more capable car scanner, you will be able to do far more than just read and clear codes but also perform modifications, real time tests and much more.

At ProCarReviews, we have been testing OBD2 scanners for many years and currently have over 50 within our garage. To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding car diagnostic tools.

Types of Diagnostic Scan Tools

OBD2 scanners come in a range of types with the larger and more powerful being suitable for professionals or enthusiasts. This is because they often come with a larger processor, hard drive and other features. The smaller devices are the cheapest and perform the basic tasks such as reading and clearing error codes.

Depending on the age of your car will be a major factor in which car diagnostic tool is best. Modern cars will have an OBD2 port but vehicles that are made before 1998 (before they were standardized) may have an OBD1 port. Therefore, you may need to purchase an adapter to convert the OBD2 connection to an OBD1.

The term OBD stands for “On Board Diagnostics” and the number “2” refers to the second generation, which is a huge improvement upon the first generation. The OBD1 scan tools aren’t universal and are usually specific to each car and provide completely different codes.

The introduction of OBD2 technology is a huge improvement and the amount of information you can get from a from a scanner is much higher than OBD1 tools. The below image is an example of a OBD2 connection that you will plug in to a port.

OBD2 compatible vehicles can connect to a range of diagnostic tools and provide standardized error codes, which makes researching the issue much easier. However, it’s always worth spending that little bit extra for additional functionality as you may need it one day.

Ease of Use

Older car diagnostic tools are notoriously difficult to use with bland interfaces, poor usability and various wired connections. However, with the advancements of technology, they have become just as easy to use as a smartphone.

For those that have never used a scan tool before, there are thousands of videos on YouTube with mechanics providing detailed tutorial videos. However, these days most brands will provide detailed instructions in the box or online.

Of course, if you are new to using a car diagnostic tool, we highly recommend avoiding the professional devices. These may provide far more details than necessary and you may only want to find out the error code that’s stored on your car’s ECU.

We have trialed many of these OBD2 scanner tools within this article but the BlueDriver really excelled in the ease of use category. Once it has been connected (as shown in the image below), you simply go to the app and perform various checks. You could even leave the BlueDriver connected whilst you are driving and use the application as your very own car HUD to display various real time data.

Why You Need a Car Diagnostic Tool

Owning a scan tool is very helpful when trying to diagnose issues with your car. All you have to do is connect the scanner into the port and you are on your way. It avoids the guesswork and potential to spend thousands on parts and labor.

Scan tools automatically read and analyze the vehicle to provide a detailed list about the car and any codes that are stored. With a wide range of possibilities to choose from, anyone is able to perform various diagnostic tasks. The main advantages of owning a diagnostic scan tool are:

• Check to see if your car is safe to drive and wont cause any damage
• Save you money as you will not need to use a mechanics
• Most recent data and stored codes
• Scan vehicles before you buy them
• Add/Modify current features i.e. full window closure
• Provide real time data

Other Factors To Consider

The amount of car diagnostic tool devices out there will continue to increase but you will want to keep an eye out for their features. From the on screen information to the data storage, these factors can make the difference between an easy to use or terrible scan tool.

If you are opting for a device that runs from an application, we highly recommend checking reviews of the smartphone application. This will give you a strong indication to whether it is compatible with your phone and features work as they should.

We highly recommend sticking to the big brands such as Autel, Launch, Ancel, Actron, Innova, Foxwell and a few others. This will give you complete peace of mind that it won’t cause any damage to your ECU and function as you would expect.

Conclusion

Auto Diagnostic Tool Home Depot

Car diagnostic tools have improved massively over the years due to the modernization of new cars. Without them, you can spend hours finding out issues with your car and potentially spending thousands on car parts that didn’t need to be replaced.

Deciding the best OBD2 scanner for your requirements is dependent upon the type of usage that you intend on doing. For example, if you run a garage or you are a car enthusiast, you really want to be looking at the more premium devices available.

Best Auto Diagnostic Tool Review

Within this article, we have covered all the best options for professionals, home mechanics and those that are looking for a cheap car diagnostic tool. Considering that most garages charge anywhere between $50 to $100 to diagnose your car, it makes sense to invest in one for yourself.