Find The Best Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool Reviews & Comparison

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It’s not always simple to purchase a Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool. Being dazed is easy when you see hundreds of variations are available in the market for the same Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool by different manufacturers. According to the performance, quality, longevity and overall user experience, they are so similar that you may get hard to make your final buying decision. On that situation, only one thing can assist to find out the best Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool and make a winning deal for you.

There are few very essential topics which you must count before buying a Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool, and that is what we are going to discuss about in the below. It’s a proper review guideline for you that will include the advantages and disadvantages of your preferred product, as well as its sustainability, affordability, functionalities, and practical benefits. There will also be a solid comparison of a few related products. Now you can easily choose the best one for you. Let’s take a look inside.

Last update on 2023-11-08 at 22:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Top 10 Best Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool Review In 2022

In this section, we attempted to identify the top ten Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool from thousands of products. This list will make you feel confident in your ability to obtain your chosen Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool in a matter of minutes. We prioritized their utility, performance, durability, look, cost, and previous user experiences. We are confident that this list of the top 10 Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool will help you find the one that best fits your needs.

Bestseller No. 1
Autel AutoLink AL519 OBD2 Scanner Enhanced Mode 6 Car Diagnostic Tool Check Engine Code Reader CAN Scan Tool, Advanced Ver. of AL319
  • 👍【Upgrade of AL319】Autel AL519 is a plug-and-play handheld OBD2 car check engine scanner. Upgraded from AL319, instead of just reading and clearing codes, AL519 can perform all OBDII functions (mode 1~10), and provide quick DTC lookup and live data in text & graph. It retrieves generic(P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific(P1, P3, and U1) codes and pending codes, vehicle VIN, turn off CEL, check I/M readiness status for ready test, locate bad parts like a O2 sensor, do evap leak test, etc.
  • 👍【Full OBD2 Functions】Generally only the scanners in auto parts stores are equipped with full OBD2 diagnosis, as they can handle more complex OBD2 issues. But this little guy has those too! AL519 car scanner integrates all OBD2 functions (10 modes), including: read code, clear code, view live data, freeze frame data, vehicle info, check I/M readiness status, O2 monitor test, on-board monitor test, EVAP leak test, modules present. Anyone who has cars knows it’s well worth the price!
  • 👍【Read/Clear Codes & DTC Lookup】Knowing the accurate codes in advance if you don't want to be ripped off. You can use AL519 scanner to read the codes to quickly locate the problem areas, then determine if you can do the repair yourself or go to a mechanic, and clear the codes to get everything back to normal. When read out the DTCs, you can click the button to display what the codes mean, and DTC Lookup functions work as a DTC library to search meanings for DTCs, no need to google or guess it.
  • 👍【Turn Off CEL & Smog Check】The Check Engine Light is always annoying you, most of the time because of a little thing like a loose gas cap, isn't it? With AL519 scan tool, you can read codes to quickly find out why the check engine light is on and reset it. Don’t waste money on a failed smog test! AL519 can retrieve I/M Readiness status to make sure OBD2 monitors on your car are “Ready”, monitors like misfire, fuel, catalyst, O2 sensors, EVAP, etc, to help you pass the annual smog check.
  • 👍【Live Data Graphing】Data graphing makes everything easy, so you won't miss any suspicious data changes! Auto diagnostic scanner AL519 can view live data of multiple sensors and components in text and graph to quickly pinpoint bad parts or faults, for example, viewing the change of the 02 sensors in the graph mode enable you to locate bad sensors in a few minutes. Also you can use AL519 scanner to record the data for later review and print it out via PC to share it with customers or mechanics.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 Universal Car Engine Fault Code Reader, Check Engine Light and Emission Monitor Status, OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool
  • 🔥【On-Screen DTC Definition, Save Time & Easy To Use】Autel MS309 OBD2 code reader with UPGRADED CHIP to retrive and clear generic(P0, P2, P3 and U0), manufacturer-specific(P1, P3 and U1) and pending codes, and display DTCs(Diagnostic Trouble Codes) meanings under the codes based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes). Don't need to spend much time to search meanings on the internet. This advanced plug-and-play MS309 scanner saves you time - a must-have obd2 scanner for each car owner.
  • 🔥【Retrieve Freeze Frame Data &Vehicle info】The more specific the information available, the clearer the problem. The OBD2 scanner MS309 can retrieve freeze frame data, including important engine parameters like RPM, fuel pressure, fuel trim, engine coolant temperature, etc. Also it can retrieve Vehicle Information such as VIN number, Calibration ID(s), Calibration Verification Nos. (CVNs), etc, which is useful to check whether the ECU matches when you are buying a used car.
  • 🔥【Read Codes & Clear Codes】Knowing the codes in advance will brace you for the repair cost estimate so that you won't be fooled and get overcharged by the repair shop.This Autel MaxiScan MS309 obd2 scanner scans OBD2-compliant vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in seconds to pinpoint emission-related issues. The little guy can do many basic but necessary works: read/clear codes, view DTC definition, turn off check engine light, check I/M Readiness status, retrieve freeze frame data and vehicle info.
  • 🔥【Turn Off Check Engine Light】When your car detects an emission related problem, Check Engine Light will be turned on. Do you want to spend hundreds of dollars to turn off this light every time, maybe it's just a gas cap that's not tightened or needs to change bad parts like spark plugs and ignition coils? With Autel MS309 scan tool, you can read code to quickly find out why the check engine light is on and reset it.
  • 🔥【Ready For Annual Smog Check】If the OBD II Readiness Monitors on your car are not “Ready”, your car may fail the smog check. MS309 OBD2 scanner can retrieve I/M Readiness status to check the monitors like misfire monitor, fuel system monitor, comprehensive components monitor, catalyst monitor, O2 sensors, EVAP, etc, to help your car ready pass the annual smog check. That way you won't waste time and money on a failed smoke check.
SaleBestseller No. 3
DonosHome OBD2 Scanner Auto Diagnostic Tool Car Code Reader Engine Tester Battery Voltmeter Freeze Frame DTC SMOG Lookup I/M Readiness System Start Suitable for BMW Peugeot VW All Vehicles Since 1996
  • This OBD2 scanner makes amateur mechanics feel like professionals. Diagnose and maintain your vehicle, perform home emissions checks, full functions like Code Reader, View Freeze Frame, DTC, and more.
  • The DonosHome AT500 OBD2 scanner boasts upgraded features like a Voltmeter, battery level indicator, Cranking System Test, and Charging System Test for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics.
  • AT500 is compatible with 98% of vehicles since 1996, supports 9+ protocols, 11 languages, efficiently diagnoses Check Engine Light issues, retrieves codes, displays definitions, reads live datastream.
  • Compact and Powerful Design: Our OBD2 scanner has a rugged case with a 3.2-inch color LCD screen, user-friendly interface, 7-key interface, made of soft rubber, a flexible cable for easy connectivity.
  • Enjoy 2 years warranty, it includes a pre-inspection readiness test and can read and clear check engine information. Not compatible with non-engine systems like ABS, Airbag, Oil Service Light, etc.
Bestseller No. 4
Kobra Newest Version OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader - Universal Auto OBD Car Diagnostic Tools for All Cars, Automotive Check Engine Readers with Reset (Red and Black)
  • ✔ ACCURATE RESULTS - Remove all check engine lights instantly! Transform your car into a Smart Car with this car diagnostic tool by KOBRA. With a database of over 3000 code definitions, this premium OBD2 Scanner reads generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes and diagnoses your car like a pro.
  • ✔ CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ELIMINATOR - This Auto Scanner and Car Scan Tool retrieves both generic, as well as car manufacturer-specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), helping you overcome any troubleshooting with ease. You will be able to clear the "Check Engine" light indication and other trouble codes, effortlessly!
  • ✔ DIAGNOSE IN SECONDS – Don’t be taken advantage of again! Know what is wrong your car before taking it to a mechanic. Unlike other car code readers, our obd 2 scan tool is an all in one car code scanning tool. All you need is to attach the wired connection and you can diagnose any car problem in seconds!
  • ✔ MECHANIC APPROVED - The KOBRA OBD2 car diagnostic code reader works with all 1996 - 2016 vehicles and is seamlessly compatible with ALL OBDii / EOBD compliant US, European and Asian vehicles. OBD2 is standard on all cars sold in the US since 1996. Supports CAN, VPW, PWM, ISO and KWP 2000 protocols.
  • ✔ 100% RISK FREE PURCHASE - Providing you with the friendliest customer service is our primary goal. This is why we offer you a 1 year money back guarantee in case our automotive scanner does not live up to your expectations, no questions asked! Reach out for any issues!
Bestseller No. 5
Panlong OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool Car OBDII Code Reader Erase Code Turn Off Check Engine Light
  • 【Multi-Functions】🛻PL318 OBD2 scanner can read & erase error codes, display live data, freeze frame & I/M readiness, test battery voltage, oxygen sensor & fuel evaporation control system (EVAP), show data stream, real time curve & VIN; it helps you detect any potential problems and avoid excessive costs for unnecessary repairs
  • 【Plug and Play】🛻Simply plug Panlong OBD2 scanner into car OBDII port, start ignition and you are ready to go; it has built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library to save your time of looking for the meaning of a trouble code on internet; no need cellphone or App, no need battery or charge, ordinary car owners without experience can use it from day 1
  • 【Wide Capability】🛻PL318 OBD2 scanner works on most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based, 2004 Asian-Based gasoline vehicles, 12V diesels & light trucks, such as Acura, Audi, BMW, Benz, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Citroen, Dodge, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, Peugeot, Skoda, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen...
  • 【User-friendly Design】🛻PL318 OBD2 scanner is equipped with TFT color screen (160 x 128 pixel), 2. 5 feet long cable, 10 languages supported, and one-click I/M hot key allowing quick access to emissions readiness status; it’s more lightweight and portable, and won’t take much space of your toolbox
  • 【High-quality Service】🛻Panlong OBD2 scanners are produced by our own, we have advanced equipment, mature software along with professional technical support. We stand behind our products and confidently offer lifetime warranty for PL318. Welcome to contact Panlong directly if you have any questions
Bestseller No. 6
Kobra Newest Version OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader - Universal Auto OBD Car Diagnostic Tools for All Cars, Automotive Check Engine Readers with Reset (Black and Red)
  • COMPATIBILITY - Works with more cars than ever before. The universal scanner is compatible with the majority of US, European, or Asian model cars.
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL - The OBD V310 code reader allows you to quickly determine the cause of your engine light. It also can read codes, erase codes, run I/M readiness, freeze frame data, and pull needed vehicle information.
  • USER-FRIENDLY - Easy to operate without the use of batteries or chargers. The scanner plugs into the OBD Connector Link and starts identifying codes. Simple buttons and LCD screen make it easy for any user to work with.
  • ACCURATE - Quickly and accurately detects codes to save time and money. The scanner gives you a correct code reading that is easy to read.
  • COMPACT DESIGN - The handheld shape makes it convenient to use and convenient to store in your car or transport.
Bestseller No. 7
OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool - OBD 2 Check Engine Light Scan Auto Computer Readers with Reset - OBD-II Automotive Tools Sensor ABS Car Accessories for Automobiles Diagnostics Scanners
  • FEATURES: Read or clear generic and manufacturer error codes, retrieve VIN (vehicle identification numbers) on 2002 or newer vehicles supporting mode 9, and reset the airbag light
  • INCREDIBLY SIMPLE: Plug it into the 16-pin connector underneath the steering wheel, turn the ignition, and you're ready to go using only 2 simple buttons
  • COMPATIBILITY: Works with most US vehicles 1996 and newer that are OBDII and CAN compliant and supports all OBDII protocols as these are required in all US vehicles after this date
  • LCD SCREEN: Displays the meaning of over 3000 generic error code definitions in the database, it also clears trouble codes (DTC’s) and turns off the check engine light (MIL)
  • HANDHELD: At 2.75" x 1" x 4.25" (26.25 inch cable) and only 8 ounces, it literally fits in the palm of your hand, plus it's powered by your vehicles, Data Link Connector so you don't even need batteries
SaleBestseller No. 8
MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow
  • 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.
Bestseller No. 9
ZMOON ZM201 Professional OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Enhanced Check Engine Code Reader with Reset OBDII/EOBD Car Diagnostic Scan Tools for All Vehicles After 1996, 2023 Upgraded
  • ✔Full OBDII Modes Scanner for Car: As professional car scanner, ZM201 has all the OBD2 functions you need.🔎Read & clear codes, 💡turn off engine light or MIL, ❄view freeze frame, 📋read I/M readiness, 🚕retrieve vehicle VIN, 🔋battery voltage test, 📈live data stream (with graphing display), ✅built-in 35901 DTCs, O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc.
  • ✔Enhanced OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool: Live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, you can connect it to a computer for fault data printing, prevent auto repair shops from charging randomly, save money and time. ZM201 obd scanner also comes with free-lifetime software updates, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements.
  • ✔35,901 DTC Lookup: ZM201 car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, the old model obd2 usually only have 3,000-10,000. So the ZM201 car scanner has a huge advantage, which means that this obd2 scanner can better help diagnose and solve your vehicle faults. This is a great option if you want to replace or upgrade an existing car scanner.
  • ✔Compatible with 98% Vehicles: ZM201 OBD2 scanner for car is compatible with most cars after 1996(USA)/2002(EU)/2008(Asia). If your car has an OBD2 port (16Pin), and the production time meets the above timeline, then your vehicle is compatible. But it is not compatible with new energy vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and models that do not comply with the OBD2 protocol.
  • ✔Convenient Shortcut Functions: The addition of shortcut keys enhances the user experience. Pressing F1 enables you to quickly retrieve trouble codes, while F2 provides instant access to I/M readiness information. We've also introduced left and right navigation buttons (the previous model had only up and down buttons), making operation even more convenient.
SaleBestseller No. 10
ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool-Black
  • 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.

Last update on 2023-11-08 at 22:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API




Here Are Some Tips For Choosing Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool

As a human being, this is quite impossible to know everything well. You can know about some more thing but you cann’t be a jack of all trades. In that scenario, reading a thorough buying guide can prevent us from making a costly mistake after buying a Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool due to a lack of knowledge.

You do not have to be an expert on that specific product in order to purchase it. Just emphasize on few important things which we are going to discuss in the below. Taking these simple considerations into account may make your shopping experience more pleasant and straightforward. Let’s get started.

Identify what you wants

The first thing you need to discover that what your needs or requirement. If you aren’t aware of your demands, there’s a big chance you’ll buy the wrong things at the wrong time and waste a lot of money. So, first of all and probably most important, we suggest that you take time to consider your necessities for a Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool. You can make a short list about your needs. This simple task will lead you to simplify your purchasing process. Then you will be able to know your prioroties which is the most important thing.

Budget vs. Cost

Budget is that one issue which you can’t ignore before you decide to purchase anything else. Any amount of price can be set for your desired product. Different expences like manufacturing, raw material purchasing, logistics and other operational costs and most importantly compny’s brand value as well are the key factors of pricing. The higher quality you demand, the higher amount of money you may have to spend for that. This is the reason, budget really matters for. And it is true as a universal truth for the Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool too.

You may heard this popular sayings, “Cut your coat, according to your cloth”. So, find your desired products as per your wishlist first. Analyze the features and prices carefully.Compare them well and choose the best one. The biggest question may come to your mind at this point which is your pocket is ready to spent such amount of money to buy this Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool or not. If yes, then go for it. If your pocket refuges to do so, then think about the second best option that you got.

Choose the Right Brand

Because of our emotional links, we are frequently predisposed towards certain companies. But not everytime this practice results get good. Besides all we agree that we have to rely on renoened brands. Because having enough cash in your pocket makes making decisions half as easy. But remember, not every brand is good for everything. As a result, you must tread cautiously when deciding whether or not you have picked the appropriate brand for your specific product.

People are divided into two groups. One is dependent on a particular brand, while the other is unconcerned. What he requires is the right product for the amount he is paying. As we don’t have any idea about your typo.But there are few tips which may come adjuvant for both of you at the time of choosing the right brand for the right product.


  • Make certain you are familiar with the brand.

  • What people are saying about this brand.

  • Analysis the reviews of any specific products of that brand.

  • Contrast the features with those of competitors.

  • Are you satisfied with the features?


Check the features section

Whether you buy it online or offline, the first thing you should check is while buying is the features of Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool. This little effort will assist you to get a clear picture about the product. It will make you understand, that product does match with your requirements or not.

The features part also helps us in analysis the differences between ourselves and others. Then, based on the features, you can compare it to similar products. One will have a better understanding of quality as a result of this work, making it easier to move forward with our final decision.

Benefits and Drawbacks must be considered.

Every item has its own set of advantages and pitfalls. It is our duties to carefully examine them out first before buying them. So, keep yourself cool and figure out the negatives you expected from that Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool. Perhaps another manufacturer created the ideal one for you. Just don’t be too lazy to compare your options with theirs before making your final decision.

The section of Pros and Cons can be found on the majority of websites. That section should be read with caution. If you have any further questions, simply contact them via email or phone to seek their assistance.

Quality & Durability

Color, Style, Performance, Materials, and, most importantly, Durability are all components of quality. Before making a purchase, you must consider the facts about ensuring quality. When you make this your own, you will demand the quality first. Does this Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool worthy or not against your investment? The answer of this question can be found by its quality.

Know About Warranty and Return Policies

Every producers produces products. Good quality products are being maintained by some of them. They make creative advertise also to attract buyers like you and me. Still, everything is okay. But one thing remains yet to think about and that is After Sales Service. For many, it’s really a big deal and it is quite able to make a big difference.

Warranty, gurantee and return policies are so vital that not checking them will be a great mistake. Antyhing can be occured even after buying the best quality product by spending a huge amount of money. Not a single thing will last forever in this universe. Still the expence you will do for the Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool, don’t you think that you deserve a minimum return of value from that? So, be careful about checking policies. Sometimes, there may be some hidden issues which they won’t make you clear with words. At that time, simply ask their delegate about thier policies again and have patience until you get the whole thing unequivocally.

Checking FAQ & Customer Reviews make your task easy

Cheking customer reviews and FAQ answers can save your precous time greatly. FAQs are few common questions that were asked frequently by mass people like you and they have been answered as well. In the mean time, you can get a clear picture of the product according to the experience of the real users of it through the customer reviews.

So, checking out these two things, you will get the idea of both. You may find there such informations which might not come in your mind to ask if you didn’t go through. Then you will be able to decide strongly buying this Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool will be worthy or not.

Finally

The final suggesion is you must consider about the value that the Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool providing you is justified enough with the price you are being asked to pay for it. Do you think it is worthy to pay so? Does your demands be fullfilled with that? That’s the thing that should get the most importance we guess.

We hope this article will help you to recognize and buy the best Handheld Car Diagnostic Tool in the market and so that you enjoyed it as well. If you think it’s a good guideline for you, then all of our efforts will get success. End of the day, we measure our happiness with your satisfaction.

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