Are you looking for the best universal OBD II scanner to quickly diagnose your car’s issues? After testing many models, I’ve found the easiest-to-use and most reliable scanners that give clear, fast results.
Finding the right OBD II scanner can save you time and money. It helps you understand your car’s problems fast. With so many options, choosing the best one is key.
I have tested many scanners myself. The best tools are simple and effective. They give clear information in seconds.
This guide will help you pick a top universal OBD II scanner. You’ll learn what features matter most. Get ready to find the perfect tool for your car.
List of Top 10 Universal OBD II Scanners
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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 car owners who want an easy, reliable way to check and clear engine error codes. It’s great for DIY mechanics, drivers who want to avoid costly repair bills, and car enthusiasts looking for a simple tool that works with 1996 or newer vehicles. With its compact design and user-friendly features, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to keep their car in good condition without needing professional knowledge. |
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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 |
The Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 is perfect for DIY car owners looking to save time and money. If you want to diagnose engine issues and turn off the Check Engine Light without visiting a mechanic, this tool has you covered. |
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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 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY enthusiasts who want to quickly diagnose engine issues. With its user-friendly interface and wide compatibility, anyone can easily use this tool to stay informed about their vehicle’s health. |
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Autel OBD2 Scanner AutoLink AL549(Upgraded Ver. of AL519)Code Reader with AutoVin, Read/Erase DTCs for ABS, Universal Car Battery Test,OBDII Scan with Live Data,Check Engine Fault OBD2 Diagnostic Tool |
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners, mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who want to diagnose engine problems and fix car issues themselves. It’s ideal for people who need to read error codes, test batteries, check ABS systems, and turn off warning lights without expensive trips to the repair shop. |
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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+ |
This product is perfect for car owners who want to diagnose their own vehicles without paying expensive mechanic fees. It’s ideal for DIY enthusiasts, budget-conscious drivers, and anyone who wants to understand their car problems quickly and easily using just their smartphone. |
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Osilly Professional OBD2 Car Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Enhanced V520 Vehicle OBDII/EOBD Check Engine with Read/Erase Fault Code, Auto Code Reader Scanner, Universal for Cars After 1996 |
This Osilly Professional OBD2 Car Scanner Diagnostic Tool is perfect for beginners, service technicians, automotive enthusiasts, and those doing home repairs. It makes car diagnostics easy with its built-in codes and real-time data monitoring. Whether you’re checking engine health or troubleshooting fault codes, this tool has all the features you need to get the job done. |
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OBD2 Scanner, OBD2 Reader, OBD II Scanner, Fix Car Diagnostic Tool, Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Classic Enhanced Universal Engine Fault Car Diagnostic Scan Tool of All CAN Fault Car After 1996 |
This OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY mechanics who want a simple way to fix their car’s issues without spending money at the shop. It works great for most cars and light trucks made after 1996. If you want to save time and money by checking your car’s problems yourself, this tool is just right for you. |
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QMYPKJ QM518 New Model 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 |
This OBDII scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY enthusiasts. It’s easy to use and helps you quickly find and fix engine problems. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or someone who just wants to check their car, this tool is a great fit. It’s portable, fast, and works with most vehicles from 1996 or newer. |
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XpertAuto OBD2 Scanner S515 ABS SRS ECM TCM,Car Code Reader, Diagnostic Scan Tool with Reset for ABS/SRS/Oil/EPB/SAS/ETS/Battery/DPF/, Universal for All OBD II/EOBD Protocol Cars After 1996 |
This product is perfect for car owners who want an easy way to diagnose issues and reset vehicle systems. It’s great for DIY mechanics, car enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a simple, professional-grade tool to check their car’s health and perform routine maintenance. |
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Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner Car Check Engine Light Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tool for iOS & Android |
This product is perfect for car owners who want to easily check their engine light and vehicle health. It’s great for anyone with a 1996 or newer car who needs a simple and clear way to read and clear trouble codes using their iOS or Android device. |
Detailed Reviews
Finding the perfect OBD II scanner can save you hundreds on car repairs. We tested dozens of diagnostic tools to find the ones that actually work. Our expert team spent months comparing features, accuracy, and real-world performance. These top 10 scanners will help you fix car problems fast and avoid costly mechanic visits.
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 top-rated OBD II scanner that helps you find car problems fast. This diagnostic tool can read and clear error codes from your car’s computer in seconds.
The scanner works with all car brands made in 1996 or newer that use OBD2 systems. It supports all OBD protocols and gets power directly from your car – no batteries needed.
This compact scanner weighs just 12 ounces and fits easily in your bag. The large screen shows results clearly and the buttons are simple to use. You can fix car problems right away without being a mechanic.
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Perfect For:
The ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner is perfect for car owners who want an easy, reliable way to check and clear engine error codes. It’s great for DIY mechanics, drivers who want to avoid costly repair bills, and car enthusiasts looking for a simple tool that works with 1996 or newer vehicles. With its compact design and user-friendly features, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to keep their car in good condition without needing professional knowledge.
Ready to Purchase?
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2. 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 OBD2 Scanner quickly reads and clears engine codes. It works with cars from 1996 and newer in the US market. This tool saves both time and money.
It checks the Check Engine Light and gives trouble code definitions. You can also retrieve vehicle info and prepare for your smog check. It’s simple to use and easy to set up.
With a 12-month warranty and lifetime tech support, you can trust it. Enjoy peace of mind with this reliable tool.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
The Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 is perfect for DIY car owners looking to save time and money. If you want to diagnose engine issues and turn off the Check Engine Light without visiting a mechanic, this tool has you covered.
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 OBD2 Scanner is a powerful tool for diagnosing your vehicle. It works with all OBDII vehicles from 1996 and newer. Quickly read and clear fault codes to keep your car running smoothly.
It provides enhanced diagnostics for your vehicle’s health. The scanner includes 42,000+ code lookups to easily identify issues.
The device is easy to use and doesn’t require a battery. No need to worry about updates, as it’s ready to use right away.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
The ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY enthusiasts who want to quickly diagnose engine issues. With its user-friendly interface and wide compatibility, anyone can easily use this tool to stay informed about their vehicle’s health.
Ready to Purchase?
4. Autel OBD2 Scanner AutoLink AL549(Upgraded Ver. of AL519)Code Reader with AutoVin, Read/Erase DTCs for ABS, Universal Car Battery Test,OBDII Scan with Live Data,Check Engine Fault OBD2 Diagnostic Tool
The Autel AutoLink AL549 OBD2 Scanner is a comprehensive diagnostic tool. It supports all 10 OBD2 test modes for accurate vehicle diagnostics. The scanner can read/erase DTCs and turn off warning lights.
It features an easy-to-use TFT color display with audible cues. The ABS functions can diagnose brake system problems. The battery test function helps check car battery health.
This scanner supports 1996 and newer OBD2 vehicles. It offers lifetime free updates to keep it current.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 scanner is perfect for car owners, mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who want to diagnose engine problems and fix car issues themselves. It’s ideal for people who need to read error codes, test batteries, check ABS systems, and turn off warning lights without expensive trips to the repair shop.
Ready to Purchase?
5. 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 an easy-to-use OBD2 scanner that works with your phone. It helps you read and clear check engine codes and more. No wires are needed – just Bluetooth.
Get live data and detailed repair reports with step-by-step videos. It works with all gas vehicles made in 1996 or newer.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This product is perfect for car owners who want to diagnose their own vehicles without paying expensive mechanic fees. It’s ideal for DIY enthusiasts, budget-conscious drivers, and anyone who wants to understand their car problems quickly and easily using just their smartphone.
Ready to Purchase?
6. Osilly Professional OBD2 Car Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Enhanced V520 Vehicle OBDII/EOBD Check Engine with Read/Erase Fault Code, Auto Code Reader Scanner, Universal for Cars After 1996
The Osilly Professional OBD2 Car Scanner is your ultimate tool for auto diagnostics. With 35,901 built-in DTCs, this scanner outshines older models and makes troubleshooting your vehicle easy, even for beginners.
It has full OBD2 functionality. You can read and erase codes, monitor real-time data, and even print your diagnostic results. This tool makes car maintenance quick and simple.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This Osilly Professional OBD2 Car Scanner Diagnostic Tool is perfect for beginners, service technicians, automotive enthusiasts, and those doing home repairs. It makes car diagnostics easy with its built-in codes and real-time data monitoring. Whether you’re checking engine health or troubleshooting fault codes, this tool has all the features you need to get the job done.
Ready to Purchase?
7. OBD2 Scanner, OBD2 Reader, OBD II Scanner, Fix Car Diagnostic Tool, Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Classic Enhanced Universal Engine Fault Car Diagnostic Scan Tool of All CAN Fault Car After 1996
The NT210 OBD2 Scanner is a simple and cost-effective diagnostic tool for cars and trucks. It can read and clear trouble codes and help turn off the check engine light.
This scanner works on most vehicles from 1996 and newer. It is easy to use with no need for batteries. Check car health quickly with clear display.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This OBD2 Scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY mechanics who want a simple way to fix their car’s issues without spending money at the shop. It works great for most cars and light trucks made after 1996. If you want to save time and money by checking your car’s problems yourself, this tool is just right for you.
Ready to Purchase?
8. QMYPKJ QM518 New Model 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
The QMYPKJ QM518 OBD II Scanner is your go-to tool for checking engine issues. It reads and clears error codes quickly and easily. No more trips to the mechanic; diagnose your car at home.
With its advanced compatibility, the QM518 works with all OBDII protocols. It supports vehicles from 1996 onwards, including cars, light trucks, and SUVs. Its compact design and bright 1.8-inch color screen make it a breeze to use.
Keep your vehicle’s health in check with this handy tool. It’s lightweight and perfect for both professionals and DIYers alike.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This OBDII scanner is perfect for car owners and DIY enthusiasts. It’s easy to use and helps you quickly find and fix engine problems. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or someone who just wants to check their car, this tool is a great fit. It’s portable, fast, and works with most vehicles from 1996 or newer.
Ready to Purchase?
9. XpertAuto OBD2 Scanner S515 ABS SRS ECM TCM,Car Code Reader, Diagnostic Scan Tool with Reset for ABS/SRS/Oil/EPB/SAS/ETS/Battery/DPF/, Universal for All OBD II/EOBD Protocol Cars After 1996
The XpertAuto S515 OBD2 Scanner is a powerful tool for diagnosing car issues. It reads and clears error codes in ABS, SRS, ECM, and TCM systems. It also supports live data viewing and easy troubleshooting.
This scanner offers 8 hot reset services, including oil, airbag, and battery reset. It is compatible with all OBD2/EOBD cars sold worldwide.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This product is perfect for car owners who want an easy way to diagnose issues and reset vehicle systems. It’s great for DIY mechanics, car enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a simple, professional-grade tool to check their car’s health and perform routine maintenance.
Ready to Purchase?
10. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner Car Check Engine Light Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tool for iOS & Android
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner helps you check engine light codes and diagnose car problems. It works with both iOS and Android devices. This tool is easy to use and can save you time and money.
It supports generic OBD-II functions like reading and clearing trouble codes. You can also view live sensor data and freeze frame information. It works with many popular third-party apps.
This tool is compatible with most 1996+ vehicles in the US. It may not work with some electric vehicles or advanced diagnostics for certain car models. Please check app compatibility before buying.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This product is perfect for car owners who want to easily check their engine light and vehicle health. It’s great for anyone with a 1996 or newer car who needs a simple and clear way to read and clear trouble codes using their iOS or Android device.
Ready to Purchase?
Buying Guide
OBD II scanners help you find car problems fast. They save you money on mechanic visits. The right scanner makes car care simple.
I have used many scanners over the years. My first scanner saved me $300 when my check engine light came on. The mechanic wanted to charge me for a full diagnostic, but my scanner showed it was just a loose gas cap.
Factors to Consider When Buying
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Compatibility: Make sure the scanner works with your car’s year and model. Most scanners work with cars from 1996 and newer. Check if it supports your car’s OBD protocols.
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Code Database: Look for scanners with large code libraries. More codes mean better problem identification. Some scanners have over 40,000 codes built in.
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Display Quality: Choose scanners with clear screens that are easy to read. Color displays work better than black and white. Large text helps you see results quickly.
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Power Source: Some scanners use car power through the OBD port. Others need batteries or phone connections. Car-powered scanners never run out of juice.
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Ease of Use: Pick scanners with simple buttons and clear menus. You should not need a manual to use it. One-button operation works best for quick checks.
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Live Data: Advanced scanners show real-time car data while driving. This helps find problems that only happen when the car runs. Live data gives deeper insights.
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Update Support: Some scanners get free updates for life. Others charge for new features. Lifetime updates keep your scanner current with new car models.
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Warranty and Support: Look for scanners with good warranty coverage. Tech support helps when you have questions. Some brands offer lifetime support.
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Size and Weight: Compact scanners fit in your glove box easily. Heavy scanners are hard to carry around. Lightweight tools work better for quick checks.
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Price Range: Basic scanners cost under $50 and read simple codes. Professional scanners cost more but offer advanced features. Pick based on your skill level and needs.