I bought a bunch of cheap scanners to see which one was the best. I tested them out and here are the 6 best engine code readers.
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VdiagTool VD30 PRO
Comparing Vdiag to other code readers in a similar price range, it can display more live data values and also display up to 4 different graphic values at a time.
VD30 Review

Ancel AD310
Ancel AD310 is one of the best-sellers on Amazon and I can see why. You will get full Global OBD functions, including some enhancements like engine live data graphs.
AD310 Review

Launch CR3008+
One of the best code readers I tried and the only downside was a slow reaction to pressing buttons when navigating in the scanner’s menu.
CR 3008+ Review

Ancel AD530
Other than classic Code Reader functions, it gives the ability to read multiple live data graphs at once, do a battery health test, or even display a list of possible causes for every fault code.
Video: Ancel AD530
I also did a video with some of these code readers so you can see them in action.
How to use an engine code reader
Find the OBD-II Port:
- Under the dashboard, driver’s side.
Connect the Code Reader:
- Plug it into the OBD-II port.
Turn On the Ignition:
- Key to “ON” position, engine off.
Read Codes:
- Follow the reader’s prompts to get the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Look Up Codes:
- Use the manual or online resources to understand the codes.
Fix or Reset:
- Address the issue or clear the codes if fixed.
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Hi, I am Juraj “Yuri” Lukacko. I got frustrated by unhelpful and scammy mechanics, so I decided to learn everything about car diagnostics myself. I test dozens of new car diagnostic tools every month along with learning new strategies to fix and customize cars. About Juraj Lukacko (Yuri)
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Hi, here are all books that are currently sold: https://www.iamcarhacker.com/courses/
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