10 bestAutomotive Scan Toolsof June 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
20% off
1

ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Tool (Black)
ANCEL

9.8
8% off
2

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android - No Subscription Fee - OBD2 Car Scanner and Code Reader - Diagnose Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag & 7000+ Issues on Vehicles 1996+
BlueDriver

9.6
3

VEEPEAK OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Car OBD II Diagnostic Scan Tool Check Engine Code Reader for iOS and Android
VEEPEAK

9.3
4

Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808S: 2025 Bidirectional Tool as MK808BT Pro MX808S M808Z, Function as MaxiCheck MX900, 28+ Service, Active Test, All System Diagnose, Injector Coding, FCA Autoauth Android 11T
Autel

9.0
5

Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK900BT, 2025 MK900-BT V2.0 Bidirectional Diagnostic Tool, 8in Up of MK900 MX900 MK808S MK808BT MX808S MK808Z, 3000+ Active Tests, 40+ Service, CAN-FD&DOIP, All System, FCA 11 OS
Autel

8.7
OtherUp to 16% off
6

TOPDON Phoenix Plus 2 Scanner, Bidirectional Scan Tool, ECU Coding, Topology Map CANFD Car Diagnostic Scanner, OEM Full System, 41+ Service, AutoAuth for FCA SGW, VAG Guided, 2 Years Free Update
TOPDON

8.4
7

OBD2 Scanner TOPDON ArtiDiag600S V2.0, Scan Tool with 9 Reset Service, Upgrade of AD500S/AD600S, Code Reader for ABS/SRS/Engine/Trans, FCA AutoAuth, Lifetime Free Update, Auto VIN, Battery Test, CANFD
TOPDON

8.1
8

XTOOL D7 OBD2 Scanner, 2025 New V2.0 Bidirectional Scan Tool with ECU Coding, 36+ Resets, FCA AutoAuth, 3-Year Update, CAN FD, DoIP, Crankshaft Relearn, ABS Bleed, Full System Car Diagnostic Scanner
XTOOL

7.8
9

ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner, Vehicle Code Reader for Check Engine Light, Automotive OBD II Scanner Fault Diagnosis, OBDII Scan Tool for All OBDII Cars 1996+, Black/Yellow
ANCEL

7.5
10

OBD2 Scanner Ease Setup Plug-Play: Clear Reset Engine Error Code Professional Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tools with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All Cars Since 1996 & Newer -LK11
LeeKooLuu

7.2
A Guide to Selecting the Best Automotive Scan Tools
Choosing the right automotive scan tool can make diagnosing and fixing car problems much easier, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic. The right tool helps you read error codes, monitor vehicle systems, and sometimes even perform advanced functions like programming or resetting service lights. To find the best fit, it's important to understand the key features and specifications, and match them to your needs and the types of vehicles you plan to work on.
Compatibility
Compatibility refers to which vehicles the scan tool can work with. Some tools are universal and work with most cars made after a certain year, while others are designed for specific brands or models. It's important because a tool that isn't compatible with your car won't be able to read codes or provide useful information. When looking at compatibility, check if the tool supports the make, model, and year of your vehicle. If you work on many different cars, a tool with broad compatibility is best. If you only work on your own car, make sure the tool specifically supports it.
OBD Protocol Support
OBD protocol support means which communication standards the scan tool can use to talk to your car's computer. Most modern cars use OBD-II, but there are different protocols within OBD-II, and older cars may use OBD-I. This is important because a tool that doesn't support your car's protocol won't work. If your car is from 1996 or newer, OBD-II support is usually enough. For older vehicles, check if the tool supports OBD-I or other specific protocols. Always match the tool's protocol support to your vehicle's requirements.
Functionality
Functionality describes what the scan tool can actually do. Basic tools can read and clear error codes and show simple data, while advanced tools can perform tasks like live data streaming, ABS/SRS diagnostics, service resets, and even programming. This is important because more functions mean more ways to diagnose and fix problems. If you just want to check engine lights, a basic tool is enough. If you want to do more complex repairs or maintenance, look for a tool with advanced features. Think about what tasks you want to perform and choose a tool that covers those needs.
User Interface
The user interface is how you interact with the scan tool, such as through buttons, a touchscreen, or a smartphone app. A clear, easy-to-use interface is important because it makes the tool more effective and less frustrating. Some tools have simple screens and menus, while others use color displays or connect to your phone for more detailed information. If you prefer simplicity, look for a tool with a straightforward interface. If you like more information and features, a tool with a larger screen or app support might be better.
Update Capability
Update capability refers to whether the scan tool can receive software updates to support new vehicles or add features. This is important because car technology changes over time, and updates keep your tool useful. Some tools can be updated via the internet, while others cannot. If you plan to use the tool for many years or on newer cars, choose one that allows easy updates. If you only need it for a specific car and don't plan to upgrade, this may be less important.
Data Display and Storage
Data display and storage means how the scan tool shows information and whether it can save data for later review. Some tools show basic codes, while others display live data graphs or allow you to record and review information. This is important for tracking down intermittent problems or sharing data with a mechanic. If you want to analyze problems in detail, look for a tool with good data display and storage options. If you just want to check codes, basic display is enough.

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