Best Code Readers of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Code readers are essential tools for diagnosing issues with vehicles. They are small electronic devices that can be plugged into a car's onboard computer system to read and interpret error codes. These codes provide information about the various systems in the car, such as the engine, transmission, and brakes. Code readers are designed for both professional mechanics and car owners who want to troubleshoot problems themselves. They are easy to use and can save time and money by identifying issues quickly and accurately. With a code reader, car owners can avoid costly repairs and keep their vehicles running smoothly.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner Cover #TOP 1
ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner
ftb score rating icon 9.8
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Cover #TOP 2
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool Cover #TOP 3
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Code Readers

#TOP 1

ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner

AD310
Black
ANCEL AD310 OBD II Scanner Cover
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 OBD II Scanner is a must-have for car owners who want to check the cause of the check engine light by themselves, without needing to go to a mechanic. The scanner can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. It is a sturdy and compact device, with a well-constructed design that makes it easy to transport. The AD310 scanner can support all OBDII protocols and has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. It is accurate, fast, and easy to use, making it a great fit for car owners who need a code reader to check their car.

What We Like
Easy to use
Sturdy construction
Accurate diagnostics
Affordable price
User-friendly interface
What We Don't Like
Small instruction booklet
Basic features
#TOP 2

FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner

NT301
NT301 OBD2 Scanner
NT301 Code Reader
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Cover
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light

The FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner is a professional diagnostic code reader tool designed to help you easily diagnose and fix issues with your vehicle. With features like live data graphing and logging, codes analysis and printer compatibility, and the ability to read DTCs and turn off CEL, this scanner is a must-have for home and auto shop mechanics. The NT301 also comes equipped with smog check helper features like I/M readiness hotkeys and LED indicators, making it easy to use right out of the package. And with free lifetime updates and a 1-year seller assurance, you can trust that you're getting a quality product.

What We Like
Easy to use
Affordable price
Regular updates available
Clear color display
Effective diagnostics
What We Don't Like
Hard to read in sunlight
Resetting codes can be tricky

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool

BlueDriver
LSB2
Black
Small
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool Cover
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Car Scan Tool and Code Reader - Check Engine Light Vehicle Scanner for iPhone & Android

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool is a must-have for anyone who wants to understand their vehicle like a professional mechanic. With this tool, you can read and clear your car's trouble codes and check engine light, as well as access information normally available only to mechanics on their OBD2 scan tools. The tool is wireless and Bluetooth enabled, and connects via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. The user-friendly app also provides access to repair videos with step-by-step directions, and you can view live data to monitor your car's health in real-time. With 24/7 professional support, this tool is the ultimate diagnostic tool for virtually every vehicle make and model.

What We Like
Easy setup and use
Compact and portable design
Detailed diagnostic information
Links to parts and tutorials
Compatible with iOS and Android
What We Don't Like
May not diagnose all vehicles
#TOP 4

ANCEL AD410 OBDII Code Reader

AD410
yellow
ANCEL AD410 OBDII Code Reader Cover
ANCEL AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Scanner, Vehicle Code Reader for Check Engine Light, OBDII Diagnostic Tool for Fault Diagnosis, Mechanic Scan Tool for All OBD 2 Cars 1996+, Black/Yellow

The ANCEL Code Reader is a versatile automotive tool that works on most U.S. vehicles from 1996 onwards. It can quickly read and clear emissions-related codes, helping you understand issues before going for repairs. With O2 sensor and EVAP system tests, it aids in monitoring fuel efficiency and emissions. The 2.4" color display and user-friendly interface make navigation easy, even for beginners. Additionally, it allows you to save or print diagnostic reports and offers free lifetime software updates for bug fixes and new features.

What We Like
Easy to use
Affordable price
Compact and handy
Read and clear codes
Live sensor data viewing
What We Don't Like
Limited advanced functions
Instruction manual lacks detail
#TOP 5

Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner

00063-25
Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner Cover
Autel OBD2 Scanner MS309 Universal Car Engine Fault Code Reader, Check Engine Light and Emission Monitor Status, OBDII CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool

The Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner is a necessary tool for car owners. The upgraded chip can retrieve and clear generic, manufacturer-specific, and pending codes, and display DTCs meanings on the built-in database. The MS309 scanner can retrieve freeze frame data and vehicle information to help identify engine-related problems. Additionally, it can turn off the check engine light, check I/M readiness, and retrieve the I/M readiness status to help your car pass the annual smog check. This scanner is compatible with 99% OBDII-Compliant vehicles.

What We Like
Easy to use
Accurate code reading
Cost-effective solution
Portable and compact
What We Don't Like
Limited functionality for complex cars
Some reported defects
#TOP 6

LeeKooLuu OBD2 Scanner Car Diagnostic Tool LK11

LK11
Black
LeeKooLuu OBD2 Scanner Car Diagnostic Tool LK11 Cover
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 LeeKooLuu OBD2 Scanner Car Diagnostic Tool is a user-friendly plug-and-play device that reads and clears codes for all OBD II and CAN compliant vehicles. It features a freeze frame function that retrieves data recorded in the ECU to accurately diagnose issues and an I/M readiness function to help get your vehicle ready for annual smog checks. Additionally, it retrieves important vehicle information to check whether the ECU matches your car. Keeping your engine in good shape is easy with this diagnostic tool as it quickly identifies engine faults and allows you to erase codes.

What We Like
Easy to use
Clear instructions
No batteries needed
Affordable price
Rugged build quality
What We Don't Like
Minor issues with code erasing
#TOP 7

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner

NT604Elite
FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner Cover
FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission, Check Engine Code Reader,Diagnostic Scan Tool with SRS Airbag Scanner, Car Diagnostic Scanner for All Cars with Battery Test

The FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner is an easy-to-use and affordable diagnostic scan tool designed to help car owners figure out the cause of issues before fixing them. It scans the most common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission, and comes with the latest software, which can be used out of the box. This 2 in 1 scanner includes OBDII diagnosis and can also be used as an ABS/SRS scanner, transmission, and check engine code reader. It supports 60+ car makes worldwide and comes with a solid protective case to prevent damage. The NT604 Elite is a great gift idea for any car owner.

What We Like
Fast and easy to use
Effective for diagnosing issues
Sturdy case for protection
Real-time monitoring features
Good customer support experience
What We Don't Like
Missing some advertised features
Processor is somewhat slow
#TOP 8

AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner with Battery Tester

YM519
AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner with Battery Tester Cover
AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner with Battery Tester - Diagnostic Tool for Cars, Check Engine Light & Emissions Readiness, Real-Time Date, Plug & Play, Multilingual, Support All Vehicles

The AMTIFO OBD2 Scanner offers comprehensive vehicle diagnostics, supporting various OBDII protocols for all car types. You can easily read and clear check engine light codes, helping you troubleshoot issues effectively. Additionally, the built-in battery tester monitors your battery's health and voltage, keeping you informed about its status. With real-time data streaming, you can access live performance metrics through clear graphs, ensuring your vehicle is ready for emissions checks. This user-friendly tool is designed for everyone, making it easy to maintain your car's performance and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

What We Like
Outstanding value for money
User-friendly interface
Durable and rugged design
Accurate diagnostics and readings
Comprehensive vehicle compatibility
What We Don't Like
Limited advanced features
#TOP 9

WEJOWE OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool

BT201
WEJOWE OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool Cover
OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool, Check Engine Code Reader OBD2 Scanner with Reset, Mode 6, Mode 8 & I/M Readiness, Auto Check Engine Light Car Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBDII Car Since 1996

The WEJOWE Scanner is a professional OBD2 diagnostic tool packed with powerful functions. It can help you identify engine light issues, check I/M readiness, clear codes, view freeze frame data, and more. With a vast database of 35,901 DTCs, it quickly pinpoints fault causes. Compatible with 98% of vehicles post-1996, it supports 10 languages. The tool offers convenient data printing, allowing you to analyze fault data and avoid unnecessary repair costs. Its compact design, canvas storage bag, and Type-C cable for connectivity make it easy to use and carry around.

What We Like
Fast code reading
Bright color screen
Good for basic diagnostics
Usable on multiple vehicles
What We Don't Like
Compatibility issues with some vehicles
May be complicated for some users
#TOP 10

MOTOPOWER Car OBD2 Scanner

MP69033
Yellow
Portable
MOTOPOWER Car OBD2 Scanner Cover
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 Car OBD2 Scanner is a handy tool to help you diagnose engine problems on your own. With its built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, you can easily determine the cause of the engine light, read and erase codes, view freeze frame data, get vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, and more. It supports 9 protocols and 6 languages, making it compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. The LCD display is clear, easy to read, and gets power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector. Its compact design with a 2.5 feet long cable makes it portable and easy to use.

What We Like
Easy to use
Quick diagnostics
Wide vehicle compatibility
Affordable price
Compact design
What We Don't Like
Basic features only
Short cable length
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a scanner and a code reader?

A code reader is a simplified version of a scan tool, but it's only capable of performing basic scans of trouble codes. A scan tool can read and clear trouble codes, and it may also provide advanced data reading and playback features, knowledge bases, diagnostic procedures, and built-in testing equipment.

2. Do code readers work on all cars?

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.

Editor's Notes

During our code reader research, we found 24 code reader products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 875,500 customer reviews through our big data system to write the code readers list. We found that most customers choose code readers with an average price of $30.29.

The code readers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of code readers, including ANCEL, FOXWELL, BlueDriver, Autel, LeeKooLuu. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,678 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Code Readers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand ANCEL FOXWELL BlueDriver ANCEL Autel LeeKooLuu FOXWELL AMTIFO WEJOWE MOTOPOWER
Operating System Linux [Choice Of Millions People] [Recommended by Major Websites/Mechanic] Windows_XP/7/8/10 to update, Mac and IOS system not supported. iOS and Android - - not compatible Windows 10 Android 4.0 - Windows
Display resolution 128x64 - - - 128x64 not compatible 480x272 720x1440 - 128x64
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy