Having an OBD2 car scanner allows you to check your vehicle’s electronic systems for any faults. However, with numerous manufacturers like Hitachi and Denso offering a wide range of OBD2 scanners (scan tools), choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
If you’re wondering, “Which OBD2 scanner is best for me?”, here’s a guide to help you choose:
Key Considerations for Selecting an OBD2 Scanner:
- Vehicle Compatibility: Always check if the scanner is compatible with your car model.
- Ease of Use: Consider handheld types for simple diagnostics and adapter types for professionals needing detailed information.
According to Nimura, the Deputy Manager at Chubu Car Inspection Center, the following OBD2 scanners are highly recommended:
Top Recommended OBD2 Scanners by a Professional
Click on the product name to view details:
| Product Name | Image | Best Price | Features | Specs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Compatible Vehicles | Weight | ||
| LAUNCH LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner | Rakuten ¥25,800 Amazon ¥23,999 Yahoo! ¥28,194 | Deputy Manager Nimura: Diagnoses 4 systems including engine and transmission | Handheld | |
| Runbod OBD2 Fault Code Reader ELM327 | Rakuten ¥2,359 Amazon ¥1,799 Yahoo! ¥2,140 | Deputy Manager Nimura: Connects with smartphone | Adapter |
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Deputy Manager Nimura works at Chubu Car Inspection Center, a certified repair facility by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, as a Deputy Manager.
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Chapters: Key Points to Consider When Choosing an OBD2 Scanner 1: Check Vehicle Compatibility 2: Understand the Functions 3: Consider Operability 4: Check the Price Comparison Table of Recommended OBD2 Scanners Top 10 Recommended OBD2 Scanners (Including Expert Picks) Find the Right Diagnostic Scanner for You
Key Points to Consider When Choosing an OBD2 Scanner
When selecting a diagnostic scanner, the first crucial step is to ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle. Furthermore, diagnostic scanners from different manufacturers offer unique features, so understanding these beforehand is essential.
Here are four key points to consider when choosing a car scanner.
1: Check Vehicle Compatibility
Alt text: Image of a compact car illustrating vehicle compatibility for OBD2 scanners.
The primary factor when choosing a car scanner is its compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model. Different car manufacturers employ varying electronic systems, necessitating scanners tailored to these specific systems. Ensure the OBD2 scanner you choose supports your car’s protocol and systems for accurate diagnostics.
2: Understand the Functions
Alt text: Checklist icon representing the functions and features of OBD2 car scanners.
Next, it’s important to recognize the functional differences between OBD2 scanners. Each product comes with a unique set of capabilities. Confirm that the scanner you are considering has the functions you need.
Standard functions typically include monitoring vehicle fault codes and control system data, and displaying information read from the vehicle’s electronic control systems.
Advanced scanners may also offer features to forcibly change vehicle control states or perform system tests. Consider what level of functionality you require based on your diagnostic needs.
3: Consider Operability
Alt text: Car interior image focusing on the dashboard, representing the operability and user interface of car scanners.
Considering the operability is another crucial aspect. OBD2 scanners broadly fall into two categories based on operability, although variations exist between manufacturers.
Handheld Type: Offers excellent portability and standalone operation. However, the screen size is limited, restricting the amount of information displayed at once. These are well-suited for quick inspections, basic maintenance, and simple diagnostics.
Adapter Type: These scanners transmit data to external devices like laptops or tablets for display. They can show more detailed information than handheld types and often support data analysis and printouts. Adapter types are generally preferred for in-depth diagnostics and professional use.
4: Check the Price
Alt text: Stack of car insurance documents, symbolizing the price and cost-effectiveness of OBD2 scanners.
Finally, price is a significant factor. The cost of OBD2 scanners varies widely depending on the type and features. Adapter types are generally more affordable. Determine the best price point based on your intended use and diagnostic needs for your vehicle.
Keep in mind that some OBD2 scanners may involve additional costs such as update fees or support subscriptions, so it’s important to confirm these aspects as well.
Comparison Table of Recommended OBD2 Scanners
This table summarizes the OBD2 scanners (scan tools) discussed in this article. Note: Even “universal” models may have compatibility issues with some vehicles. Please refer to the manufacturer’s page for detailed compatibility information.
| Product Name | Image | Best Price | Features | Specs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Compatible Vehicles | Weight | ||
| LAUNCH LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner | Rakuten ¥25,800 Amazon ¥23,999 Yahoo! ¥28,194 | Deputy Manager Nimura: Diagnoses 4 systems including engine and transmission | Handheld | |
| Runbod OBD2 Fault Code Reader ELM327 | Rakuten ¥2,359 Amazon ¥1,799 Yahoo! ¥2,140 | Deputy Manager Nimura: Connects with smartphone | Adapter | |
| Hitachi (HITACHI) HDM-9000 | Rakuten ¥271,072 Amazon Yahoo! ¥271,071 | Efficient aiming mode operation | Handheld | |
| Autel Diagnostic Scanner MaxiCOM MK808TS | Rakuten Amazon ¥89,999 Yahoo! | Automatic VIN recognition mode to identify vehicle make, model, and year | Handheld | |
| LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner CRP129X | Rakuten Amazon ¥33,999 Yahoo! | Highly versatile fault diagnostic scanner | Handheld | |
| TOPDON AL500 obd2 Fault Code Reader | Rakuten Amazon ¥5,999 Yahoo! ¥6,119 | Reads and clears fault codes | Handheld | |
| YLDEE BMW / MINI Code Scanner ver 4.5 Fault Diagnostic Scanner C110+ | Rakuten Amazon Yahoo! | Recommended for BMW/MINI owners | Handheld | |
| Tool Planet TPM-5 Scan Tool | Rakuten Amazon Yahoo! | Convenient self-diagnostic software starts by reading the VIN | Handheld | |
| Maxwin (Maxwin) OBD-DIA02 | Rakuten ¥7,700 Amazon ¥7,758 Yahoo! ¥8,311 | Searches fault details from approximately 36,000 fault code information entries | Handheld |
Top 10 Recommended OBD2 Scanners (Including Expert Picks)
Alt text: Eye-catching image of various car scanners, highlighting the product recommendation section.
With a vast array of OBD2 scanners (scan tools) available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Therefore, CarMe editorial team has selected top-selling products from e-commerce sites like Amazon.
In addition to these popular choices, we’ve included OBD2 scanner recommendations from Mr. Nimura, Deputy Manager at Chubu Car Inspection Center.
LAUNCH LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner
Alt text: Multiple product shots of the LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner showcasing its features and design.
Price: From ¥23,999 (Tax included)
Diagnoses 4 Systems including Engine and Transmission
Key Features:
- A top choice among universal scanners.
- User-friendly with Japanese language display.
Deputy Manager Nimura: The OBD2 Scanner CRP123X can diagnose four major systems: Engine, Transmission, ABS, and SRS Airbag.
It easily identifies the cause of check engine lights, airbag warnings, ABS lights, etc., and supports fault code reading/clearing and warning light resetting.
The OBD2 Scanner CRP123X utilizes a fast Android operating system. It features a 5.0-inch touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity for one-click automatic updates. Japanese language display is also a key feature.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 1240g |
Runbod OBD2 Fault Code Reader ELM327
Alt text: Product showcase of the Runbod OBD2 Fault Code Reader ELM327, emphasizing its compact adapter design.
Price: From ¥1,799 (Tax included)
Connects with Smartphone
Key Features:
- Sends data to your smartphone for display.
- High cost-performance due to the absence of a built-in monitor.
Deputy Manager Nimura: The OBD2 Fault Code Reader ELM327 is an OBD2 adapter that plugs into your car, retrieves various vehicle status data, and transmits it via WIFI signal to iOS and Android devices.
It retrieves both generic and vendor-specific diagnostic trouble codes and displays the meaning of each code.
It can read and clear check engine lights and monitor vehicle sensors such as O2 sensors, fuel trim, air-fuel ratio, DPF temperature, coolant temperature, oil temperature, and fuel pressure.
However, it does not read codes for systems like ABS or SRS.
While iPhone apps may require payment, free apps are available for Android.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Adapter |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 50g |
Hitachi (HITACHI) HDM-9000
Alt text: Close-up of the Hitachi HDM-9000 Scan Tool highlighting its brand and handheld design.
Price: From ¥174,700 (Tax included)
Efficient Aiming Mode Operation
Key Features:
- Reliable Hitachi quality.
- Diagnostic results can be printed.
Hitachi’s HDM-9000 fault diagnostic scanner features an aiming mode to enhance work efficiency, and utilizes Bluetooth communication to print diagnostic results with a printer.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 2380g |
Autel Diagnostic Scanner MaxiCOM MK808TS
Alt text: Comprehensive image set of the Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS Diagnostic Scanner, highlighting its screen interface and features.
Price: From ¥89,999 (Tax included)
Automatic VIN Recognition Mode to Identify Vehicle Make, Model, and Year
Key Features:
- Automatic VIN recognition to identify vehicle details.
- User-friendly Japanese display.
Autel diagnostic scanners feature an automatic VIN recognition mode, allowing easy identification of the vehicle’s make, model, and year. The Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS is equipped with this automatic identification mode and supports Japanese language.
This diagnostic scanner is compatible with over 80 vehicle manufacturers, making it a highly versatile tool for diagnosing a wide range of vehicles.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 2700g |
LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner CRP129X
Alt text: Showcase of the LAUNCH CRP129X OBD2 Scanner featuring its touchscreen interface and diagnostic capabilities.
Price: From ¥33,999 (Tax included)
Highly Versatile Fault Diagnostic Scanner
Key Features:
- User-friendly Japanese language support.
- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface.
Known for its excellent performance, many models offer Japanese language support. The LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner CRP129X features a 5-inch touch screen and keypad.
It also includes various reset modes, enabling warning light resetting.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 1280g |
TOPDON AL500 obd2 Fault Code Reader
Alt text: Product presentation of the TOPDON AL500 obd2 Fault Code Reader, emphasizing its handheld form factor and European car compatibility.
Price: From ¥5,999 (Tax included)
Reads and Clears Fault Codes
Key Features:
- Convenient shortcut keys for quick operation.
- Fault code clearing capability.
TOPDON diagnostic scanners can inspect vehicle emission-related issues, read and clear fault codes. It can also identify the cause of warning lights and turn off check lamps after repairing the faulty area.
The TOPDON AL500 obd2 Fault Code Reader features shortcut keys, saving you time during operation. It also offers various functions including data sharing via printing.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | European Cars |
| Weight | 516g |
YLDEE BMW / MINI Code Scanner ver 4.5 Fault Diagnostic Scanner C110+
Alt text: YLDEE BMW/MINI Code Scanner C110+ presented for BMW and MINI vehicle diagnostics.
Price: From ¥7,000 (Tax included)
Recommended for BMW/MINI Owners
Key Features:
- Optimal for BMW/MINI users.
- Error code reset function.
This fault diagnostic scanner is ideal for BMW owners experiencing sudden check engine light illumination. It can reset error codes, potentially allowing users with some technical knowledge to address issues without visiting a dealership.
However, depending on the cause of the warning light, repairs may be necessary, requiring a dealership visit, so caution is advised.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | BMW/MINI |
| Weight | 440g |
Tool Planet TPM-5 Scan Tool
Alt text: Tool Planet TPM-5 Scan Tool, showcasing its professional-grade handheld design and robust build.
Price: From ¥175,186 (Tax included)
Convenient Self-Diagnostic Software Starts by Reading the VIN
The Tool Planet VeDiS 3 Plus TPM-5 fault diagnostic scanner is compatible with many Japanese passenger cars, trucks, and imported vehicles, making it a single solution for various diagnostic needs.
It conveniently starts all self-diagnostic software simply by reading the VIN.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 3500g |
Maxwin (Maxwin) OBD-DIA02
Alt text: Maxwin OBD-DIA02 showcased with images highlighting its interface and comprehensive fault code database.
Price: From ¥7,700 (Tax included)
Searches Fault Details from Approximately 36,000 Fault Code Information Entries
This product allows you to search fault code details using its code lookup function.
You can search through approximately 36,000 fault code entries to find detailed information on various issues.
By simply connecting to the vehicle’s OBD2 connector and turning on the engine, you can quickly read and check fault information and vehicle details.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type | Handheld |
| Compatible Vehicles | Universal |
| Weight | 330g |
Find the Right Diagnostic Scanner for You
This article has presented a selection of recommended diagnostic scanners. When choosing, it’s crucial to consider vehicle compatibility, operability, and the features that best suit your needs.
By understanding the characteristics of each product, you can find the perfect OBD2 car scanner for your automotive maintenance and diagnostic tasks.
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