OBD Scanners by Consumer Reports: A Review Guide
If you’re looking for an OBD scanner to diagnose and troubleshoot your vehicle’s engine, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best product for your money. Consumer Reports has done extensive research on OBD scanners, and their reviews can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a review guide to help you understand the features and benefits of OBD scanners, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Features: OBD scanners come with a variety of features, including the ability to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, monitor engine performance, and reset check engine lights. Some scanners also offer additional features such as the ability to read and clear airbag codes, reset oil service lights, and access manufacturer-specific codes.
Benefits: OBD scanners can help you diagnose and troubleshoot engine problems quickly and easily. They can also help you save money by allowing you to diagnose and repair problems yourself, rather than taking your vehicle to a mechanic.
Types: There are two main types of OBD scanners: handheld and PC-based. Handheld scanners are more portable and easier to use, but they may not have as many features as PC-based scanners. PC-based scanners are more powerful and offer more features, but they require a computer to use.
Price: OBD scanners range in price from around to over 0, depending on the features and type of scanner.
Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports has tested and reviewed a variety of OBD scanners, and their reviews can help you make an informed decision. They rate each scanner on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest. They also provide detailed information about each scanner’s features and performance.
When choosing an OBD scanner, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Consumer Reports can help you make an informed decision by providing detailed reviews and ratings of OBD scanners. With their help, you can find the right scanner for your needs and budget.
obd scanners Comparison Table
Last updated on March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Best obd scanners Ratings By Consumer Reports March 2023
Below is the list of top obd scanners with a detailed guide that you can consider in your purchase:
ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool-Black
$29.99 in stock
2 new
from $29.99
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed device with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble codes in seconds. If you want to find out the cause of the check engine light, this device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. This is not the case with the AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Code Reader Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow
$25.00 in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- Multi-Functions - Practical Multi-Functions OBD2 code reader features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, view freeze frame, I/M ready, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed.
- Wide Capability - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian.
- LCD Display - Designed with a clear display LCD screen (128 x 64 pixels) - white backlight and contrast adjustment. No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector.
- Compact Design - Car diagnostic scanner is equipped with a 2.5 feet long cable and made of a very thick flexible insulator.There are 6 buttons on OBD2 Scanner:scroll up/down,enter/exit and buttons that quick query VIN vehicle number& the DTC fault code.
- ABS / Airbag codes NOT Supported - It is able to read and clear check engine information which is part of OBDII system, but it cannot work with non-OBDII systems, including ABS / Airbag / Oil Service Light, etc.
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light
$69.99 in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- 【Vehicle CEL Doctor】The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to emissions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle.
- 【Accuracy & Streams】Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
- 【Worthy to Own】Recommended by Mechanic Scotty Kilmer on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen, Free Lifetime Update and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team.
- 【Smog Check Helper】Read/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test.
- 【Home Necessity】Open to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and one of the best gifts for Home and Autoshop Mechanics.
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader,Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag Scanner,Car Diagnostic Scanner for Cars
$169.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- 【Easy to Use--Work out of box】+【FOXWELL 2023 New Version】 FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2023 new version from FOXWELL, which is designed for those car owners who want to figure out the cause issue before fixing the car problem via scanning the most common systems like abs srs engine and transmission.The NT604 Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first.
- 【Affordable】+【Reliable Car Health Monitor】 Will you be confused what happen when the warning light of abs/srs/transmission/check engine flashes? 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 t-urn off the warning light for you after you fix the problem, making you to know more about your cars and do your own repair.
- 【2 in 1 Diagnostic Scanner】Compared with those auto scanners (50-100 USD), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also it can be an abs/srs scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it.
- 【Fantastic AUTOVIN】+【No extra software fee】Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee.
- 【Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag】+ 【Lifetime update】Almost all same price-level obd scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold on the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
FOXWELL NT809 Bidirectional Scan Tool,3-Year Free Update (Worth $600), 2023 Newest All System OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool,30+ Service,ABS Bleeding/Injector Coding,Car Diagnostic Scanner for All Cars
$499.98
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- F-ree Gift--FOXWELL FCA 12+8 adapter (Value of $25). Click "extra saving" and add both to your cart.
- ☑️【2023 Top-Level Android Tablet scan tool from FOXWELL】✅Responsive 7" touchscreen: offers better user experience ✅Intuitive interface with Android 9.0: easy to use for beginner✅Faster WIFI update: one-click WiFi update saves your time. ✅$300+ Valued Bidirectional Control.✅FCA Auto Auth for 2018+ FCA cars(Chrysler Jeep Dodge)3-Year F-ree Update(Value $600 )✅Wired Diagnosis-more stable connection than wireless one. The upgraded version of FOXWELL NT624E/ NT644E /NT650/ NT680/GT60.
- 【2023 NEWEST, MOST COST-EFFECTIVE BI-DIRECTIONAL TOOL】FOXWELL NT809 is a bidirectional scan tool, which is great for narrowing down problems or for maintenance like brake caliper resets when replacing the brake pads. This bi-directional obd2 scanner will send a command to vehicle ECU to perform component test for checking control modules' functionality, such as lock/unlock door, turn A/C on/off, roll window up/down, shut off injectors...This function brings the device unbeatable value.
- 【Spend Less Time to Scan All Control Modules】+【FCA Autoauth on 2018+ FCA Vehicles】FOXWELL NT809 is top dog in foxwell's android-based scan tool line up. This professional all system diagnostic scanner is capable of performing fast and accurate diagnosis for all available control modules (ABS, SRS, Engine, Suspension, A/C...) , helping you troubleshoot the root cause quickly, and turning off the warning light.FCA AutoAuth Access to 2018+ Chrysler/JEEP/Dodge/Fiat (NEED A 12+8 adapter).
- ✅【30+ HOT Maintenance Reset Functions】+【Get work done efficiently】A comprehensive car scanner with a majority of service reset functions has been a trend in the market. Generally, dozens of code readers in the similar cost range only offer several or 10+ service reset function.Whereas, 30 service reset functions with wider compatibility are newly added to NT809 car diagnostic tool, helping you work efficiently.Please send your VIN to check the compatibility before the purchase. Thanks.
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android
$119.95
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- [Pro OBD2 Scanner] - BlueDriver is the easiest way to scan and understand your vehicle like a professional mechanic. Read and clear your car’s trouble codes and check engine light.
- [Read & Clear All The Codes] - BlueDriver's enhanced vehicle diagnostics gives you access to information normally available only to mechanics on their OBD2 scan tools. Now you can read and clear ABS, Airbag, SRS, TPMS codes, and many more.
- [Get The Right Fix] - Much more than a car code reader, BlueDriver is a diagnostic tool. Get unlimited specific repair reports containing possible causes, reported fixes, and more for virtually every vehicle make and model.
- [Wireless & Bluetooth Enabled] - Say goodbye to wires. BlueDriver connects with Bluetooth via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. Get all of the capabilities of an expensive code reader & scan tool without any annoying wires.
- [User-Friendly App and Repair Videos] - BlueDriver gives you more ways to scan and fix your vehicle. Our iOS & Android app connects you to a large database of repair videos with step-by-step directions of repairs.
(Upgraded V6) ANCEL V6 PRO+ Bidirectional Scan Tool, Enhanced BT Bluetooth Automotive OBD2 Diagnostic Code Reader All System Car Scanner with 25+ Resets, Key Programmer, Auto ABS Bleed Injector Coding
$649.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- 【2022 Most Cost-Effective Diagnostic Tool】ANCEL V6 PRO+ OBD2 Scanner with a Bluetooth VCI Dongle (Valued $160), is an improved version of V6 PRO, which maintains its stable performance, upgraded from wired to wireless connection, and adds more advanced functions. Supports bidirectional control, active test, OE-level full diagnosis, 25 services, 2 years free update(worth $300), so that mechanics can troubleshoot easily to ensure smooth workflow, is a must-have diagnostic tablet for car owners.
- 【All Bi-directional Control / Active Test】V6 PRO Plus professional bidirectional scan tool can send and receive information to and from a vehicle’s onboard computer. In other words, it can request information from vehicle or send commands to the vehicle’s modules. Those commands will make the module perform specific tests and functions. Such as Window/Mirror/Door Lock Test, Fuel Pumps test, EGR test, Modulate the throttle and more. It is an excellent choice for DIY home mechanics.
- 【25+ Services including Key Programmer】V6 PRO+ OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool is designed for home mechanics and workshops, garages. Supports 25+ most popular reset functions for almost of vehicles, including Oil reset, ABS bleeding, TPMS/EPB/SAS reset, Battery registration, DPF Regen, Injector Coding, key programming (disable lost keys, add new keys), etc. Help you handle all kinds of complex maintenance problems easily. Please send VIN to us to check compatibility and get real-time support before you purchase.
- 【OE-Level Full System Diagnostics for Over 100+ Car Makers】ANCEL V6 PRO+ Auto Car Scanner works with 100+ car manufacturers and 99% vehicle models, providing you with dealer-level diagnostics that deliver accurate and in-depth results across all available control modules. Fastly and accurately diagnose ABS, SRS, Engine, Transmission, TPMS, Brake System, Suspension System, BODY and much more, so you can quickly troubleshoot the root cause, and clear the fault code after the problem is fixed.
- 【Superior Hardware with 11 Languages】The Bluetooth diagnostic tablet features Android 10.0 operating system, 2G RAM & 32G ROM memory, powerful quad-core processor that greatly increases the speed of performing multiple tasks, 8" HD touchscreen and 8000mAh lithium battery that guarantees you maximum diagnostic speed and fast operation convenience. Supports English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, etc., and is a good choice for auto repair shops, DIYers, garages, car dealers and home mechanics.
Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner Auto Diagnostic Scan Tool for iOS & Android, Bluetooth 4.0 Car Check Engine Light Code Reader
$31.99 in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- Compatible with a wide range of third-party apps such as OBD Fusion, Torque and Car Scanner which can turn your iPhone, iPad or Android phone/tablet into a sophisticated car scan tool.
- Read diagnostic trouble codes and freeze frame data, reset check engine light, view real-time sensor readings, create customized dashboard and estimate fuel economy.
- Compatible with OBD II / EOBD compliant cars and light trucks (model year 1996 or newer in the US, including pickup trucks, hybrid and many electric vehicles; may require special apps).
- Compatible with iOS (no Bluetooth pairing needed; connect in the app) & Android devices (head units not recommended). No complex settings or tricky connections plus much lower power consumption compared to WiFi, and it does not block internet access for other apps.
- Easy to plug in and unplug. A third-party App is required (check recommendations in the description below, some may require separate purchase). Comes with one-year replacement warranty.
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner for iPhone, Android, and Windows
$139.95
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- Turn your iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC into a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool
- Recommended adapter for FORScan, Torque, BimmerCode, Dashcommand, AlfaOBD, Carista and many more
- Enhanced OEM support for Ford, GM, Mazda, Nissan/Infinity, Toyota/Lexus/Scion, Honda, Hyundai, Kia
- Clear Check Engine Light and get more live parameters (ABS, SRS, TPMS, etc) than any other scanner
- Over-voltage and battery drain protection, firmware updates
![LAUNCH 2023 Newest OBD2 Scanner X431 CRP919E Bidirectional Scan Tool with 2-Year Update[Valued $300], All System Diagnostic, 31+ Services, ECU Coding, Key Programming, FCA Autoauth, CANFD DOIP](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/5189TvomH5L._SL500_.jpg)
LAUNCH 2023 Newest OBD2 Scanner X431 CRP919E Bidirectional Scan Tool with 2-Year Update[Valued $300], All System Diagnostic, 31+ Services, ECU Coding, Key Programming, FCA Autoauth, CANFD DOIP
$465.00
in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2023 11:59 pm
Features
- [ 1*Free Gift-EL50448 ][Newly Released] Add Full Bi-directional Control We changed from 1-year upgrade Period to 2-year upgrade in September 2022, which saving you 300 dollars.We also changed from 29 SERVICES to 31 SERVICES,which meet your need in the most degree.We provide OE-level ECU coding, it allows you to reset the adaptive data, match the replaced ECUs, unfold the hidden functions, etc. You can get the newest x431 crp919e with same cost. Upgrade of crp909e/XTOO D7/fox NT809/ance V6/MK808.
- 【Full Bi-Directional Control/Active Test & ECU Coding】LAUNCH CRP919E obd2 scanner is a bidirectional scan tool which can check vehicles' working status and functionality like fuel pump test, individual actuators, wiper, horn, valves, injectors coding just the way they should. In addition, you can also output the command into the ECU in order to turn on/off actuators, to find faults in the subsystems of your car effortlessly. It's the best choice for the workshop/auto repair shop and help DIYers make fault location easier.
- 【31+ Commonly-Used Functions 】Launch crp919e comes with 31 hot reset service function, including EPB Reset , Oil Reset , SAS Reset, BAT Reset, ABS Bleeding, TPS Reset Electric Throttle Reset , TPMS Reset, DPF Reset, AFS Reset, Gear Learn , Gearbox Reset, IMMO keys, Injector Coding, Sunroof Reset, Suspension Reset, GP.F Reset, Intelligent Cruise Control, EGR Reset, HVOLBAT Reset, ENGPBM Reset etc . It's an ideal choice for DIY car enthusiasts and small/mid-sized repair shops. (NOTE: Special services available vary across vehicle models. )
- 【2023 OE-LEVEL All Systems Diagnostics + Full OBDII Functions】LAUNCH CRP919E gives you the ability to troubleshoot entire car systems including engion system, transmission system,body system, brake,chassis, powertrain, fuel, light system, etc. Built-in full OBDII special services including Read/Clear codes, Freeze frame, O2 Sensor, I/M Readiness, Smog Test, EVAP system, on board monitor test, Retrieve ECU Information, vehicle info etc.
- 【Support Diagnostic Protocols: CAN FD/ DOIP】CAN with flexible data rate (CAN FD) overcomes the limitations of the classical CAN bus in terms of data transfer rate. CAN FD/KWP protocols Compatible with GM models (2020 and later). DoIP makes LAUNCH CRP919E save both in terms of time and expenses in the case of complex diagnostic tasks and flash applications. DOIP protocol Compatible with BMW (F&G chassis), Volvo models (2018 later), Land Rover & Jaguar models (2017 later).