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The Best auto code reader of 2022 – Reviewed and Top Rated

After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, we find out the Best auto code reader of 2022. Check our ranking below.

2,356 (random num) Reviews Scanned

Rank No. #1
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)
  • CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
  • Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed mechanic tool with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
  • Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble codes in seconds. If you want to find out the cause of the check engine light, this device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
  • OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. This is not the case with the AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
  • Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
Rank No. #2
MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow
  • Multi-Functions - It's a practical multi-function OBD2 code reader which helps you determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and remove diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself. Wide Compatibility - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing. It can also be used for some motorcycle OBD2 system diagnosis. (Note: an additional specific adapter cable is needed. not included with this device) 2.8" LCD Display & Multi-language - Designed with a clear 2.8" LCD screen (128 x 64 pixels) - white backlight and contrast adjustment. No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector. It also supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French and Italian. This scanner is enjoyed and highly recommended by the customers worldwide. Compact Design & Easy to Use - It weighs about 12 ounces and measures 6 x 2.75 x 0.9 inches. Equiped with a 2.5 feet long heavy duty cable and the standard 16-PIN OBD connector. 6 buttons for quick operation. The plug and play design makes it user-friendly. Even if you don't have much technical knowledge, you can operate it without any hassle. "Accurate & Fast - Different with other similar scanners, the MP69033 scanner use the brand new ARM micro processor to make sure the ultra high accuracy and fast speed. With the excellent performance of the micro processor, the detailed real-time engine data can be detected and displayed on the screen in seconds. Get codes, fix the problem and turn off the CEL. If you just need a code reader to check your car, it's definitely an affordable and reliable tool.
Rank No. #3
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light
  • [Vehicle CEL Doctor] The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to I/M readiness status, figure out the root reason of check engine light or MIL turned on, monitor sensors test, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle. The fault code only can be cleared after repair finished by NT301, as like all the obd2 code readers' working principle
  • [Accuracy & Streams] Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
  • [Worthy to Own] Recommended by most professional mechanics on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team. Plug & Play, no need to update before using. Available to windows system. NOT support ios and Mac
  • [S-mog Check Helper] Read/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test
  • [Home Necessity] Open to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and great choice for Home and Autoshop Mechanics. This scanner for car only supports to read the fault code of engine system, not support ABS or SRS
Rank No. #4
OBD2 Scanner Ease Setup Plug-Play: Clear Reset Engine Error Code Professional Code Reader Diagnostic Scan Tools with Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All Cars Since 1996 & Newer - LK11
  • EASY TO USE & PLUG AND PLAY DESIGN: This OBD2 scanner is designed for ease of use. Simply plug it into your car’s OBDII port for instant diagnostics, no technical knowledge required. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, and anyone who wants quick, reliable engine code checks
  • COMPREHENSIVE CAR DIAGNOSTICS: Retrieve and clear engine fault codes, view live data, and analyze freeze frame information to monitor your car’s health. This diagnostic tool saves you the hassle and expense of mechanic visits, providing accurate insights into your vehicle’s condition
  • KEEPS YOUR ENGINE RUNNING SMOOTHLY: Maintain your engine’s performance by quickly detecting issues with engine fault codes. This tool helps prevent major repairs by resolving problems early, saving both time and money. Ideal for preventative maintenance and efficient troubleshooting
  • FIRST CHOICE FOR DIY & PROFESSIONAL MECHANICS: No automotive knowledge required! Easily use this scanner to identify and clear check engine light issues, empowering both DIYers and mechanics to resolve problems instantly. Ideal for those seeking fast, effective diagnostics
  • ADVANCED MULTI-FUNCTIONALITY: Retrieve detailed vehicle information like VIN, Calibration ID, and CVN. Supports I/M readiness, engine coolant temperature, vehicle speed, and more, giving you complete control over your car’s diagnostics. Perfect for professional-level checks
SaleRank No. #5
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
  • WIDE COMPATIBILITY – Trusted by YouTube Star Scotty Kilmer. The AD410 OBD2 Scanner supports all 16PIN vehicles that comply with the OBDII protocol, including KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, and CAN. This OBD2 code scanner compatible with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles. Multilingual support (English, German, French, Spanish, etc.), this car code reader is ideal for international users. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing. !!! Powered directly from your vehicle's OBDII connector, this diagnostic tool doesn' t need a battery or charger.
  • CRITICAL FUNCTIONALITY – Quickly Read & Clear Fault Codes. The AD410 obd2 scanner diagnostic tool quickly reads and clears stored emissions-related codes, pending codes, and provides code definitions. With over 42,000 built-in DTC lookups, you can easily identify faults without the need for Google searches. Reset the MIL, check monitor readiness before smog tests, and understand your vehicle's health before costly repairs. !!! Note: Fault codes can be cleared after resolving the underlying issue, the code reader itself does not have a reset function.
  • ENHANCED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS – Comprehensive System Testing. This engine obd2 scanner diagnostic tool offers advanced diagnostics, including testing of O2 sensors and EVAP systems. Perform a leak test on your vehicle's EVAP system and monitor the fuel tank's integrity. The O2 sensor test helps fine-tune the air/fuel mixture, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions—saving you money at the pump and reducing your car's environmental impact. !!! Note: The AD410 is only an engine code reader, it DOESN'T support other systems such as ABS, SRS, Transmission and others.
  • QVGA DISPLAY & NEW UI – Easy-to-Use, User-Friendly Interface. The AD410 scanner for car boasts a 2.4 TFT true-color LCD display (262K) for clear, easy-to-read results. With an intuitive UI design, you can quickly access OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness checks, DTC search, and setup options. No need to read a manual—this user-friendly auto diagnostic code scanner is perfect for beginners, mechanic and seasoned users alike.
  • DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS & FREE LIFETIME UPDATES. The AD410 car scanner reader allows you to review, save, or print detailed diagnostic trouble code reports. Plus, with lifetime free software updates, you’ll always have the latest features and bug fixes. Simply download the updates from the ANCEL website and follow the easy on-screen installation instructions. (Note: update is not necessary, the AD410 code reader can be directly inserted into the OBDII interface of the car to use, if it doesn't work, then consider updating the device.) The ANCEL website provides the latest product user manual, which can be downloaded and viewed at any time.
Rank No. #6
AUTOPHIX OBD2 Scanner Enhanced OM126P Vehicle Code Reader Auto Diagnostic Check Engine Light for All OBDII Car After 1996[Upgrade Version]
  • ➤【POWERFUL FEATURES】 Built-in 14 special functions in 1 car reader, read and erase stored emission related codes, pending codes, and show code definitions, data steam, freeze frame, on-board monitoring, and show the vehicle information,I/M reading,review the recorded DTC,review & print report. Support O2 sensor and EVAP system test, let you initiate a leak test for the vehicle’s EVAP system, identify trouble shooting related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions.
  • ➤【CHECKING CAR ENGINE TOOL】 The OM126P Enhanced OBDII scanner can read and erase the trouble codes that can cause emission problems in your vehicle in seconds, turn off the MIL (check your car engine) and reset the monitor, build a DTC lookup library you can find the related code definitions to help you determine if your car needs repair, to save you time and money, and dramatically improve your car lifespan / performance.
  • ➤【EASY TO OPERATE】The OM126P car diagnostic tool equiped with 2. 4" TFT 262K true color LCD display screen to indicates the test results , with the silicone keypad you can easy to access the each menu options, the I/M Readiness hot key can check the state emissions readiness and drive cycle verification,Also, a wealth of car information is retrieved to find out all about your car without hassle for recording, car tracking, buying matched parts etc.
  • ➤【WIDE RANGE DIAGNOSE】 Work on all after 1996 and newer vehicles models in the USA(OBD II&CAN) or other imported vehicles. Quickly read and erase the DTC on all OBD II protocols vehicles: CAN, J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW, ISO9141 and KWP2000 and support for 10 languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, Finnish, Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, which make it easy to use for people from different countries .
  • ➤【WORRY-FREE SERVICE】 Plug & Play, no battery or charger required;OM126P OBDII diagnostic scan tool supports a lifetime free software updating and Review & Print diagnostic reports from the Auto fix ,via connect to a computer via USB (for Windows 7/8/10 ONLY), and we offer one year warranty , if you cannot comfirm its compatility, please feel free to consult us.
Rank No. #7
GIMFOOM V317 OBD2 Scanner, Professional Car Code Reader, Automotive Engine Fault Diagnostic Scan Tool, Car Scanner with O2 Sensor Freeze Frame I/M Readiness Battery Test, Applies to All OBD II Cars
  • 【PROFESSIONAL MECHANIC OBD2 SCANNER】This V317 savior car scanner adopts the latest version of the intelligent chip in 2022 and will lead the market trend. This large color screen code reader integrates read/clear codes, live data stream, oxygen sensor test, battery voltage test, I/M readiness, vehicle info, freeze frame, EVAP test(fuel evaporation system), support 8 languages, DTC lib, and other powerful functions.
  • 【UNMATCHED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS】The V317 code scanner has the O2 Sensor and EVAP system test which is a significant feature. the V317 OBD2 scan tool activates the leak test vehicle's EVAP system by monitoring the integrity of the fuel tank system. And O2 sensor testing is used to monitor and adjust the air/fuel mixture, which can determine to troubleshoot related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions. Also, I/M readiness, freeze frame, 3000 DTC lib are all very important features.
  • 【DATA ACCURACY AND SECURITY COME FIRST】V317 car diagnostic scanner combines graphical and text-based real-time data to help you check the health of your car data in a more visual and precise way. With a 2.5-foot cable with thick, flexible insulation for improved safety, the V317 Car Diagnostic Scan Tool keeps you safe.
  • 【COLOR SCREEN AND ERGONOMIC DESIGN】GIMFOOM car diagnostic tool are equipped with a 2.8" TFT true color LCD, which allows you to check the test results more intuitively. And the integrated ergonomic handle design makes it easier for you to operate and carry, even for beginners You can also easily use the V317 diagnostic scan tool to read the error code, and you can find the problem yourself and solve it easily.
  • 【BATTERY TEST AND VEHICLE INFORMATION】V317 car OBD2 scanner adds the battery voltage detection function, you can check the status of your car battery at any time and make sure you know the battery status in real-time. In addition, Diagnostic Code Reader is equipped with a vehicle information detection function so that you can know the vehicle information, which is especially useful when buying a used car or when performing maintenance.
Rank No. #8
Autel Professional OBD2 Scanner AL319 Code Reader, Enhanced Check and Reset Engine Fault Code, Live Data, Freeze Frame, CAN Car Diagnostic Scan Tools for All OBDII Vehicles After 1996, 2024 Upgraded
  • 【TURN OFF CEL】 This AL319 car diagnostic tool supports Reading DTCs, displaying Live Data, Freeze Frame & I/M Readiness etc to figure out the root cause of the Check Engine Light (CEL) and turning it off, to help you detect any potential problems, and to avoid excessive costs for unnecessary repairs.
  • 【EXTENSIVE APPLICATION】 Autel AL319 Compatible with 7 languages (English, French, Spanish, etc.) and various post-1996 OBD II protocol vehicles (Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, etc.), this OBD II scanner provides accurate and fast diagnosis for worldwide car owners.
  • 【FOR END USER & DIYERS】 This error code reader AL319 is “plug and play” and comes with an easy interface. Even if you’re not familiar with vehicle repair, you can quickly take control of this obd2 scanner, and get the information you want.
  • 【USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN】 This check engine code reader features a patented One-Click I/M Readiness, TFT color display, built-in speaker, LED Indicator etc. The cable is long enough without being too long and getting in the way. No batteries are needed.
  • 【HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES】 12 months warranty from the date of purchase and lifetime free update are offered by this Automobile OBDII scan tool. Welcome to contact us via Q&A, email, or hotline, and our after-sale-service team for technical support.
Rank No. #9
Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 Universal Car Engine Fault Code Reader, Check Engine Light and Emission Monitor Status, OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool
  • 🔥【On-Screen DTC Definition, Save Time & Easy To Use】Autel MS309 OBD2 code reader with UPGRADED CHIP to retrive and clear generic(P0, P2, P3 and U0), manufacturer-specific(P1, P3 and U1) and pending codes, and display DTCs(Diagnostic Trouble Codes) meanings under the codes based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes). Don't need to spend much time to search meanings on the internet. This advanced plug-and-play MS309 scanner saves you time - a must-have obd2 scanner for each car owner.
  • 🔥【Retrieve Freeze Frame Data &Vehicle info】The more specific the information available, the clearer the problem. The OBD2 scanner MS309 can retrieve freeze frame data, including important engine parameters like RPM, fuel pressure, fuel trim, engine coolant temperature, etc. Also it can retrieve Vehicle Information such as VIN number, Calibration ID(s), Calibration Verification Nos. (CVNs), etc, which is useful to check whether the ECU matches when you are buying a used car.
  • 🔥【Read Codes & Clear Codes】Knowing the codes in advance will brace you for the repair cost estimate so that you won't be fooled and get overcharged by the repair shop.This Autel MaxiScan MS309 obd2 scanner scans OBD2-compliant vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in seconds to pinpoint emission-related issues. The little guy can do many basic but necessary works: read/clear codes, view DTC definition, turn off check engine light, check I/M Readiness status, retrieve freeze frame data and vehicle info.
  • 🔥【Turn Off Check Engine Light】When your car detects an emission related problem, Check Engine Light will be turned on. Do you want to spend hundreds of dollars to turn off this light every time, maybe it's just a gas cap that's not tightened or needs to change bad parts like spark plugs and ignition coils? With Autel MS309 scan tool, you can read code to quickly find out why the check engine light is on and reset it.
  • 🔥【Ready For Annual Smog Check】If the OBD II Readiness Monitors on your car are not “Ready”, your car may fail the smog check. MS309 OBD2 scanner can retrieve I/M Readiness status to check the monitors like misfire monitor, fuel system monitor, comprehensive components monitor, catalyst monitor, O2 sensors, EVAP, etc, to help your car ready pass the annual smog check. That way you won't waste time and money on a failed smoke check.
Rank No. #10
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader for Cars and Trucks, Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag, Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Live Data
  • [Easy to Use--Work out of box] + [FOXWELL 2025 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2025 new version from FOXWELL, which is designed for those car owners who want to figure out the cause issue before fixing the car problem via scanning the most common systems like abs srs engine and transmission.The NT604 Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first.
  • [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happen when the warning light of abs/srs/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this foxwell scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. It will t-urn off the warning light car after the problem is fixed.👉TIPS: Airbag crash/collision data can NOT be cleared even you replace the new airbag.
  • [5 in 1 Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with those auto scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also it can be an abs/srs scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance function.
  • [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee.
  • [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level obd scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold on the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.

Last update on 2022-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How Do You Buy The Best auto code reader?

Do you get stressed out thinking about shopping for a great auto code reader? Do doubts keep creeping into your mind? We understand, because we’ve already gone through the whole process of researching auto code reader, which is why we have assembled a comprehensive list of the greatest auto code reader available in the current market. We’ve also come up with a list of questions that you probably have yourself.

We’ve done the best we can with our thoughts and recommendations, but it’s still crucial that you do thorough research on your own for auto code reader that you consider buying. Your questions might include the following:

  • Is it worth buying an auto code reader?
  • What benefits are there with buying an auto code reader?
  • What factors deserve consideration when shopping for an effective auto code reader?
  • Why is it crucial to invest in any auto code reader, much less the best one?
  • Which auto code reader are good in the current market?
  • Where can you find information like this about auto code reader?

We’re convinced that you likely have far more questions than just these regarding auto code reader, and the only real way to satisfy your need for knowledge is to get information from as many reputable online sources as you possibly can.

Potential sources can include buying guides for auto code reader, rating websites, word-of-mouth testimonials, online forums, and product reviews. Thorough and mindful research is crucial to making sure you get your hands on the best-possible auto code reader. Make sure that you are only using trustworthy and credible websites and sources.

We provide an auto code reader buying guide, and the information is totally objective and authentic. We employ both AI and big data in proofreading the collected information. How did we create this buying guide? We did it using a custom-created selection of algorithms that lets us manifest a top-10 list of the best available auto code reader currently available on the market.

This technology we use to assemble our list depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the following:

  1. Brand Value: Every brand of auto code reader has a value all its own. Most brands offer some sort of unique selling proposition that’s supposed to bring something different to the table than their competitors.
  2. Features: What bells and whistles matter for an auto code reader?
  3. Specifications: How powerful they are can be measured.
  4. Product Value: This simply is how much bang for the buck you get from your auto code reader.
  5. Customer Ratings: Number ratings grade auto code reader objectively.
  6. Customer Reviews: Closely related to ratings, these paragraphs give you first-hand and detailed information from real-world users about their auto code reader.
  7. Product Quality: You don’t always get what you pay for with an auto code reader, sometimes less, and sometimes more.
  8. Product Reliability: How sturdy and durable an auto code reader is should be an indication of how long it will work out for you.

We always remember that maintaining auto code reader information to stay current is a top priority, which is why we are constantly updating our websites. Learn more about us using online sources.

If you think that anything we present here regarding auto code reader is irrelevant, incorrect, misleading, or erroneous, then please let us know promptly! We’re here for you all the time. Contact us here. Or You can read more about us to see our vision.

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