What is an OBD2 scanner?

An OBD2 scanner is a tool that diagnoses car problems by reading data from the vehicle's onboard computer.

How does an OBD2 scanner work?

The scanner connects to a vehicle's OBD2 port, reads the data from the vehicle's computer, and translates it into diagnostic trouble codes.

Can an OBD2 scanner be used on any vehicle?

OBD2 scanners generally work on vehicles made after 1996, as it is when the OBD2 system became a standard.

What kind of problems can an OBD2 scanner detect?

An OBD2 scanner can detect a wide range of issues, including problems with the engine, exhaust system, transmission, and more.

Do I need any special skills to use an OBD2 scanner?

While it can be helpful, you don't necessarily need mechanical knowledge to use an OBD2 scanner, as many devices provide code explanations.

February 21, 2026

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10 Best obd2 scanners of 2026

Save up to 50% off

1

Clicked 2,049 times in the last week

Autel
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808S: 2026 Bidirectional Tool as MK808BT Pro MX808S M808Z, Work as MaxiCheck MX900 MK900BT, 28+ Service, Active Test, All System Diagnose, Injector C0ding, FCA Autoauth OS 11
Main highlights

Fast Diagnostics and Extensive Coverage
Experience 5X faster diagnostics and support for 150 car brands from 1996-2024.

Ideal for Professional and DIY Use
Perfect for mechanics and car enthusiasts with its comprehensive diagnostic capabilities and user-friendly interface.

Highly Praised Customer Support
Customers appreciate responsive support and effective problem resolution, enhancing user experience.
9.9

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.7
Interactive Display

9.3
User interface

9.1
Simple to use
How do we rank?

Powerful technology We scan thousands of products and stores, analyzing reviews to find what matters most to users like you

Careful review Our team ensures quality, value, and fit based on real user feedback

Trusted insights AI and human analysis guide your decisions, reflecting real user priorities
Real users impact

Thousands of users trust our site daily

Based on millions of stores and reviews

Shoppers influence our rankings
Analyzing top stores
2

LAUNCH
LAUNCH X431 CRP919XBT OBD2 Scanner, 2026 Wireless Bidirectional Scan Tool with ECU Coding, 35+ Services, All Systems Diagnostic, FCA AutoAuth, 2Yrs Free Update, V.A.G Guide, CANFD, Upgraded of CRP919X
Main highlights

Wireless Connectivity & Fast Performance
The LAUNCH X431 CRP919XBT offers wireless VCI connectivity for seamless diagnostics, with MTK chip and doubled memory ensuring 5X faster navigation.

Ideal for Comprehensive Vehicle Diagnostics
Perfect for mechanics needing all-system diagnostics, ECU coding, and 35+ reset services across 99 car brands.

Praised Bluetooth Feature
Customers appreciate the Bluetooth capability, allowing mobility during diagnostics and eliminating the need to stay inside the vehicle.
Key specs
- Power Source:1 Lithium Ion battery
- Reset Services:31+ Reset Functions
- Special Features:V.A.G Guided Functions, AutoAuth
- Live Data:N/A
- Screen Size:N/A
9.8

Exceptional

Our Rating
3

Autel

Autel MaxiSys MS909 S2 Scanner: 2026 Top AI Intelligen Scan Diagnostic as Ultra S2 MS919S2, Up of Ultra MS919 MS909, 3.0 Topology, Enhanced PID Analysis, Motor Truspeed, 48+ Service, JVCI2 Pr0gramming
9.7

Exceptional

Our Rating
4

ANCEL
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)

17% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Diagnostic Capabilities
The ANCEL AD310 reads and clears engine codes, displays live data, and supports all OBDII protocols for extensive vehicle compatibility.

Ideal for DIY Mechanics
Perfect for car owners who want to diagnose engine issues themselves and save on mechanic fees.

User-Friendly and Portable
Praised for its ease of use, portability, and quick diagnostic results according to customer reviews.
9.6

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.7
Instruction

9.7
Simple to use

9.5
worth the money
5

MOTOPOWER
MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

41% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Diagnostic Tool
Features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library to identify engine issues.

Ideal for DIY Car Maintenance
Best for personal use on most vehicles since 1996.

User-Friendly Interface
Praised for ease of use and intuitive design.
9.5

Excellent

Our Rating

9.5
Simple to use

9.3
worth the money

9.3
Precision
See Today’s Deals & Prices
6

CGSULIT

OBD2 Scanner, CGSULIT SC103 Car Code Reader Diagnose Check Engine Light Smog Check DTCs Scan Tool Live Data Stream Voltage Test for Vehicles Since 1996

50% Off
9.3

Excellent

Our Rating
7

VDIAGTOOL
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

20% Off
Main highlights

Easy Diagnostic Access
Simple plug & play design for quick car diagnostics.

Versatile Compatibility
Ideal for post-1996 vehicles, supporting all OBDII protocols.

User-Friendly Interface
Praised for clear display and ease of use by customers.
Key specs
- Power Source:OBD2 Data Link Connector
- Reset Services:Yes
- Special Features:Check Engine, DTC Lookup
- Live Data:Yes
- Screen Size:N/A
9.2

Excellent

Our Rating
8

BlueDriver
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+

33% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Diagnostics
BlueDriver offers professional-level diagnostics, including ABS, SRS, TPMS, and more.

Ideal for DIY Mechanics
Perfect for those maintaining their own vehicles or inspecting used cars.

Praised Feature: Live Data
Customers love the real-time data monitoring and code reading.
9.0

Excellent

Our Rating

9.9
Easy installation

9.9
Giftable

9.7
Bluetooth connection
9

Cuymoap

Cuymoap Bluetooth OBD2 Car Diagnostic Scanner, ELM327 Engine Code Read and Reset Tool, Real-time Data Monitor Device with Exclusive App, Universal Stable Connection for IOS Android Windows (Black)
8.8

Very Good

Our Rating
10

ANCEL
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

22% Off
Main highlights

Wide Compatibility with US Vehicles
Supports all OBDII protocols on vehicles from 1996 onwards, making it versatile for most US cars.

Ideal for DIY Vehicle Diagnostics
Perfect for car owners wanting to perform basic diagnostics and reset error codes themselves.

Highly Praised for Money-Saving
Customers appreciate its ability to reset codes, saving on mechanic visits.
Key specs
- Power Source:OBDII Data Link Connector
- Reset Services:Emissions codes, MIL light
- Special Features:OBDII diagnostics, multilingual
- Live Data:Yes
- Screen Size:2.4 inches
8.6

Very Good

Our Rating

9.7
clearly written

9.5
worth the money

9.1
Precision

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an OBD2 scanner?
An OBD2 scanner is a tool that diagnoses car problems by reading data from the vehicle's onboard computer.

How does an OBD2 scanner work?
The scanner connects to a vehicle's OBD2 port, reads the data from the vehicle's computer, and translates it into diagnostic trouble codes.

Can an OBD2 scanner be used on any vehicle?
OBD2 scanners generally work on vehicles made after 1996, as it is when the OBD2 system became a standard.

What kind of problems can an OBD2 scanner detect?
An OBD2 scanner can detect a wide range of issues, including problems with the engine, exhaust system, transmission, and more.

Do I need any special skills to use an OBD2 scanner?
While it can be helpful, you don't necessarily need mechanical knowledge to use an OBD2 scanner, as many devices provide code explanations.

10 Best obd2 scanners of 2026

1

Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808S: 2026 Bidirectional Tool as MK808BT Pro MX808S M808Z, Work as MaxiCheck MX900 MK900BT, 28+ Service, Active Test, All System Diagnose, Injector C0ding, FCA Autoauth OS 11

9.7

9.3

9.1

How do we rank?

How do we rank?

Analyzing top stores

2

LAUNCH X431 CRP919XBT OBD2 Scanner, 2026 Wireless Bidirectional Scan Tool with ECU Coding, 35+ Services, All Systems Diagnostic, FCA AutoAuth, 2Yrs Free Update, V.A.G Guide, CANFD, Upgraded of CRP919X

3

Autel MaxiSys MS909 S2 Scanner: 2026 Top AI Intelligen Scan Diagnostic as Ultra S2 MS919S2, Up of Ultra MS919 MS909, 3.0 Topology, Enhanced PID Analysis, Motor Truspeed, 48+ Service, JVCI2 Pr0gramming

4

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)

9.7

9.7

9.5

5

MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

9.5

9.3

9.3

6

OBD2 Scanner, CGSULIT SC103 Car Code Reader Diagnose Check Engine Light Smog Check DTCs Scan Tool Live Data Stream Voltage Test for Vehicles Since 1996

7

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

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+

9.9

9.9

9.7

9

Cuymoap Bluetooth OBD2 Car Diagnostic Scanner, ELM327 Engine Code Read and Reset Tool, Real-time Data Monitor Device with Exclusive App, Universal Stable Connection for IOS Android Windows (Black)

10

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

9.7

9.5

9.1

Frequently Asked Questions

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