Avoid disappointment! Spend a few minutes on this page before choosing your Code Reader or Scanner.

Not all Code Readers/Scanners are created equal. The information here will help you choose the one that's right for you.

What is a scanner, code reader, scan tool?
It is a device that connects to your vehicles on-board-computer. It can read data generated by your vehicles computer such as 'error codes'. The device can also reset these codes.  Many have advanced functions which are listed below.

Step 1. Do you want a 'basic code reader' or a 'higher end unit'?

A basic code reader is low cost and will read the engine codes and erase them. This is often all you need if you just want to know the codes to keep your mechanic accountable or perhaps do your own basic repair. They are identifiable by the fact they usually only have 2 buttons.
*Pitfalls! The low cost readers have the most compatibility issues. They are designed to work on the most common models and don't have the programming to cover all protocols from all car manufacturers. From our experience, about 98% of the low cost readers we sell work fine. The other 2% experience incompatibility. It is recommended that you check your vehicles protocol as explained below before buying a low cost unit.

A higher end unit will cost more but will perform more functions and have a much less chance of experiencing incompatibility. Some examples of added functions include:

'ABS or Airbag capability': Read and reset other systems such as Antilock Brake System and Airbags.
'On Screen Definitions': Lower cost units just display a code. You then have to look up the definiion in a provided code book. The 'on-screen' option allows you to see the definition right on the readers screen.
Printing ability: Print results to your printer.
 'Live Data': View engine sensors and performance in real time, even as you are driving. Good for diagnosing problems.
Updatable: Update the device online to keep up with changes in vehicle protocols.
'Memory': Saves your data in the scanners memory for later viewing.
'Retrieve the VIN (vehicle identification number)': Displays the VIN of the vehicle. This is usefull if you suspect a vehicles VIN has been tampered with or the car has been rebuilt.

Step 2. Avoid compatibility issues. Find your vehicles OBD2 Protocol?

If your buying a 'universal type' or a 'low cost' scanner, check your vehicle to see what 'OBD2 protocol' it uses. If a scanner we sell does not read all protocols, we will state what protocols it reads right in the items description.

To find out what protocol your vehicle uses, check for a label under the hood.

You can also look up your vehicle here: OBD2 Protocols by vehicle make and model.

...or check your vehicles diagnostic connector:

Where is my vehicles Diagnostic Connector?  Click here.

Your vehicle uses 1 of 5 possible protocols:
J1850 PWM - The connector must have pins 2, 4, 5, 10, and 16.
J1850 VPW - The connector must have pins 2, 4, 5, and 16, but not 10.
ISO 9141-2 - The connector must have pins 4, 5, 7, and 16.
ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000) - The connector must have pins 4, 5, 7, and 16.
CAN-BUS (J1939 & ISO15765-4) - The connector must have pins 4, 5, 6, 14 and 16.

Step 3. Go to our 'Auto Scanners' page.

At the top, are links to narrow down the choices by vehicle make. For example; 'Universal' is for scanners that work on more than one make of vehicle. 'Japanese' is for scanners that work on Japanese makes.

 

Things to consider:

Don't get stuck with a NON-CAN-BUS reader if your vehicle is CAN-BUS.

Starting with model year 2003, some vehicle makes and models started using a new type of OBD2 called CAN-BUS. All vehicles 2008 and newer use CAN-BUS. A small group of readers we sell do not work on CAN-BUS and state this in the items description. They are designed for the older models without CAN-BUS. Better to be safe than sorry, check your vehicles protocol as explained in step 2.

Is your vehicle one of these?

BMW
Mercedes Benz
VW / Audi
Volvo

These types of vehicles often have compatibility issues with 'low cost' and 'universal type' scanners. We have pages dedicated to these makes to ensure your purchase is a success. See the links at the top of our 'Auto Scanners' page.

 

Our recommendations:

For a 'low cost' reader our pick is the Autel MS310.

This is not the cheapest unit but it's under $50 and we simply never receive complaints or returns on these. It is compatible where the other low cost units are not. Easy to use, robust and can be updated free via the internet. The definitions are displayed on a large back-lit LCD screen. Recommended for all car owners; Know what your car is saying and keep your mechanic accountable.

For a 'high end' scanner our pick is the MD801

These simply work on most every vehicle on the market. They do Engine, Airbags, Transmission and ABS. They are loaded with features and can be updated free via the internet. Recommended for the backyard mechanic or auto technician.