Best OBD2 Scanner for DIY Auto Repair

Looking for the best OBD2 scanner that can diagnose your cars without going to the dealer? The best scan tools allow you to diagnose all vehicle systems. If you are looking for a professional-level scanner, you need it to perform bidirectional testing, which activates sensors, tests, resets, and even operates motors such as seat motor, window motor, fuel pump, and more.

1. YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro (Our Own Scanner)

Here are some cons of other OBD-II scanners compared to the YOUCANIC Full System Scanner

• Many scanner manufacturers make scanners that require a yearly subscription.
• It can diagnose one make but doesn’t work on all car makes. You will have to pay more to cover other vehicle makes.
• I can’t diagnose all vehicle systems. May only diagnose the engine, airbag, transmission, and ABS problems. That’s only four systems. Modern cars can have up to 40+ systems.
• Don’t support bi-directional support for sensor testing and activation.

If you want a scanner that can do all these, you must spend thousands of dollars and most likely pay a yearly subscription.

So we decided to launch the YOUCANIC full system scanner that works on all makes and models.

The YOUCANIC full system scanner:

• Works on all makes.
• Can read and clear codes from all vehicle control units.
• View live data from any sensor.
• Bi-direction support to activate and test sensors and motors.
• Reset functions depending on the model.

If that is not enough, remember that the YOUCANIC scanner does not require a yearly subscription like other professional-level scanners. We believe that the YOUCANIC scanner offers the best OBD2 for the money for auto mechanics and DIYers.

We have many how-to videos showing you how to troubleshoot car problems. Once you get the codes, the YOUCANIC technicians can help.

2. ELM 327 Bluetooth OBD-II Scanners

A Bluetooth OBD-II adapter can pair with your phone, allowing you to read and clear fault codes using your smartphone. These Bluetooth adapters have many variations, including dongles such as Fixed OBD-II Adapter and BAFX Products Bluetooth Scanner.

If you are looking for the cheapest way to read and clear your check engine light, an ELM327 Bluetooth adapter + a free OBD-II app (Android / iPhone) are the way to go.

Note that this scanner requires:

• A smartphone
• Requires an OBD2 app, free options are available

Also, it provides no support for other modules except Engine Control Unit (Check Engine Light).

3. ArtiDiag 100 OBD2 Scanner

TopDON ArtiDiag 100 is an all-system coverage, all-make canner. As a result, it has many functions and system coverage that you typically only get from dealer-level scanners.

Can read and clear codes from all modules on a vehicle. Watch the demonstration on a Mercedes-Benz S Class.

PROS

• Works on ALL makes
• Read and Clear codes from ALL vehicle Systems (including engine, transmission, suspension, ABS, airbag, climate control, and more).
• Several Reset Functions
• View Sensor Data from almost any sensor in the vehicle

CONS

• While it provides good value, it may not be affordable for all DIYers.
• It does not offer bi-directional support.

TopDON ArtiDiag 100 is one of the best OBD2 scanners for the money. If you need bi-directional support, take a look at Autel MaxiDAS.

4. Autophix OM126 Scanner

If you are looking for a robust OBD2 scanner, a good choice would be the OM126. It is an affordable scanner that is easy to use, offers several amazing features, and supports all 1996 and newer vehicles.

Notes:

• Owners manual needs improvement
• Read/Clear codes related to check engine light only. No support for other systems.
• There is no support for other modules other than the Engine Unit.

5. Launch Creader

Launch Creader VII+ covers most vehicle makes. Works on European, Asian, and domestic cars. Provides coverage for four vehicle systems. To learn more about Level 2 scanners, read this article: Multi-system OBD2 scanners.

It can diagnose problems from main modules (such as ABS, transmission, and airbags) but not all modules on a car.

6. Foxwell NT624 / N510

Foxwell NT624 provides in-depth vehicle troubleshooting of all systems and works on most makes, including American, Asian, and European vehicles.

CONS

• Menu items mislabeled. The software can be updated.

7. Autel MaxiDAS

Autel Maxidas is a professional-level scanner that many repair shops use. While it is more expensive, it is undoubtedly the best OBD2 scanner on this list. In addition, it is easy to navigate, even for a beginner.

Not only does it read and clear codes from all modules on vehicles, but it also allows you to perform adaptations and reset various systems.

You can use Autel MaxiDas to carry out functions such as resetting the steering angle sensor, registering the battery, resetting transmission shifting points, etc. It offers great value for the money. However, it still costs more than most DIYers are willing to spend on a scanner.

CONS

• Expensive for DIYers.
• Requires yearly updates to keep up with new models.
• Yearly updates cost money.

BlueDriver OBD2 scanner is another powerful and reasonably priced scanner you should consider. We are working on adding a review of the BlueDriver scanner as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best OBD2 scanner for a DIYer?

One that reads all modules on the cars you own, not just engine codes, and includes the resets you need. Check the coverage list for your vehicles.

Is an ELM327 Bluetooth adapter good enough?

For reading engine codes and basic live data, yes. Most cannot read ABS, airbag or body codes or perform resets.

What is bidirectional control?

The ability to command parts to operate, such as cycling a fuel pump or ABS pump, which helps confirm a part works before replacing it.

Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your vehicle.

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