“OBD” stands for “On Board automotive Diagnostics,” and OBD-II (oft abbreviated to OBD2) is the second generation of this technology. A vehicle’s computers monitor the data from multiple components, keep track of what they’re doing and if something’s wrong. When a fault does occur, it’s stored in the computer as a diagnostic trouble code and sometimes triggers the check engine light on your dashboard. Every gasoline-powered vehicle built since 1996 and every diesel since 2008 is equipped with an OBD2 port to get access to that information. The port’s design is standard across different makes, it’s always located within  three feet of the driver and can be accessed without tools.

In the early days, only dealerships and independent mechanics had scanners that could read the data and the fault codes. Today, do-it-yourselfers have a large variety of OBD2 scanners they can keep in their home garages, or even in their vehicles. A good scanner tells what’s wrong when the check engine light comes on and allows users to clear the code, turning off the warning light. 

The trouble codes also provide information useful for carrying out any repairs that might be necessary. If the underlying problem isn’t fixed the check engine light will come on again. Fuller-featured models can include Bluetooth connections to smartphones and tablets, a wider array of functions, databases of repair and parts information specific to the vehicle, the issues detected and more. The good news is that most of these more functional scanners are still reasonably priced, but there are some heavy hitters. Our list of the best OBD2 Scanners includes units that range from $60 to $480.

The Autel AL539 hits the sweet spot when it comes to a blend of features, build quality and price.  It’s compatible with any OBD2-equipped automobile, supports multiple languages, and goes beyond check engine functions to include antilock braking systems, airbags, transmissions and more. The handheld unit has rugged construction and is surrounded by a rubberized casing that’s easy to grip. The AL539 also has a built-in multimeter for diagnosis of vehicle batteries, charging systems and electrical faults. There were a handful of complaints with this model; the biggest concerns being defective units shipped (users exchanged them for good ones), firmware update failures and subpar customer service.

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Scanner Pro is a simple, elegant solution to getting vehicle codes (airbag, ABS, tire pressure monitoring and other vehicle systems). It’s one piece, which plugs into the OBD2 port. Retrieved data is sent via Bluetooth to smartphones or tablets and read through an app. The app gives clear, easy-to-understand descriptions of trouble, unlimited vehicle-specific repair reports for fixes, a point-in-time snapshot of the moment the OBD2 sensors registered the issue and the ability to run a simulated smog test to head off surprises at the inspection station. Owners of smaller-screened smartphones won’t find the app as readable or useful as those with bigger screens. Some owners say it can lose the connection to the phone or tablet and the manufacturer recommends not leaving the sensor plugged into the port.

The Innova CarScan Advisor 5210 is a traditional handheld scanner that plugs into the OBD2 port with a cord. Trouble code data is displayed on a 2.8-inch color screen, augmented by color-coded fault lights: red for permanent, yellow for intermittent and green for no issues. In addition, the Innova also has Bluetooth and a dedicated smartphone or tablet app, giving users access to information on repairs and parts needed for the issue. Downsides are a fairly short cable (27 inches), the need to buy digital “keys” for use on more than one vehicle (tracked by vehicle identification number, or “VIN”) and a limited number of functions (check engine, ABS and battery or charging system).

There’s nothing that says consumers can’t buy pro-level gear. The Autel MaxiCom MK808 is an OBD2 scanner clearly meant to keep pace with the units dealerships and independent garages use. It performs 25 different service functions, works on 56 brands of cars and the rugged handheld tablet-style scan tool can give its information in 13 languages. The biggest concerns would be the steep price, both for the initial outlay and the annual database updates, and possibly buying capability that will go unused by most DIY-ers.

Getting an OBD2 scanner for well under $100 involves some compromises. Still, the Ancel BD310 is a useful basic scanner with a trick or two up its sleeve. Used as a handheld plug-in scanner, it will read and clear check engine codes. But the BD310 also has Bluetooth functionality, connecting with your smartphone or tablet via an app that greatly broadens the range of data and solutions available. Downsides reported by users are spotty Bluetooth connections, app glitches and less-than-clear instructions (Ancel’s website has grammatical errors that suggest translation software was involved).

In order to determine the best OBD2 scanner for your vehicle, we considered the products most accessible to the widest swath of consumers in the U.S., in addition to performance, price and value. We also considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple testers.

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