The 10 Best OBD2 Scanners of 2026
An OBD2 scanner is a crucial tool for car owners and mechanics to diagnose and resolve issues with their vehicles. The top OBD2 scanners on the market today will be covered in this article, along with the characteristics that set them apart.

An instrument used to interface with a car's onboard computer system is called an OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics 2) scanner. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which are stored in the system and indicate difficulties the automobile is having, may be retrieved and read by it. OBD2 scanners can also provide real-time data from the sensors and other parts of the car's system, enabling mechanics and car owners to track the operation of the vehicle and see possible difficulties before they turn into significant concerns. Users may reset warning lights, do smog tests, and access other diagnostic and repair information with an OBD2 scanner.
The top product Autel OBD2 Scanner and further details about each product are displayed below.
Our Top Picks
The top 5 products are those for which we spent the most time studying, along with an explanation of their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Best Overall: Autel OBD2 Scanner
2. Best Budget: AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner
3. Best Material: LeeKooLuu OBD2 Scanner
4. Best Durability: FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner
5. Best Design: Veepeak OBDCheck BLE
Product Summary
With the help of this scanner, you can identify and resolve engine, transmission, ABS, and airbag codes. It is a professional-grade tool. It offers an easy-to-use. This scanner's ability to generate repair reports with potential remedies for faults discovered is one of its special capabilities.
Specification
- 【TURN OFF CEL】 This AL319 car diagnostic tool supports Reading DTCs, displaying Live Data, Freeze Frame & I/M Readiness etc to figure out the root cause of the Check Engine Light (CEL) and turning it off, to help you detect any potential problems, and to avoid excessive costs for unnecessary repairs.
- 【EXTENSIVE APPLICATION】 Autel AL319 Compatible with 7 languages (English, French, Spanish, etc.) and various post-1996 OBD II protocol vehicles (Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, etc.), this OBD II scanner provides accurate and fast diagnosis for worldwide car owners. more
Reasons to buy
- Provides access to diagnostic information from a car's onboard computer system.
- Helps diagnose and troubleshoot car problems more effectively.
- Can save time and money on car repairs by identifying the root cause of a problem.
Reasons to avoid
- May have limited diagnostic capabilities or may not be able to read certain diagnostic trouble codes.
Product Summary
A versatile scanner that can perform all the basic functions of an OBD2 scanner, such as reading and clearing codes, but it also offers advanced features like key programming, oil reset, and SAS calibration.
Specification
- ✐【Multi-Functions】 Practical Multi-Functions obd2 scanner diagnostic tool features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, fault code information query,view freeze frame, I/M ready,reading data stream and playback function, real-time curve, reading vehicle information, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed. Support car battery voltage test, oxygen sensor test
- ✐【 Car Diagnostic Scanner for Most Cars】- Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports 8 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian,Russian and Chinese. more
Reasons to buy
- Allows for real-time monitoring of a car's performance.
- Provides detailed information about a car's emissions output.
- Can help ensure that a car is in compliance with emissions standards.
Reasons to avoid.
- May not be able to diagnose problems related to mechanical or physical issues in a car's system.
Product Summary
This is a reliable scanner that provides accurate diagnosis of engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS codes. It has a large color screen display that shows real-time data and can perform smog tests. One of its unique features is the ability to display live data in graphical form, making it easy to interpret the data.
Specification
- 【Auto OBDII Scanner Diagnostic Tool:】Easy-to-use plug-in-play car scanner that read and clear codes.Retrieves generic code and displays DTC definitions. It can check engine related fault codes,easily find out what caused.
- 【Wide Compatibility:】Code readers & scan tools are compatible with all OBD II and CAN Compliant vehicles,passenger cars or light trucks,post 1996 in US,post 2000 for EU-based and Asian cars.Not compatible with new energy and hybrid vehicles. more
Reasons to buy
- Can improve overall fuel efficiency and performance.
- Can be used by both professionals and DIY car enthusiasts.
- Can be used with a wide range of car makes and models.
Reasons to avoid
- May be difficult to use for those who are not familiar with car diagnostics or technology.
Product Summary
This is a budget-friendly scanner that can read and clear codes for most cars, SUVs, and light trucks made after 1996. It has a large, easy-to-read LCD screen and provides basic diagnostic information such as engine status and emissions readiness.
Specification
- 【Vehicle CEL Doctor】The 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.
- 【Accuracy & Streams】Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend. more
Reasons to buy
- Easy to use and operate, with simple interface and displays.
- Portable and compact, making it easy to use on the go.
- Can provide insight into a car's overall health and longevity.
Reasons to avoid
- May not be able to diagnose problems related to the car's electrical system or other components not monitored by the onboard computer system.
Product Summary
This scanner is small and simple to use, and it can read and clear codes for all OBD2 protocols. It can do pollution tests and features a vivid color screen that shows real-time data. Its ability to display freeze frame data, which offers a snapshot of the car's performance at the moment the code was created, is one of its distinctive characteristics.
Specification
- Compatible with a wide range of third-party apps such as OBD Fusion, Torque and Car Scanner which can turn your iPhone, iPad or Android phone/tablet into a sophisticated car scan tool.
- Read diagnostic trouble codes and freeze frame & other diagnostic data, reset check engine light, view real-time sensor readings, create customized dashboard, estimate fuel economy, and do more with a proper App. more
Reasons to buy
- Can be used to clear diagnostic trouble codes, which can turn off a check engine light.
- Can be used to reset maintenance reminders and other alerts.
- Can be a valuable tool for car inspections and maintenance checks.
Reasons to avoid
- May not be able to diagnose problems related to certain types of vehicles, such as hybrid or electric cars.
Compatibility:
Make sure the OBD2 scanner you select is appropriate for the year, make, and model of your vehicle. Before making a purchase, it's critical to confirm compatibility because not all scanners are compatible with all vehicles.
Features:
Think about the attributes an OBD2 scanner should have. Basic scanners may just be able to read and clear codes, while more sophisticated scanners may also be able to do tasks like key programming, SAS calibration, and smog testing. Consider the characteristics you require, then pick a scanner that has them.
Display:
Make sure the scanner's display is simple to see and comprehend by checking it. Other scanners feature bigger, full-color screens that may provide real-time data in graphical form. Some scanners use modest, rudimentary displays. Pick a display that you can read and understand easily.
Ease of use:
Think about how simple the scanner is to use. Others feature straightforward plug-and-play designs that anybody can use, while some scanners have sophisticated menus and call for technical expertise. Pick a scanner that is user-friendly and appropriate for your degree of technological expertise.
- Gearz Score9.7
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandAutel
- Gearz Score9.9
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandANCEL
- Gearz Score9.9
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandMOTOPOWER
- Gearz Score9.8
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandLAUNCH
- Gearz Score9.7
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandAMTIFO
- Gearz Score9.8
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandFOXWELL
- Gearz Score9.9
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandOBDLink
- Gearz Score9.9
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandVeepeak
- Gearz Score97.0
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandLeeKooLuu
- Gearz Score9.9
Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org. Gearz Score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandFOXWELL
Last update on 2026-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
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What kind of information can I get from an OBD2 scanner?
An OBD2 scanner can retrieve and display a wide range of information from your car's system, including diagnostic trouble codes, real-time sensor data, fuel system status, emissions information, and more.
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What are the benefits of using an OBD2 scanner?
Using an OBD2 scanner can help you diagnose and troubleshoot car problems more effectively. By identifying the specific diagnostic trouble codes that your car is producing, you can pinpoint the root cause of the problem and take steps to fix it. OBD2 scanners can also help you monitor your car's performance, save money on repairs, and ensure that your car is in compliance with emissions standards.
Overall, both mechanics and automobile owners may find an OBD2 scanner to be a useful tool. To ensure that you acquire the greatest OBD2 scanner for your needs, it's crucial to take into account variables like compatibility, functionality, convenience of use, and display. You can approach vehicle maintenance more proactively and make sure that your automobile is always in top shape if you have the correct OBD2 scanner in your possession.
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