How To Choose A Code Reader Or Scanner

What's the code reader or scaner?
It is a device that connects to your vehicles on-board-computer. It can read data generated by your vehicles computer such as 'error codes'. The device can also reset these codes.  Many have advanced functions which are listed below.

Propose from engineer：

Spend a few minutes on this page before choosing your Code Reader or Scanner.

Not all Code Readers/Scanners are created equal. The information here will help you choose the 

one that's right for you.

NOTE1. Do you want a 'basic code reader' or a 'higher end unit'?

A basic code reader is low cost and will read the engine codes and erase them. This is often all 
you need if you
 just want to know the codes to keep your mechanic accountable or perhaps do your own basic 
repair. They are 
identifiable by the fact they usually only have 2 buttons.
*Pitfalls! The low cost readers have the most compatibility issues. They are designed to work on 
the most common
 models and don't have the programming to cover all protocols from all car manufacturers. From 
our experience, 
about 98% of the low cost readers we sell work fine. The other 2% experience incompatibility. It 
is recommended
 that you check your vehicles protocol as explained below before buying a low cost unit.

A higher end unit will cost more but will perform more functions and have a much less chance of
 experiencing 
incompatibility. Some examples of added functions include:

'ABS or Airbag capability': Read and reset other systems such as Antilock Brake System and 
Airbags.
'On Screen Definitions': Lower cost units just display a code. You then have to look up the 
definiion in a provided 
code book. The 'on-screen' option allows you to see the definition right on the readers screen.
Printing ability: Print results to your printer.
 'Live Data': View engine sensors and performance in real time, even as you are driving. Good for
 diagnosing 
problems.
Updatable: Update the device online to keep up with changes in vehicle protocols.
'Memory': Saves your data in the scanners memory for later viewing.
'Retrieve the VIN (vehicle identification number)': Displays the VIN of the vehicle. This is usefull
 if you suspect 
a vehicles VIN has been tampered with or the car has been rebuilt.

NOTE 2. Avoid compatibility issues. Find your vehicles OBD2 Protocol?

If you are buying a 'universal type' or a 'low cost' scanner, check your vehicle to see what 'OBD2 
protocol' it uses. 
If a scanner we sell does not read all protocols, we will state what protocols it reads right in the 
items description.

To find out what protocol your vehicle uses, check for a label under the hood.

You can also look up your vehicle here: OBD2 Protocols by vehicle make and model.
NOTE3. Go to our 'Auto Scanners' page.

At the top, are links to narrow down the choices by vehicle make. For example; 'Universal' is for 
scanners that
 work on more than one make of vehicle. 'BMW' is for scanners that work on BMW models.

*Don't get stuck with a NON-CAN-BUS reader if your vehicle is CAN-BUS.


Starting with model year 2003, some vehicle makes and models started using a new type of OBD2 
called 
CAN-BUS. All vehicles 2008 and newer use CAN-BUS. A small group of readers we sell do not work 
on CAN-BUS 
and state this in the items description. They are designed for the older models without CAN-BUS.
 Better to be safe 
than sorry, check your vehicles protocol as explained in step 2.

What’s the difference between a code reader and a scan tool?

There aren’t any hard and fast rules as to what constitutes a basic car code reader and what qualifies as a scan tool, but there are a few things that typically set these devices apart. Both devices feature basic code reading and clearing functionality, but that’s often where a code reader’s feature set ends. Scan tools, on the other hand, may include advanced data reading and playback features, extensive knowledge bases and diagnostic procedures, and even built-in testing equipment.