Are you looking for the best auto code scanners? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll provide detailed information about the auto code scanners for 2023.
I went into research mode to get a clear picture of which auto code scanners is the best. I scanned all the options available in the market and studied them thoroughly. I looked at what users are saying and then I looked at what experts are saying. And you won’t believe but this process helped me filter out 90% of the auto code scanners! Shocking, right? So then which are the 10% that made it to the list? Read the entire article to find out.
Some products are backed by heavy marketing, and some by quality. My task was to find out the latter ones. Due to this, some very popular auto code scanners also did not make it to the list.
Note: Though customer reviews were also taken into consideration, the major emphasis was given to experts’ opinions. So all the auto code scanners you read about in this article, have been highly recommended by the experts.
10 Best Auto code scanners Available Now
There is a vast difference between how users perceive a product and how experts perceive it. To ensure a balance I studied both. Experts give a lot more insight into the technicalities of the [Products] as well. And we may not realize it in our daily use but these technicalities play a major role in our experience of using auto code scanners.
- 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
- No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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 COMPATIBILITY – Recommended by YouTube star Scotty Kilmer on his channel
- Works on most vehicles sold in the U.S
- Simply download the software from the ANCEL website and then follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- It features a 2
- With the clear design UI, users can easily access setup, OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness and DTC search and check
- The AD410 code scanner can be used to initiate a leak test of a vehicle’s EVAP system by monitoring the integrity of the fuel tank system
- ENHANCED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS – Supports O2 sensor and EVAP (evaporative control) system test
- DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS & UPDATE – The Review & Print option allows you to save or print diagnostic reports as needed
- 4″ TFT true color display (262K) LCD for clear viewing of test results
- with a model year of 1996 or newer; Supports all OBDII protocols: KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN (Controller Area Network); Displays in English, German, French, Spanish, Finnish, Dutch, Russian and Portuguese; Requires no battery or charger as the unit is powered directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in the vehicle.
- Turns off the MIL (check engine light), helps reset the monitor before you take the car to smog, and lets you know what’s going on before you take the car in for repairs.
- The O2 sensor test is used to monitor and adjust the air/fuel mixture, which can identify and correct problems related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions.
- CRITICAL FUNCTIONALITY – Quickly reads and clears stored emissions-related codes, pending codes, and displays code definitions
- No need to read the manual to know what to do, even for a beginner.
- QVGA DISPLAY & NEW UI – The AD410 code reader is a greatly improved upgrade from simpler diagnostic tools
- The ANCEL brand offers lifetime free software updates for this unit to fix the latest bugs or add new parameters
- Appreciate very much!
- Vehicle CEL DoctorThe NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to emissions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle.
- It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and one of the best gifts for Home and Autoshop Mechanics.
- Unique PATENTED design, 2.8″ color screen, Free Lifetime Update and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team.
- No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle
- Accuracy & StreamsLive data graphing and logging
- Please NoteDear customer, if you are not pleased with your NT301 and choose to return it, please kindly mark it unsellable to avoid an used one is resold again to other customers
- Smog Check HelperRead/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package
- If any scratches are found, just tear off the screen protector from the upper left or upper right corner
- Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test.
- Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
- Codes analysis and Printer compatible
- Home NecessityOpen to global customers
- Worthy to OwnRecommended by Mechanic Scotty Kilmer on Youtube
- Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2
- Your Foxwell’s screen is with a tightly-fitting screen protector
- Warm TipsNT301 car scanner can be used directly with no need for registration or update, as it is already the latest version
- It produces fast and effective results, working on wide range of modern vehicles e.g
- It has strong vehicle coverage works on 150 brands from 1996 to date and all major brands
- to better answer the needs of today’s market.
- Buy with ConfidenceThe upgraded 64G memory stores more materials, and benefits ever-smooth navigation
- One is enough for every tire repair shop to fix all TPMS issues.
- 2023 Newest MP808TS with 2-Year UpdatesBreaking NEWS! 2 years no-fee updates has launched in automotive diagnostic scanner MaxiPRO MP808TS since 2022/8/1! As the combo of MS906 + TS601, this Autel scanner MP808TS is the most cost-effective car expert you ever wanted in 2023
- 2 years no-fee upgrades keep car coverage growing
- Active Tests, 10+ High-end FunctionsFactory-level MaxiPRO MP808TS for all cars is a bi-directional scan tool, allowing you to manually activate/deactivate systems on command to quickly pinpoint the problem
- One-station TPMS SolutionWhen have a MaxiPRO MP808BT OBD2 scanner by your side, you’ll get the equal TPMS servicing power as TS408/TS501/TS508/TS601/TS608/MS906TS: comprehensive TPMS diagnostics, most-known 433/315MHz sensors activation, Autel MX-sensors programming in batch, 1000+ on-tool relearn procedure for all cars, and TPMS retrofitting
- Jaguar, Vauxhall, and Opel etc
- OE-Level All System Diagnosis with 31 ServiceProfessional mechanic tool MaxiPRO MP808TS excels in diagnostics at the same level of snap-on tools
- It can get access to 2018+ SGW-equipped FAC cars via AutoAuth
- It also offers the same industry-leading maintenance as Maxisys MS906 for high-end workshops: guided function, component matching, anti-theft IMMO service, power balance, and hidden functions refreshing, etc
- assistance, and 30 days return/replacement
- Advanced ECU CodingCar computer code reader MP808TS is also adept at advanced ECU coding to give workshops greater earning potential
- Only 949 bucks will bring you one more year no-fee software renewal (value at 1199 bucks) and complete diagnostics for TPMS, ECU coding, 31+ hot functions, all systems, active tests, 10+ high-end functions, etc.
- More ‘in-shop’ services for you to win more customers nearby.
- As the NO.1 authorized online seller established at Amazon for 8 years long, we have commitments of 100% genuine scanner, 1 year quality backup, 24/7 tech
- It features Oil/ABS/SAS/TPMS/IMMO … 31+ service functions to greatly streamline workflow, and its all ECU’s in-depth scanning will get insight into system problems.
- Put this 2023 car expert and TPMS master into your wish list and double your business.
- You’ll gain more ECU control over the new modules adaptations, refreshing hidden functions, and make customized car builds for enhanced driving experience
- 2 in 1 Diagnostic ScannerCompared with those auto scanners (50-100 USD), 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
- No need to waste time to download the software first.
- You don’t need to pay extra software fee.
- Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag+ Lifetime updateAlmost 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
- Easy to Use–Work out of box+FOXWELL 2023 New Version FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2023 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
- 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
- Great Gift Idea: Top present choice for your father, husband, brother or boyfriend.EVERY CAR OWNER WILL NEED IT! It comes with protective case with rugged and handy design.Get NT604 Elite car code reader and give your lover a surprise! Kindly note that this foxwell nt604 elite car scanner CAN NOT support maintenance reset function.
- Fantastic AUTOVIN+No extra software feeThrough 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
- It will t-urn off the warning light for you after you fix the problem, making you to know more about your cars and do your own repair.
- What’s more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe)
- Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it.
- 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 lovely cars and pinpoint the problem for you, which saves time and money for you
- It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches
- The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
- Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem
- Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
- 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
- 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
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation
- 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
- 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
- Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
- Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
- The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance
- 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
- 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
- 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
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols
- 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 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed device with a sleek design
- It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car
- Please contact us via Amazon directly or MotorzoneUS @ outlook com.
- Moreover, Autel MK808 comes with 12 months free update, which keeps you on-trend.
- With Auto VIN makes the diagnosis more quick and easy.
- The powerful battery supports 5 hours of continuous use
- OE-Level All Systems Diagnosis & 150+ Vehicles Coverage Outstanding 150+ vehicles coverage makes Autel tablet MK808 a competent scan tool in every home repair’s garage, a money-earning tool in every repair shop
- Advanced Configuration &12 Months Free UpdateInstalled with a fast quad-core processor, Autel Maxicom MK808 offers maximum convenience and swift diagnosis
- Services vary from cars, please send VIN to check compatibility before order.
- Including Bi-Directional Control (Active Test) 28+ Service Functions FCA Auto Auth for 2017 & later FCA cars (Chrysler Jeep Dodge Fiat etc) Work with MV105 &MV108 (not included).Click the “Update” icon to upgrade the MK808 system version to V2.62 or above to get all new features
- Reliable & Trustworthy PurchaseAs an authorized 8-year-old seller, all sold by us are genuine products from Autel
- 1024×600 quality7-inch LCD touch screen, plus Android operating system, extended OBD2 cable ensures more stable connection while diagnosing for solid test results
- Same as Maxicheck MX808, Autel MK808 can scan all available car systems and perform OE-level diagnosis by reading/clearing codes, viewing live data, freeze frame data, ECU info & Bidirectional conrol/active test
- With 28+ service/hot function meet your most daily maintenance demands, including Oil Reset, EPB, BMS, Brake Bleed, Injector coding, SAS, Suspension, Throttle and more
- Bi-directional Control Same As MK808BT PRO Bidirectional scan tool MK808 can perform the real active tests that can send commands to the vehicle’s ECU to drive the actuators to work, such as ABS, window, door, solenoids, valves, wipers, headlamp, etc, helping you quickly find out bad parts and pinpoint faulty issues. Updating to the new system version V2.62 will brings powerful active test feature, making MK808 tablet the most cost-effective Autel scanner.
- 2023 Newest Autel Maxicom MK808Big Surprise! Since 1st June 2022, with the same cost, Autel Scanner MK808 has been added $300+ valued NEW Functions
- Autel MK808, auto diagnostic scan tool for all cars comes with a 12-month warranty alongside barrier-free return and replacement
- Autel always Persues High Products for you!
- OBD2 Scanner MK808 with 28+ Special FunctionsAs the 2023 Newest Version, we have optimized the performance of Autel MK808 from previous generations, making it the most powerful diagnostic tool and bring more business for you
- 24 hours &7 days professional after-sales support, Product Registration Guide & Video Guidance helps you to deal with any issues you encountered with the product
- Error Fault Code Reader Except the full 10 modes OBD2 diagnostic functions like, retrieving I/M readiness, Freeze Frame Data, Read Dynamic Data stream and Vehicle Information, O2 Sensor Test, EVAP Test of Fuel Tank System (Mode 8) and Advanced On-board Monitoring (Mode 6), launch crp123 obd2 scanner can not only reveal what error codes your car is producing, but also erase your vehicle’s check engine light after problem fixed, the DTC help and explanation also tell you the exact problem.
- 2023 New Elite VersionSame Function As LAUNCH CRP123E Lifetime Free Update5 YEARs Warranty Conact seller to get Free Gift Fast delivery by Amazon
- Get LAUNCH CRP123 Elite car diagnostic scanner and give your lover a surprise!
- EVERY CAR OWNER WILL NEED IT! It comes with high-quality host with a strong box
- Great Gift Idea For Every Car Owner: Prefect choice for your father, husband, brother or boyfriend
- Live Data Graphing + Read/Record/Playback Data stream + Print diagnostic data ※Live Data Graphing ,more intuitive to know your vehicle’s problem
- ※ Large size Color Screen ;※ Print Function:Print the diagnose result easily; ※ with user manual and register & update tutorial video uploaded in the link by us, you can Look up it anytime by ONE-CLICK.
- Read & Clear/Reset Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission Diagnostic Scan Tool LAUNCH CRP123 OBD2 Scanner can test Engine, Transmission, ABS and Airbag four systems, also reads and resets code, displays data stream graphic, stores and playbacks dynamic data stream,helps to quick analysis and diagnosis.
- 2023 Elite Version, Add More Functions,No Extra Software FeeUpdate version of CRP123/CRP123E, LAUNCH CRP129E obd2 scanner with 4 systems diagnostic, 8 reset service, fast android 7.0 OS, 5”HD 720P touchscreen, 16G RAM, 6100mAh battery, battery voltage test,Auto VIN, full obd2 functions,DTC library,live data graphing, record & playback, and automatic generate diagnostic health report, printable via email shareing
- 2022, LAUNCH CRP129E scan tool added 3 service
- 10 Languages supported: English, French, Spanish, German, Korean, Japanese, Portuguese, Italian, Traditional Chinese, Russian
- 8 Reset service: Oil Reset,TPMS Reset,Brake Reset,Throttle Adaptation,Steering Angle Calibration,Injector Coding, Battery Registration to maintain your vehicle system safely and efficiently
- One-Click WiFi Update makes you can use the newest software all time for free.
- 5 Years Warranty
- We are proud to tell that LAUNCH CRP129E has been recommended as the “Best Overall OBD2 scanner” by Amazon editors, and also highly recommended by YouTube machinists
- 8 Reset Service Car Scanner+Battery Voltage TestFrom Oct
- Diagnose with full 10 OBD2 test modes to fix most of emission issues, keep your engine in good condition and avoid being fined before the annual car inspection.
- One-click lifetime free wifi update keep you always enjoy the newest software and newly added functions.
- No IP Limited
- Graphing the battery voltage to real-time monitoring, determine battery’s health status, help you know the possible battery and the charging system problems in advance.
- Limited quantity
- After repairing, it can even clear the fault code and turn off the annoying warning light
- Lifetime Free WiFi Updates + Work on 57 Vehicle Brands + 10 Languages SupportedLAUNCH CRP129E diagnostic scan tool works on most vehicles after 1996 compliant with OBD2 protocols, more than 57 brands and over 10000+ vehicle models
- 4 Systems Diagnostic Tool+Full OBDII FunctionsWith this scanner automotriz, even beginners can use it to read the fault codes of Engine/ABS/Airbag/Transmission, find the right troubleshooting procedure
- Free TPMS Activation Tool: Just click “Extra Savings” under price and add both to your cart to get a FREE TPMS Activation Tool which works for GM cars
- Lifetime Free WiFi Upgrade
- First come, First served
- Any problem, please reach us via [email protected].
- ([email protected])
- Powerful dealership level Functions can fully meet your needs.
- Support All systems Diagnostic including ENG, AT, ECM, TCM, ABS, SRS, BCM, IMMO, BMS, TPMS, SAS, Fuel System, Light System and A/C system,more.
- We, the authorized Launch seller, provide you with 2023 newest original LAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ HDIII scan tool with reliable quality
- User Friendly, Easy To UseLAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ HDIII supports One-Click Auto VIN Detect, One-Click WiFi Update, One-Click Generate Graph
- Bring you a more convenient and comfortable experience to a large extent.
- We Always Got your BACK !This original Launch scanner is backed up by Launch official after-sale services with 5-year warranty, available 60-days return & replacement policy, and 24/7 thoughtful support
- 2023 NEWEST LAUNCH FIRST Advanced Scan Tool Compatible With 12V And 24V VehiclesDesign for Passenger&Commercial Vehicles 2in1:The 1st ALL-IN-ONE scanner from LAUNCH ,work for Cars/Trucks/buses/trailers/excavators/diesel engine/construction machinery/ /pick-up/etc.AutoAuth for FCA SGWSupport Chrysler,Dodge,Jeep,Alfa Romeo and Fiat after 20172023 OE-Level featuresGuiding Functions,Variant Coding with Benz,Modification for BMW,Offline Coding,Customization,Personalization,Online Calibration.
- Beside,this scan tool can also support ECU Coding, Key programming, Adaptation, Matching, 50+ reset service functions like SAS/EPB/TPMS/D.PF/IMMO/Oil/Brake/GEARBOX Reset, ABS Bleed, Injector coding, etc..
- 24 Language: English,French,Spanish,German,Russian,Japanese,Portuguese,Italian,Polish,more.
- Passenger vehicles:Cars, SUV, MPV, Pickup truck; Commercial vehicles:Heavy Duty Truck, Passenger Bus, Excavator, Tractor, Recreational Vehicle
- Over 50 Service Reset Functions + Bi-Directional + ECU Coding + Adaptation + Intialization + MatchingLAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ HDIII can send commands to the system/component to test their working status for Active Test
- Wider Vehicle Coverage of 12V & 24V Vehicles + 24 LanguagesLAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ HDIII automotive scanner is ALL-IN-ONE Scan Tool for 12V cars and 24V Heavy-duty trucks which provide the most extensive multi-brand coverage and comprehensive diagnostics for you
- 2023 BEST Advanced Hardware & All Systems DiagnosisLAUNCH X431 PRO3S+ HDIII automotive scanner equipped with Android 9.0 operating system, 10.1-inch HD IPS(1920*1200) touchscreen, 7000mAh rechargeable battery (up to 12+ hours battery life), 3+32G memory(support 128G Expand memory)
- In addition, this LAUNCH scan tool also support remote diagnostic, diagnostic feedback and respond, Live data graphing, data Stream record and playback, Generate Health Report (Share & Print)
All-in-one Buying Guide
It’s easy to pick a good auto code scanners amongst the bad ones. However, when you have two or more good auto code scanners in front of you, it becomes tricky to make a choice. In our modern times, this is what happens to us most of the time. And this is exactly where we need help. So our buying guide is designed especially for you. To help you in making the best choice with confidence when you are buying auto code scanners for yourself.
1. Price
We often get overwhelmed by the brand image, features, and marketing of a product. We forget something very essential to us in this, which is price. When faced with several choices, price is a very good filter that helps you narrow down your choices. So when you see multiple good options of auto code scanners in front of you, price alone might help you eliminate a few options. So always remember to check the price.
2. Features
Companies market the features that they want to highlight. However, these features might not be of much use to you. So when you are considering your options for auto code scanners, ensure that you go through all the features and think about which ones actually matter to you. And instead of just reading the features superficially, try to go deeper and understand the implications of these features.
3. Durability
When you get a new auto code scanners, you would obviously want it to last for a decent period. Durability is one of the most overlooked factors when people shop. So, make it a point to always check how durable a product is and compare it with other options. You don’t want to have to go back to make the purchase and waste additional time and money just because of poor quality.
4. Need
When all your stars seem to align according to the above-mentioned factors, you need to do one last test. You should ask yourself whether you really need that auto code scanners. In today’s world, marketing has become so strong and powerful, it can alone convince you to buy. So you should think about this for a while before you actually make your decision.
The Verdict
Instead of handing you out a fish, I have tried through this article to actually teach you how to fish. If you keep these factors in mind, there is no doubt you will find the perfect auto code scanners for yourself. According to what experts have said, few auto code scanners emerged as really good options and I would say that you can confidently pick any of these.
Have you made up your mind about auto code scanners or still feeling confused? Well, if you still have doubts, I would say read this article again, this time slowly and carefully. What’s more, you can take this crisp list of auto code scanners and research them on your own to find out more. I hope you make a smart choice and find for yourself a really good auto code scanners.