When check engine light is on, we will connect a OBD2 code reader or scan tool to the OBD2 connector under your dash. A scan tool will read trouble code stored in the computer after finding the problem. However, there are many different code reader on Amazon. We have used the above criteria to put out the list of the best OBD2 scan tool and OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth iPhone adapter you can buy today. Note that we have classified each scanner based on what it does best or what if provided to the user.

The best scanners for a person may not be the same for others so remember what you want to get rid of your device before making the final decision. You should buy a best OBD2 code reader for your car. So, This article helps to know the differences between them and choose the best OBD2 scanner trouble code.

Best OBD2 Scan Tool Reviews – Buying Guide 2023

Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader

The Autel MS300 is an OBD2 code reader that allows car owners and mechanics to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from their vehicle’s onboard computer. Here are the pros and cons of the Autel MS300:

Pros:

1. User-friendly: The Autel MS300 is easy to use, with a simple interface that allows users to quickly and easily read and clear diagnostic trouble codes.
2. Compatible with most vehicles: The Autel MS300 is compatible with most OBD2 compliant vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, manufactured after 1996.
3. Affordable: The Autel MS300 is an affordable OBD2 scanner, making it an excellent choice for car owners on a budget.
4. Comprehensive DTC library: The Autel MS300 has a comprehensive DTC library that includes over 15,000 generic and manufacturer-specific DTCs, allowing users to diagnose a wide range of vehicle problems.
5. Compact and portable: The Autel MS300 is small and portable, making it easy to carry around in a tool bag or glove box.

Cons:

1. Limited features: The Autel MS300 is a basic code reader and does not have advanced features like live data, freeze frame, or readiness status.
2. No software updates: The Autel MS300 does not have any software updates, which means that it may not be compatible withnewer vehicles.
3. Limited language support: The Autel MS300 only supports English, which may be a disadvantage for non-English speakers.
4. No Bluetooth connectivity: The Autel MS300 does not have Bluetooth connectivity, which means that it cannot be connected to a smartphone or tablet.
5. No battery backup: The Autel MS300 relies on the vehicle’s battery for power and does not have a backup battery, which may be an issue in situations where the vehicle’s battery is dead or disconnected.

In summary, the Autel MS300 is a user-friendly and affordable OBD2 code reader that is compatible with most vehicles. However, it has limited features and no software updates, which may be a disadvantage for users who require more advanced functionality. It is an excellent choice for car owners and amateur mechanics who need a basic code reader for diagnostic purposes, but professional mechanics may require a more advanced tool.

Read more review Autel MS300 on AmazonRead more review Autel MS300 on AliExpress

KONNWEI KW310 OBD2 Code Reader Automotive Diagnostic Scan

The KONNWEI KW310 is an OBD2 code reader that allows car owners and mechanics to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from their vehicle’s onboard computer. Here are the pros and cons of the KONNWEI KW310:

Pros:

1. User-friendly: The KONNWEI KW310 is easy to use, with a simple interface that allows users to quickly and easily read and clear diagnostic trouble codes.
2. Compatible with most vehicles: The KONNWEI KW310 is compatible with most OBD2 compliant vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, manufactured after 1996.
3. Affordable: The KONNWEI KW310 is an affordable OBD2 scanner, making it an excellent choice for car owners on a budget.
4. Comprehensive DTC library: The KONNWEI KW310 has a comprehensive DTC library that includes over 3000 generic and manufacturer-specific DTCs, allowing users to diagnose a wide range of vehicle problems.
5. Multiple languages support: The KONNWEI KW310 supports multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Russian.
6. Compact and portable: The KONNWEI KW310 is small and portable, making it easy to carry around in a tool bag or glove box.

Cons:

1. Limited features: The KONNWEI KW310 is a basic code reader and does not have advanced features like live data, freeze frame, or readiness status.
2. No software updates: The KONNWEI KW310 does not have any software updates, which means that it may not be compatible with newer vehicles.
3. No Bluetooth connectivity: The KONNWEI KW310 does not have Bluetooth connectivity, which means that it cannot be connected to a smartphone or tablet.
4. No battery backup: The KONNWEI KW310 relies on the vehicle’s battery for power and does not have a backup battery, which may be an issue in situations where the vehicle’s battery is dead or disconnected.
5. Limited customer support: The KONNWEI KW310 does not have a dedicated customer support team, which may be an issue for users who require technical assistance.

In summary, the KONNWEI KW310 is a user-friendly and affordable OBD2 code reader that is compatible with most vehicles. However, it has limited features and no software updates, which may be a disadvantage for users who require more advanced functionality. It is an excellent choice for car owners and amateur mechanics who need a basic code reader for diagnostic purposes, but professional mechanics may require a more advanced tool with additional features and support.

Read more review for KONNWEI KW310 on AmazonRead more review for KONNWEI KW310 on AliExpress

Ancel AS500 Best OBD2 Scan Tool CAN

The automotive industry is constantly changing. This includes the technology being used in today’s vehicles. With the introduction of OBD II, there have been many changes to the vehicle’s performance. Almost every system on the car is controlled by a computer. Some systems operate from their own modules, or share modules with other systems. In order for a computer to monitor these systems, it uses different sensors to get the data it needs. This makes it very difficult to diagnose a problem with a vehicle as many of these sensors and systems work together. Without proper tools, the average person would not have a clue to start when referring to diagnose problems with their vehicle. Ancel AS500 scan tool concern is a perfect example of best OBD2 scan tool reviews.

Many people think that a trouble code from a OBD2 scanner tool is the only answer needed to fix a problem with their vehicle. This is not the case because the trouble code simply points to the general direction of what is causing the light. With proper scanning engine, surmise where to start can be eliminated. Ancel AS500 is a perfect example of an affordable scanning tool that can assist in diagnostic procedures. This scanner tool not only gives you access to diagnostic trouble codes, but also other options to help in any of the related light test inspection tools. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

Ancel AS500 Scanner Features

1. Read engine or emission related fault codes error codes.
2. Erase and delete the fault codes,
3. Turns off Check Engine Light (MIL), warning light, clears codes and resets monitors
4. Retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3 and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3 and U1) codes and pending codes.
5. Easily determines the cause of the Check Engine Light (MIL), show definitions of the fault codes.
6. Displays monitor and I/M readiness status (emissions)
7. Reads live PCM data stream
8. Displays Live sensor data readings in both text mode and graph mode (1996 and newer vehicles)
9. Storage data stream, and playback, printing the stored sensor readings.
10. Views freeze frame data to analyze the real cause of engine failures
11. Displays live O2 oxygen sensor test data
12. Enhanced OBD2 Mode 6 On Board Monitoring Test Results for Specific Monitored Systems.
13. EVAP System test data
14. Battery Voltage real time monitoring.
15. Retrieves vehicle information (VIN code, CIN and CVN Number)
16. Built-in DTC look-up library and display definition.
17. Troubleshooter code tips guide technicians to the root cause of a trouble code faster, save diagnosis and repair time
18. Internet updateable and upgradeable, life-time update free
19. Prints the stored trouble codes/ freeze frame/ live data readings via PC, works for all windows system.

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Innova 3100j Code Reader Scan Tool with ABS and SRS for OBD2 Vehicles

This Innova 3100j code reader  is a self-running device capable of providing any user with important information to troubleshoot a vehicle. It can display you about the current trouble code, pending trouble codes, permanent trouble code and what emission monitoring tasks have been run. The Innova 3100j scan tool comes with a pamphlet describing how OBDII works. This scan tool also includes a trouble code definition for a number of different vehicles. The only downside is that you have to pay extra to get information through innova.com about some trouble code definitions, full diagnostic reports and possible causes. It’s one of the best obd2 scan tool selling ever sold at Amazon. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

Innova 3100j Scanner Features

• Innova 3100j scan tool can quickly reveal the reason for the check engine light warnings. The trouble code appears on the screen for at least 30 seconds (very fast).
• Innova 3100j scan tool reads the code and erase them. Code related errors on SRS and ABS can be read and solved.
• Innova 3100j is best code reader also checks the vehicle’s charging system. You can do scan tool using battery or function generator check in this scanner.
• This scan tool has an oil reset procedure. Resetting is easy because instructions are written step by step.
• When the MIL is on, the 3100j scanner will automatically display code freeze frame the status of the fuel supply, engine coolant temperature, etc.
• The company has a web-based service. On the web, drivers and technicians will be assisted to accurately and promptly diagnose their problems. They will be provided with repair costs, verified fixes, hard ratings and so on. But It not easy using for DYIer.
• Customer support services may be provided. English and Spanish are the languages ​​used for this web service. You will be able to talk to certified technicians when you access this service.

Read more review for Innova 3100J

Autel AL519 AutoLink Enhanced OBD2 Scan Tool with Mode 6

What we are looking for is a best OBD2 scan tool that provides all professional data readings on one side and inexpensively gives us another asset, especially at the time of our business is just catching up. So we were looking for scan tool at average prices. Based on experience and my own research, we finally bought the Autel AL519. The Autel AL519 Professional Scan Tool lacks some technical features that make you unsure to go shopping in the end. Professional technicians look for additional ABS and SRS data from their diagnostic scanners. For safety precautions, reading data is necessary and there is a huge need for it. This is a feature that AL519 scan tool lacks and should be considered before purchase. However, reading ABS and SRS compared to light engine data is not essential but nonetheless important. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

Autel AL519 Scanner Features

1. Features the unique patented One-Click Readiness Key for quick State Emissions readiness check and drive cycle verification

2. Easily determines the cause of the Check Engine Light(MIL)

3. Turns off Check Engine Light (MIL), clears codes and resets monitors

4. Displays DTC definition on the TFT color screen

5. Displays monitor and I/M readiness status (emissions)

6. Reads live PCM datastream

7. Displays live O2 sensor test data

8. Reads, stores and playbacks live sensor data

9. Enhanced OBDII Mode 6

10. Troubleshooter code tips guide technicians to the root cause of a trouble code faster, saving diagnosis and repair time

Read more review for Autel AL519 on AmazoneRead more review for Autel AL519 on AliExpress

Best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter Reviews – Buying Guide 2023

The best OBD2 adapter will monitor vehicle sensors, check fault codes, and perform quick scans and diagnostics. Best OBD2 adapter need connect with mobile devices (smartphones, PDAs, or tablets) to become diagnostic scan tools when plugged into the vehicle’s OBD2 connector via Wifi, Bluetooth or USB adapter cables. However, there are many different OBD2 dongle on Amazon. You should buy a best OBD2 Bluetooth adapter for your car. Or a best OBD2 iPhone adapter for your job.

How to find best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter, OBD2 iPhone Adapter:

• Each OBD2 adapter is the different requirements for Android or iPhone devices.
• The buyer best choise a OBDII devices work with most cars/light trucks.
• The kind of  protocols: ISO 15765 High CAN, ISO 15765 Medium CAN, ISO9141, ISO 14230 KWP2000, SAE J1850 VPW, SAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1939,..
• And, Understand what Android/ iOS apps or software is included with the unit, is compatible with the unit, or must be purchased or subscribed to separately.

THINKCAR Latest Thinkdiag 4.0 Version OBD2 Code Reader Full Software

ThinkDiag is a portable and economical car fault diagnosis tool suitable for DIY individual users and small repair shops. ThinkDiag is composed of a diagnostic connector and an APP, connected to the vehicle diagnostic socket through the connector, and wirelessly communicates with a smart phone or tablet through Bluetooth, so as to install client software and diagnostic software on the smart terminal to perform car fault diagnosis, including reading the version Information, code reading, code clearing, reading data stream, special functions, etc.
Supported models: compatible with all models supporting OBD II protocol after 1996. Supporting agreement:ISO 14230-4(KWP2000)/IOS 15765-4(CAN)/ISO 9141 2(IOS)/ISO14229(UDS)/SAEJ 1850(VPW&PWM)

When used with proper software, you can:

This OBD2 scanner is specially designed to provide you with quick access to the vehicle systems for various scheduled service and maintenance performances. There is some commonly-used special reset services are listed for your reference:
1.Oil Lamp Reset Service : allows you to perform reset for a new calculation of Engine Oil Life system once changed the oil.
2.EPB service: it is important in the maintenance of electronic braking system’s safety and efficiency.
3.BAT battery service : allows the scan tool to evaluate the battery charge state, monitor the close-circuit current, register the battery replacement, and activate the rest state of the vehicle.
4.DPF service : specially works for Diesel Particulate Filter system with DPF regeneration, DPF component replacement teach-in and DPF teach-in after replacing the engine control unit.
5.SAS service: helps clear the fault steering angle sensor memories and plays an important role in the steering angle sensor calibration.
6.TPMS service : makes sense in displaying sensor IDs from the vehicle’s ECU, inputting TPMS sensor replacement IDs and testing sensors.
7.IMMO Key Programming: the unique car key programming and read pin code function, it is mainly used to disable the lost vehicle keys and program a new replacement key fob.
8.ABS Bleeding : ABS brake bleeding to get a firm brake pad after air exhaustion after repair ABS pump system
9.Sunroof Reset:The sunroof memory generally needs to be reset when the vehicle’s battery is replaced or the car dies
10.Suspension Reset:Try reset electronic suspension air ride with the massage system close all doors koeo flip through measage system go to suspension reset or on off
11.Gearbox Reset:Procedure Reset Transmission Adaptive Learning DIY. Start the car and drive. Once you perform this procedure the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and Transmission Control Unit (TCU) will work together to learn how you drive by monitoring your driving pattern. After you follow this programing method of the TCU / ECU drive the car.
12.AFS Headlamp Reset ：’AFS’ means Adaptive Front lighting System (at night with the Bi-Xenon headlights) it swivels either side, pressing that button means they stay pointing straight ahead and don’t turn when you turn the steering wheel
13.Injector Coding :Leaking injectors and some dead injectors can be missed even when an injector is disabled. Otherproblems with the ignition system and mechanical components also may not show an rpm loss when aninjector is turned off
14.Throttle Adaptation The throttle body is a tube containing a pivoting flat valve (butterfly) that is used to control the amount ofair entering an engine. In an electronically fuel injected car, a throttle position sensor and air flow sensorcommunicate with the computer, which supplies the corresponding amount of fuel needed at the injectors. It must need re-learning throttle sensor position after clearing or repair
15.Gear Learning: The scan tool monitors certain camshaft position sensors signals to determine if all conditions are met to continue with the procedure for Engine running

Read more review for ThinkCar

JDiag Faslink M2 OBD2 Scanner for iOS Android

When your check engine light is on before visiting the mechanic- save money by fixing simple problems yourself. Very easy to use as it is compatible with iOS, android  devices this top scan tool can connect to any iOS, android via Bluetooth. You just need to plug it to the diagnostic link connector, connect it with your device and follow the code reading procedure to diagnose any existing problem. Turn your car into a smart car! unlock data from your cars onboard computer – enjoy a real time feed of data streaming form your cars computer giving you a peek into the inner workings of your car’s brain. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

Faslink M2 OBD2 Scanner Features

• FasLink M2 is the 1th Smart Voice OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner in the world. Helps you talk to the mechanic or gives you detailed information on your error codes of possible caused reason.
• Bluetooth 4.0 high-speed communication transmission and multi-end connections. Loaded seamlessly, make a great pair and connects flawlessly on your IOS and Android devices. Constantly being improved and updated to extended scans and database possible fixes.
• Share professional PDF format diagnostic report to anyone or XML format Live data to show each PIDs value in the past.
  Equipment with 16 pins OBD2 port which works on most car (JAPAN, CANADA, US, EU, etc.) after 2000 year till now.
• Support 8 Languages :German, Italian, French, Spanish, English, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese.
• FasLink M2 hardware with screw-less assembly, logo LED indicator, non-slip design shell with environmentally friendly solder paste material, industrial designs with smaller size to ensure healthy, safety, beauty and easy to carry.
• Diverse data flow display interface, self-defined PID expression and color.

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ScanTool OBDLink MX Bluetooth: Professional OBD2 Scan Tool for Android & Windows

ScanTool 426101 OBDlink MX: A compact OBDII Bluetooth adapter, easily glued to your gloves and does not require cables (only Android or Tablet PCs). The OBDlink MX plugs into your vehicle’s OBD-II port and displays information to your smartphone, tablet or laptop screen. Although the OBD-II Bluetooth adapters are becoming more and more popular, OBDlink MX offers higher specifications and performance than most of its competitors. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

OBDLink MX OBD2 Bluetooth Features

• Maximum vehicle coverage (Verify your vehicle is OBD-II compliant)
• Supports SW-CAN & MS-CAN protocols
• World’s fastest Bluetooth OBD-II adapter
• Small form factor
• Hacker-proof
• Read and clear “Check Engine” light
• Automatic sleep and wake-up
• Free Android app and Windows diagnostic software
• More 3rd party app and software options
• Free firmware updates

OBDLink MX support protocols

• Legislated OBD protocols:
• ISO 15765-4 (CAN 250/500 kbps, 11/29 bit)
• Keyword Protocol 2000 (ISO 14230-4)
• ISO 9141-2 (Asian, European, Chrysler)
• VPW (GM) SAE J1850
• PWM (Ford) SAE J1850
• SAE J2411 Single-Wire CAN (SW-CAN) – GM proprietary network
• Medium-Speed CAN (MS-CAN) – Ford proprietary network

Read more review OBDLink MX+ on Amazon Read more review OBDLink MX+ on Aliexpress

BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone, iPad & Android

BlueDriver OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner is my go-to scanner. If you need to get yourself a best OBD2 scan tool and small size. I would seriously consider the BlueDriver Bluetooth because not only can you read and clear the check engine light codes, you can also read and clear airbag, transmission, ABS, and other module codes (for Ford, GM, Chrysler and BMW vehicles). Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

BlueDriver OBD2 Bluetooth Features:

• BlueDriver Apps (iOS/Android) Free: Easy to install on Apps Store and Play Store. It is designed beautiful user interface and free download.
• Fast data transfer sensor: BlueDriver Sensor (Adapter) is faster transfer vehicle data to your phone. The same real time data from your car.
• Read and Clear trouble codes: It is read Engine Trouble Codes, ABS Trouble Codes, Airbag Trouble Codes and Transmission Trouble Code.
• Quickly repair report: Report trouble code can send via email and get the repair procedure from identifix. So, BlueDriver helps easy to fix the problem.
• Smog Check program: Easy to tab smog check with BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool. It will show pass or fail on your car.
• Small size sensor: with 2.2 x 1.9 x 1 inches dimension and 2.4 ounces, It is small best OBDII scan tool.

Read more review for BlueDriver Adapter

PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter Diagnostic Scan Tool for Android, Apple & Windows Mobile

The power of information in your hands Kiwi 3 is a plug and play automotive tool that connects to the onboard diagnostic port (OBDII / CAN), retrieves information from your car’s computer, and wirelessly transmits to your smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or PC. The smallest, fastest, and most versatile OBD2 adapter yet Kiwi 3 is up to 4 times faster than the nearest competitor and uses ultra low power allowing you to leave your device installed permanently in your vehicle. Compatible with all standard OBDII protocols, Kiwi 3 installs in seconds. Firmware can be updated via Bluetooth and employs a nearly invisible design. When inserted into your OBDII port, Kiwi 3 sits just 0.68 inches thin making it the smallest and most discrete OBDII adapter. Why it should be on best OBD2 scan tool reviews list ? We will see the pros below.

PLX Kiwi3 OBD2 Bluetooth Features:

• Professional-grade automotive diagnostic OBD2 OBDII scan tool for smart devices
• Cross platform compatible – Works with Android, iOS (iPhone/iPad), and Windows mobile.
• High speed / low power consumption – 4x faster and consumes less energy than the nearest competition
• Vehicle compatibility – compatible with all cars and consumer trucks built and sold in the United States after January 1, 1996
• App compatibility – Supports industry leading apps Torque, Harry’s Lap Timer, DashCommand, OBD Car Doctor, CarSys,…

Read more review for KiWi3

Difference between OBD2 scan tool and a basic OBD2 code reader

• An OBD2 scan tool and OBD2 code reader can be considered one and the same, but there are a few things that they detach.
• You can read and erase the OBD2 trouble code with a basic code reader, and an best OBD2 scan tool can do the same. But that’s the end of the analogy, because an best OBD2 scan tool can do much more than just show code.
• The best OBD2 scan tool can provide a broad knowledge base with just one click. This means you can get more information about the trouble codes in your car and a obd2 scan tool can also suggest possible trouble code fixes for any type of trouble code (current trouble code and permanent trouble code).
• An expensive scan tool will also allow you to print diagnostic and performance data in your computer. Depending on the brand and software used, scan tool can display performance charts so you can easily analyze engine performance and emissions.
• We are not saying that OBD2 code readers are cheaper than expensive a best OBD2 scan tool, because they all depend on your level.
• Code reader can not provide troubleshooting information, read manufacturer specific trouble codes including ABS and airbags(SRS) trouble code, create a graphical representation of vehicle live data, print car information and adjustments. Results and record or playback engine live data. If you want these features, then you will get a bestOBD2 scan tool instead of a basic OBD2 code reader.

Conclusion

A comprehensive best OBD2 scan tool reviews guide on choosing the OBD2 scan tool for your car. Before buying a car aftermarkets scanner, you should take the time to find out the OBD2 protocol of your car so you can choose the best obd2 scan tool for the job.

Remember that cheap is not necessarily equal to poor performance. Considering the list of basic code reader, OBD2 Bluetooth adapter and advanced scan tool, you will find it easy to find out which best obd2 scan tool to buy on the price, features and expertise of the DIYer.

It does not matter if you are an expert or if you do not know anything about cars. Getting an best OBD2 scan tool is the best way to save time and money on car repairs. With the wide range of OBD2 scanners iPhone and OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner present, even novice enthusiasts can quickly learn much about the fascinating world of engine computer and car electronics.

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