For auto shop owners, having top-notch OBD-II scanners isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a business need. When a customer’s car rolls into your auto shop with that dreaded check engine light on, they look for quick, accurate, cost-effective solutions.
And let’s be honest, they don’t just want a fix; they’re seeking trust. And that’s where scan tools like OBD scanners come in. OBD-II scanners plug into a car’s computer, clarifying dashboard alerts. They help determine if an issue is minor or critical. Using them boosts service quality and trust, turning occasional customers into loyal ones. This helps you make your auto repair business more profitable.
But how do you find the best OBD2 scanners? We’ve got your back. Using our experience in the auto repair industry and thorough research, we’ve put together this list of the 8 best professional OBD2 scanners.
The Six Best OBD2 Scanners To Buy in 2023
Our team has spent hours, analyzing, researching and reviewing the different scanners and shortlisted the top 6 for you. Our review is based on key features, pros, cons and actual customer reviews on the products.
So take the guesswork out of your purchase and buy the best scan tools for your next repair project!
1. Innova 6100P [Best Overall]
The Innova 6100P OBD-II scanner serves as a testament to the evolving technology within the automotive diagnostic sector. It’s carefully crafted to cater to both amateur mechanics and those desiring a more professional touch in their diagnostic scanners.
Specifications:
- Display: 2.8-inch, high-resolution color
- Bluetooth Capability: Integrated
- Handheld Design: Yes
- Key Features: I/M Readiness test, live data feed, and 9 functional keys
- Size/Dimensions: 7.2 x 3.4 x 1.1 inches; Weight: 6.5 ounces
- Warranty: Comprehensive 1-year coverage
Key Advantages:
- Compact design ensures portability and ease of use
- Includes battery testing and oil light reset functionalities
- Handheld design is complemented by an optional application integration
- Provides valuable repair instructions paired with parts options
Limitations:
- Utilizes a predominantly text-based interface
- Key responsiveness requires deliberate pressure for optimal function
Overview:
The Innova 6100P, retailing at $140, has all the advanced features sought after by new mechanics starting their repair job advanced diagnostics. The device’s 2.8-inch color screen efficiently conveys a spectrum of data, from real-time metrics to the critical fault codes.
Notably, its predictive capabilities allow users to anticipate potential component failures, facilitating preemptive measures. This scanner stands as a pivotal tool for those seeking an enhanced understanding of vehicular diagnostics.
2. 2. Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 [The Best Mobile Scanner]
The Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 is a reliable and user-friendly bluetooth OBD-II scanner.
Specifications:
- Display: None
- Bluetooth Integration: Yes
- Handheld: No
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: None
- Warranty: 1 year
- Dimensions: 2.0 x 1.5 x 1.0 inches
- Weight: 0.9 ounces
Advantages:
- Straightforward Bluetooth setup
- Compact transmitter design
- Top-quality apps for both phones and tablets
- Provides maintenance tips and repair suggestions
- Doubles as automotive gauges with varied display options
Drawbacks:
- Requires two separate apps
- App includes advertisements
Overview:
For those in search of a hassle-free Bluetooth OBD-II scanner, the Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 stands out. Its ease of setup sets it apart, making it one of the most user-friendly Bluetooth scanners we’ve come across. Setting it up is as simple as plugging it in and accessing Innova’s two companion apps.
Functionality-wise, the CarScan Mobile 1000 doesn’t disappoint. Like other Innova scanners, it offers a wide range of diagnostic features. It also details potential repairs and the associated parts you may need.
A notable feature is its predictive software, which can hint at potential component failures and their timings. Additionally, the integrated app can serve as a set of automotive gauges, offering multiple display choices.
3. Topdon ArtiDiag500 [Best Cheap Scanner]
The Topdon ArtiDiag is a top tier OBD-II scanner under $200.
Specifications:
- Display: 5-inch color touchscreen
- Bluetooth Capability: No
- Handheld: Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: 4
- Warranty: 2 years
- Dimensions: 9.1 x 4.9 x 1.4 inches
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
Key Features:
- Comprehensive diagnostic tests
- Wi-Fi enabled
- Sturdy build with softened edges
Potential Concerns:
- On the heavier side
- Cable length may be limiting
Overview:
The Topdon ArtiDiag500 presents a unique blend of attributes tailored for both novice and expert users. With its impressive color touchscreen, Wi-Fi capabilities, and detailed automotive health reports, it resembles a robust handheld device — albeit with some weight to it. The 47-inch cable might fall short for some uses, particularly when aiming for extended reach.
Yet, where it truly shines is in its functionality. This OBD-II scanner stands out in the consumer-grade category with its ability to monitor a car’s brakes, airbags, and battery, run an I/M pre-inspection, and vividly represent live vehicle data. Notably, this Android-powered scanner comes with a built-in rechargeable battery and a self-updating software feature — rarities among handheld devices.
Though it possesses some heft, the Topdon ArtiDiag500 arguably offers one of the best value propositions at its $170 price point for anyone seeking a reliable OBD-II diagnostic tool.
4. Bosch OBD 1300 [Best For Older Cars]
Geared towards older vehicle models, the Bosch OBD 1300 diagnostic scanner is specially designed with compatibility and ease-of-use in mind for vehicles from the ’80s and early ’90s.
Specifications:
- Display: 3.5-inch color screen
- Bluetooth Capability: No
- Handheld: Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: 8
- Warranty: 1 year
- Dimensions: 6.8 x 2.6 x 1.0 inches
- Weight: 10.5 ounces (increases to 1.4 pounds when the 84-inch cable is attached)
Key Features:
- Provides cables compatible with pre-1996 Chrysler, Ford, GM, and Toyota vehicles
- Offers 26 million repair suggestions
- Capable of resetting the oil-change light
Potential Concerns:
- Slightly weighty considering its compact size
- Lacks a physical manual or quick-start guide; needs to be sourced from Bosch’s website
Overview:
The Bosch OBD 1300’s disytinction lies in its adaptability, most notably with its capability to interface with pre-1996 vehicles using provided cables. Though compact, once the 6-foot extension cable is attached, its weight can be felt. Instead of drawing power from the OBD-II port, this unit is powered by AA batteries or a car’s cigarette lighter. The spacious color screen brilliantly visualizes graphing data.
Housing a vast database, the scanner delivers 26 million repair recommendations. It can inspect anti-lock brakes and airbags for cars from 1996 to 2013, oversee the battery and charging system, and conduct an emissions pre-inspection. Instructions require a visit to Bosch’s official website.
While its price tag is near $200, the Bosch OBD 1300 justifies its cost with its expansive compatibility, making it a prime choice for those with classic cars from the ’80s and early ’90s.
5. Ancel BD310
Ancel’s BD310 is the best double duty scanner— it excels as both a handheld scanner and a supplementary car display.
Specifications:
- Display: 2-inch color screen
- Bluetooth Capability: Yes
- Handheld: Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: 4
- Warranty: 3 years
- Dimensions: 5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
- Weight: 5.4 ounces
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight design ensures portability
- Dual functionality: operates as a scanner and enhances vehicle’s display
- Compatible as a standalone scanner or pairs seamlessly with mobile devices
Areas for Improvement:
- Basic interface might be challenging for some users
- The 2-inch display is relatively small
Overview:
With the flexibility of the Ancel BD310, you can choose to utilize it as a traditional handheld scanner or connect it to your mobile device for a broader view. Additionally, it offers a unique feature where it acts as a supplementary display, presenting essential engine metrics directly in your vehicle’s cockpit.
Despite its modest size, the BD310 finds a home in your glove compartment, ensuring it’s always on hand. Its 2-inch color screen, while compact, is intuitive and displays crucial information like coolant temperature, engine speed, and timing. These can be viewed numerically or graphically, catering to user preferences.
The BD310 also boasts a lengthy 56-inch cable, which is instrumental when diagnosing engine issues or when keeping an eye on engine performance while on the move. Although its four-key interface might take some getting used to, the side-mounted mode button for toggling between Bluetooth and cable functions adds a layer of user-friendliness.
6. Foxwell NT614 Elite [Best Rugged Scanner]
Imagine a Nintendo Switch, but for diagnosing your vehicle! The Foxwell NT614 Elite is almost like that with its compact design and high functionality.
Specifications:
- Display: 4.3-inch color screen
- Bluetooth Capability: No
- Handheld: Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: 7
- Warranty: 1 year
- Dimensions: 7.8 x 3.8 x 1.2 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
Key Features:
- Comprehensive suite of diagnostic tests
- Robust construction complemented by soft edges
- Packaged with a protective hard case and an SD card for added convenience
Areas for Improvement:
- No integrated battery power
- Absence of a touchscreen interface
Overview:
Encased in a compact, durable frame, the Foxwell NT614 Elite boasts a broad color display. Despite its noticeable lack of a touchscreen and dependency on external power, it serves as a powerful diagnostic tool for both professionals and individual car owners.
Taking cues from the slightly heftier Topdon ArtiDiag500, this Foxwell model presents capabilities like data graphing, oil-change light reset, and surveillance of the charging system, airbags, brakes, and transmission. Notably, its programmable keys — reminiscent of a gaming keyboard — allow tailored operations for various car makes. Accompanied by its microSD slot, the Foxwell NT614 Elite becomes a prime choice for those working across a diverse range of vehicles.
7. ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01
The ThinkDiag TKD01 brings to the table powerful diagnostic capabilities paired with an expansive app, but users should note the recurring subscription fees.
Specifications:
- Display: None
- Bluetooth Capability: Yes
- Handheld: No
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Number of Keys: None
- Warranty: 1 year
- Dimensions: 3.1 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 2.7 ounces
Key Features:
- Ability to read enhanced codes provides a more comprehensive diagnostic
- Offers a plethora of optional functionalities
- Comes with a durable protective case
Areas for Improvement:
- The app demands a $40 subscription fee after the initial year
- Size and weight can make installation challenging
Overview:
ThinkDiag TKD01 distinguishes itself as one of the more sizable Bluetooth OBD-II automotive diagnostic scanners. While it facilitates functionalities like reading extended fault codes and resetting the oil-change indicator, users should be cautious about the recurring app subscription.
Due to its dimensions, some users might find the ThinkDiag a tight fit for certain OBD-II ports, possibly necessitating an extension cable. However, its sturdy, oval design ensures it can withstand rough usage.
One of the app’s standout features is its extensive support for over 100 automakers. This inclusivity allows users to delve deep into manufacturer-specific codes, offering a tailored diagnostic experience. The app grants a free profile for the inaugural year, but users are then expected to pay $40 annually for each profile, with premium rates for specific brands like Tesla. For those with diverse car collections, this can add up.
Beyond its diagnostic prowess, the app can monitor aspects like tire pressure, airbag status, and brake health. It also forecasts potential system failures. However, guidance regarding potential replacement parts or necessary repairs isn’t provided.
Things To Look Out For While Buying OBD 2 Scanners
Selecting the ideal OBD2 scanner depends on your requirements and what vehicle systems you’re dealing with. For occasional tasks like verifying mechanic assessments or identifying the cause behind a check engine light, a basic code reader suffices.
However, not every OBD2 scanner suits all vehicles, especially older or rare models.
Continuous work on various cars demands a scanner compatible with foreign and domestic vehicles, has the requisite diagnostic functions and offers regular updates.
Features like adjusting vehicle settings or accessing ABS and misfire data can provide comprehensive insights into a car’s health. However, more capabilities typically increase the price.
Compatibility: While many OBD2 diagnostic trouble codes are universal, many are manufacturer-specific. Ensure your scanner can decipher error codes for your vehicle’s brand.
Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners: A rising trend is wireless scanners with Bluetooth. With just a smartphone and the relevant app (potentially paid), you can easily analyze data on-the-go, even while driving or inspecting the vehicle.
OBD-II Protocols: OBD2 scanners communicate using various protocols. The most prevalent include ISO15765-4 (CAN-BUS), ISO14230-4 (KWP2000), and SAE J1850 PWM. Ensure your car’s protocol matches the scanner. You can verify this by searching your car’s make, year, and model along with “OBD2 protocol” online.
You should pair the scanners with the best apps for mechanics, for best results.
