Top 10 Best Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool : Reviews & Buying Guide
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Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool Purchasing is not an easy task to do. Different manufacturers are introducing hundreds of Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool in the market which can make you puzzled. In terms of performance, quality, longevity, and overall user experience that you may find it difficult to make a final purchasing decision. At that point, all you need is a good buying guide to help you find the best Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool for your needs.
In this useful article, we will discuss a few important factors to consider before purchasing a Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool. You can think of it as a proper review guideline for you, covering the pros and cons of your desired product, such as its sustainability, affordability, functions, and practical benefits. Another feature will be a thorough comparison of a few similar products. As a result, you can easily pick the best one for your demands. Let’s take a look at it from the inside.
Best Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool : Top 10 Picks
Last update on 2025-02-25 at 17:42 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10 Best Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool’s – Expert Recommended
We tried to determine the top ten Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool from hundreds of products in this section. This list will make you feel assured that you will be able to acquire your desired Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool in a matter of minutes. We emphasized their usefulness, performance, durability, outlook, affordability, and previous user experiences. We are sure that this top 10 Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool list will help you in finding the perfect one that matches your requirements.
- 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 mechanic tool 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.
- đ„đ„đ„ă2025 NEWLY RELEASED BI-DIRECTIONAL CONTROLăAs the 2025 upgraded version of MaxiChek MX808, our Newest MK808S auto diagnostic scanner for all cars inherits the powerful Bi-directional Control which makes it the most cost-effective Autel scanner (without breaking the bank, same as MP900BT and MS906 PRO). Active test is widely used on car subsystems to help you check if the car actuators are all in good condition. Such as windows, rear mirrors, sunroof, wipers...
- ă28+ MOST POPULAR RESET SERVICE FOR 150 MAKESăAutel versatile OBDII scanenr MK808S, full level-up of MX808, work as MX900, MK900, MK900BT, supports 150+ car brands worldwide & FCA AutoAuth. Like the OBD2 code reader MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro, MK808S is equipped with 28+ hot services including Oil Reset, SAS Calibration, ABS Bleeding, Injector Coding, Battery Registration, etc. MK808S ranks top in professional automotive tablets and keeps updating to support more newer modes from 2023 to 2025.
- ăALL SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS, FACTORY-LEVEL SCANNERăThe MK808S dealer-level scanner, like Snap-on tools, effectively works all cars for all system diagnostics. It reads/clears codes, provides ECU info, displays 5-in-1 Live Data, performs active tests, and special functions for all available modules. With a few clicks, you can easily understand the vehicle's condition. The convenient Wi-Fi printing feature allows you to generate a detailed report, highlighting the exact nature of the problem.
- ăAUTO SCAN & AUTOVIN, 5X FASTERăHow much have you spent on car maintenance? Even a minor issue can take up a significant amount of time. The MK808S is designed to improve your work efficiency. With its AutoVIN technology, you can identify your vehicle's make, model, and year information with just one click. The convenient AutoScan feature automatically scans all of the vehicle's ECUs and detects any fault codes. Check AutoVIN compatibility, please contact us at đ MotorzoneUS @ outlook . com đ
- ăWHY MK808S STANDS OUTăâ Autel's escaner automotriz professional, MK808S, provides the same funcntions as the MK808BT PRO at a lower cost. MK808S not only helps you save on subscription expenses (124.5 USD vs. 150 USD) but also ensures flawless utilization of all functions even without updates. â As Autel's flagship model, MK808S is the upgraded version of the old MX808 MK808BT. It covers global coverage for 150 car brands, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice.
- [Top-Tier Hardware and Software Upgrade]: Topdon ArtiDiag900 Lite scanner has enhanced hardware and latest features, including Android 11.0, 5x faster CPU, 10000mAh battery for 12 hours of continuous operation, stable wireless diagnosis with Bluetooth 5.0, 8-inch touchscreen for a tablet-like user experience. Added bi-directional control, wireless diagnosis, battery testing (optional), and DTC repair guide, provide an unparalleled diagnostic experience at an affordable price.
- [TOPDON's Newly Bidirectional Scan Tool]: This bidirectional obd2 scanner sends commands to the vehicle's ECU for active testing, enabling users to accurately and quickly locate faulty components such as injectors, coolant pumps, windows, wipers, headlights, mirrors, etc. The bidirectional control scanner is the ideal choice for workshops/automotive repair shops as it significantly reduces mechanic's diagnostic time.
- [Wireless Bluetooth Diagnostic Experience]: The AD900 Lite scan tool comes with a Bluetooth 5.0 VCI, supporting a wireless diagnostic range of up to 33 feet (10 meters), allowing you to diagnose without being confined to cables or tight spaces. Stable and fast wireless diagnosis provides a comfortable repair environment. It also offers VCI cables to increase connectivity options.
- [Newly Released DTC Repair Guide Function]: Easily diagnose issues with your vehicle and receive guidance on repairs with the Topdon scanner's fault code definitions for all systems,maximize your diagnostic capabilities. This function is compatible with Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Fiat 2010-2014 and expanding with continual updates,the AritDiag 900 Lite car diagnostic scanner is the must-have tool for any technician or DIY enthusiast.
- [Worry-Free Customer Support]: 2025 newest version of AD900 Lite, works on cars from 1996 to 2024, 90+ Models, 10000+ Cars Coverage & 12 Languages. Support 1-year warranty & 2-year free software updates, 30-day refund & exchanges. For any issues, email us: [email protected]. đ Can also call us directly: US phone service đ833- 956-8335đ Monday-Friday 9:00AM-6PM Eastern Time.
- Professional OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool with Powerful Functions: OBD2 scanner code reader feature built-in 35901 OBD2 DTCs lookup library, As professional car scanner, the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool will help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read I/M readiness, Read & clear codes, turn off engine light or MIL, view freeze frame, retrieve vehicle VIN, battery voltage test, live data stream,O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc
- OBD2 Scanner Built-in 35,901 DTC Lookup: The OBD2 scanner car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, other obd2 scanner diagnostic tool usually only have 3,000-10,000.the OBD2 Scanner of DTC library covers tens of thousands detailed fault code definitions that will quickly determine the fault cause and the potential problems before they cost you a fortune.you don't need to google the meaning of each fault code.If you are looking to replace a car code reader, this code reader is an excellent option
- OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner Tool Compatible with 98% Vehicles And 10 Languages: The code reader OBD2 scanner for cars is designed to be compatible with most vehicles manufactured after 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars. If your car has a 16-pin OBD2 port and was produced within the specified timeline, it should be compatible with the code reader and the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool support languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese
- Car Scanner Diagnostic offers Convenient Data Printing: The code reader for car offers advanced features such as live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, Connect the OBD2 scanner to your computer to easily print fault data, empowering you to prevent random charges at car repair shops and save valuable time and money. Additionally, WEJOWE offer lifetime free upgrades for the device, ensuring you always have access to the latest features and improvements
- Super Compact & User-Friendly Design: The OBD2 scanner tool is easy to carrying and storage. 2.8" TFT true color LCD display offers a super clear viewing of test results. No need any extra battery or charger, plug this scanner into the OBD2 interface of your vehicle to power it on
- [Easy to Use--Work out of box] + [FOXWELL 2024 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2024 new version from FOXWELL, which is designed for those car owners who want to figure out the cause issue before fixing the car problem via scanning the most common systems like abs srs engine and transmission.The NT604 Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first.
- [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happen when the warning light of abs/srs/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this foxwell scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. It will t-urn off the warning light car after the problem is fixed.đTIPS: Airbag crash/collision data can NOT be cleared even you replace the new airbag.
- [5 in 1 Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with those auto scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also it can be an abs/srs scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When itâs an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance function.
- [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You donât need to pay extra software fee.
- [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level obd scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold on the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you donât need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- 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.
- Save $1000s on unnecessary car repairs â Know exactly whatâs wrong with your car and what it will cost to fix it before heading to the shop. FIXD helps you avoid costly trips to the mechanic by diagnosing over 7,000 issues, including engine trouble, transmission, ABS, and more.
- Detect 7,000+ car issues with FIXD OBD2 Scanner â Get real-time diagnostic reports and maintenance alerts. FIXD plugs into your carâs OBD2 port and pairs with the free FIXD mobile app (available on iOS and Android).
- Guaranteed to work with your car â FIXD works with practically all gas-powered cars from 1996 onward, and all diesel cars from 2006 onward, giving you peace of mind no matter what you drive.
- Automatically tracks routine maintenance â The app notifies you when itâs time to change your oil, tire tread, and battery, and stay up to date on your vehicleâs specific maintenance schedule.
- Ensure youâre getting the best deal on a used car â FIXD helps you avoid buying a lemon by scanning the vehicle for hidden issues before you make a purchase. Know the true condition of the car, so you can negotiate a fair price and buy with confidence.
- OE-Level diagnostics on your smart device
- FREE Software updates - No subscriptions, no fees â EVER
- Full bi-directional control, live actuation test
- Supports 23 vehicle reset/relearn functions, including throttle matching, ABS bleeding, TPMS reset, etc.
- Live data mapping and freeze frame capturing
- 2025 Car Scanner XTOOL D7 V2.0 â Ehanced Performance & Coverage: The latest XTOOL D7 OBD Scanner(2025 Edition) delivers faster performance, extended battery life, and expanded vehicle coverage. The Upgraded interface makes navigation effortless, while the upgraded 5000mAh 3.7V battery (2500mAh 7.3V) keeps you powered all day. Now supports FCA AutoAuth & CAN FD, supporting for Chrysler (2018+) and for GM (2020+) models. The upgraded V2.0 Diagnostic Report allows auto shops to customize reports with shop logos, customer details, and attachments, making it an essential scan tool for both DIYers, auto shops and professional mechanics
- Save $500/Year with the XTOOL D7 Scanner for CarâYour ultimate DIY diagnostic tool. Perfect for troubleshooting Check Engine Lights, prepping for road trips, or maintaining your 12V truck, SUV, or sedan, itâs a mechanic in your toolbox. Features like FCA Autoauth (ideal for Jeeps, for Rams, and for Dodges post-2018), CAN FD & DoIP support, 36+ reset functions, and live data graphing make it a must-have. The With 3 years of free updates and coverage for 10,000+ vehicle models (not included Indian). Skip the shop, save time and money, and take control of your carâs health
- Full Bidirectional Advantage Over Other OBD2 Scanners: As a full bidirectional scan tool, it lets you take full control of your vehicleâs ECUs for active tests like A/C clutch, fuel injector, window, sunroof, and more. Whether you're a pro mechanic or a DIYer, this scan tool helps you diagnose and fix issues like a proâwithout expensive shop visits. With the XTOOL D7 car fault scanner, you can save time, money, and stress by troubleshooting at home. Itâs more than a code readerâitâs a must have bidirectional obd2 scanner for every auto technicians and mechanics at a budget and definitely should be included in your home tool
- OE-Level Full Systems OBD2 Scanner with Up to 8 Live Data Streams Graphing: The XTOOL D7 is a comprehensive all-system diagnostic scanner designed for in-depth vehicle analysis. It offers accurate diagnostics across all automotive systems, offering features like live data streams, freeze-frame retrieval, active tests, and the ability to graph up to 8 PIDs simultaneously. Whether youâre a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, the XTOOL D7 auto scanner helps you keep your car in optimal condition with reli~able and accurate diagnostics
- High-value OBD2 Scanner with 36+ Services, Resets, Relearns, Calibrations, Adaptations & Initializations: XTOOL D7 OBD Scanner diagnostic tool that offers Pro-grade function at a mid-range price. Beyond its 36 quick-access functions like Oil Reset, Electrionic Parking Brake Reset, SAS, ABS Bleed, Crank Sensor Relearn, and Throttle Body Relearn, this obd2 scanner offers specific system resets can help clear fault codes and restore optimal vehicle performance. Not all functions are compatible with every vehicle. Send us your VIN and the desired function to check compatibility
- [Pro OBD2 Scanner] - BlueDriver is the easiest way to scan and understand your vehicle like a professional mechanic. Read and clear your carâs trouble codes and check engine light.
- [Read & Clear All The Codes] - BlueDriver's enhanced vehicle diagnostics gives you access to information normally available only to mechanics on their OBD2 scan tools. Now you can read and clear ABS, Airbag, SRS, TPMS codes, and many more.
- [Get The Right Fix & View Live Data] - Much more than a car code reader, BlueDriver is a diagnostic tool. Youâll get unlimited repair reports with possible causes and fixes, plus real-time health monitoring while you drive with the live data feature.
- [Wireless & Bluetooth Enabled] - Say goodbye to wires. BlueDriver connects with Bluetooth via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. Get all of the capabilities of an expensive code reader & scan tool without any annoying wires.
- [User-Friendly App and Repair Videos] - BlueDriver gives you more ways to scan and fix your vehicle. Our iOS & Android app connects you to a large database of repair videos with step-by-step directions of repairs.
Last update on 2025-02-25 at 17:42 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What To Consider Before Buying Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool
As a human being you can guess some well but it is quite impossible to know everything well. Being the jack of all trade is not a matter of joke. After go through the byuing the guide this time you may being a less fool from more than purchasing Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool without knowing anything.
Not necessarily you have to be a master on that particular product for purchasing only. Just focus on a few key points that we’ll go over later. Taking those simple considerations into account may make your buying experience more pleasant and straightforward. Let’s jump to the main topic
Be aware of your requirements.
The very first thing you should know is your needs or requirement. If you aren’t aware of your needs, there’s a big chance you’ll spend a lot of money on the wrong things at the wrong time. So, first of all and probably most important, we suggest that you take time to consider your necessities for a Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool. Make a short list of your requirements. This simple task will lead you to simplifying your purchasing process. Only after that you can be assure about your priorities.
Budget Vs Price
Budget is that one issue which you can’t ignore before you decide to purchase anything else. Any amount can be set on the price tag of your desired product. That mainly depends on their brand value and different expences like purchasing raw materials, manufacturing, logistics and other operational costs. The higher quality you demand, the higher amount of money you may have to spend for that. It’s vice versa. And your enlisted Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool couldn’t bypass this universal truth too.
âCut your coat, according to your clothâ- one of the most popular proverb goes in our society. Fristly, take your wishlist on your hand and search those products on the internet. Check the features and costs carefully.Make a comparison between them and choose one. Now ask yourself that you are capable enough to buy that particular Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool or not? If yes, then you don’t need to think twice. Just Go for it. You may think about the second best option if your answer is no.
Choosing the Best Brand
Most of the time, we are biased toward certain brands due to emotional attachments. But not everytime this practice results get good. However, there’s no denying that depending on well-known brands is a good idea. When you have enough money in your pocket you can easily make yoiur decesion. But remember, not every brand is good for everything. As a result, you must exercise extreme caution when determining whether or not you are selecting the appropriate brand for your specific product.
There are two categories of people in the world. One is completely reliant on a specific brand, while the other is unconcerned. All he requires is the proper product for the price he is paying. May be we are not aware of the category that you belong to.However, there are a few guidelines that may be useful to the both of you when it comes to choosing the right brand for the right product.
- Be sure, you know well about the Brand.
- What others have to say about this brand.
- And what’s the average rating for that brand’s particular product?
- Contrast the features with those of competitors.
- Are you satisfied with the features?
Take a look on the Features Part
Whether you buy it online or offline, the first thing you should check is while buying is the features of Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool. If you want to know about the product clearly, then this is the best way. You will be able to understand, this product is going to meet your demands or not.
This part will help you to identify the differences with others. Then, by using features, you can compare this to similar products. One will gain a better understanding of quality as a result of this work, which will make it easier for us to reach a final decision.
Check the Advantages and Risks
Each product has benefits and drawbacks. It is our duties to carefully examine them out first before buying them. Hence, remain cool because you need to figure out the drawbacks which you demanded from the Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool that you are looking forward to buy. Perhaps another manufacturer created the ideal one for you. Just don’t be too lazy to compare yourself to them before making a final decision.
The part of Pros and Cons can be found on most websites. Read that part with care. If you have any further questions, you can contact them via email or phone.
Quality and Endurance
Color, Style, Performance, Materials, and, most importantly, Durability are all factors that contribute to quality. Before you buy anything, you must check those quality related issues carefully. Don’t you think that you are paying for it? Do you think this Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool is worthy enough against the investment you did? It completely depends on the quality that you are going to experience.
Warranty and Return Policy Are Important
Lots of companies are making products. Good quality products are being maintained by some of them. After then they are letting us know those products through making creative advertisements. Nothing found wrong yet. But here comes the “After Sales Service”. This thing is capable enough to make huge difference and for many, it’s a big deal yeah.
Warranty, gurantee and return policies are those facts which you should never ignore even by mistake. Anything can happen even after purchasing the highest quality product. We know that nothing lasts forever. Still a minimum return of value you deserve from the Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool you will pay for. That’s why don’t forget to be careful at the time of checking policies. Sometimes, there may be some hidden issues which they wonât make you clear with words. One simple thing you can do is to ask their representative about those unintelligible facts and be clear before you buy.
Checking FAQ & Customer Reviews make your task easy
Checking customer reviews and FAQ answers are so savior of time that you can’t understand unless you try it. FAQs are few common questions that were asked frequently by mass people like you and they have been answered as well. On the other hand, you will get a real life experience through the customer reviews in which they share their sotries about the product.
So, checking out these two things, you will get the idea of both. You may find so many answers which might not come to your mind before. You will be able to decide whether this Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool will come handy or not without any hesitaton.
Finally
Afterwards, You should consider the value that the Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool providing you is viable enough against the price you paying for it. Is it enough to make you pleased? Does your demands be fullfilled with that? We guess, that is the fact of great importance.
We hope that you enjoyed the article in which we tried to provide you a proper guideline to help you to buy the best Automotive Diagnostic Scan Tool. If this article come useful to you, then nobody can be more happy than us. End of the day, your satisfaction makes us feel happy.