The Best OBD2 Scanners (Review & Buying Guide) in 2018

BAFX is a reputable brand that has released a line of reliable products. This ODB2 Bluetooth scanner is a solid purchase for those using the Android and Windows platforms. Keep in mind that those on the iOS platform will not be able to take advantage of the BAFX Products 34t5. This scanner guarantees compatibility with all USA consumer vehicles that were manufactured in 1996 and beyond. Furthermore, the durable design of this unit means it can take a beating in the tool bag and still function as designed.

In-depth diagnostics can be achieved as real time info is provided. This can help you get to the root of a problem faster. Additionally, graphical data logging can be organized so that you can better understand the information that’s being recorded. A drawback of this product is that it cannot read ABS, SRS and TPMS codes. You’ll need specialized tools to get access to this information. It’s recommended that the Torque Pro app is used in conjunction with this OBD2 Bluetooth scanner for optimal use. Overall, this scanning tool allows you to locate problems before they become serious and cause you more damage.

This ANCEL OBD2 Bluetooth scanner has a relatively large LCD display (128 x 64 pixels) that comes with contrast adjustment and white backlight.  The screen shows the code and its meaning, which is helpful because you will not need to search online for the meaning of the error code. The definition of the code is displayed once you click on the error code itself. One of the highlights of the ANCEL AD310 is that a comprehensive range of protocols are supported, which includes CAN, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, KWP2000 and ISO9141. This device can save you a trip to your local mechanic as you can detect faults by yourself. It’s a straightforward DIY kit that saves time and money.

For this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner to function the 16 Pin OBD2 protocol must be used and a 12V vehicle battery used. Freeze frame and live feed data can be viewed so that detailed information can be gathered. It means you can get to the root of a problem in the minimum amount of time.

This is one of the more expensive OBD2 Bluetooth scanners on the market, but for the cost you’re getting a lot of value. It’s trusted by mechanics and professionals in the automotive industry, because of the excellent functionality. BlueDriver makes use of a database with over 6.6 million fixes by using of the manufacturer, model, year and error code. The free BlueDriver app is part of the appeal of this product, which makes problem diagnosis and troubleshooting a straightforward process.

This product is certified to work with Android and Apple devices. Furthermore, it’s compatible with all the major car manufacturers, which includes Volkswagen, Honda, BMW, Nissan, Toyota, Chrysler, Ford and General Motors. The BlueDriver OBD2 scanner is a comprehensive tool that can help you figure out the problems that might be affecting your car. It saves you from making a trip to your mechanic every single time there is a potential fault with your vehicle.

Another highlight of this product is the live data that can be shown as a graph. For the experienced individual that understands the data can quickly figure out what problems are causing the error code. Furthermore, the data can be highly customized so that it’s viewed in a way you can interpret it best.

FIXD have designed a OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that’s compatible with all vehicles manufactured in 1996 and beyond. It will tell you why the engine light might be on in a way that’s understandable by the average driver. A FIXD app is available for download that allows for an efficient method of locating a problem and fixing it.

A 2-3 sentence definition of the error is given so that even the beginner drivers among you will understand the problem in plain English. Furthermore, the impact on the car of each problem is given so that you can understand the severity of it. The cost of this scanner will pay for itself in the form of lower repair costs. By detecting potential problems early on you can get them fixed before they turn into more expensive problems. Furthermore, the app will tell you the estimated cost of repairs for the detected problems.

A highlight of the FIXD scanner is the real time error detection, which means you’ll be notified of a problem as soon as it develops. Also multiple vehicles can be tracked by linking the app with a number of devices at the same time.

Autlel is a reputable manufacturer that has created an affordable, yet effective OBD2 scanner. The “plug and play” setup means those without experience can use this scanner effectively from day 1. Also there is support for multiple languages, which includes English, French, German and Spanish. A TFT color screen is included that will show the error codes. Also the unit can be upgraded and updated via a connection to the internet.

You can view freeze frame data and turn off manufacturer indicator lights. Also you can clear codes and reset the monitors. The scanner aids the process of figuring the problems behind the error lights so that you can get to the root of a problem quickly. Once you understand the problem you can figure out the severity and decide if visiting a mechanic is required. Being able to diagnose a problem by yourself allows you to save money as you don’t need to hire a mechanic.

A patented One-Click I/M Readiness Key is included so that you can check state emission readiness. The power of this scanner is drawn from the OBDII Data Link Connector of your car, which means a battery or power unit is not required.

The ANCEL AD310 is a competitive OBD2 scanner that provides a comprehensive range of features. A number of languages are supported, which includes English, German, Spanish, Finnish, Dutch, Russian and Portuguese. Also the scanner is compatible with vehicles manufactured in 1996 and after, and for Europe all vehicles manufactured after 1999. When your engine light is on this scanner can detect the problem so that you can figure out what’s the issue. Consequently, you can figure out if it’s worth taking your car to the mechanic for repairs.

A large LCD display (128 x 64 pixel) is included where the error codes and data can be viewed.  A OBDII Data Link Connector can be used to power this scanner, which means there is no need for a power supply or batteries. A 2.5 feet cable is included in the package that’s thick and well insulated. The scanner has 4 directional buttons that can be used to navigate the on-screen interface.

ANCEL has included a 3 year warranty with the AD310 scanner, which shows they are confident in their product operating as intended for a long time to come. It can be used to view freeze frame data or a live data stream to get to the root of a problem fast.

The Autel MaxiCOM is a premier OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that has a number of highlights. The wireless 4.5 hours worth of use is convenient for professionals to use this unit in the field. It comes equipped with a clear 7 inch LCD screen, A9 processors and 32GB memory unit. Therefore, this scanner is able to store and process the data on the device without needing to use a PC or smartphone. The display has a touchscreen interface, which allows for the input of fast commands. This is handy when you need to execute a diagnostic of a problem in poor conditions fast.

The Autel MaxiCOM MK808 scanner can detect problems from US cars manufactured in 1996 and beyond, and 2000+ for EU based cars. What sets this OBD2 scanner apart is the comprehensive array of problems that it can diagnose. This includes brakes, the engine, oil related problems and battery management. Furthermore, multi-language support has been added to aid those that do not have English as their first language. AUTEL has included a comprehensive 12 month warranty with free updates and support for a number of technical problems.

KOBRA has designed a competitive OBD2 scanner that has a number of positive points. It can read codes from all US cars manufactured 1996 to 2018, and help you figure out the problem behind an error code. It makes use of a 3,000 code definition database that helps you understand the meaning behind each code. It can be frustrating when the engine light turns on without any idea about the reason. This scanner helps you figure out the nature and severity of the problem. Additional information means you can better judge if there is a need to visit a mechanic.

Compatibility is great here as you can use Windows, Apple and Android based devices. However, a WiFi signal must be used to make a connection. This model is an upgraded one based on the feedback of customers of previous versions. Also a 1 year money back guarantee is provided, which should give you peace of mind regarding the purchase.

The KOBRA wireless OBD2 car code reader can be combined with a number of apps such as OBD Fusion, DashCommand and OBD Car Doctor. Choose the app that you like the most and use this scanner to be proactive about the health of your vehicle.