Not sure which OBD2 scanner to choose?
Download my 5-minute guide and find the exact scanner you need based on your car, budget, and goals.
Best OBD2 scanners by category
Based on testing hundreds of OBD2 scanners
I literally tested over 100+ different OBD2 scanners and if you are interested in some specific scanner, I have separate reviews for all of them.
But first let me help you choose the best scanner.
How to choose Best OBD2 scanner?
I am working with OBD2 scanners for 3+ years now and I learned couple of great hacks when picking your new diagnostic tool.
Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is best first OBD2 scanner
Maybe you heard of this cheap ELM327 boxes that can pair your car with your phone just for few dollars and you can check codes and data.
But now you even have same scanners like mechanics have in shop packed in this cheap Bluetooth devices.
Get Bluetooth OBD2 scanner first to test out some professional features to see if you want to upgrade.
Don’t be afraid of scan tool
As DIY picking your first scanner the $500 price tag can be scary at first. However those lower budget scan tools come packed with features and lot of them have free lifetime updates.
That means you can use it for few months/years and then still sell it for most of the money you paid. I did this countless of times – mentioning “lifetime updates” on facebook marketplace sells these tools like crazy 😅.
OBD2 scanner is not magic weapon
I love OBD2 scanners and there are some crazy things you can do with them.
But OBD2 scanner = translator.
It can translate what you want do to but if your car is refusing to complete the request, even the $6000 scanner will not help you. Many things depends on car itself as explained in my what is OBD2 beginner’s guide.
Quick picks for everyone
If you are stuck, I recommend checking out my personal favourite tools. They stood up in hundreds of scanners I’ve tested.
