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Best OBD2 Scanners (2026)

A check-engine light doesn't have to mean a trip to the shop. Four OBD2 scanners from a basic code reader to a bidirectional scan tool.

Updated October 29, 20264 picks rankedOfficial manufacturer photosResearch-based, not hands-on lab testing

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Comparison of our four obd2 scanners picks
PhotoAwardProductPrice tierBest forBuy
Best Overall BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan ToolBluetooth, uses your phone $$$$ price tier 3 of 4DIYers who want answers Check price
Budget Friendly ANCEL AD310 OBD2 Code ReaderEngine codes only $$$$ price tier 1 of 4Check-engine basics Check price
Best Bang for the Buck TOPDON ArtiDiag500 (AD500) Scan ToolEngine, ABS, SRS, transmission $$$$ price tier 2 of 4Brakes, oil service, warning lights Check price
Premium Pick Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Scan Tool7" Android tablet $$$$ price tier 4 of 4Advanced DIY and side-gig mechanics Check price
Best Overall
BlueDriverPrice tier$$$$ price tier 3 of 4

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool

  • Bluetooth, uses your phone
  • Engine + ABS, SRS, TPMS, transmission
  • Verified repair reports
  • No subscription

Why we picked it: Your phone becomes a pro-style scan tool, with repair reports that tell you the likely fix. No subscriptions.

Pros

  • Reads more than engine codes
  • Repair reports
  • No subscription fees

Cons

  • Needs a phone
  • Coverage varies by vehicle
Check price on AmazonBest for: DIYers who want answers
Budget Friendly
ANCELPrice tier$$$$ price tier 1 of 4

ANCEL AD310 OBD2 Code Reader

  • Engine codes only
  • 2.4" screen
  • 2.5 ft cable
  • Reads and clears codes

Why we picked it: The simple, cheap code reader to keep in the glovebox. Plug it in, read the code, clear it after the fix.

Pros

  • Very cheap
  • No phone or app needed
  • Simple to use

Cons

  • Engine codes only
  • No ABS/SRS
Check price on AmazonBest for: Check-engine basics
Best Bang for the Buck
TOPDONPrice tier$$$$ price tier 2 of 4

TOPDON ArtiDiag500 (AD500) Scan Tool

  • Engine, ABS, SRS, transmission
  • 6 service resets
  • AutoVIN
  • CAN FD support

Why we picked it: Four systems plus oil, brake and battery resets, for a mid-range price.

Pros

  • 4 systems + resets
  • Handheld, no phone needed
  • AutoVIN

Cons

  • Not bidirectional
Check price on AmazonBest for: Brakes, oil service, warning lights
Premium Pick
AutelPrice tier$$$$ price tier 4 of 4

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Scan Tool

  • 7" Android tablet
  • All-systems diagnostics
  • Bidirectional controls
  • 28+ service functions

Why we picked it: Shop-style power: all systems, bidirectional tests and dozens of service functions on a tablet.

Pros

  • All systems
  • Bidirectional tests
  • Big touchscreen

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Overkill for basic code reading
Check price on AmazonBest for: Advanced DIY and side-gig mechanics

How we picked

We compared which systems each tool reads (engine, ABS, SRS, transmission), service resets, subscription fees and ease of use. Specs come from the manufacturers and the Amazon listings as of October 29, 2026. We don't publish star ratings or invent test results, and rankings aren't for sale.

What the price tiers mean

$$$$ price tier 1 of 4 Lowest-cost pick in this category
$$$$ price tier 2 of 4 Mid-range
$$$$ price tier 3 of 4 Upper mid-range
$$$$ price tier 4 of 4 Top of the category

Tiers compare products within this page only. A $$ power station still costs more than a $$$$ headlamp. Click through for today's Amazon price.

FAQ

Will an OBD2 scanner work on my car?

All gas cars and light trucks sold in the US since 1996 have an OBD2 port. Coverage of ABS, SRS and other systems varies by tool and vehicle, so check the maker's vehicle coverage list.

Does it fix the problem?

No. It tells you the code and what it means. Some tools give repair suggestions and let you clear codes after the fix.

Why don't you list exact prices?

Amazon prices change daily. We show a relative price tier ($ to $$$$) within this category and link to Amazon for the current price.