How to choose OBD-II scanner? FULL Guide!

This article will introduce you to different scanner types, so if you want to know how to choose OBD-II scanner, you’re in the right place! I have tried dozens of different scanners and I will give you some things to consider before buying your first diagnostic tool.

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Before you buy an OBD-II scanner…

Vehicle Coverage

• Check Compatibility: Ensure the scanner supports your car or cars commonly driven in your area, especially if you plan to use it in a car shop.
• Expect Inconsistencies: Even if a scanner should support a car, sometimes specific functions may not work. This can happen even if you saw it working in a YouTube video for the same car model.

Smartphone for Bluetooth OBD

• OS Compatibility: Cheaper Bluetooth OBD adapters usually support either iOS or Android, not both. Get a Wi-Fi adapter for iPhones and Bluetooth for Androids.

Subscription/Update Cost

• Check Fees: Many scan tools have paid updates. Without updating, you might miss out on new features or compatibility fixes.
• Advanced Functionality Costs: Bluetooth scanners with advanced features like coding and bi-directional control often require yearly subscriptions. Without these, functionality may be very limited.

Feature Compatibility

• Service Procedures: Features like DPF regeneration or ABS bleeding are very car model-specific.
• Unlocking Hidden Features: If you’re buying a tool to unlock hidden features, confirm with the seller that it works for your specific car model.

Laptop Scanners

• Separate Laptop Recommended: For safety, use a separate laptop for your scanner software, especially if it’s from less-known sources. Many require disabling antivirus for installation, which can be risky for your main computer.