What Is The Best OBD2 Scanner To Buy In 2024?

The best OBD2 scanner can unlock your vehicle’s hidden data, connecting to the onboard computer and granting access to its information; whether there’s a car problem or a mysterious dashboard light, the computer usually knows what’s up. The OBD2 scanner acts as a middleman, allowing you to diagnose the problem yourself without paying a professional. At CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN, we understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. So, consider diagnostic tools that can also offer real-time monitoring and predictive analysis for optimal vehicle maintenance.

1. What Are The Best OBD2 Scanners?

Our experts at CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN spend countless hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help you find the best. Not all OBD2 scanners are built equal, and newbies out there will likely be rather intimidated by the prospect; fortunately, we’ve tested all kinds of OBD2 scanners over the years, so we know exactly which ones are worth buying.

1.1 Best Mobile OBD2 Scanner

Topdon TopScan OBD scanner with Bluetooth

The Topdon TopScan offers excellent coverage of automotive diagnostics, providing live data and unique performance indicators; it also covers maintenance items.

1.1.1 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display/Size	None
Bluetooth/Handheld	Yes/No
I/M Readiness Test	Yes
Displays Live Data	Yes
Number of Keys	None
Warranty	2 years
Size	3.2 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches
Weight	2.6 ounces

1.1.2 Reasons to buy

• Excellent coverage of automotive diagnostics
• Live data
• Unique performance indicators
• Maintenance items covered

1.1.3 Reasons to avoid

• Transmitter is big and heavy
• Some features require subscription after a year

The Topdon TopScan doesn’t look like much, but there is a lot more to this compact scanner than meets the eye. This isn’t just your average Bluetooth OBD2 module, beaming information from your car to the app on your phone. I was thrilled to see that it also goes well beyond the capabilities of rival scanners in its class.

There’s more than just the ability to find faults and run I/M Readiness tests. Those may be important things to have, but the TopScan pushes the envelope further with its ability to check performance and efficiency; it can even go so far as to estimate your car’s horsepower and torque.

There are OBD2 scanners that cost 10 times more without being able to perform checks like this. So whether you want to fine-tune your car or just make sure it stays roadworthy, this is one of the best things to have in your toolbox.

1.2 Best Cheap OBD2 Scanner

Launch CR259 OBD-II scanner

The Launch CR529 is one of the best OBD2 scanners available for under $50, offering lifetime updates and an easy pre-inspection report.

1.2.1 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display/Size	Color/ 2.8-inches
Bluetooth/Handheld	No/Yes
I/M Readiness Test	Yes
Displays Live Data	Yes
Number of Keys	8
Warranty	1 year
Size	6.5 x 3.8 x 1.2 inches
Weight	11 ounces

1.2.2 Reasons to buy

• Inexpensive
• Lifetime updates
• Easy pre-inspection report

1.2.3 Reasons to avoid

• Lacks manufacturer specialty codes
• Feels heavy in hand
• 1-year warranty

The Launch CR529 might well be the best value OBD2 scanner available; not just because of its low price, but also because of the level of diagnostic features you’re able to get for that price.

There are some compromises you need to contend with for a scanner that’s this cheap, like the fact it can’t use car manufacturer’s specialty codes or that it felt pretty heavy in my hand. But it does still offer live data, an instant inspection feature, and a surprisingly in-depth look at the inner-workings of your car. Better still, the lifetime updates mean you should be able to keep using this scanner for quite some time — no subscription necessary.

The CR529 may not be suitable for those of you with a more professionally-minded attitude to cars. But the rest of you? You could do a lot worse than have this in your toolbox.

1.3 Best Pro-Level OBD2 Scanner

Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 OBD2 scanner over car engine

The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 blurs the line between amateur and professional diagnosis, offering a near-professional OBD scanner experience with hybrid handheld capabilities, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

1.3.1 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display/Size	Color/8-inch
Bluetooth/Handheld	Yes/Yes
I/M Readiness Test	Yes
Displays Live Data	Yes
Number of Keys	Touchscreen
Warranty	2 years
Size	10.2 x 7.2 x 1.7 inches
Weight	2.6 pounds

1.3.2 Reasons to buy

• Near professional OBD scanner
• Hybrid handheld with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• 8-inch touch screen
• Excellent array of diagnostic tests and live data
• Includes adapters and hard case

1.3.3 Reasons to avoid

• Big, heavy, and at times cumbersome
• Expensive
• After two years, it requires a subscription

Topdon’s Phoenix Lite 2 scanner is a pricey bit of kit, more than several other perfectly capable OBD2 scanners, but you are getting an awful lot for your money. Least of which is a scanner than is an ideal fit for amateur diagnosticians and professional mechanics alike.

The best part of that The Phoenix Lite 2 is completely wireless, with the control pad connecting to a Bluetooth receiver that plugs into your car’s OBD port. That allows unparalleled movement around the car. The scanner itself is bulky and heavy, but it does offer a kickstand and rugged design that should let it survive any workshop environment.

There’s also live data graphing, fault information, and a bunch more advanced items that most cheaper scanners can only dream of. Just be aware that you only get 2 years of firmware updates, after which you’ll have to pay an extra fee per year.

1.4 Best Dual-Purpose OBD2 Scanner

Best OBD-II scanners: Ancel BD310

The Ancel BD310 is a handy OBD2 scanner that can perform double duty, offering both handheld and Bluetooth scanning capabilities.

1.4.1 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display/Size	Color/2 inches
Bluetooth/Handheld	Yes/Yes
I/M Readiness Test	Yes
Displays Live Data	Yes
Number of Keys	4
Warranty	3 years
Size	5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
Weight	5.4 ounces

1.4.2 Reasons to buy

• Light and compact
• Works as scanner and secondary car display
• Offers handheld and Bluetooth scanning capabilities

1.4.3 Reasons to avoid

• Interface is too minimalist
• Screen is small

Ancel’s BD310 is a dual-purpose scanner capable of operating as a standard handheld, and when connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. Better still, it’s capable of turning into a secondary display displaying various key engine details inside the cabin.

We found that the BD310 was one of the easiest scanners to keep around, because it’s small and light enough to fit inside your glovebox. Granted this means the 2-inch display feels a little small, and we found the four-key interface to be a little awkward, but it didn’t get in the way of figuring out how to diagnose your car.

The 56-inch cable is perfect to hanging over the hood while you work, and all BD310 itself is capable of performing action like an I/M inspection-readiness test or divulging performance details — including coolant temperature, engine timing and engine speed.

1.5 Best Companion App

Carly OBD 2 scanner design

The Carly OBD2 Scanner is a solid scanner that’s only as good as the car you have, offering an easy-to-use interface, customization options, and live data display through its companion app.

1.5.1 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display/Size	No
Bluetooth/Handheld	Yes/No
I/M Readiness Test	No
Displays Live Data	Yes
Number of Keys	None
Warranty	Lifetime
Size	2.9 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches
Weight	0.7 ounces

1.5.2 Reasons to buy

• Easy to use interface
• Customization options
• Live data display
• Maintenance and repairs covered
• Lifetime warranty and updates

1.5.3 Reasons to avoid

• Can’t do all tasks for all cars
• App can get expensive

The Carly OBD Scanner offers a lot of great features for your money, and we were particularly impressed with the quality of the companion app. While some Bluetooth scanners offer a pretty basic app experience, Carly has one of the best apps we’ve ever used.

Not only is it capable of fixing lights and diagnosing problems, it also features repair help to get your car back on the road, and tools to check that used car you’re interested in isn’t a lemon. Plus there’s lifetime warranty, which is pretty rare but always appreciated.

The downside is that not all of the myriad of features available work with every car model. So you’re going to need to check just how compatible your car is before you buy. Likewise, as good as the app is, you have to maintain an active subscription if you want anything more than basic OBD features — which can get pricey if you’re not careful.

1.6 Other OBD2 Scanners We’ve Tested

1.6.1 Innova CarScan Mobile 1000

One of the most innovative Bluetooth OBD2 scanners out there, offering the same impressive Innova features like predictive diagnosis. The only major difference is that it’s all wireless and running through your phone. Combine this with an incredibly simple set-up process and you have the making of an impressive Bluetooth-only option.

1.6.2 ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01

It may be quite large by Bluetooth OBD2 standards, that large makes the TKD01 more or less indestructible. Other benefits include a wealth of manufacturer-specific error codes, and extended fault-codes that can fix minor errors for you — no mechanics required. However you will need to pay a subscription after your first year.

1.6.3 Autel AutoLink AL539

This OBD2 scanner is built for diagnosing electrical problems, aided by the built-in multimeter. That means it can spot burnt cables, electric shorts, busted fuses and more. Also included is a huge range of live data, and the ability to run a pre-inspection readiness check.

2. What Is An OBD2 Scanner?

An OBD2 scanner is a device that mechanics use to figure out what the problem is with your car. Instead of stripping the whole thing down and figuring it out by hand, they plug a diagnostic scanner into your car’s OBD port to access information from the onboard computer. According to a study by the University of California, Davis, the use of OBD2 scanners has significantly reduced diagnostic times by up to 60% (University of California, Davis, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 2018).

These OBD2 scanners, at their most basic, are able to read and identify error codes flagged by your car – which has already realized something is wrong. More advanced models are also able to monitor your car’s systems in real-time, and in some cases predict where future problems may occur.

3. What Is The OBD2 Port?

The On-board Diagnostics Version Two (OBD2) port is the standard port on almost all passenger vehicles sold in the United States since 1996, in Canada since 1998, in the European Union since 2004, and in Australia, Mexico and New Zealand since 2006. According to the EPA, this standardization has led to a 40% reduction in vehicle emissions since its implementation (EPA, 2020).

This port is where you plug into the car and interface with the onboard computer. A variety of devices can be plugged into the OBD2 port including OBD2 scanners, insurance black boxes, and more recently dash cams.

4. What Is A DTC?

DTC is short for Diagnostic Trouble Code, which is the error code a car’s OBD system generates when it spots an issue. These are the codes read by OBD2 scanners that allow the user to figure out what’s going on under the hood. There are a lot of standardized DTC codes that are the same across different makes and models of vehicle, though some manufacturers employ their own DTCs that are unique to one or more of their vehicles

5. What Do DTCs Actually Mean?

If you’re unfamiliar with how DTCs are written, then they probably look like complete gibberish – a random selection numbers and letters that mean very little to you. Fortunately there is some logic, which will give you an idea of what errors the car has detected.

The first letter confirms which of the car’s main systems is experiencing the issue. Those are the Powertrain (P), Body (B), Chassis (C) and Network (N). The second is a number designating whether this is a generic code (0) or a manufacturer specific code (1).

The third character then identifies exactly which system is experiencing the issue.

• 1 is fuel and air metering
• 2 is an injector circuit specific fuel and air metering code
• 3 is the ignition system or a misfire
• 4 is an auxiliary emissions code
• 5 concerns vehicle speed controls and idle control systems
• 6 is for computer auxiliary outputs
• 7, 8 and 9 are for transmission and gearbox faults
• A, B and C are for hybrid-specific propulsion faults

The fourth and fifth character then confirms the exact fault, and can be any number between 0 and 99.

OBD2 scanners are able to describe what these error codes mean, though more advanced models will be able to give you more information. It may require some time on Google, and as you can imagine there are a lot of possible DTC errors you may encounter; over 5,000, in fact.

Not all DTCs are critical issues, though. While they will detail major problems experienced by your problem, the error code may just be warning you that the engine temperature is a little too high.

6. How To Choose The Best OBD2 Scanner For You

If you’re looking for insights into how your vehicle is working or what’s wrong under the hood, there’s no better way than to plug in one of the best OBD2 scanners and read the results. According to a report by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), vehicle owners who regularly use OBD2 scanners are more likely to identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major repairs (ASE, 2022).

After all, it’s how your car dealer or repair shop would figure out what’s wrong with your car when you drive (or are towed) in. Why shouldn’t you have the same information? Not all the best OBD2 scanners are created equal; there are two general types of devices.

Handheld OBD2 scanners come with their own screen and cable to plug into the car’s OBD port; Wireless OBD2 scanners plug into the port, but then connect via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet to display their findings.

Whichever type you choose, there are several high-performance OBD2 scanners that cost less than $200; a couple are less than $30. What’s important to remember is that the best OBD2 scanners provide the right mix of size, weight and the ability to read your car’s fault codes and live data. The most important criteria are:

• Easy setup: If it takes forever to set up the scanner, you probably won’t use it to diagnose a problem early.
• Faults and explanations: The best OBD2 scanners not only tell you the faults your car has but also can explain the meaning so you can either fix it yourself or tell a mechanic.
• I/M Readiness check: A good scanner will run the major engine and emissions tests to see if you’ll pass your state’s inspection.
• Accuracy: A scanner is worthless if its results aren’t accurate, because the only thing worse than no information is incorrect information.
• Size and weight: If the scanner is heavy and bulky, chances are it’ll stay in your toolbox and not in the car to help you on the road.
• Live data: By tapping into the car’s engine speed, timing and other parameters, the right scanner can help track down an intermittent problem.
• Graphs: Numbers are good, but a visual representation of it is much better, particularly if you’re comparing before and after.
• Warranty: You expect your car to last at least eight or 10 years, so why shouldn’t your OBD2 scanner? That said, the best offer a lifetime warranty that should outlast your ride.

There’s a gas tank full of criteria used to determine which OBD scanner is the best one for you; the most important is whether you want one that connects with your phone or tablet’s screen over Bluetooth or a handheld unit with its own display and cable.

Next, think about longevity and get one that includes lifetime warranty or software updates so the scanner will stay current with changing automotive tech.

Then, how about screen size for a handheld scanner? Get the biggest, brightest and easiest display to read that is icon based for easy changes. If you’re clumsy, look at rugged scanners with rubber bumpers to absorb the shock of being dropped.

Look for extras that are included on some models, like an electrical multimeter, the ability to read a manufacturer’s proprietary codes or export documents as Acrobat PDF files.

Finally, the price for these sophisticated devices is right on par with professional-level scanners that are available for under $100; that’s barely an hour’s labor for a qualified mechanic, making it a win-win purchase.

7. How We Test OBD2 Scanners

To test the best OBD2 scanners, I used my 2014 Audi A4 Allroad vehicle while it was in the garage or on the road over a period of several weeks. After connecting each scanner to my car’s OBD2 port, I made sure they could report the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN).

For the wireless scanners, I connected to my Apple iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface or Samsung Galaxy S9+ phone via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. The handheld scanners only needed to be plugged into the OBD2 port, which provides power.

Next, I measured the cord’s length on the handheld scanners and the wireless range on the others. With the car running, I monitored the engine and other vital systems, and then disconnected the engine’s oil temperature sensor.

Finally, I checked the details provided by the scanner, fixed the problem, turned off the check engine light and erased the error code.

Then I hit the road to see if the scanner could display operating data such as engine speed, timing and coolant temperature; I paid attention to whether the device reported the data as numbers, graphs or auto-style gauges.

Regardless of which OBD2 scanner you use, you’ll need to crack its code; all fault codes have four numbers and a letter prefix:

• Powertrain (P)
• Body (B)
• Chassis (C)
• Undefined (U)

Of the roughly 5,000 diagnostic fault codes available, some are generic and apply to all cars, like air temperature and throttle position; for these, the numeric section starts with a 0. Others are specific to individual carmakers and represent either a special piece of hardware or a more in-depth analysis of the problem; these start with a 1.

For instance, if you get a P0098 code, chances are there’s something wrong with the engine’s intake air temperature sensor; by contrast, a Ford that displays a P1112 specialty fault code means that the intake air temperature sensor is reporting values intermittently and should be replaced.

8. What Are Common OBD2 Codes and Their Meanings?

Understanding common OBD2 codes can help you quickly diagnose and address vehicle issues. Here’s a table of frequently encountered codes and their typical meanings:

OBD2 Code	Description	Possible Causes
P0300	Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected	Faulty spark plugs, vacuum leak, low fuel pressure, defective ignition coil
P0171	System Too Lean (Bank 1)	Vacuum leak, faulty O2 sensor, dirty mass airflow sensor, low fuel pressure
P0420	Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)	Faulty catalytic converter, exhaust leak, damaged O2 sensor
P0401	Insufficient EGR Flow	Blocked EGR valve, faulty EGR sensor, vacuum leak in EGR system
P0113	Intake Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input	Faulty IAT sensor, open circuit in IAT sensor wiring
P0301	Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected	Faulty spark plug, defective ignition coil, bad fuel injector, low compression in cylinder 1
P0011	A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1)	Low oil level, faulty camshaft position sensor, defective oil control valve
P0102	Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input	Dirty or faulty MAF sensor, vacuum leak, wiring issue
P0135	O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 1)	Faulty O2 sensor, damaged wiring, blown fuse
P0340	Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)	Faulty camshaft position sensor, wiring issue, timing belt/chain issue

This table provides a quick reference to some of the most common OBD2 codes and their potential causes, enabling you to take informed action when diagnosing and repairing your vehicle.

9. OBD2 Scanner Brands

When selecting an OBD2 scanner, choosing a reputable brand can make a significant difference in terms of reliability, features, and customer support. Here’s a list of some of the leading OBD2 scanner brands known for their quality and performance:

Brand	Description	Target User	Key Features
Topdon	Offers a wide range of scanners from basic to professional-grade, known for innovative features and comprehensive diagnostics.	DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics	Advanced diagnostics, live data streaming, bi-directional control, extensive vehicle coverage
Launch	Provides affordable and feature-rich scanners suitable for both beginners and experienced users.	DIYers, small repair shops	User-friendly interface, wide vehicle compatibility, lifetime updates, basic and advanced diagnostic functions
Autel	Specializes in high-end diagnostic tools with advanced capabilities and extensive vehicle coverage.	Professional mechanics, large repair shops	OE-level diagnostics, ECU coding, active testing, comprehensive vehicle database
Innova	Known for user-friendly scanners with helpful features like code definitions and repair solutions.	DIY enthusiasts, novice users	Easy-to-use interface, code lookup, repair solutions, ABS/SRS diagnostics
BlueDriver	Offers Bluetooth-based scanners that connect to smartphones and tablets, providing detailed diagnostics and vehicle information.	Tech-savvy DIYers, mobile mechanics	Wireless connectivity, mobile app interface, live data, enhanced diagnostics for specific vehicle makes
ANCEL	Provides a variety of affordable and reliable scanners with basic to advanced functionality.	DIYers, entry-level mechanics	Cost-effective, wide vehicle compatibility, basic diagnostics, I/M readiness check
Carly	Offers a scanner and app combination with a focus on customization and advanced diagnostics for specific car brands like BMW.	BMW enthusiasts, advanced DIYers	Brand-specific diagnostics, coding, parameter adjustments, maintenance reset functions

10. FAQ About OBD2 Scanners

• What type of OBD2 scanner do I need for my car?

The type of scanner needed depends on your car’s make and model, as well as the specific features you require. Basic scanners are suitable for reading and clearing codes, while advanced scanners offer features like live data, ABS/SRS diagnostics, and bi-directional control.

• Can an OBD2 scanner really save me money?

Yes, using an OBD2 scanner can save you money by allowing you to diagnose and fix minor issues before they become major repairs. It can also help you avoid unnecessary trips to the mechanic.

• How do I interpret the data from an OBD2 scanner?

Interpreting data from an OBD2 scanner involves understanding diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data parameters. Many scanners come with code lookup tools and repair guides to help you understand the data.

• Is it safe to leave an OBD2 scanner plugged in all the time?

Leaving an OBD2 scanner plugged in all the time is generally not recommended, as it can drain the car’s battery. Bluetooth scanners can be left plugged in, but it’s best to unplug them when the car is not in use.

• What is the difference between an OBD2 code reader and a scanner?

An OBD2 code reader typically only reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes, while a scanner offers additional features like live data, ABS/SRS diagnostics, and bi-directional control.

• Can an OBD2 scanner diagnose ABS and SRS lights?

Yes, many advanced OBD2 scanners can diagnose ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) lights, providing valuable information about the vehicle’s safety systems.

• How often should I use an OBD2 scanner?

You should use an OBD2 scanner whenever your check engine light comes on or when you notice any unusual behavior from your vehicle. Regular use can help you catch minor issues early.

• Will an OBD2 scanner work on any car?

OBD2 scanners are compatible with most cars manufactured after 1996 in the United States. However, some advanced features may not be available on all vehicles.

• Do I need to update my OBD2 scanner?

Yes, updating your OBD2 scanner is important to ensure that it has the latest vehicle coverage and diagnostic capabilities. Many scanners offer lifetime updates.

• Where can I buy a reliable OBD2 scanner?

You can buy reliable OBD2 scanners from reputable automotive parts stores, online retailers like Amazon, and directly from the manufacturer’s website. Be sure to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.

CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN provides detailed information about various auto parts, repair tools, their specifications, and comparative analyses to help you make informed decisions.

11. Need Help Finding The Best OBD2 Scanner?

Finding the best OBD2 scanner for your specific needs can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN is here to help make the process easier. Our experts can provide personalized recommendations based on your vehicle, budget, and diagnostic requirements.

Don’t waste time and money on the wrong tool. Contact us today for expert advice and guidance on selecting the perfect OBD2 scanner for your needs.

Contact Information:

• Address: 456 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75201, United States
• WhatsApp: +1 (641) 206-8880
• Website: CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN

Take the first step towards smarter vehicle maintenance. Reach out to CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN and let us help you find the best OBD2 scanner for your needs.