# Best OBD2 scanners for DIY mechanics who fix their own cars Source: https://codeandclear.com/best/best-obd2-scanner-for-diy-mechanics Publisher: Code & Clear. Picks are chosen from what each Amazon listing states, not from hands-on tests. Method: https://codeandclear.com/how-we-pick A $30 code reader only talks to the engine computer. Once you start doing your own brakes, batteries and suspension work, you need a scanner that reads ABS, airbag, transmission and body modules, and can run the reset after the job, like an EPB service mode or a battery registration. Around $150 to $300 you can get that, but the listings vary a lot. Some cover all systems, others only four. Some include ABS bleeding and injector coding, others only oil and throttle resets. Newer Chrysler group vehicles need FCA AutoAuth support, and newer GM models need CAN FD. Update terms also differ. This guide compares seven scanners for owners who fix their own cars, using the systems, service functions, protocols and update terms each Amazon listing states. ## Picks ### 1. TOPDON ArtiDiag600 Pro OBD2 Scanner, Car Diagnostic Tool for All Systems Systems: All systems; Service functions: 9; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: CAN FD, FCA, Renault, Nissan, SFD gateways; Stated updates: Lifetime free via WiFi An all-system TOPDON scanner with 9 maintenance functions, broad secure gateway support and all 10 OBD2 modes. A solid pick for home mechanics who work on several brands. What the listing offers: - Supports FCA, Renault, Nissan and SFD secure gateway access plus CAN FD, per the listing. - 9 functions include ABS bleeding, battery matching, DPF regeneration and throttle relearn. - Live data can be graphed, recorded, replayed and overlaid, which helps with intermittent faults. Limits to know: - Active tests are not listed, so it reads and resets but does not command parts. - 9 service functions is fewer than the MD906 PRO and XTOOL D6 in this guide. ### 2. THINKCAR THINKSCAN 662 OBD2 Scanner,Car Diagnostic Tool with Bidirectional Active Test,Car Scanner Engine ABS SRS Transmission,Scanner for Car with 12 Reset,CAN FD & FCA SGW,Lifetime Free Update Systems: Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS; Service functions: 12; Active tests: Yes; Protocols: CAN FD, FCA SGW; Stated updates: Lifetime free (title) A four-system scanner that adds bidirectional active tests and 12 resets for about $190. Good for DIYers who want to test a part, not just read its code, on a tight budget. What the listing offers: - Bidirectional active tests are stated, which is rare in this price range. - 12 resets plus CAN FD and FCA SGW access for 2018 and newer FCA vehicles. - Touch screen plus physical buttons, with 28 languages and 140+ vehicle brands listed. Limits to know: - System coverage is stated as engine, transmission, ABS and SRS, not every module. - The listing does not describe the screen size or battery, which matter for longer jobs. ### 3. Autel MaxiDiag MD906 PRO 2026, All-Sys OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner, 11 Service Systems: All systems; Service functions: 11; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: CAN FD, FCA AutoAuth; Stated updates: Lifetime free via WiFi The top MaxiDiag code reader, with all-system scans, 11 services, CAN FD and FCA AutoAuth, and lifetime WiFi updates. The Autel to buy if you do not need active tests. What the listing offers: - Lifetime WiFi updates with no extra charge are stated in the listing. - 11 services, compared with 7 on the MD808 PRO and MD806. - CAN FD and FCA AutoAuth support for newer GM and Chrysler group vehicles. Limits to know: - Active tests are not listed, so it cannot command parts like the MaxiCOM tools. - The listing's claim of matching the MK808S refers to diagnostics, not services. ### 4. XTOOL D6 Full System OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool with Lifetime Free Update Systems: All systems; Service functions: 15; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: CAN FD, FCA AutoAuth; Stated updates: Lifetime free (title) A budget full-system XTOOL scanner with 15 relearn and reset functions, CAN FD and FCA AutoAuth support, and AutoVIN. Fits owners who want the most resets for under $250. What the listing offers: - 15 functions, including oil, EPB and BMS resets, are listed, the most in this guide. - Covers ECM, TCM, ABS, SRS, HVAC, BCM, TPMS and EPB, per the listing. - FCA AutoAuth and CAN FD support are stated for newer Chrysler group and GM vehicles. Limits to know: - Live data shows up to 4 PIDs at once, fewer than some rivals can graph. - FCA AutoAuth needs separate account registration, according to the listing. ### 5. FOXWELL NT624 Elite OBD2 Scanner,All-System Scan Tool,8 Resets Code Reader Systems: All systems; Service functions: 8; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: KWP2000, J1850, ISO9141, CAN; Stated updates: Lifetime free via WiFi An all-system code reader that replaces the NT604 Elite and NT614 Elite, with 8 resets and lifetime WiFi updates. For DIYers who need all-module codes but not active tests. What the listing offers: - All-system scanning covers engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, TPMS, suspension, HVAC and BMS. - 8 resets include ABS bleeding, battery registration, DPF regen and injector coding. - Lifetime free updates via WiFi are stated. Limits to know: - Bidirectional control is not listed, so it cannot command components. - Fewer resets than the NT716 or the bidirectional NT726. ### 6. Autel MaxiDiag MD808 PRO OBD2 Scanner, All System Diagnostic Scan Tool Systems: All systems; Service functions: 7; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: Not stated; Stated updates: Not stated An older MaxiDiag all-system reader with 7 services, all 10 OBD2 modes and graphed live data. Consider it if you find it priced well below the MD906 PRO. What the listing offers: - Scans engine, ABS, SRS, EPB and other systems to read and clear codes. - All 10 OBD2 modes, including the O2 monitor test, are stated. - Live data in text or graph form helps spot intermittent sensor faults. Limits to know: - CAN FD and FCA AutoAuth are not listed, unlike the MD906 PRO. - Only 7 services are listed, and update terms are not stated. ### 7. Innova 5410 All-System OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool for Cars & Trucks - Automotive Scan Tools for Engine, ABS, SRS & Transmission, Bluetooth Compatible with America's Top Car Repair App Systems: Engine, ABS, SRS, transmission and others; Service functions: Not stated; Active tests: Not stated; Protocols: Not stated; Stated updates: No subscriptions stated A handheld Innova scanner that reads engine, ABS, SRS and transmission codes, shows live data and links to the RepairSolutions2 app for verified fixes with no subscription. What the listing offers: - Reads and clears engine, ABS, SRS and transmission codes, per the listing. - Live data includes RPM, fuel trims, O2 sensor and battery voltage readings. - The RepairSolutions2 app gives verified fixes with no added cost, according to the listing. Limits to know: - The listing does not name any service resets, so brake and battery jobs may need another tool. - Coverage varies by vehicle. The listing tells buyers to use Innova's coverage checker. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.