The 4 Best Car Code Readers of 2023 (2023)

Updated on February 27, 2023

• Our Picks

• What to Look For in a Car Code Reader

• FAQ

  (Video) Best Car Code Readers 2023

The Ancel Classic OBD Scanner is easy to use, even for those uncomfortable working on cars. It works on most cars made in the U.S. after 1996 or in the EU or Asia after 2000 and supports multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Russian, and German. The large LCD has a white backlight to make it easy to read even in dim lighting. If it turns out that your code isn’t serious, this device can turn off that annoying check engine light. The scanner comes with a 2.5-foot long well-insulated cable that connects with your car’s OBDII data link connector; no other battery or charger is required as it powers up through that link. A three-year warranty means you can rest easy choosing this scanner.

_{Bluetooth: No | Built-in Display: Yes | Dimensions: 9.02"x6.34"x1.38" | Weight: 9.6 Oz}

The BlueDriver OBDII Scanner isn’t the cheapest option out there, but seeing as it’s aimed at those who want more professional readings than you can get from all-in-one units, that’s to be expected. This tiny sensor, once installed, transmits codes, errors, and information via Bluetooth to the BlueDriver app. This app is the centerpiece of the whole unit, as it’s one of the most beautifully designed and full-featured pieces of software we’ve seen. You can call up codes, search them, and even set the app into HUD mode to treat it as an onboard meter.

What’s extra interesting about this is the 24/7 support, meaning you can contact an actual human if you need more information on a particular reading. You can even have the app generate on-demand repair reports compiled and verified by certified technicians. These repair reports are pulled from a database of over 6.6 million vehicle-specific diagnostics, so chances are, you can pull one up for your specific vehicle.

_{Bluetooth: Yes | Built-in Display: No | Dimensions: 2.2"x1.9"x1" | Weight: 2.08 Oz}

If you need a no-nonsense car code reader, the BAFX Bluetooth scan tool is easily the smallest and most budget-friendly option on our list. This reader may lack an integrated display but can still provide readouts to your OBD reader app of choice on either your Android or iOS device.

Like most readers on our list, the BAFX Bluetooth scanner is compatible with almost any vehicle manufactured after 1996 and can provide real-time data on EOT, RPM, 02 readings, and more. Provided you aren't using this reader in a professional environment, the BAFX Bluetooth scan tool is a solid option for most users.

_{Bluetooth: Yes | Built-in Display: No | Dimensions: 4.41"x3.23"x1.38" | Weight: 3.1 Oz}

The most compact model on our list, the Ancel BD310, is a pocket-sized OBD2 scanner that can be used independently or paired with apps on your Android or iOS device. The BD310 features a straightforward interface, with four buttons for navigating menus on the built-in LCD screen.

This capable code reader provides advanced diagnostics, including readouts for engine RPM, coolant temperature, fuel consumption, and SMOG readiness. What's important to note is that while this scanner can be used independently, we highly recommend pairing it with your smartphone for better navigation. The buttons built into the BD310 are a bit clunky for navigating everything.

_{Bluetooth: Yes | Built-in Display: Yes | Dimensions: 9.5"x6.1"x1.5" | Weight: 11.2 Oz}

FAQ

• Do code readers work on all cars?

  OBD2 car code readers will work on all cars with onboard diagnostic software. OBD2 is a universal interface in most cars that was first introduced in the 1980s. While it won't work on every old car out there, as long as your vehicle is somewhat new, you should be covered. Almost all newer cars will support it.

• Are car code readers worth it?

  Car code readers are relatively inexpensive, making them a worthwhile investment if you want to pinpoint an issue with your vehicle without having to take it to an expensive mechanic. A car code reader allows you to read and clear codes, view basic parameter IDs, check and reset readiness monitors. This gives you a good way to tell if the problem is something you can fix easily before shelling out to a car shop, potentially saving you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

• Who makes the best car code readers?

  We like the Ancel Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II scanner because of how easy to use. It's a great choice for beginners, and it works for most cars made in the U.S. after 1996 or the EU/Asia after 2000. The LCD display is large and easy to read, and it supports a three-year warranty.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

Subscribe