5 Best OBD2 Scanners for Cars: Wired and Wireless

The best OBD2 scanners are important tools to keep in your car. No matter if you’re an enthusiast or a first-time car owner, code readers for cars can be of help to all. From professional OBD2 scanners to budget options, this list has something for everyone.

Best OBD2 Scanners

While the best OBD2 scanners for cars were previously available only to professionals, they are now easily accessible to all. Connected to your car, it can help you know if everything is good with your car.

In fact, advanced OBD2 scanners can also be used to monitor and maximize the performance of your car and some even help you carry out special functions for just some extra fun with your car.

OBD2 scanners can help diagnose potential issues with a car all without going to the mechanic thereby saving a lot of money in the process. But before we get to the list of the best OBD2 scanners for cars, we recommend checking some of our other posts.

1. Motopower MP69033

Motopower

The Motopower MP69033 is a multi-function OBD2 code reader that features a built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library. It promises to help you determine what’s wrong with your car by reading the engine light and decoding the read code for the user.

Apart from this, it also gives the user access to data like erase code, view freeze frame, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, and engine coolant temperature among other important information.

It’s not battery operated as the code reader draws the power directly from your vehicle. This is done through the OBDII Data Link Connector. The design also involves a clear LCD screen with a white backlight and contrast adjustment features.

What We Like

  • Aggressive price
  • Decent feature list

What We Don’t Like

  • Basic design

2. Foxwell NT301

Foxwell NT301

If you’re someone who is looking at spending hundreds of dollars at the mechanics just because your car engine light is on, then the Foxwell NT301 is for you. The NT301 code scanner can be used to determine the cause of the engine light, and tell you what’s wrong with your car engine, and if it is necessary to be sent to the workshop.

This OBD2 scanner offers real-time data in a graphical format so that the user can observe trends and changes in data, and check if parameters like temperature and speed are within normal ranges.

Compared to its competitors, the NT301 offers full support for ten OBD2 service modes. This includes live data, freeze frame (snapshot) data, e-missions-related trouble codes, access to the O2 sensor, and onboard monitoring examination results among others. Apart from this it also comes with a user-friendly design, compact size, organized keypad, intuitive menu, and a 2.8-inch color screen.

What We Like

  • Value for money
  • Real-time data transfer

What We Don’t Like

  • Basic design

3. Innova 6030P

Innova 6030P

No matter if you’re a beginner or a professional, the Innova 6030P is a good fit for most buyers. It can help you troubleshoot engine problems, check emissions, and monitor the performance of your car.

Innova 6030P can also be paired with the RepairSolutions2 app for access to real-time OBD2 information wirelessly. This app can also be used to find verified parts for repairs and view maintenance schedules among other things.

The Innova 6030P is an easy-to-use and easier-to-understand OBD2 scanner that can be used to check engine lights and even brake light faults. It can also check a car’s battery health and give the user instant access to key information about their vehicle’s RPM, oil temperature, and other important data.

What We Like

  • Easy to use
  • Good design

What We Don’t Like

  • N/A
OBDLink

The OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner is a wireless device that promises to turn your iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC into a professional-grade diagnostic scan tool for your car.

It offers a real-time performance monitor and is capable of accessing manufacturer-specific vehicle data. As the latest model in the company’s line-up, it’s faster, more reliable, and more feature-rich than its predecessors.

OBDLink claims this is the only wireless iOS-compatible scan tool on the market that supports the proprietary GM-LAN and Ford MS-CAN vehicle networks. It also offers security features including overvoltage/load dump protection and promises hacker-proof wireless security. Plus, there’s also an ultra-low-current sleep mode if you’re worried about leaving the OBDLink MX+ plugged into your car.

What We Like

  • Good wireless functions
  • Compatible with iOS

What We Don’t Like

  • Slightly expensive

5. Foxwell NT604 Elite

Foxwell NT604

In case you’re looking for an OBD2 scanner that’s feature-rich and easy to use, then the Foxwell NT604 Elite is a good option to consider. It is designed for car owners looking to figure out issues with their cars at home.

Compared to more affordable options, the NT604 Elite code scanner can also be used as an ABS/SRS scanner, as well as testing transmission and checking engine codes. It also comes with an AUTOVIN feature, which lets the user access the V-IN information quickly.

With an average rating of 4.3 stars on Amazon and more than 3000 reviews on the e-commerce platform, the Foxwell NT604 Elite is arguably one of the best OBD2 scanners in its segment.

What We Like

  • SRS airbag scanner
  • Feature-rich

What We Don’t Like

  • Slightly expensive

Diagnose Car Problems at Home!

The best OBD2 scanners promise to help you accurately diagnose your car’s issues and health at home. Depending on how much you’re willing to spend on it, a good OBD2 scanner can offer a good level of functionality and a lot of savings in the long term. So invest in one of the options from this list and figure out your car’s problems yourself.

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Last updated on 02 January, 2024

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