Is your car’s check engine light on and you need a quick solution? When my engine started acting up on a trip, an easy-to-use OBD2 scanner helped me diagnose the problem and save a lot of money on repairs.
Your car’s check engine light can turn a good day into a stressful one. Engine fault code readers help you find out what’s wrong fast. These small tools plug into your car and tell you exactly what needs fixing.
I learned this the hard way when my car started acting up on a road trip. A simple OBD2 scanner saved me hundreds at the mechanic and got me back on the road quickly.
List of Top 10 Engine Fault 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) |
The ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner is perfect for everyday car owners and DIY mechanics. If you want to easily check your vehicle’s health without needing special training, this tool is for you. It’s compact, user-friendly, and ideal for those who want to be hands-on with their car repairs. |
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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 |
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY mechanics who want to quickly diagnose engine problems. It’s great for anyone needing an easy-to-use tool that checks engine lights, reads and clears codes, and gives real-time vehicle data. |
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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 |
The ANCEL AD410 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for vehicle owners, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts. It helps you easily read and clear fault codes, perform advanced diagnostics, and check your vehicle’s health. It is simple to use with a user-friendly interface and does not require extra batteries. |
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Autel Professional OBD2 Scanner AL319 Code Reader, Enhanced Check and Reset Engine Fault Code, Live Data, Freeze Frame, CAN Car Diagnostic Scan Tools for All OBDII Vehicles After 1996, 2025 Upgraded |
This Autel AL319 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners, DIYers, and anyone who wants to save on expensive repairs. It’s easy to use with a simple plug-and-play design, providing fast diagnostics for a wide range of vehicles. No technical skills are needed to read fault codes, turn off the check engine light, or monitor live data. It’s ideal for those who want a reliable and affordable way to keep their car running smoothly. |
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VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool Engine Fault Code Reader for Turn Off CEL with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All OBDII Protocol Cars, OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool |
This VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to easily diagnose their vehicle’s problems. It’s a simple, user-friendly tool that helps you read and clear codes, check the engine health, and ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Ideal for beginners and anyone who needs quick, reliable diagnostics. |
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Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 Universal Car Engine Fault Code Reader, Check Engine Light and Emission Monitor Status, OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool |
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for DIY car owners who want to save money on car repairs. It’s great for people who need to turn off check engine lights, read error codes, and prepare for smog checks without going to a mechanic. The tool works best for owners of 1996 or newer cars who want a simple, plug-and-play device that shows what’s wrong with their car in plain English. |
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FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks – Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996 |
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners who want to save money on mechanic visits. It’s ideal for people who drive 1996 or newer vehicles and want to read engine codes, clear check engine lights, and check emissions themselves. DIY mechanics and budget-conscious drivers will love the one-time purchase with no monthly fees. If you own cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrids and want simple diagnostics, this tool is made for you. |
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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+ |
BlueDriver is perfect for car owners who want to diagnose their vehicle like a professional mechanic. It’s great for those who need to read and clear codes for issues like the check engine light, ABS, and airbags without the need for a costly tool. It works with all gas-powered vehicles from 1996 and newer and offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity for easy use. Plus, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a simple, user-friendly way to keep their car in top shape. |
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MOTOPOWER MP69040 Car OBD2 Scanner Check Engine Fault Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tool, Black |
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners who want to fix their own vehicles and save money on mechanic visits. It’s also great for auto shops and mechanics who need a fast, reliable tool to diagnose car problems quickly and accurately. |
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AUTOPHIX OM126P+ OBD2 Scanner, Check Engine Light Code Reader, Car Code Scanner for Automotive Diagnostic, Read & Clear Fault Code, Pass Smog Test, Live Data, for All US Cars After 1996 |
The AUTOPHIX OM126P OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners who want an easy, quick way to diagnose engine problems. Whether you’re checking your Check Engine Light, preparing for a smog test, or just want to monitor engine performance, this tool is a must-have. It’s great for beginners and DIY mechanics, helping you find fixes faster without complicated steps. |
Detailed Reviews
Discover the best Engine Fault Code Readers chosen by experts and trusted by users. This guide shows you the top tools to find and fix car engine problems fast. Read on to find the perfect fit for your needs and drive with confidence.
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 is a reliable OBD II scanner. It helps find the cause of the check engine light. It reads and clears trouble codes quickly.
This scanner is sturdy and easy to use. It works with most OBD II vehicles made since 1996.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
The ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner is perfect for everyday car owners and DIY mechanics. If you want to easily check your vehicle’s health without needing special training, this tool is for you. It’s compact, user-friendly, and ideal for those who want to be hands-on with their car repairs.
Ready to Purchase?
2. MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow
The MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner helps you check your car’s engine and fix problems. It works with most cars built since 1996. The LCD display shows clear details.
This scanner supports 6 languages and connects easily to your car. It also has a long cable for flexible use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY mechanics who want to quickly diagnose engine problems. It’s great for anyone needing an easy-to-use tool that checks engine lights, reads and clears codes, and gives real-time vehicle data.
Ready to Purchase?
3. 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 is an OBD2 scanner that reads and clears engine fault codes on cars made after 1996. It works with most cars, trucks, and SUVs that have a 16-pin OBD port and gets power right from your car.
This code reader has a color screen that shows clear results. It comes with over 42,000 built-in code definitions so you know what each error means. The tool is easy to use and works in many languages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
The ANCEL AD410 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for vehicle owners, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts. It helps you easily read and clear fault codes, perform advanced diagnostics, and check your vehicle’s health. It is simple to use with a user-friendly interface and does not require extra batteries.
Ready to Purchase?
4. Autel Professional OBD2 Scanner AL319 Code Reader, Enhanced Check and Reset Engine Fault Code, Live Data, Freeze Frame, CAN Car Diagnostic Scan Tools for All OBDII Vehicles After 1996, 2025 Upgraded
The Autel AL319 is a car diagnostic tool that reads error codes. It shows live data and helps turn off the check engine light. This scanner works with all cars made after 1996.
The device is plug and play with no setup needed. It has a color display and built-in speaker for easy use.
This scanner works in 7 languages and supports many car brands. You get a 12-month warranty and free lifetime updates.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This Autel AL319 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners, DIYers, and anyone who wants to save on expensive repairs. It’s easy to use with a simple plug-and-play design, providing fast diagnostics for a wide range of vehicles. No technical skills are needed to read fault codes, turn off the check engine light, or monitor live data. It’s ideal for those who want a reliable and affordable way to keep their car running smoothly.
Ready to Purchase?
5. VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool Engine Fault Code Reader for Turn Off CEL with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All OBDII Protocol Cars, OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool
The VDIAGTOOL VD10 is a simple OBD2 scanner that helps car owners find engine problems fast. Just plug it into your car and it shows fault codes on the screen in seconds.
This tool reads and clears engine codes to turn off your check engine light. It shows live data from your car’s sensors like RPM and fuel levels. The device also checks if your car is ready for emissions testing.
The scanner works with 99% of cars made after 1996 in the US. It supports all OBD2 protocols and needs no batteries since it gets power from your car. You get a 3-year warranty and free lifetime updates with multiple language support.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to easily diagnose their vehicle’s problems. It’s a simple, user-friendly tool that helps you read and clear codes, check the engine health, and ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Ideal for beginners and anyone who needs quick, reliable diagnostics.
Ready to Purchase?
6. Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 Universal Car Engine Fault Code Reader, Check Engine Light and Emission Monitor Status, OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool
The Autel MS309 is a simple car scanner that plugs into your car’s port. It reads error codes and tells you what they mean right on the screen. This tool works with most cars made after 1996 in the US.
The scanner can turn off your check engine light after you fix the problem. It also shows you freeze frame data and your car’s VIN number.
This device helps your car pass smog checks by checking emission monitors. It comes with a 12-month warranty and free tech support for life.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for DIY car owners who want to save money on car repairs. It’s great for people who need to turn off check engine lights, read error codes, and prepare for smog checks without going to a mechanic. The tool works best for owners of 1996 or newer cars who want a simple, plug-and-play device that shows what’s wrong with their car in plain English.
Ready to Purchase?
7. FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks – Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996
The FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner is an easy-to-use tool for cars and trucks. It can read and clear fault codes quickly. It helps turn off the check engine light after fixing the problem.
It provides live data like RPM and MAP to find engine issues. It also has a built-in trouble code library for easy reference.
This scanner works with most cars since 1996. It supports OBDII/EOBD protocols and is compatible with many vehicles. Enjoy lifetime updates with no extra fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners who want to save money on mechanic visits. It’s ideal for people who drive 1996 or newer vehicles and want to read engine codes, clear check engine lights, and check emissions themselves. DIY mechanics and budget-conscious drivers will love the one-time purchase with no monthly fees. If you own cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrids and want simple diagnostics, this tool is made for you.
Ready to Purchase?
8. 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+
BlueDriver is a Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool that connects to your phone or tablet. It helps you diagnose your vehicle like a professional mechanic.
You can read and clear various vehicle codes, including ABS, Airbag, and SRS codes. The tool gives you real-time live data and unlimited repair reports with possible fixes.
BlueDriver works with all gas-powered vehicles from 1996 or newer. No hidden fees. It’s easy to use and gives you support whenever needed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
BlueDriver is perfect for car owners who want to diagnose their vehicle like a professional mechanic. It’s great for those who need to read and clear codes for issues like the check engine light, ABS, and airbags without the need for a costly tool. It works with all gas-powered vehicles from 1996 and newer and offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity for easy use. Plus, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a simple, user-friendly way to keep their car in top shape.
Ready to Purchase?
9. MOTOPOWER MP69040 Car OBD2 Scanner Check Engine Fault Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tool, Black
The MOTOPOWER MP69040 Car OBD2 Scanner is a powerful tool to help you monitor your vehicle’s health. It allows you to read and clear engine codes, turn off the engine light, and check live data. This device is compatible with most vehicles from 1996 onward.
It has full OBD functions and works with various car models. You can view real-time data and perform multiple tests. It has a 2.8-inch TFT color screen for easy navigation.
This tool supports over 100,000 DTCs for deeper insights. You can also enjoy lifetime free updates with no extra charges. The cloud print feature helps you access test reports on your mobile phone.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners who want to fix their own vehicles and save money on mechanic visits. It’s also great for auto shops and mechanics who need a fast, reliable tool to diagnose car problems quickly and accurately.
Ready to Purchase?
10. AUTOPHIX OM126P+ OBD2 Scanner, Check Engine Light Code Reader, Car Code Scanner for Automotive Diagnostic, Read & Clear Fault Code, Pass Smog Test, Live Data, for All US Cars After 1996
The AUTOPHIX OM126P+ OBD2 Scanner is the perfect tool for your car’s health. It works with 99% of U.S. vehicles from 1996 and newer.
With this scanner, you can quickly check for fault codes. It clears the Check Engine Light in seconds. Plus, it runs an I/M Readiness test at home before inspections.
Get real-time engine data instantly. This helps you spot issues before they become big problems. Don’t let car troubles slow you down—stay informed and keep driving with confidence!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
The AUTOPHIX OM126P OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners who want an easy, quick way to diagnose engine problems. Whether you’re checking your Check Engine Light, preparing for a smog test, or just want to monitor engine performance, this tool is a must-have. It’s great for beginners and DIY mechanics, helping you find fixes faster without complicated steps.
Ready to Purchase?
Buying Guide
Engine fault code readers help you find car problems fast. These tools save you money at the mechanic. They turn your phone or a small device into a car doctor.
I remember when my car’s check engine light came on during a family trip. I was worried about expensive repairs. A simple OBD2 scanner showed it was just a loose gas cap. That $30 tool saved me a $200 diagnostic fee.
What to Look for When Buying
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Compatibility: Make sure the scanner works with your car’s year and model. Most OBD2 scanners work with cars made after 1996. Check if it supports your car’s specific protocols.
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Display Quality: A clear screen makes reading codes much easier. Color displays show more details than basic screens. Look for scanners with LCD or TFT screens for the best experience.
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Code Database: More built-in codes mean better explanations of problems. Some scanners have over 42,000 code definitions. This helps you understand what each error means without guessing.
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Live Data: Real-time engine data helps spot problems early. You can see RPM, fuel levels, and sensor readings. This feature helps you monitor your car’s health while driving.
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Ease of Use: Simple plug and play design saves time and frustration. Look for scanners that need no setup or batteries. The best ones get power directly from your car’s port.
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Language Support: Multiple languages make the tool easier to use. Many scanners support 6 to 7 languages. This helps if English isn’t your first language.
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Updates: Free lifetime updates keep your scanner current with new codes. Some brands offer cloud updates through apps. This ensures your tool works with newer car models.
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Warranty: A good warranty protects your investment. Look for at least a 12-month warranty. Some brands offer 3-year warranties and free tech support.
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Connection Type: Choose between Bluetooth and wired connections. Bluetooth scanners work with your phone or tablet. Wired scanners have their own screens and don’t need your phone.
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Advanced Features: Some scanners check ABS, airbag, and emission systems. These features help with smog tests and safety checks. Basic scanners only read engine codes.