Today you don’t have to spend thousands on OBD-II scanners to get professional tools. I tested a bunch of cheap OBD tools to find the best picks that could even supplement a professional scan tool for a budget of $100-ish.
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Quick recommendations
Mucar BT200 Max
The Mucar BT200 Max offers solid vehicle coverage with full system scans, bi-directional testing, service resets, and even an AI assistant. It includes free lifetime updates and also works as an ELM327 adapter, so you can use it with other apps.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
XTool A30D
The XTool A30D is a top choice for DIY mechanics who want advanced scan tool functions at a budget price. It supports full system diagnostics and comes with free lifetime updates.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
Thinkcar BD6
The Thinkcar BD6 is a reliable full-system scanner that shows live data and fault codes in every control module. It also includes several service resets and free lifetime updates.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
Ancel AD410
The Ancel AD410 is more than just a basic code reader. It can read and clear engine faults, plus test your charging system to catch battery or alternator issues.
Mucar driverscan
The Mucar DriverScan comes loaded with features: full system diagnostics, 15 service resets, and bi-directional tests. It also adds extras like acceleration testing and VE (volumetric efficiency) engine testing.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
My insights after testing 100+ OBD2 tools
I’ve tested literally hundreds of OBD2 scanners, so let me tell you why I find these the best value for money.
1. Mucar BT200 Max
Mucar 200BT Max
I love this tool haha. Not only it gives you access to professional software with full-system diagnostics, it will also let you work with ELM327 apps.
So just with Mucar 200BT Max you can use wide range of professional and 3rd party apps.
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2. XTool A30D
XTool A30D
XTool A30D is one of the best choices for DIY mechanics as you are getting scan tool functionality for cheap price.
I bought the cheapest of 3 different A30 versions on Aliexpress for around $96 and it comes with an extension cable, free lifetime updates, and all the functionality I might need as a home mechanic.
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3. Thinkcar BD6
Thinkcar BD6
Thinkcar BD6 is a very capable OBD2 scanner for home mechanics or as gift for car guys. It can scan all systems + read data in all systems so it is also good to use for checking used vehicle before buying.
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4. Ancel AD410 PRO
Ancel AD410 PRO
It is similar to the Ancel AD530, which I already use but on top of that, it comes with a battery testing extension.
You can use it not only for reading/clearing the check engine but also to test your whole charging system.
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5. Mucar Driverscan
Mucar Driverscan
Mucar driverscan is very similar to Thinkdiag2, as it comes from the same company.
The only difference is a little slower reaction for some procedures and a missing ECU coding function.
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Best OBD2 scanners in 2025
I constantly test new OBD-II scanners to give you the best options possible. Here is a full list of the best tools in all categories currently.
I am looking at a 2010 JDM Nissan Caravan with 13k kms and I want verify that mileage. Which inexpensive obd2 scanner will do the job?
Probably won’t store milaege records because it is too old