Best OBD2 Scanner for Subaru
In this article, we look at some of the best OBD2 scanners for Subaru. Based on our hands-on experience and research, we think the following are the top scanners for Subaru vehicles.
If the check engine light, traction control, airbag, or any warning light stays on, you will need a good scanner to diagnose your Subaru. Let’s take a look at our favorite scanners.
1. YOUCANIC OBD-II Full System Scanner
We tested a lot of scanners trying to find the best scanner to use in our garage. What we found is that:
- Many scanner manufacturers make scanners that require a yearly subscription.
- Can diagnose one make but doesn’t work on all different car makes. You will have to pay more to cover other vehicle makes.
- Can’t diagnose all vehicle systems. May only diagnose the engine, airbag, transmission, and ABS problems. That’s only 4 systems. Modern cars can have up to 40+ systems.
- Don’t support bi-direction support for sensor testing and activation.
If you wanted a scanner that can do all these, you have to 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 model
If that is not enough, keep in mind that the YOUCANIC scanner does not require a yearly subscription as other professional-level tools do. We believe that the YOUCANIC scanner offers the best OBD2 for the money for auto mechanics and DIYers.
Don’t want to buy a scanner? We still want to help you fix your vehicle in an economical way. We created a scanner rental program that allows you to use the scanner for a few days on as many cars as you like.
We have a ton of how-to video showing you how to troubleshoot car problems. Once you get the codes, the YOUCANIC technicians can help you with any questions you may have.
2. Launch Creader VII+ Scanner for Subaru
Highlights
- Read and clear fault codes related to the engine.
- Read and clear transmission fault codes.
- Read and clear ABS fault codes.
- Read and clear SRS/airbags light and codes.
- Supports 1996 and newer vehicles.
- Can retrieve generic P0000 and manufacturer-specific codes P1000 and U000.
- Clear Check Engine Light
- View freeze frame data.
- Check emission readiness status.
- Display live sensor data.
- Primarily for ABS, Airbag, Engine, and Transmission diagnostics. Support for other systems is not always available.
We tested the Launch Creader and found it very easy to use and quick to retrieve the fault codes from the ECU. It is an affordable OBD diagnostic tool, and it has one main advantage over the Foxwell NT630. Besides being able to scan the ECU, ABS, and SRS system, it can also examine the automatic transmission control unit.
The Launch Creader supports multiple automobile brands as well. It describes the fault problem right on the LCD. Write down the error code and do some research related to that particular fault code. An inexpensive diagnostic tool that can save you money and headaches if you are trying to reset the service engine or clear the airbag light.
3. Autel Maxisys Line
If money is not a concern or an independent auto repair shop, the best scanner you can get for Subaru vehicles is the Autel Maxisys scanner. The Maxisys offers very similar functionality to the scanner used by Subaru dealerships. It can read and clear fault codes from all the systems.
Also, it offers bi-directional communication, a must-have feature for Subaru mechanics. It can also reset several sensors, including the steering angle sensor, TPMS, EPB, ABS, SAS, DPF, and more.
The Maxisys scanners work on Subaru and the most popular car brands. This scanner can perform an Active Test, which provides specific subsystem and component tests. This selection may appear as Actuators, Actuator tests, or Function Tests, etc., and the test options vary depending on the manufacturer and model.
4. iCarsoft Diagnostic Subaru Scanner
iCarsoft Subaru i903 is an advanced OBD2 code reader that will allow you to scan multiple systems on your Subaru, such as the ABS, SRS Airbag, Engine, and Automatic Transmission. This scanner can read the fault DTCs and clear the fault codes from memory.
The CR Plus is easy to use even if you have never used an OBD II scanner. With iCarsoft, you will also be able to do a few other things such as reset the oil light, reset the brake pad wear warning light and reset the steering angle sensor.
The CR Plus will work on most makes and models in which you have different cars in your garage. The i903 will work on Subaru, Nissan, and Infiniti vehicles. We think that i903 offers great value for its cost.
5. Subaru Select Monitor III
Subaru dealerships use the Select Monitor III scanner. It is referred to as HDS 3000, which stands for Hitachi Diagnostic System. The scanner will allow you to access all Subaru vehicles’ systems, but it is simply too expensive for Subaru owners.
The HDS costs $2,999 and requires a license subscription that costs $2,000 per year. If you are interested in the HDS 3000, you can contact Blue Streak Electronics.
While the Monitor III is undoubtedly the best OBD2 scanner for Subaru cars, it is also expensive. If you want an affordable professional-level scanner for Subaru, check out Autel MaxiDAS Professional Scanner.
Why depend on your dealer to diagnose your Subaru when you can do it yourself? This article discusses several diagnostic scanners that will allow Subaru owners to perform in-depth troubleshooting themselves.
What is the Best Scanner for Subaru vehicles?
Based on our experience and research, we think that the YOUCANIC Full System Scanner is a great choice for Subaru owners. Autel MaxiSys Tool is another good choice diagnostic scanner for Subaru cars and SUVs but it is more expensive than the YOUCANIC scanner.
If you are looking for an OBD2 that will allow you to read engine codes and erase the Check Engine Light (Service Engine Soon), you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a diagnostic scanner. Any generic OBD2 scanner will get the job done.
We hope you find the Best OBD2 Scanner for Subaru guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Subaru.
