Today’s latest cars are now run by computer programming and undergo diagnostics, just like a computer. If you prefer to do your own car maintenance, and your vehicle is computer programmed, then you must get the best OBD2 scanner.
These OBD2 scanners are universal, unlike the earlier versions. They can access systems data from cars manufactured as early as 1996. There are two categories to choose from: code readers (simply for reading code) or scan tools (can give troubleshooting help)
A Guide to Buying the Best OBD2 Scanner
Making sure that your vehicle is always at its best condition is vital. Therefore, it is important to have the best OBD2 scanner that effectively monitors and tests your car.
Many advanced vehicles these days have sensors that can quickly identify car problems. Their functions are often very limited to little more than just illuminating the light on the dashboard that signifies that there is a problem with the vehicle.
A high quality OBD2 scanner is a high-end model that allows you to accurately identify any issue with your vehicle. It monitors speed, mileage, emissions and some other essential data.
Anyone can take full advantage of the quality diagnostic abilities of an OBD2 scanner. It can identify problems even before the malfunction light comes on or before the driver notices any symptom, like heavy emissions, low performance and low-fuel economy.
OBD2 scanners are heavily used by many professional mechanics. However, the best OBD2 scanners are now highly consumer-oriented products that many car owners can also enjoy.
With the number of OBD2 scanners in the market these days, finding the right one can be a daunting process. This guide can help your buying experience of the best OBD2 scanner enjoyable and stress free.
Things to Consider when Buying the Best OBD2 Scanner
Diagnostic Features – the best OBD2 scanner downloads a set of data, which include DTC codes and emission readings. It can show the vehicle’s real-time functioning while its motor is engaged.
Design and Quality – many compact and cheap OBD2 scanners are available. It is extremely important to consider the design and quality, as it would determine whether it is a user-friendly product or not.
Accessories – make sure that the OBD2 scanner you choose has the right accessories and features that meet your needs. A user guide, cord and a translation manual are valuable considerations to include.
Data Options – OBD2 scanners these days allow users to connect it to a computer. This provides a better visual display of essential diagnostic information. This makes it easier for vehicle to detect problems with their vehicle.
Durability – a weatherproof OBD2 scanner is a long-lasting device. It is not vulnerable to heat, humidity, water and other similar weather elements. You can take advantage of its benefits for a long time.
Power and Battery – many OBD2 scanners are powered via the on-board systems of the vehicle, but considering a scanner with a battery back-up function may be a great idea.
1. Innova CarScan Pro Model 5610
The CarScan Pro is perfect for the consumer, while being at an affordable price. This scan tool has the ability to detect and scan every single module in the car. This code reader is special because of its bidirectional control. This allows the user to send commands to sections of the car to test its functionality, in the form of fault codes. Click HERE or on the image below to find out more.
2. Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro
The MaxiDiag Md808 includes all of the essential features such reading OBD2 codes, clearing and analyzing features and bidirectional controls. This scan tool allows you to disable or enable certain features built into the car’s module. It gives you live data on the car, in the form of fault codes. Click HERE or on the image below to find out more.
3. BAFX Products 34t5
4. Lemur Vehicle Monitors BlueDriver
5. Ancel AD310
6. Autel MaxiScan MS300
The Autel MaxiScan MS300 is simple to navigate even though it only has two buttons. Just connect it to your car’s OBDII port. It can read standard data trouble codes along with manufacturer-specific ones. Click HERE or on the image below to find out more.
7. Veepeak Mini
8. Oxgord CRST-MS300
This scanner by Oxgord can retrieve diagnostic codes which can be easily looked up on the Internet. The manual explains how to manipulate the device and can help with “check engine light” problems. Click HERE or on the image below to find out more.
9. Foseal OBD OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner
The Foseal OBDII scanner works seamlessly using your mobile device, excluding Apple products. You can pair the scanner to your phone via Bluetooth and it can perform real-time engine diagnostics and other statistics. Click HERE or on the image below to find out more.
10. Actron CP9670
Main Types of OBD2 Scanners
The best OBD2 scanner has two basic categories, which include the Scan Tools and the Code Readers. Each has valuable functions that can benefit many consumers.
Scan Tools–OBD2 scan tools provide a variety of essential features and are considered more expensive than the Code readers. They may provide more information and better access to manufacturer-specific codes. It can scan the car to check engine light.
Furthermore, scan tools offer sophisticated troubleshooting information and provide customizable access to both recorded and live data. Every OBD2 scan tool provides basic functionality, including the ability to clear and read code.
Code Readers – the code readers are an inexpensive type of OBD2 scanner. They can clear and read codes just from any OBD2-equipped vehicle. They are less expensive than scan tools.
A basic code reader can only clear and read codes, whereas an advanced scan tool can provide an extensive knowledge base and various advanced functionalities.
The overall functionality of the best OBD2 scanner is dependent on the type of scanner you choose. Make sure that you obtain the right one that meets your need.
Advantages of Having the Best OBD2 Scanner
Affordable – consumers can buy the best OBD2 Scanner with excellent functions at a highly reasonable price. Owners can always choose an affordable option that would meet their budget.
User-friendly – the process of installation is quick and simple. Consumers can easily connect the car scanner themselves to the OBD2 port of their car with the use of the cable cord.
Many service stations and dealerships charge a huge amount of money to perform a similar task that your car scanner can do in just a few minutes.Once you have identified the main source of the problem, fixes and repairs can be easy.
Peace of Mind – identifying any problem with the vehicle is easy. They can detect any issue with their vehicle without having to visit the mechanic and pay a huge amount of money.
Multiple Diagnostic Function – high-end OBD2 scanners can offer a multiple-diagnostic function that allows owners to repair and measure operating systems. This allows them to quickly fix the problem before it gets worse.
Buying the best OBD2 scanner does not have to be too complicated. Following this guide will allow you to have a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience.
OBD2 scanners have the ability to scan the engine. If you check engine light, and it is turned on, simply run a diagnostic with the scanner to see what is wrong. It gives you this in the form of freeze frame data.