Looking for the best engine code readers for your car?
I’ve tested many and can share the ones that have saved me time, money, and stress when warning lights came on.
I’ve used engine code readers to save both time and money when my car’s warning light came on. The right tool can turn a stressful moment into a quick, clear fix.
These tools are fast. They are easy. They are reliable. I’ve tested many and know which ones truly work. Let’s find the best for your car today.
List of Top 10 Engine Code Readers
| Image | Title | Best For | Price |
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ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool, Read and Clear Error Codes for 1996 or Newer OBD2 Protocol Vehicle (Black) |
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for a shop visit. Ideal for those who value accuracy, speed, and easy-to-use tools. |
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FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car – Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone/Android – Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool – Check Engine & Fix All Vehicles 1996+ (1 Pack w/Free FIXD Premium Trial) |
Perfect for car owners who want to save money, avoid surprise repairs, and know exactly what’s going on under the hood. Ideal for DIY fixers, first-time drivers, and anyone who wants peace of mind every time they drive. |
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OBD2 Scanner Ease Setup Plug-Play: Clear Reset Engine Error Code Professional Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tools with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All Cars Since 1996 & Newer – LK11 |
Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, easy, and accurate engine checks without the hassle. Ideal for anyone who values saving time, cutting costs, and keeping their car in top shape. |
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BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android – No Subscription Fee – OBD2 Car Scanner and Code Reader – Diagnose Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag & 7000+ Issues on Vehicles 1996+ |
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix problems fast without paying for shop visits. If you want pro-level diagnostics in your pocket, this is for you. |
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AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Diagnostic Tool – iOS/Android Compatible, Real-Time Data, Battery Tester, Plug and Play, Emissions Readiness for Car Owners & Mechanics(Army Green) |
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and tech-savvy drivers who want fast, easy, and accurate diagnostics without paying high mechanic fees. Ideal for anyone who values saving money and keeping their car in top shape. |
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MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow |
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for costly shop visits. Ideal for those who value clear results, easy use, and wide vehicle compatibility. |
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FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data |
This tool is perfect for car owners and DIY drivers who want to quickly find out why a warning light is on without rushing to a dealer. It’s also great for anyone who wants an easy, affordable, and reliable way to check their car’s health at home. |
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FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8” Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle |
Perfect for car owners, DIYers, and mechanics who want to quickly find and fix engine problems. Ideal for anyone who needs a reliable, easy-to-use tool to check their vehicle’s health. |
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ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner, Vehicle Code Reader for Check Engine Light, Automotive OBD II Scanner Fault Diagnosis, OBDII Scan Tool for All OBDII Cars 1996+, Black/Yellow |
This tool is perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to save money on repairs. It’s also great for drivers who want a fast, easy way to check their car’s health before going to a shop. |
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BLCKTEC 420 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool – Vehicle Code Reader for Car – Clears Check Engine Light – Comes with Premium OBD App On IOS & Android – Works For All Cars 1996 & Newer |
Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, accurate, and easy-to-use tools to keep their vehicles in top shape. If you value clear answers and quick fixes, this is for you. |
Detailed Reviews
We’ve picked the top 10 Engine Code Readers using expert reviews and real customer feedback. Each one is tested for features, performance, and value. This guide makes it easy to choose the right tool for your car. Read on to find the best match for your needs.
1. ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool, Read and Clear Error Codes for 1996 or Newer OBD2 Protocol Vehicle (Black)
The ANCEL AD310 makes finding car problems fast and simple. It can read and clear error codes in seconds. You can see live data and know exactly what’s wrong.
It’s small but strong, with a tough cable and clear screen. Easy to carry and built to last.
Works with all OBD2 protocols and many cars from 1996 or newer. No batteries needed — it powers right from your car.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for a shop visit. Ideal for those who value accuracy, speed, and easy-to-use tools.
Ready to Purchase?
2. FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car – Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone/Android – Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool – Check Engine & Fix All Vehicles 1996+ (1 Pack w/Free FIXD Premium Trial)
Know exactly what’s wrong with your car in seconds. FIXD scans for over 7,000 issues and shows you what they mean in plain words. Save $1000s by avoiding unnecessary repairs.
It works with almost every car from 1996+ and pairs with the free app on iPhone or Android. Get real-time reports and clear your check engine light with one tap.
Stay on top of maintenance with automatic reminders. Even check a used car before you buy to avoid hidden problems.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners who want to save money, avoid surprise repairs, and know exactly what’s going on under the hood. Ideal for DIY fixers, first-time drivers, and anyone who wants peace of mind every time they drive.
Ready to Purchase?
3. OBD2 Scanner Ease Setup Plug-Play: Clear Reset Engine Error Code Professional Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tools with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All Cars Since 1996 & Newer – LK11
The OBD2 Scanner LK11 makes car checks fast and simple. Just plug and play for instant results.
It reads and clears engine error codes in seconds. You can see live data and freeze frame info. It works on most cars, trucks, and SUVs since 1996.
This tool is lightweight and easy to carry. It saves time and money on repairs. Perfect for both DIY users and professional mechanics.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, easy, and accurate engine checks without the hassle. Ideal for anyone who values saving time, cutting costs, and keeping their car in top shape.
Ready to Purchase?
4. BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android – No Subscription Fee – OBD2 Car Scanner and Code Reader – Diagnose Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag & 7000+ Issues on Vehicles 1996+
The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool lets you check your car like a pro. Read and clear check engine, ABS, SRS, and more with ease.
Get real-time data while you drive and see exactly what’s going on. Find the right fix fast with unlimited repair reports and step-by-step videos.
No wires. No fees. Works on all gas vehicles from 1996 and newer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix problems fast without paying for shop visits. If you want pro-level diagnostics in your pocket, this is for you.
Ready to Purchase?
5. AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Diagnostic Tool – iOS/Android Compatible, Real-Time Data, Battery Tester, Plug and Play, Emissions Readiness for Car Owners & Mechanics(Army Green)
Get instant car health checks with the AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner. See real-time data on your phone in seconds. Fix problems before they get worse.
Test your battery and check emissions readiness with ease. Avoid costly repairs and pass inspections.
It’s plug-and-play and works with iOS and Android. Small, strong, and built to last anywhere you go.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and tech-savvy drivers who want fast, easy, and accurate diagnostics without paying high mechanic fees. Ideal for anyone who values saving money and keeping their car in top shape.
Ready to Purchase?
6. MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow
Find engine problems fast with the MOTOPOWER MP69033. It reads and clears check engine codes in seconds. See real-time data right on the 2.8″ LCD screen.
Works with most cars made since 1996. Supports 9 protocols and 6 languages. No batteries needed.
Built tough with a long cable and easy buttons. Simple plug-and-play use. Get clear answers every time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for costly shop visits. Ideal for those who value clear results, easy use, and wide vehicle compatibility.
Ready to Purchase?
7. FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
The FOXWELL NT604 Elite is an easy-to-use car scanner that works right out of the box. It quickly checks ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission to find problems fast.
It’s affordable and saves you trips to the shop. It scans 5 systems in 1 tool. It comes with a solid case and lifetime updates.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This tool is perfect for car owners and DIY drivers who want to quickly find out why a warning light is on without rushing to a dealer. It’s also great for anyone who wants an easy, affordable, and reliable way to check their car’s health at home.
Ready to Purchase?
8. FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8” Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle
Find the real reason your check engine light is on. Read codes, view live data, and check I/M readiness in seconds. This tool makes car diagnostics fast and simple.
See sensor data in clear graphs. Spot problems before they get worse.
Just plug and play—no updates needed. Built for 1996 or newer vehicles worldwide.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIYers, and mechanics who want to quickly find and fix engine problems. Ideal for anyone who needs a reliable, easy-to-use tool to check their vehicle’s health.
Ready to Purchase?
9. ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner, Vehicle Code Reader for Check Engine Light, Automotive OBD II Scanner Fault Diagnosis, OBDII Scan Tool for All OBDII Cars 1996+, Black/Yellow
The ANCEL AD410 makes car checks fast and easy. It works with most OBD2 cars, trucks, and SUVs from 1996 and newer. No battery needed—power comes from your car.
Read and clear fault codes in seconds. See clear code definitions without searching online. Save time and avoid costly repairs.
Test O2 sensors and EVAP systems for better fuel use. The bright 2.4-inch color screen makes results easy to read.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This tool is perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to save money on repairs. It’s also great for drivers who want a fast, easy way to check their car’s health before going to a shop.
Ready to Purchase?
10. BLCKTEC 420 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool – Vehicle Code Reader for Car – Clears Check Engine Light – Comes with Premium OBD App On IOS & Android – Works For All Cars 1996 & Newer
Find car problems fast with the BLCKTEC 420 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner. Read and clear codes in seconds. See live data and run battery tests with ease.
Use the premium app for expert fixes and detailed reports. Works on all cars from 1996 and newer.
Get free updates to keep your tool sharp. Enjoy multi-language support and help from USA-based experts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, accurate, and easy-to-use tools to keep their vehicles in top shape. If you value clear answers and quick fixes, this is for you.
Ready to Purchase?
Buying Guide
I’ve used engine code readers to turn a flashing warning light into a quick fix. They saved me time and money more than once. The right tool makes car care simple.
- Compatibility: Make sure the reader works with your car’s year, make, and model. Most support vehicles from 1996 or newer, but always check before buying.
- Functions: Some only read and clear engine codes, while others check ABS, SRS, and more. Choose based on the systems you want to monitor.
- Connection Type: Decide between wired or Bluetooth. Wired is simple and reliable, while Bluetooth offers wireless freedom and app features.
- Live Data: A reader with real-time data helps you see what’s happening as you drive. This can make finding the problem much faster.
- Ease of Use: Look for clear screens, simple menus, and plug-and-play setup. You shouldn’t need a manual every time you use it.
- Durability: A strong cable, solid build, and quality buttons mean it will last longer. This is important if you plan to use it often.
- Extra Features: Some tools offer battery tests, emissions readiness, or maintenance reminders. These can save you more money over time.
- Updates & Support: Free software updates keep your tool accurate. Good customer support can help if you run into problems.