Top 10 auto Diagnostic Tools
for June 2023

If your family has a car, then you know the importance of auto diagnostic tools. These tools, also known as code readers, are a must-have for diagnosing any problems with your car, including engine issues, transmission issues, electrical issues, and airbag issues.

Car diagnostic tools scan your car's computer, or ECU, for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which are basically flags that tell a computer what to fix. A DTC is an error code or message that's generated by a computer, typically when something goes wrong.

In the Different Guide , we test auto diagnostic tools for performance, such as how fast the tool scans a car, how long it takes, and how easy the tool is to use. We also look at how easy it is to read the codes, and how easy it is for a technician to troubleshoot the issues based on the codes.

We test auto diagnostic tools in the Different Guide for performance, ease of use, and tech specs. Here are the best auto diagnostic tools to buy in 2022, according to testing and popular reviews:

Different Guide editors independently choose recommendations. Purchases made through our links may earn us commissions.

1
9.9
SCORE
LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner, 2021 Newest CR529 Enhanced Universal Car Code Reader Auto Diagnostic Scan Tool with Full OBDII Functions DTC Lookup Check Engine Light for All OBDII Car After 1996

LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner

by LAUNCH
What We like

If you want the ability to diagnose and reset engine codes right from your phone, this car code reader is the tool you want. This review was one of the cheaper ones we tested.

2
9.8
SCORE
OBD2 Scanner for Car, Car Code Reader, Universal Diagnostic Tool for Check Engine Light, Easy Auto Vehicle Scan Tool for All OBDⅡ Car After 1996

Kasmotion OBD2 Scanner for Car

by Kasmotion
What We like

If you're a car do-it-yourselfer or a diesel mechanic, this is an excellent tool to have. It's one of the easier to use OBD2 scanners we tested, with a quicker response time, more error codes, and a more complex car data screen than some other models.

3
9.5
SCORE
KONNWEI KW850 Professional OBD2 Scanner Auto Code Reader Diagnostic Check Engine Light Scan Tool for OBD II Cars After 1996 (Original)

KONNWEI KW850 Professional OBD2 Scanner Auto Code Reader Diagnostic Check Engine Light Scan Tool for OBD II Cars After 1996 (Original)

by KONNWEI KW850
What We like

We were really surprised by the price point of this professional OBD2 code reader. We tested many similar scanners, but KW850 works the best and it's the least expensive one we tested.

4
9.5
SCORE
LAUNCH Scanner CRP123X Elite Code Reader, 2021 Newest OBD2 Car Diagnostic Scanner for ABS SRS Transmission Engine Scan Tool with Battery Test,Android 7.0,5.0’’Touchscreen,AutoVIN, Lifetime Free Update

LAUNCH Scanner CRP123X Elite Code Reader

by LAUNCH
What We like

This android car diagnostic scanner upgrades its functionality with OE-Level features. For professional mechanics it performs all the same functions as more expensive scanners from other manufacturers.

5
8.9
SCORE
Steelman Wireless ChassisEAR Auto Diagnostic Tool Kit, Identify The Cause of Troubling Vehicle Noises, 4 Transmitters with 50-Foot Range

Steelman Wireless ChassisEAR Auto Diagnostic Tool Kit

by JS Products
What We like

We found this the best wireless tool for diagnosing car noises. Its range is 50 feet, which is far better than that of most wireless stethoscopes. It has a small, ergonomic design and was reliable and easy to use.

6
8.7
SCORE
iCarsoft Professional Multi-System Auto Diagnostic Tool MB V2.0 Compatible for Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter/Smart, ABS SRS Oil BLD INJ

iCarsoft Professional Multi-System Auto Diagnostic Tool MB V2.0 Compatible for Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter/Smart

by icarsoft
What We like

Compared to its competitor, the iCarsoft MB V2.0 is easier to use and clearer to read. Plus, it provides a full range of systems diagnostics, not just engine troubles like others we tested.

7
8.3
SCORE
Capital auto Diagnostic USB Cable Scanner Tool Kit for Suzuki Outboard Marine Boat SDS 8.50

Capital_auto Capital auto Diagnostic USB Cable Scanner Tool Kit for Suzuki Outboard Marine Boat SDS 8.50

by Capital_auto
What We like

This CD is for anyone who owns a Suzuki outboard marine boat, and who wants an inexpensive way to get some of their extended warranty coverage.

8
8.3
SCORE
Autel Scanner MaxiPRO MP808K - MP808 DS808 Kit Ver. - 2021 Newest Auto Diagnostic Scan Tool All in One Same As Autel MS906 with Bi-Directional Control, Active Test, Key Coding, 30+ Maintenances Reset

Autel Scanner MaxiPRO MP808K

by Autel
What We like

The scanner does everything it says it's going to do, and does it quickly. The interface is simple, and you won't need a staff technician to operate it.

9
8.3
SCORE
FOXWELL OBD2 Code Reader for Honda Acura, Automotive Scan Tool All System Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scanner ABS SRS Transmission Auto Bleed SAS TPMS EPB Oil Reset (Enhanced Version)

FOXWELL OBD2 Code Reader for Honda Acura

by FOXWELL
What We like

The Foxwell NT509 is an excellent scanner, but it doesn't have a Wi-Fi or USB cable that most other OBD2 scanners we've tested use. At $200, it's also the most expensive in our lineup.

10
7.8
SCORE
iCarsoft Professional Multi-System Auto Diagnostic Tool LR V2.0 Compatible for Landrover/Jaguar ABS SRS Oil Reset DPF, The Update for LR II

iCarsoft Professional Multi-System Auto Diagnostic Tool LR V2.0 Compatible for Landrover/Jaguar ABS SRS Oil Reset DPF

by iCarsoft
What We like

This tool is for all Land Rovers and Jaguars. No need to buy another tool for all models. This tool works on all models from 2006 onwards, the vehicle manufacturer's diagnostic port is used to access the computers. iCarsoft LR V2.0 interface works with the vehicles diagnostic port, there is no need to solder wires or cut the vehicle's diagnostic plug.

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