Best OBD2 Scanners for Car Diagnostics in 2021

Modern cars are crammed with sophisticated electronics that often fail. To determine the exact cause of the malfunction of such equipment, computer diagnostics with reading error codes is required. But this service at the service station is often unreasonably expensive. Fortunately, you can save money and check the equipment yourself using special devices that connect to your laptop or smartphone. In this article, we will present a ranking of the best multibrand OBD2 scanners for car diagnostics.

It is important to note that there are three types of diagnostic scanners:

• Multi-brand - suitable for machines of many brands and models.
• Vintage - intended for checking cars of only a certain brand.
• Dealership - professional expensive devices that allow you to identify the most complex malfunctions and are intended primarily for dealerships.

It is easy to guess that a simple car owner does not need dealer devices. They are suitable only for specialists. And you don't have to buy a branded scanner. It is quite possible to get by with a gadget that can diagnose cars of different brands, and not the most expensive ones. Even the cheapest devices costing no more than 5,000 rubles are able to identify major errors and breakdowns. This is quite enough for a motorist for an independent garage repair of a car. Indeed, in more serious cases, all the same, most likely, you will have to contact the professionals. Therefore, it is these inexpensive and simple scanners that have entered our top.

Rokodil ScanX Pro

In terms of the quality of diagnostics, the most preferred option is the Rokodil ScanX Pro multibrand device. In addition to OBD2, the device supports CAN, J1850PWM, J1850VPW, ISO9141 and other protocols, which allows complex diagnostics of almost any vehicle. By pressing just one button, the scanner will instantly display information about the condition of your car with a detailed description of the faults in Russian.

Of the additional functionality, it is possible to note the ability to build graphs, backup data from the ECU memory, freeze frame (vehicle parameters at which the fault code was recorded), display of operational characteristics.

The scanner is completely self-contained and does not require the connection of third-party gadgets. The case is reliably protected from moisture, dust and dirt. The gadget is very reliable and has practically no significant drawbacks.

Scan Tool Pro Black Edition

The most preferable option in terms of price-quality ratio. At its low cost, the scanner shows excellent results in the diagnosis of most cars older than 1996. For operation, the device must be connected via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to gadgets on Android, iOS or Windows. The scanner operates on an STM32 chip and the latest firmware version v1.5 +, which allows you to diagnose malfunctions of all components and assemblies of the car.

The scanner is perfect for working as an on-board computer. With the help of russified software in real time, you can see all the performance characteristics of your car: sensor readings, engine speed, oil pressure, intake manifold pressure, coolant temperature, throttle position, etc.

The manufacturer updates the scanner annually, adding support for all modern protocols. An important factor is the protection of the ECU from overheating or short circuit, as well as a warranty period of up to 4 years.

Rokodil ScanX

The quality and speed of diagnostics are the main advantages of this diagnostic adapter among competitors in the budget segment. The scanner is compatible with both domestic and foreign cars that have an ODB2 connector for connection, and complex and accurate diagnostics will not disregard even the air conditioning system. Bluetooth version 4.2 provides high speed reading and visualization of information on your phone, tablet or PC.

The scanner will also help when choosing a used car - with its help you can find out the real mileage and VIN, which will protect you from unscrupulous sellers. Also, the device is perfect for use as an on-board computer.

A reliable element base guarantees resistance to overloads and protection of the ECU from failure. On the front side there is an on / off button, and in idle mode the scanner enters a power saving mode.

Ylsfc Elm327 Bluetooth v1.5 obd2 adapter

An inexpensive and very well-known scanner for car diagnostics, which can be bought, for example, on AliExpress for a little less than 500 rubles. It is based on the PIC18F25K80 chip and has version 1.5. The device works via Bluetooth only with gadgets with the Android operating system.

The scanner can be used for cars of different makes and model years. Suitable even for diagnostics of small light-duty trucks, like the GAZelle. But in order to find out exactly the compatibility of the device with a specific car, you need to check the ISO and SAE protocols. According to consumer reviews, the adapter may not work correctly with Mercedes cars.

The device allows you to recognize most breakdowns. It is very compact and handy. But many consider its disadvantage the lack of protection against voltage surges.

NEXPEAK NX101

The best multibrand scanner for the money, according to many users. It can also be ordered in China for less than 500 rubles. But at the same time, the device is considered quite advanced and almost professional. It's pretty high quality. Has version 1.5 and works with mobile gadgets via Bluetooth.

The adapter can be used to diagnose vehicles of many models from different manufacturers. Suitable for American cars from 2000, European - from 2005, Asian - from 2008, Russian - manufactured after 2012. At the same time, sometimes problems with diagnosing faults in some brand new cars of recent years of production are possible. It is believed that this is due to the factory defect of the device.

The scanner has an indication that shows the mode of its operation. It goes into sleep mode if it is not used for 30 minutes when connected. This avoids battery discharge.

KINGBOLEN Vgate iCar2

A fairly advanced device that is also sold on AliExpress. Its price can reach 1000 rubles. But you can often get it cheaper. Autoscanner with chip version 2.1. can work with any operating system. It connects to gadgets not only via Bluetooth, but also via Wi-Fi. There is a sleep mode that turns on after 30 minutes of inactivity. This prevents the car battery from being drained. In addition, there is a convenient reset option.

According to the manufacturer, the scanner can scan American cars older than 2001, European cars from 2004, Japanese cars from 2006, and Chinese cars made not earlier than 2011. Supports Russian car models depending on the engine brand. But at the same time, almost all modern cars of domestic production can be diagnosed with them. As practice shows, it may be difficult to connect to cars of some brands or models.

The gadget is considered to be quite reliable. It is conveniently packaged to avoid damage during storage.

NEXPEAK NX103

A very advanced and inexpensive OBD2 scanner from AliExpress. Its cost is slightly more than 500 rubles. But for this money, you can get an almost professional level of diagnostics. The device is very high quality and reliable.It has a PIC18F25K80 chip with version 1.5 and works over Wi-Fi with almost any mobile gadget.

The main advantage of the adapter is the very high connection speed and scanning accuracy. In addition, it is suitable for diagnosing not only relatively new, but also very old vehicles. As stated in the annotation, the device can check American cars manufactured after 1996, European cars from 2003, Japanese cars not older than 2006, Chinese cars from 2011. Suitable for diagnostics of cars of Russian brands from 2012. But at the same time, some Toyota Prius owners note that the scanner does not work correctly with their cars. Sometimes there is information about the possibility of checking older machines than stated.

The gadget is very easy to use. It has a bright LED indication that signals all operating modes and states.

LAUNCH X431 CR3001

Relatively expensive OBD2 adapter from China. Its cost is 1000-1500 rubles. The device connects to many phones and laptops. It has a wired connection and its own small screen. This allows you to use it even without mobile gadgets. The connection connector is reliably protected from moisture and dirt with a special cover. This scanner is considered to be quite accurate and reliable. In terms of the quality of diagnostics, it is often called premium.

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The adapter is suitable for fairly old cars from 2000, most famous brands. It can also be used to check modern domestic or Chinese cars. The gadget has a Russian-language menu, which is not very convenient largely due to the quality of the translation.

ACARTOOL ELM327 Bluetooth

A very cheap Chinese scanner for diagnosing cars of different model years, models and brands. Not bad in terms of price-quality ratio. Its cost does not exceed 300 rubles on AliExpress. The device can be produced in versions 1.5 and 2.1. It works over Bluetooth with many smartphones and laptops. There are options with or without status indicators.

The gadget is very compact and easy to use. Despite the fact that it is able to diagnose even fairly old cars, many users note the difficulties with checking Russian cars of 2017 release. Sometimes there are problems with diagnostics and some other cars. In addition, it may not be compatible with certain mobile devices. Malfunctions during operation and connection are possible. Not all faults and errors can be detected.

Ylsfc elm327 wifi

The Chinese-made adapter is cheaper than 500 rubles, promising an excellent level of diagnostics for your money. Therefore, it is popular with numerous Russian car owners. The gadget is made on a PIC18F25K80 chip with version 1.5. Connects to mobile devices using Wi-Fi. Combines with almost any laptops and smartphones, with the exception of Apple products.

The scanner is designed to diagnose cars of almost all brands, since 1995. It features sufficient verification accuracy, high connection speed, and convenient connection. Has a large size and high-quality packaging. It is quite reliable and durable. And users consider its main disadvantage to be excessive heating during operation. But this minus practically does not affect the performance.

CDP TCS

One of the most expensive car diagnostic devices on AliExpress. Its cost is approximately 3000 rubles. But at the same time, the scanner has a premium level of verification, close to the well-known single-brand adapters.

The autoscanner is based on the 9241A chip. There are both Bluetooth and wired connections. The adapter uses FT232RQ wire. It can work with almost any type of mobile gadgets. Removable wire for connection. Professional software is installed in the scanner. It allows you to detect even rare and atypical faults. Therefore, it can be used not only for self-repair of a car, but also in car services, especially small ones.

The device is designed to diagnose almost any vehicle since 1995, including trucks or buses. Suitable for checking Russian-made cars. Despite the fact that errors with connection are practically excluded, when buying, you need to order the firmware required for a specific model and brand.

The scanner is renowned for its superior accuracy, durability and ease of use. It features a fast connection and many useful options. The device has a menu in 16 languages, including Russian. The settings are clear and convenient. The adapter is protected from voltage surges and allows you not to discharge the car battery.

ORION ELM 327 WI-FI MICRO

A small multibrand diagnostic scanner that costs less than 2,000 rubles in Russia. But on AliExpress, you can often order it at a more attractive price. The device works with most mobile gadgets and has a Russian-language menu. It allows you to carry out diagnostics even in real time while the car is moving. This allows you to identify even "floating" problems, and also shows the true fuel consumption, voltage in the on-board network and much more. With the help of an autoscanner, you can not only identify, but also eliminate errors. But at the same time, some experts note that he is not able to find all problems. In addition, the software requires improvements. Also, the disadvantages of the adapter include the ability to correctly diagnose only the most modern car models.

LAUNCH CREADER V +

Not the cheapest and most accurate scanner among those that are suitable for non-professional use. But at the same time, it attracts the attention of many motorists, since it has its own display. It does not need to be connected to a smartphone or laptop to use it. In addition, the data is presented in various forms, including diagrams and graphs. The device is capable of recognizing most typical breakdowns with minimal error. It has a fairly large number of useful and important functions. But the small display makes working with the adapter not very convenient.

Launch Creader 3001

Not a very cheap device, the cost of which can go up to 3000 rubles. But at the same time it is famous for its rich functionality. It can be used by both amateurs and professionals of not the highest level. The autoscanner is designed for diagnostics, including in real time, for vehicles older than 2004 with an OBDII connector. It meets the requirements of ISO9141-2 14230-4, 15765-4 and SAEJ1850 protocols. Therefore, the most accurate diagnostics of cars of almost all brands and modifications, including domestic ones, is possible.

The adapter has a menu in Russian with many functions. It detects almost all known breakdowns that can be diagnosed in this way. The gadget is equipped with a huge display on which it is convenient to read information. It can work successfully at any temperature and in almost any environment. The case is reliably protected from moisture, dust and dirt. The scanner is very reliable and functional. It has almost no flaws. For your money - an ideal option even for employees of many car services.

OBDII ICARTOOL IC-300

Inexpensive diagnostic scanner for many brands of cars. It costs a little more than 1000 rubles in Russian online stores, but at the same time it has excellent capabilities and high accuracy. The device is suitable for cars not only with OBD2 connector, but also with CAN. Therefore, it can be successfully used on almost any car, both new and fairly used. With its help, you can monitor the condition of the car in real time, check the battery charge and save data from the ECU for further detailed analysis.The adapter allows you to find unique error codes that are specific only to a specific make or model of the car, and also helps you find the VIN, CIN or CVN of the vehicle. With the help of an autoscanner, you can carry out not only high-quality diagnostics, but also remove many errors, fix a large number of faults.

The device provides data, both in the form of numbers and codes, and in the form of graphs. It has a convenient menu in Russian and a status light indication. The color liquid crystal display provides incredible working comfort. And free software updates and recommendations for eliminating various breakdowns make the use of the device even more convenient. The scanner is very reliable and has practically no significant drawbacks.

Ancel AD410

Quite expensive auto-diagnostic scanner. It costs about 4,000 rubles, but it is often purchased by Russian car owners. The device has a convenient menu and broad capabilities. Thanks to its small size, color display and easy-to-understand menu, it is very convenient to work with it. The device is compatible with many laptops and smartphones. It can be used to diagnose American, European and Asian cars since 1995. But many buyers also use it to check modern Russian cars of the latest years of production. The gadget automatically updates the software when connected to a laptop or computer.

With the help of this autoscanner, you can find and eliminate almost all known errors related to autoelectrics and autoelectronics. If necessary, error codes can be printed when connected to a PC on a printer. The device allows not only to carry out very accurate diagnostics, but also to find out many parameters of the car. It is multifunctional and reliable, has an attractive design and convenient dimensions. The scanner is practically devoid of flaws. The scanner can be used not only by car owners for personal use, but also by service station workers.

Now you know which OBD2 scanners available to Russians for personal use were the best in 2021. Have you ever used such devices for diagnostics or do you contact a car service? Did you manage to find and fix the errors on your own? Do you think self-diagnosis using adapters can be accurate or not to be trusted? If you have questions or want to share interesting information on the topic, write in the comments.