7 OBD2 scanner types: Which one is best?

Yesterday, we went over advanced OBD functionality. In case you missed it, look it up in your inbox first or read it here.

I gave you a bunch of advanced features, which I am sure you are excited to start using.

But which OBD2 scanner should you pick? Let me introduce you to different scanner types, and then I will give you specific suggestions of my recommended scanners after I have tested more than 100 of them. 

There are several common OBD scanner types:

1. Engine code reader

The engine code reader is the simplest, yet most easy-to-use form of OBD-II scanner. You can use it only for global OBD modes (engine control module) but it will reward you with an instant code scan without any connection issues. 

2. ELM327 adapter

ELM327 adapter is the cheapest OBD2 scanner you can buy and it actually comes with more functionality than a code reader thanks to hundreds of different apps you can use the adapter with. My recommended app is car scanner ELM OBD2.

3. Multi-system scanner

Multi-system scanner, also called a 4-system scanner will work with multiple control modules. Usually it is engine, transmission, airbag, and ABS so 4 most important systems. 

4. J2534 adapter

J2534 adapter is my recommended choice for you as you can get a full system scanner with bi-directional controls for as low as $100. Usually, they require paying for updates but there are some with free updates, for example, xTool A30. 

5. Laptop OBD-II scanner

I am using laptop software mostly for clones of specific OEM software but there are some good multi-brand bi-directional scanners as well. For example, the one on the left cost me about $50 and works similarly to a bi-directional scan tool. 

6. Scan tool

If you want to have only one tool for everything, this is it. Scan tools will give you full system coverage, usually for 100+ car brands with bi-directional control, data logging, a camera, and a bunch of extra features helpful for solving various car problems. 

7. One-brand tool

Once you start browsing through advanced OBD-II scanners, you find out that most professional devices require paying a subscription or yearly fee for new updates. 

If you on the other hand want a scanner just for one car brand, or one group of brands like VAG, you can get a professional tool with full functionality with free updates. 

But only for the chosen brand, for other brands, there will be only basic global OBD functionality. 

My recommended scanners

This is a guide on my website where you can browse scanners based on budget, features you need, or even for specific car brands. I constantly update this page to show current best choices:

Best scanners for each mentioned category HERE

Yuri

P.S. The Extended version of this email course, including 60 video lessons to help you master DIY diagnostics, is available HERE.