10 Best Car Code Readers for Quick Engine Fixes

Looking for the best car code readers to keep your engine light from ruining your drive?
I’ve rounded up 10 reliable OBD2 scanners that gave me peace of mind when I was stranded miles from a shop.

I once had a check engine light pop on during a long drive, miles from the nearest shop. My OBD2 scanner saved the day by showing it was a minor sensor fault, letting me keep driving with peace of mind.

The right tool makes car care easy. It saves time. It builds confidence.

List of Top 10 Car Code Readers

Image Title Best For Price
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) 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)

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for costly shop visits. It’s ideal for those who need a simple, accurate, and portable tool they can trust.

FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks - Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996 FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks – Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996

Perfect for drivers who want to save money on repairs and fix engine problems fast. Ideal for anyone who values clear, quick, and reliable car diagnostics at home.

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 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

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who want to quickly find and fix engine problems without guesswork. Ideal for anyone who values saving time and avoiding costly repairs.

MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

Perfect for car owners who want to quickly find and fix engine problems without paying for a shop visit. Great for DIY drivers who like to keep their car in top shape.

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 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

Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, easy, and accurate engine checks. Ideal for anyone who values saving time and avoiding costly repairs.

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+ 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+

Perfect for drivers who want to find and fix car problems fast without paying a mechanic. Great for anyone who wants pro-level diagnostics right on their phone.

FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8'' Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8” Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle

Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and mechanics who want to quickly find and fix engine problems. Ideal for anyone who needs a fast, accurate, and easy-to-use tool to keep their vehicle in top shape.

BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool, 12 Reset Services, Oil/TPMS/EPB/BMS/SAS/DPF/Throttle Reset, ABS Bleeding, Battery Test, Auto VIN, Free Update BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool, 12 Reset Services, Oil/TPMS/EPB/BMS/SAS/DPF/Throttle Reset, ABS Bleeding, Battery Test, Auto VIN, Free Update

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and professionals who want fast, accurate, and pro-level diagnostics without the guesswork. Ideal for anyone who wants to save time and fix problems right the first time.

Innova 1000 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for iPhone & Android - Predict Car Problems Before They Happen - No Subscriptions - Detect Check Engine, ABS, SRS Issues for Cars 1996+ Innova 1000 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for iPhone & Android – Predict Car Problems Before They Happen – No Subscriptions – Detect Check Engine, ABS, SRS Issues for Cars 1996+

Perfect for drivers, DIY car enthusiasts, and mechanics who want fast, accurate answers without paying monthly fees. Great for anyone who needs a portable and easy-to-use tool to keep their car in top shape.

FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car - Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone & Android - Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool to Check Engine & Fix All Cars & Vehicles ‘96 or Newer (1 Pack) FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car – Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone & Android – Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool to Check Engine & Fix All Cars & Vehicles ‘96 or Newer (1 Pack)

Perfect for car owners who want to save money, avoid surprise repairs, and know exactly what’s wrong with their vehicle before going to the shop. Great for DIYers, used car buyers, and anyone who wants peace of mind on the road.

Detailed Reviews

Our Best Car Code Readers guide is built on expert reviews and real user feedback. Each pick is tested for features, performance, and value you can trust. Read on to discover the tools that make car care simple and smart.

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)

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)

The ANCEL AD310 quickly finds why your check engine light is on. It reads and clears codes in seconds. You can also view live data and other key info with ease.

Built to last, it has a thick cable and solid design. The large clear screen makes results easy to read. Its light weight makes it simple to carry anywhere.

It works with most cars since 1996. No batteries needed.

Pros Cons
  • Reads and clears codes in seconds—no guesswork needed
  • Works with most cars from 1996 and newer
  • No batteries required—just plug and scan
  • Strong cable and tough build for garage use
  • Clear screen and easy buttons for quick reading
  • Cannot scan cars without OBD2 protocol support
  • No battery, must plug into vehicle to work
  • Limited functions compared to advanced diagnostic tools

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and anyone who wants to find and fix engine problems fast without paying for costly shop visits. It’s ideal for those who need a simple, accurate, and portable tool they can trust.

Ready to Purchase?

2. FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks – Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996

FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader for Cars and Trucks - Reset Check Engine Light, Read and Clear Fault Codes, Live Data Diagnostic Tool for All Cars Since 1996

The FOXWELL NT201 OBD2 Scanner makes car care simple. It reads and clears fault codes fast. You can even reset the check engine light yourself.

See live data like RPM and MAP for accurate checks. Use the built-in code library to know what each issue means.

Run a one-key emissions test before inspections. Works with all OBDII/EOBD cars and trucks since 1996.

Pros Cons
  • Reads and clears engine fault codes in seconds
  • Shows live data for quick and accurate checks
  • One-click emissions test with color indicators
  • Works on all cars since 1996
  • No fees with free lifetime updates
  • No wireless connection, must use cable to scan
  • Basic functions only, lacks advanced repair features

Perfect For:

Perfect for drivers who want to save money on repairs and fix engine problems fast. Ideal for anyone who values clear, quick, and reliable car diagnostics at home.

Ready to Purchase?

3. 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

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

The ANCEL AD410 OBD2 Scanner makes it easy to check your car’s engine health. It works with most OBDII vehicles from 1996 and newer.

It can read and clear fault codes fast. With over 42,000 code definitions, you get answers without searching online.

The bright LCD screen is clear. The menu is simple. Anyone can use it with ease.

Pros Cons
  • Works with most cars from 1996 and newer
  • Reads and clears engine fault codes fast
  • Over 42,000 built-in code definitions
  • Tests O2 sensors and EVAP system easily
  • Clear color screen with simple menu navigation
  • No support for ABS, SRS, or Transmission systems
  • Cannot reset fault codes without fixing the issue first
  • Updates only work on Windows, not Mac

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who want to quickly find and fix engine problems without guesswork. Ideal for anyone who values saving time and avoiding costly repairs.

Ready to Purchase?

4. MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

The MOTOPOWER MP69033 makes it easy to know what’s going on with your car. It can read and clear check engine codes in seconds. No extra power source needed — it gets power from your car.

It works with most cars made since 1996. It supports 9 protocols and 6 languages.

The 2.8″ LCD display is bright and easy to read. The design is compact and built to last. You can carry it and use it anytime.

Pros Cons
  • Find engine problems fast with built-in code lookup.
  • Works on most cars made since 1996.
  • Clear 2.8″ LCD screen for easy reading.
  • No batteries needed — powers from your car.
  • Compact and tough design for long-lasting use.
  • No support for ABS or Airbag codes
  • Cable length may feel short for some cars
  • Works only with OBDII systems, not older vehicles

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners who want to quickly find and fix engine problems without paying for a shop visit. Great for DIY drivers who like to keep their car in top shape.

Ready to Purchase?

5. 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

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

The OBD2 Scanner LK11 makes car checks fast and simple. Just plug and play for instant results.

It can read and clear engine codes in seconds. You also get live data and freeze frame info for accurate fixes.

It works on most cars. It’s small and light. You can take it anywhere.

Pros Cons
  • Plug and play for instant, hassle-free setup
  • Works with most cars, trucks, and SUVs
  • Saves time with quick, accurate code reading
  • Portable design fits in glove box or tool kit
  • Multi-language support for global accessibility
  • No wireless or Bluetooth connection option
  • Screen size may be small for some users
  • Limited functions beyond engine diagnostics

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics who want fast, easy, and accurate engine checks. Ideal for anyone who values saving time and avoiding costly repairs.

Ready to Purchase?

6. 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+

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+

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool lets you check your car like a pro. It reads and clears check engine, ABS, SRS, and more with ease.

It works wirelessly with your phone. It gives real-time data as you drive. It has no subscription fees ever.

Pros Cons
  • Read & clear all car trouble codes fast
  • Live data shows your car’s health as you drive
  • Wireless Bluetooth connection for easy, cable-free use
  • No fees or extra costs—ever
  • Works with all gas vehicles made since 1996
  • No support for diesel vehicles before certain years
  • Needs smartphone or tablet to work
  • Bluetooth range may limit distance from the car

Perfect For:

Perfect for drivers who want to find and fix car problems fast without paying a mechanic. Great for anyone who wants pro-level diagnostics right on their phone.

Ready to Purchase?

7. FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8” Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle

FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Graphing Live Data Diagnostic Code Reader Professional Mechanic OBDII Scan Tool for Check Engine Light 2.8'' Color Screen OBD II Scanner for 1996 or Newer Vehicle

The FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner makes it easy to find out why your check engine light is on. Just plug it in and start reading real-time data fast.

It shows live sensor graphs. It reads and clears engine codes. It helps with emissions readiness. It works on most cars, SUVs, and light trucks from 1996 or newer.

With a clear 2.8″ color screen and easy hotkeys, you get quick answers without guesswork. No battery needed — it powers right from your car. A must-have for home or shop use.

Pros Cons
  • Find the cause of your check engine light fast
  • Graph and track live sensor data with ease
  • Works on most cars, SUVs, and light trucks
  • Plug & Play with no setup or updates needed
  • Clear codes after repairs for a smooth drive
  • Doesn’t support ABS or transmission systems
  • Data may load slower on older cars
  • Works only with OBD2 functions, no special tests

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and mechanics who want to quickly find and fix engine problems. Ideal for anyone who needs a fast, accurate, and easy-to-use tool to keep their vehicle in top shape.

Ready to Purchase?

8. BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool, 12 Reset Services, Oil/TPMS/EPB/BMS/SAS/DPF/Throttle Reset, ABS Bleeding, Battery Test, Auto VIN, Free Update

BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 Scanner Car Code Reader Engine ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool, 12 Reset Services, Oil/TPMS/EPB/BMS/SAS/DPF/Throttle Reset, ABS Bleeding, Battery Test, Auto VIN, Free Update

The BLCKTEC 460T is a powerful car scanner for home and pro use. It makes finding and fixing car problems fast and simple.

It reads engine, ABS, SRS, and transmission codes. It has 12+ reset functions like oil, battery, and brake resets. It gives live data so you can see problems in real time.

It has AutoVIN to save time. It works 3X faster than many others. It comes with free lifetime updates for the newest cars.

Pros Cons
  • All-system diagnostics for complete car health checks
  • 12+ reset functions for pro-level maintenance at home
  • Real-time data to spot and fix issues fast
  • AutoVIN technology saves time with instant vehicle ID
  • Free lifetime updates keep your tool always current
  • Some functions may not work on every car
  • USA/Canada only, not for use in other regions
  • Needs a compatibility check before buying

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners, DIY mechanics, and professionals who want fast, accurate, and pro-level diagnostics without the guesswork. Ideal for anyone who wants to save time and fix problems right the first time.

Ready to Purchase?

9. Innova 1000 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for iPhone & Android – Predict Car Problems Before They Happen – No Subscriptions – Detect Check Engine, ABS, SRS Issues for Cars 1996+

Innova 1000 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for iPhone & Android - Predict Car Problems Before They Happen - No Subscriptions - Detect Check Engine, ABS, SRS Issues for Cars 1996+

The Innova 1000 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner makes car checks fast and easy. It works with iPhone and Android. You get clear answers before small issues turn into big problems.

It shows engine, ABS, and SRS data in real time. No extra subscriptions or hidden fees.

Lightweight and simple to use anywhere. Works with most cars, trucks, and SUVs made since 1996.

Pros Cons
  • Bluetooth connection makes scanning fast and wireless.
  • Works with most cars, trucks, and SUVs since 1996.
  • No subscriptions or hidden fees, ever.
  • Shows real-time data for engine, ABS, and SRS.
  • Lightweight design that’s simple and easy to use.
  • May not work with all car models
  • Needs app to unlock full features
  • Bluetooth only—no wired connection option

Perfect For:

Perfect for drivers, DIY car enthusiasts, and mechanics who want fast, accurate answers without paying monthly fees. Great for anyone who needs a portable and easy-to-use tool to keep their car in top shape.

Ready to Purchase?

10. FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car – Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone & Android – Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool to Check Engine & Fix All Cars & Vehicles ‘96 or Newer (1 Pack)

FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Car - Car Code Readers & Scan Tools for iPhone & Android - Wireless OBD2 Auto Diagnostic Tool to Check Engine & Fix All Cars & Vehicles ‘96 or Newer (1 Pack)

The FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner shows you what’s wrong with your car in plain language. It can find 7,000+ issues and even track your car’s maintenance needs. You’ll know repair costs before stepping into a shop.

It works with almost any car from 1996 or newer. You can even clear your check engine light right from the app.

Pros Cons
  • Save money on costly car repairs
  • Find problems before visiting the mechanic
  • Works with most cars from 1996 and newer
  • Track oil changes and other maintenance
  • Clear the check engine light fast
  • Needs smartphone app to work, no standalone screen.
  • Some features vary by car make and model.
  • Requires OBD2 port, not for very old vehicles.

Perfect For:

Perfect for car owners who want to save money, avoid surprise repairs, and know exactly what’s wrong with their vehicle before going to the shop. Great for DIYers, used car buyers, and anyone who wants peace of mind on the road.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

A car code reader can turn a stressful drive into a calm one. I once used mine on a remote road and avoided an unnecessary tow.

  • Compatibility: Make sure it works with your car’s year and model. Most support vehicles from 1996 or newer, but always check before buying.
  • Functions: Look for read and clear codes, live data, and emissions readiness. More features mean better problem-solving.
  • Ease of Use: A clear screen and simple menu save time. Even beginners should be able to use it without a manual.
  • Connection Type: Choose between wired for reliability or Bluetooth for wireless use with your phone. Each has its own convenience.
  • Build Quality: A strong cable and solid body last longer. Cheap builds can fail when you need them most.
  • Extra Features: Some offer ABS/SRS diagnostics, reset functions, or AutoVIN. These can save you trips to the shop.
  • Portability: A lightweight and compact design is easier to store in your glove box. You’ll have it ready anytime.
  • Power Source: Many draw power from the car, so no batteries are needed. This means it’s always ready to use.
  • Updates: Models with free lifetime updates stay compatible with newer cars. This keeps your tool useful for years.