How to choose a Car Scanner - Differences in Automotive Diagnostic Tools

Choosing a can scanner to buy can be a daunting task. There are hundreds to pick from, but how do you know which one to buy? If you have ever been confused by why some scanners cost $15 and some go for a small fortune, this is the video for you. In this video, I explain the difference between standard OBD2 scanners, mid-range module scanning tools and even the professional scanners that allow you to do coding and different actuation tests.

*— MUST HAVE CAR ITEMS — *
______
------------------------------
Links are affiliated where possible.
This means if you click on the link and purchase the product, I will earn a commission.

[druu]

I bought a scan tool from advance auto parts for about $300. It does practically everything I needed to do. I’ve always considered getting one for a couple grand because the amount of work you can perform on your own vehicle instead of taking it to a dealership you would be saving yourself thousands of dollars in the long run, regardless of what kind of vehicle you have for the rest of your life and you always get free updates on those larger pieces of software as well

[jonlee]

I mainly own BMWs so i use the autophix scanner and it helps for specific things like replacing electronic parking brake and reset certain maintenance things..all and all well worth the 80 bucks i paid, but i want a pro l3v3l scanner one day bro..i know they cost alot for me..but i know they well worth it

[UC]

What is needed is car specific scanner information such as, "what works best with a 2003 Subaru Forrester?" Specific information for locating a good functional scanner is excessively lacking availability. It seems that not all general non-specific scanners work with all vehicle's.

[ANJIN-pq]

The more Expensive the better. That's what I've learnt

[MrBoosta]

Got a topdon scanner $829 multiple functions so I can do my own work on personal vehicles

[pyscho]

could you make a video about computer obd2 software? i cant find many videos on the topic and im really interested.

[crabapple]

wouldn't you call a cheap $15 thing most likely be just a code 'reader' ?
Other than that, I find this a super helpful way to find some guidelines in my search.
These days it's hard to know anymore if we are speaking the same language.
One of the nice points was where you point out generic OBD data vs vehicle specific modules.
Since you mention it, I guess that's real basic info, but I didn't know enough to identify the feature.
It was just one of endless fuzzy unidentified questions constantly short circuiting between my ears.
Armed with this new line of thinking I will try to make a chart to ask and answer all of my desires
(concerning a scanner anyway) .
Many thanks for lots of great info here to help me find a way through this maze.

[marinosanchez]

I need to know what kind of scanner I need for my gmc 1990 sierra

[brdodjandje]

Ty for your effort man. Can you halp chosing a much neded scaner for JAPANESE cars with DPF . We have suzuki swift 2008 ddis and mitcubischi grandits 2010, both diesel. Awcorst in cost range of about 150 euro . Ty in advance

[MennovanLeeuwen-ij]

What scanner will read abs codes on my 2000 e36 323i with obi 1 and 2?

[dee-nicejr]

hello I purchased 2 cars one has very low millages I want to know if the odometer has ben rollback
witch scanner ??

[roberthoussian]

For a 2008 Mercedes CLS550, I want be able to scan and get diagnostic information as well as tips on how to fix. Which scanner would work best for my car? I'll pay what's necessary but not the high end ones that actuate as I could disrupt things. Thank you!

[FranciscoRodriguez-cmyx]

I used the obd2 scanner i borrowed from auto zone. The diagnosis code said i needed a new mass airflow device. That was wrong. My nissan sentra hose was split and torn upon visual inspection 😢

[billmelot]

I need a scanner that will bleed the ABS module on a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500. What do I get

[jonesgeneral]

I’m going to buy a used car, can you please recommend any affordable obd scanner that can scan all modules so I can know the original mileage of the cars.

[chancluda]

Need a scanner for a 2017 Sport Hyundai Santa Fe In the $100’s should be ok. Thank you 🙏🏽

[sulemandarweshi]

Is it possible that Red mercury pass through scan ? For example if u put 3 gram of red mercury in a hand watch.
Will it show itself in airport scan ?

[doplobilldoplo]

I want to be trained on the scanner or how can I get the treaning?

[robinwarlond]

I need a scanner to purge air from a amarok after a fuel filter change

[nucksnation]

I am young and just getting into cars I am hoping to get a reader for a wide variety of cars any suggestions on which to get