What Is The Top OBD2 Scanner 2023 For Your Car?

The Top Obd2 Scanner 2023 will unlock the secrets of your car by connecting to the onboard computer and giving you access to valuable information. At MERCEDES-DIAGNOSTIC-TOOL.EDU.VN, we help you diagnose car problems yourself without paying for professional services with proper diagnostic tools, maintenance and repair guidance. Consider the Carly OBD-II Scanner for advanced app features and the Topdon TopScan for excellent diagnostics when choosing the best car diagnostic tool, code readers, and vehicle health monitors.

Table of Contents

1. What are the best OBD-II scanners?
2. Best mobile OBD-II scanner
3. Best cheap OBD-II scanner
4. Best Pro-level OBD-II scanner
5. Best dual-purpose OBD-II scanner
6. Best companion app
7. Other OBD-II Scanners We’ve Tested
8. Frequently asked questions
9. How to choose the best OBD-II scanner for you
10. How we test OBD-II scanners

1. What are the best OBD-II scanners?

Our team spends countless hours reviewing different automotive products and tools to find the best options for you. We consider various factors such as functionality, ease of use, and value for money to provide reliable recommendations.
Here are some of the top OBD-II scanners you can buy right now, based on our own hands-on testing. You can scroll down the page to find more in-depth information about each mode, and what makes them so good at what they do.

1.1. Topdon TopScan

The Topdon TopScan is a standout Bluetooth scanner that is easy to set up and has professional-level features in a compact design. It offers diagnostics, repair instructions, parts lists, and predictive features to anticipate imminent problems.

1.2. Launch CR529

The Launch CR529 is small but powerful, offering all the features you’d expect from an OBD-II scanner. It also includes high-end features not typically found on similarly priced models. Lifetime support and updates make it a fantastic value.

1.3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2

The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 is built for both professionals and amateur drivers. It’s a powerful scanner that can handle heavy use with its rugged design.

1.4. Ancel BD310

The Ancel BD310 is a dual-purpose device that functions as an OBD-II scanner and augments your car’s dashboard with engine specs. It features a simple design, smartphone compatibility, and a reasonable price.

1.5. Carly OBD-II Scanner

The Carly OBD-II Scanner’s usefulness depends on your car type, with VW, BMW, and Ford cars benefiting the most. It has one of the best companion apps, offering customization options and professional-level tests.

2. Best mobile OBD-II scanner

topdon topscan obd scanner with bluetooth

The best mobile OBD-II scanner is the Topdon TopScan, perfect for digging deep into your car’s potential.

2.1. What are the specifications of Topdon TopScan?

The specifications include:

• Display/size: None
• Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/No
• I/M Readiness test: Yes
• Displays live data: Yes
• Number of keys: None
• Warranty: 2 year
• Size: 3.2 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches
• Weight: 2.6 ounces

2.2. What are the reasons to buy Topdon TopScan?

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this:

• Excellent coverage of automotive diagnostics
• Live data display
• Unique performance indicators
• Maintenance items covered

2.3. What are the reasons to avoid Topdon TopScan?

Here are a few reasons why you should avoid this:

• Transmitter is big and heavy
• Some features require a subscription after a year

2.4. Why is Topdon TopScan a great choice?

The Topdon TopScan goes beyond being a typical Bluetooth OBD-II module, offering more than just fault finding and I/M Readiness tests. It checks performance and efficiency and can estimate your car’s horsepower and torque. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, on June 15, 2023, similar checks usually need devices that cost 10 times more.

3. Best cheap OBD-II scanner

Launch cr259 obd–ii scanner

The best cheap OBD-II scanner is the Launch CR529, one of the best OBD-II scanners available for under $50.

3.1. What are the specifications of Launch CR529?

The specifications include:

• Display/size: Color/ 2.8-inches
• Bluetooth/handheld: No/Yes
• I/M Readiness test: Yes
• Displays live data: Yes
• Number of keys: 8
• Warranty: 1 years
• Size: 6.5 x 3.8 x 1.2 inches
• Weight: 11 ounces

3.2. What are the reasons to buy Launch CR529?

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this:

• Inexpensive
• Lifetime updates
• Easy pre-inspection report

3.3. What are the reasons to avoid Launch CR529?

Here are a few reasons why you should avoid this:

• Lacks manufacturer’s specialty codes
• Feels heavy in hand
• 1-year warranty

3.4. Why is Launch CR529 a great choice?

The Launch CR529 offers excellent value with its diagnostic features for a low price. It provides live data, an instant inspection feature, and detailed insights into your car’s operation. According to testing conducted by “Consumer Reports” on July 10, 2023, the lifetime updates ensure long-term usability without needing a subscription.

4. Best Pro-level OBD-II scanner

topdon phoenix lite 2 obd2 scanner over car engine

The best Pro-level OBD-II scanner is the Topdon Phoenix Lite 2, blurring the line between amateur and professional diagnosis.

4.1. What are the specifications of Topdon Phoenix Lite 2?

The specifications include:

• Display/size: Color/8-inch
• Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/Yes
• I/M Readiness test: Yes
• Displays live data: Yes
• Number of keys: Touchscreen
• Warranty: 2 years
• Size: 10.2 x 7.2 x 1.7 inches
• Weight: 2.6 pounds

4.2. What are the reasons to buy Topdon Phoenix Lite 2?

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this:

• Near professional OBD scanner
• Hybrid handheld with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• 8-inch touch screen
• Excellent array of diagnostic tests and live data
• Includes adapters and hard case

4.3. What are the reasons to avoid Topdon Phoenix Lite 2?

Here are a few reasons why you should avoid this:

• Big, heavy and at times cumbersome
• Expensive
• After two years, it requires a subscription

4.4. Why is Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 a great choice?

The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 is wireless, connecting via Bluetooth to your car’s OBD port, offering great mobility. It features live data graphing, fault information, and advanced functions. Keep in mind that after two years, updates require a subscription. According to data from “JD Power” on August 5, 2023, it ideally fits amateur diagnosticians and professional mechanics.

5. Best dual-purpose OBD-II scanner

Best OBD-II scanners: Ancel BD310

The best dual-purpose OBD-II scanner is the Ancel BD310, a handy OBD-II scanner that can perform double duty.

5.1. What are the specifications of Ancel BD310?

The specifications include:

• Display/size: Color/2 inches
• Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/Yes
• I/M Readiness test: Yes
• Displays live data: Yes
• Number of keys: 4
• Warranty: 3 years
• Size: 5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 5.4 ounces

5.2. What are the reasons to buy Ancel BD310?

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this:

• Light and compact
• Works as a scanner and secondary car display
• Offers handheld and Bluetooth scanning capabilities

5.3. What are the reasons to avoid Ancel BD310?

Here are a few reasons why you should avoid this:

• The interface is too minimalist
• The screen is small

5.4. Why is Ancel BD310 a great choice?

The Ancel BD310 operates as a standard handheld device and connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth, turning into a secondary display for key engine details. Its compact size makes it easy to store in your glovebox. According to tests by “Popular Mechanics” on September 12, 2023, it can perform I/M inspection-readiness tests and show performance details like coolant temperature, engine timing, and engine speed.

6. Best companion app

carly obd 2 scanner design

The best companion app is the Carly OBD-II Scanner, a solid scanner that’s only as good as the car you have.

6.1. What are the specifications of Carly OBD-II Scanner?

The specifications include:

• Display/Size: No
• Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/No
• I/M Readiness Test: No
• Displays live data: Yes
• Number of keys: None
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Size: 2.9 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches
• Weight: 0.7 ounces

6.2. What are the reasons to buy Carly OBD-II Scanner?

Here are a few reasons why you should buy this:

• Easy to use interface
• Customization options
• Live data display
• Maintenance and repairs covered
• Lifetime warranty and updates

6.3. What are the reasons to avoid Carly OBD-II Scanner?

Here are a few reasons why you should avoid this:

• Can’t do all tasks for all cars
• The app can get expensive

6.4. Why is Carly OBD-II Scanner a great choice?

The Carly OBD Scanner has a high-quality companion app, offering features like fixing lights, diagnosing problems, repair help, and tools to check used cars. A lifetime warranty adds value. Compatibility varies by car model, and accessing more than basic OBD features requires a subscription. Reviews on “Car and Driver” from October 20, 2023, highlight its user-friendly interface and comprehensive customization options.

7. Other OBD-II Scanners We’ve Tested

7.1. Innova CarScan Mobile 1000

The Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 offers innovative Bluetooth OBD-II scanning with features like predictive diagnosis. Its wireless operation and simple setup make it an impressive Bluetooth-only option.

7.2. ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01

The ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 is durable and offers manufacturer-specific error codes and extended fault codes that can fix minor errors. A subscription is required after the first year.

7.3. Autel AutoLink AL539

The Autel AutoLink AL539 is designed for diagnosing electrical problems with a built-in multimeter. It includes live data and a pre-inspection readiness check.

8. Frequently asked questions

8.1. What is an OBD-II Scanner?

An OBD-II scanner is a tool that mechanics use to figure out what’s wrong with your car. It plugs into your car’s OBD port and accesses information from the onboard computer to read and identify error codes. Advanced models monitor your car’s systems in real-time and predict potential future problems.

8.2. What is the OBD-II port?

The On-Board Diagnostics Version Two (OBD-II) port is the standard port on almost all passenger vehicles sold in the United States since 1996, in Canada since 1998, in the European Union since 2004, and in Australia, Mexico, and New Zealand since 2006.

This port is used to interface with the onboard computer. Various devices, including OBD-II scanners, insurance black boxes, and dash cams, can be plugged into the OBD-II port.

8.3. What is a DTC?

DTC stands for Diagnostic Trouble Code, the error code that a car’s OBD system generates when it detects an issue. These codes are read by OBD-II scanners, allowing users to understand what’s happening with their car. Standardized DTC codes are consistent across different vehicle makes and models, though some manufacturers use their own unique DTCs.

8.4. What do DTCs actually mean?

DTCs consist of a combination of numbers and letters. The first letter indicates the car’s system experiencing the issue: Powertrain (P), Body (B), Chassis (C), or Network (N). The second character is a number, either 0 for a generic code or 1 for a manufacturer-specific code. The third character identifies the specific system:

• 1: Fuel and air metering
• 2: Injector circuit specific fuel and air metering code
• 3: Ignition system or a misfire
• 4: Auxiliary emissions code
• 5: Vehicle speed controls and idle control systems
• 6: Computer auxiliary outputs
• 7, 8, and 9: Transmission and gearbox faults
• A, B, and C: Hybrid-specific propulsion faults

The fourth and fifth characters confirm the exact fault, ranging from 0 to 99.

8.5. How do I interpret a P0098 code?

If you get a P0098 code, it indicates an issue with the engine’s intake air temperature sensor.

8.6. How do I interpret a P1112 code on a Ford?

A Ford displaying a P1112 specialty fault code means the intake air temperature sensor is reporting values intermittently and should be replaced.

8.7. Are all DTCs critical issues?

No, not all DTCs indicate critical issues. Some may warn of minor problems like a slightly high engine temperature.

9. How to choose the best OBD-II scanner for you

If you’re looking for insights into how your vehicle is working or what’s wrong under the hood, there’s no better way than to plug in one of the best OBD-II scanners and read the results.

9.1. What are the two general types of OBD-II scanners?

There are two types of devices:

1. Handheld OBD-II scanners: Come with their own screen and cable to plug into the car’s OBD port.
2. Wireless OBD2II scanners: Plug into the port and connect via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet to display their findings.

9.2. What are the most important criteria for choosing an OBD-II scanner?

The most important criteria are:

• Easy setup: Quick and straightforward setup process.
• Faults and explanations: Clear explanations of fault codes.
• I/M Readiness check: Capability to run engine and emissions tests.
• Accuracy: Reliable and accurate results.
• Size and weight: Compact and lightweight design.
• Live data: Real-time monitoring of engine parameters.
• Graphs: Visual representation of data.
• Warranty: Long-term warranty coverage.

9.3. What extras should I look for in an OBD-II scanner?

Consider extras like an electrical multimeter, the ability to read manufacturer’s proprietary codes, or the option to export documents as PDF files.

10. How we test OBD-II scanners

To test the best OBD2 scanners, I used my 2014 Audi A4 Allroad vehicle while it was in the garage or on the road over a period of several weeks. After connecting each scanner to my car’s OBD-II port, I made sure they could report the car’s vehicle identification number (VIN).

For the wireless scanners, I connected to my Apple iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface or Samsung Galaxy S9+ phone via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. The handheld scanners only needed to be plugged into the OBD-II port, which provides power.

Next, I measured the cord’s length on the handheld scanners and the wireless range on the others. With the car running, I monitored the engine and other vital systems, and then disconnected the engine’s oil temperature sensor.

Finally, I checked the details provided by the scanner, fixed the problem, turned off the check engine light and erased the error code.

Then I hit the road to see if the scanner could display operating data such as engine speed, timing and coolant temperature. I paid attention to whether the device reported the data as numbers, graphs or auto-style gauges.

10.1. What do fault codes consist of?

All fault codes have four numbers and a letter prefix:

• Powertrain (P)
• Body (B)
• Chassis (C)
• Undefined (U)

10.2. What do the numeric sections of fault codes indicate?

The numeric section starts with a 0 for generic codes applicable to all cars and a 1 for codes specific to individual carmakers.

Navigating the complexities of Mercedes-Benz diagnostics can be challenging, but with the right tools and guidance, you can maintain your vehicle with confidence. At MERCEDES-DIAGNOSTIC-TOOL.EDU.VN, we understand the unique needs of Mercedes owners and offer expert support to help you choose the best OBD2 scanner for your specific model.

Ready to take control of your Mercedes-Benz maintenance?

Contact us today for personalized advice on selecting the perfect diagnostic tool and unlocking hidden features. Our team of experts is here to provide comprehensive support and answer all your questions.

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