Code Reader For Cars – The 15 best products compared

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September 12, 2023 / Reading time: 1 minute

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Thousands of readers trust us every year

Written by
Edited by

September 12, 2023 / Reading time: 1 minute

This is why you can trust us

We adhere to editorial integrity are independent and thus not for sale. The article may contain references to products of our partners. Here's an explanation of how we make money.

Table of Contents

Code Reader For Cars – the most important at a glance

A code reader for cars, also known as an OBD2 scanner, is a device that communicates with a vehicle’s Onboard Diagnostic System to check for errors and problems. They can identify and reset warning signals such as the Check Engine light and provide live data from various sensors in the vehicle. There are two primary types: basic code readers that simply read and clear codes; and advanced scanners that offer additional features like live data, system tests, and advanced troubleshooting. There are also wireless and Bluetooth options that can sync to your smartphone for a more interactive and user-friendly experience. These models can vary greatly in cost, depending on their specific features and capabilities. Overall, a code reader can be vital for proactive vehicle maintenance, potentially saving you money and time in the long run.

Bestsellers in “Code Reader For Cars”

A list of bestsellers under the category “Code Reader For Cars” you can find here. Here you can see which products other users have bought especially often.

Bestseller 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.

SaleBestseller No. 2

VDIAGTOOL VD10 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool Engine Fault Code Reader for Turn Off CEL with Live Data/Freeze Frame/I/M Readiness for All OBDII Protocol Cars, 2025 New Version

【A MUST-HAVE TOOL FOR DIYERS】- VDIAGTOOL VD10 car code reader is an incredibly useful obd scanner for each car owner or hobbyist, even for those with little to no experience when it comes to vehicle mechanics! Using this car diagnostic scanner is extremely easy. All you have to do is attach it to your car OBDII port and you can diagnose car problems in seconds! Read Codes (DTCs); Clear Codes; Live Data; View Freeze Frame; I/M Readiness; Vehicle Information.
【KEEP ENGINE IN GOOD STATUS】- VDIAGTOOL check engine code reader brings a fast access to scan, read the car fault code, show its definition on the screen instantly, troubleshooting to find the root causes of problems, erase the engine fault code and turn off the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light).car code reader
【READ/CLEAR CODES & DTC LOOKUP】- No search online & saving your time, this vehicle car code reader retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes and displays DTC definitions based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes) on the TFT screen, find out the root causes and clear the codes after fixed.
【LIVE DATA & RETRIEVE FREEZE FRAME】- This diagnostic scan tool for accurate diagnosis enables you to retrieve data from vehicle sensors, such as Engine RPM, Intake air temperature, Short/Long term fuel, Misfire data and etc. The freeze frame is stored in the PCM together with the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fault. VD10 car code reader car scanner can be a valuable & practical diagnostic aid and also greatly help when diagnosing intermittent problems.
【I/M READINESS for THE S-nn-0-g CHECK】- OBDII vehicle may not pass the annual inspection unless the required monitors since reset are complete. So you should at least read the readiness monitors and make sure they are ready. This car obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with I/M readiness function to check the operations of the e-m-issi0n system on OBD2 compliant vehicles, run I/M monitor readiness test, checking if the pass vehicle s-m-0-g inspection.

SaleBestseller No. 3

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.

SaleBestseller No. 4

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.

SaleBestseller No. 5

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android - No Subscription Fee - OBD2 Car Scanner and Code Reader - Diagnose Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag & 7000+ Issues on Vehicles 1996+

[Pro OBD2 Scanner] - BlueDriver is the easiest way to scan and understand your vehicle like a professional mechanic. Read and clear your car’s trouble codes and check engine light.
[Read & Clear All The Codes] - BlueDriver's enhanced vehicle diagnostics gives you access to information normally available only to mechanics on their OBD2 scan tools. Now you can read and clear ABS, Airbag, SRS, TPMS codes, and many more.
[Get The Right Fix & View Live Data] - Much more than a car code reader, BlueDriver is a diagnostic tool. You’ll get unlimited repair reports with possible causes and fixes, plus real-time health monitoring while you drive with the live data feature.
[Wireless & Bluetooth Enabled] - Say goodbye to wires. BlueDriver connects with Bluetooth via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. Get all of the capabilities of an expensive code reader & scan tool without any annoying wires.
[User-Friendly App and Repair Videos] - BlueDriver gives you more ways to scan and fix your vehicle. Our iOS & Android app connects you to a large database of repair videos with step-by-step directions of repairs.

Bestseller No. 6

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

Bestseller No. 7

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

SaleBestseller No. 8

ZMOON ZM201 Professional OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Enhanced Check Engine Code Reader with Reset OBDII/EOBD Car Diagnostic Scan Tools for All Vehicles After 1996, 2025 Upgraded

Full OBDII Modes Scanner for Car: As professional car scanner, ZM201 has all the OBD2 functions you need. Read & clear codes, turn off engine light or MIL, view freeze frame, read I/M readiness, retrieve vehicle VIN, battery voltage test, live data stream (with graphing display), built-in 35901 DTCs, O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc.
Enhanced OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool: Live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, you can connect it to a computer for fault data printing, prevent auto repair shops from charging randomly, save money and time. ZM201 obd scanner also comes with free-lifetime software updates, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements.
35,901 DTC Lookup: ZM201 car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, the old model obd2 usually only have 3,000-10,000. So the ZM201 car scanner has a huge advantage, which means that this obd2 scanner can better help diagnose and solve your vehicle faults. This is a great option if you want to replace or upgrade an existing car scanner.
Compatible with 98% Vehicles: ZM201 OBD2 scanner for car is compatible with most cars after 1996(USA)/2002(EU)/2008(Asia). If your car has an OBD2 port (16Pin), and the production time meets the above timeline, then your vehicle is compatible. But it is not compatible with new energy vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and models that do not comply with the OBD2 protocol.
Convenient Shortcut Functions: The addition of shortcut keys enhances the user experience. Pressing F1 enables you to quickly retrieve trouble codes, while F2 provides instant access to I/M readiness information. We've also introduced left and right navigation buttons (the previous model had only up and down buttons), making operation even more convenient.

Bestseller 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.

Bestseller No. 10

OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Check Engine Code Reader OBD2 Scanner with Reset, Mode 6, Mode 8 & I/M Readiness, Auto Check Engine Light Car Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBDII Car Since 1996

Professional OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool with Powerful Functions: OBD2 scanner code reader feature built-in 35901 OBD2 DTCs lookup library, As professional car scanner, the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool will help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read I/M readiness, Read & clear codes, turn off engine light or MIL, view freeze frame, retrieve vehicle VIN, battery voltage test, live data stream,O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc
OBD2 Scanner Built-in 35,901 DTC Lookup: The OBD2 scanner car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, other obd2 scanner diagnostic tool usually only have 3,000-10,000.the OBD2 Scanner of DTC library covers tens of thousands detailed fault code definitions that will quickly determine the fault cause and the potential problems before they cost you a fortune.you don't need to google the meaning of each fault code.If you are looking to replace a car code reader, this code reader is an excellent option
OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner Tool Compatible with 98% Vehicles And 10 Languages: The code reader OBD2 scanner for cars is designed to be compatible with most vehicles manufactured after 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars. If your car has a 16-pin OBD2 port and was produced within the specified timeline, it should be compatible with the code reader and the obd2 scanner diagnostic tool support languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese
Car Scanner Diagnostic offers Convenient Data Printing: The code reader for car offers advanced features such as live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, Connect the OBD2 scanner to your computer to easily print fault data, empowering you to prevent random charges at car repair shops and save valuable time and money. Additionally, WEJOWE offer lifetime free upgrades for the device, ensuring you always have access to the latest features and improvements
Super Compact & User-Friendly Design: The OBD2 scanner tool is easy to carrying and storage. 2.8" TFT true color LCD display offers a super clear viewing of test results. No need any extra battery or charger, plug this scanner into the OBD2 interface of your vehicle to power it on

Our Winner:

Winner in comparison

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.

Current offers for “Code Reader For Cars”

You want to buy the best products in “Code Reader For Cars”? In this bestseller list you will find new offers every day. Here you will find a large selection of current products in the category “Code Reader For Cars”.

SaleBestseller No. 1