Top 10 Best Car Code Reader Scanner : Reviews & Buying Guide
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Car Code Reader Scanner Purchasing is not an easy task to do. Different manufacturers are introducing hundreds of Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner for your needs.
In this useful article, we will discuss a few important factors to consider before purchasing a Car Code Reader Scanner. 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 Car Code Reader Scanner : Top 10 Picks
Last update on 2025-03-06 at 01:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10 Best Car Code Reader Scanner’s – Expert Recommended
We tried to determine the top ten Car Code Reader Scanner from hundreds of products in this section. This list will make you feel assured that you will be able to acquire your desired Car Code Reader Scanner in a matter of minutes. We emphasized their usefulness, performance, durability, outlook, affordability, and previous user experiences. We are sure that this top 10 Car Code Reader Scanner 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.
- Multi-Functions - It's a practical multi-function OBD2 code reader which helps you determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and remove 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. Wide Compatibility - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 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. It can also be used for some motorcycle OBD2 system diagnosis. (Note: an additional specific adapter cable is needed. not included with this device) 2.8" LCD Display & Multi-language - Designed with a clear 2.8" 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. It also supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French and Italian. This scanner is enjoyed and highly recommended by the customers worldwide. Compact Design & Easy to Use - It weighs about 12 ounces and measures 6 x 2.75 x 0.9 inches. Equiped with a 2.5 feet long heavy duty cable and the standard 16-PIN OBD connector. 6 buttons for quick operation. The plug and play design makes it user-friendly. Even if you don't have much technical knowledge, you can operate it without any hassle. "Accurate & Fast - Different with other similar scanners, the MP69033 scanner use the brand new ARM micro processor to make sure the ultra high accuracy and fast speed. With the excellent performance of the micro processor, the detailed real-time engine data can be detected and displayed on the screen in seconds. Get codes, fix the problem and turn off the CEL. If you just need a code reader to check your car, it's definitely an affordable and reliable tool.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY – Trusted by YouTube Star Scotty Kilmer. The AD410 OBD2 Scanner supports all 16PIN vehicles that comply with the OBDII protocol, including KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, and CAN. This OBD2 code scanner compatible with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles. Multilingual support (English, German, French, Spanish, etc.), this car code reader is ideal for international users. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing. !!! Powered directly from your vehicle's OBDII connector, this diagnostic tool doesn' t need a battery or charger.
- CRITICAL FUNCTIONALITY – Quickly Read & Clear Fault Codes. The AD410 obd2 scanner diagnostic tool quickly reads and clears stored emissions-related codes, pending codes, and provides code definitions. With over 42,000 built-in DTC lookups, you can easily identify faults without the need for Google searches. Reset the MIL, check monitor readiness before smog tests, and understand your vehicle's health before costly repairs. !!! Note: Fault codes can be cleared after resolving the underlying issue, the code reader itself does not have a reset function.
- ENHANCED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS – Comprehensive System Testing. This engine obd2 scanner diagnostic tool offers advanced diagnostics, including testing of O2 sensors and EVAP systems. Perform a leak test on your vehicle's EVAP system and monitor the fuel tank's integrity. The O2 sensor test helps fine-tune the air/fuel mixture, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions—saving you money at the pump and reducing your car's environmental impact. !!! Note: The AD410 is only an engine code reader, it DOESN'T support other systems such as ABS, SRS, Transmission and others.
- QVGA DISPLAY & NEW UI – Easy-to-Use, User-Friendly Interface. The AD410 scanner for car boasts a 2.4 TFT true-color LCD display (262K) for clear, easy-to-read results. With an intuitive UI design, you can quickly access OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness checks, DTC search, and setup options. No need to read a manual—this user-friendly auto diagnostic code scanner is perfect for beginners, mechanic and seasoned users alike.
- DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS & FREE LIFETIME UPDATES. The AD410 car scanner reader allows you to review, save, or print detailed diagnostic trouble code reports. Plus, with lifetime free software updates, you’ll always have the latest features and bug fixes. Simply download the updates from the ANCEL website and follow the easy on-screen installation instructions. (Note: update is not necessary, the AD410 code reader can be directly inserted into the OBDII interface of the car to use, if it doesn't work, then consider updating the device.) The ANCEL website provides the latest product user manual, which can be downloaded and viewed at any time.
- [Pro OBD2 Scanner] - BlueDriver is the easiest way to scan and understand your vehicle like a professional mechanic. Read and clear your car’s 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. You’ll 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.
- 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.
- [Vehicle CEL Doctor] The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to I/M readiness status, figure out the root reason of check engine light or MIL turned on, monitor sensors test, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle. The fault code only can be cleared after repair finished by NT301, as like all the obd2 code readers' working principle
- [Accuracy & Streams] Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
- [Worthy to Own] Recommended by most professional mechanics on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team. Plug & Play, no need to update before using. Available to windows system. NOT support ios and Mac
- [S-mog Check Helper] Read/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test
- [Home Necessity] Open to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and great choice for Home and Autoshop Mechanics. This scanner for car only supports to read the fault code of engine system, not support ABS or SRS
- [Easy to Use--Work out of box] + [FOXWELL 2025 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2025 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.
TIPS: 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 it’s 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 don’t 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 don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- 【A MUST-HAVE TOOL FOR DIYERS】- VDIAGTOOL VD10 car code reader is an incredibly useful obd scanner for each car owner or hobbyist, even for those with little to no experience when it comes to vehicle mechanics! Using this car diagnostic scanner is extremely easy. All you have to do is attach it to your car OBDII port and you can diagnose car problems in seconds! Read Codes (DTCs); Clear Codes; Live Data; View Freeze Frame; I/M Readiness; Vehicle Information.
- 【KEEP ENGINE IN GOOD STATUS】- VDIAGTOOL check engine code reader brings a fast access to scan, read the car fault code, show its definition on the screen instantly, troubleshooting to find the root causes of problems, erase the engine fault code and turn off the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light).car code reader
- 【READ/CLEAR CODES & DTC LOOKUP】- No search online & saving your time, this vehicle car code reader retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes and displays DTC definitions based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes) on the TFT screen, find out the root causes and clear the codes after fixed.
- 【LIVE DATA & RETRIEVE FREEZE FRAME】- This diagnostic scan tool for accurate diagnosis enables you to retrieve data from vehicle sensors, such as Engine RPM, Intake air temperature, Short/Long term fuel, Misfire data and etc. The freeze frame is stored in the PCM together with the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fault. VD10 car code reader car scanner can be a valuable & practical diagnostic aid and also greatly help when diagnosing intermittent problems.
- 【I/M READINESS for THE S-nn-0-g CHECK】- OBDII vehicle may not pass the annual inspection unless the required monitors since reset are complete. So you should at least read the readiness monitors and make sure they are ready. This car obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with I/M readiness function to check the operations of the e-m-issi0n system on OBD2 compliant vehicles, run I/M monitor readiness test, checking if the pass vehicle s-m-0-g inspection.
- Your Trusted Check Engine Light Specialist - CGSULIT is a professional automotive diagnostic tool manufacturer recommended by well-known YouTuber and auto mechanic Scotty Kilmer. The lasted SC103 check engine code reader delivers exceptional value, allowing you to effortlessly read and clear diagnostic codes, check I/M readiness status, and swiftly turn o-f-f the Check Engine Light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp. With the ability to read voltage, view live data streams, and retrieve key vehicle information, the SC103 scanner for cars puts control back in your hands without the need for costly trips to the auto shop.
- Advanced Compatibility and Protocols - Engineered to support a wide range of vehicles, the SC103 code readers & scan tools are compatible with all OBDII protocols, including KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM, and CAN. It works seamlessly with US-based vehicles from 1996, EU-based vehicles from 2003, and Asian-based vehicles from 2008, covering 12v light trucks and SUVs. Please note, new energy vehicles without traditional combustion engines are not supported.
- Precision Design for Easy Use - Unlike other obsolescence and unclear displayed obd2 scanners, this car diagnostic tool, equipped with a vibrant 2.8-inch TFT color screen and an industrial-grade chip, ensures rapid and accurate performance. Its compact and portable design makes it perfect for professional auto shops and DIY enthusiasts alike. Simply plug in and play—no batteries required. Experience hassle-free diagnostics anytime, anywhere.
- Text & Graphical Data Display - Experience real-time vehicle sensor data in both text and graphical format for enhanced visibility and monitoring. Track crucial metrics like car speed, load values, engine coolant temperature, and RPM at a glance. Explore your vehicle's status by comparing freeze frame data with real-time readings for a comprehensive analysis.
- I/M Readiness and DTC Lookup - Stay ahead of mandatory testing with our I/M monitor readiness feature, offering precise data retrieval to evaluate your vehicle's preparedness. Built-in the comprehensive DTC library included with the scanner to guide your repair efforts effectively.
- 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
Last update on 2025-03-06 at 01:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What To Consider Before Buying Car Code Reader Scanner
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 Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner. 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 Car Code Reader Scanner couldn’t bypass this universal truth too.
“Cut your coat, according to your cloth”- 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 Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner. 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 Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner 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 won’t 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 Car Code Reader Scanner will come handy or not without any hesitaton.
Finally
Afterwards, You should consider the value that the Car Code Reader Scanner 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 Car Code Reader Scanner. 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.