The right OBD2 scanner depends on the vehicle data you’re looking to access and the work a vehicle requires. Expect to pay more if you need to send commands to the vehicle’s system or want features such as a touchscreen. Are all OBD2 scanners the same? We were able to use the TOPDON to recalibrate the power windows in our test vehicle, fixing a longstanding issue. This is important – for the price of this device, most of us will want to be sure we’re getting long-term use out of it. With software updates, you’re protected. What Didn’t We Like About This Car Diagnostic Tool? The age of the vehicle determines what type of car diagnostic tool it will accept. Vehicles made after 1996 will have OBD2 carports, whereas older models may be equipped with OBD1 ports. How many types of OBD2 scanners are there? Whether you’re an advanced DIYer or a professional mechanic, the TOPDON ARTDIAG 800BT in our opinion, is one of the best scanners on the car diagnostics market that money can buy. We’ll take you through our review and list the top 6 reasons why we think it offers the best value for your hard earned cash. TOP 6 Reasons To Buy The TOPDON ARTIDIAG 800BT 1. Supports ALL Systems Diagnostics

With that said, there are several other factors to look for in the best OBD2 scanners, including compatibility, Bluetooth capabilities, and protocols. In the following sections, we will detail each feature offered by the best OBD2 scanners to help you decide which one is best for you.

In addition to common codes, all cars also have manufacturer-specific fault codes. The best OBD2 scanners can read codes from most major brands. If you plan to use your OBD2 scanner with a specific vehicle or set of vehicles, make sure it is capable of reading error codes for that manufacturer. With the TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT one could be forgiven for thinking the age old adage nothing comes for free is untrue! The all systems diagnostics and 28 maintenance functions come with free updates for life! This is very unusual for a scanner and to our knowledge, it’s the only scanner on the market to provide such a generous offering. What’s more, under the hood, the scanner actually runs LAUNCH software. Now, everyone in the automotive industry will have heard the name LAUNCH and will know that LAUNCH scanners have a reputation for being the top of the cream. That’s one of the reasons why vehicle coverage and support for both the diagnostics and maintenance functions is so good on this scanner. 4. Wireless – No Messy Wires Some DTCs apply to all vehicle makes, while others are specific to certain brands. The first number in a DTC is always either 0 or 1. ‘0’ is a universal (generic) code and ‘1’ is a manufacturer-specific code. Real-time data: Accessing real-time data is not necessary for most people. For those with advanced automotive know-how, this information can help optimize engine performance and diagnose certain repairs. In addition to engine information like temperature, RPMs, and fuel injection rate, you can also monitor ABS and battery data. When in use for an extended period of time, the display unit can get warm. Just a little, nothing to be concerned about. What Maintenance Services does it cover?

Everything about the TOPDON is designed for easy use and handling. The device comes in a sturdy, ergonomic case. The Bluetooth dongle slots into the scanner itself and is easily removed with a single push. Setting up the TOPDON requires an internet connection as you’ll need to input the included activation code. Once your account is made, TOPDON provides free lifetime updates. For non-mechanics, the most useful OBD2 scanner features are reading error codes and the smog test. More advanced features are only useful when paired with at least some mechanic know-how. OBD2 Features: What Experts Are Saying

When you’re holding the TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT, you know you’re holding a premium tool, it’s got a solid build quality to it. It’s light and the material used on the scanner allows you to grip it firmly. The Launch has an easy-to-use touchscreen interface and a long connection cable. Some OBD2 scanners have shorter cables that make it difficult to hold the device in your lap once connected. Our ease of use rating represents the relative ease or difficulty of operating the OBD2 scanner. Scanners that can retrieve engine codes with the fewest button pushes scored best in this category. All of the OBD2 scanners that we recommend are compatible with a broad range of vehicles. However, not every OBD2 scanner works perfectly with every vehicle. Each manufacturer (especially in different countries) uses its own computer protocol for storing vehicle fault codes. OBD2 scanners that support the broadest range of protocols score best in this category. It works with a lot of vehicles, so as well as working with your current vehicle, it’s likely to work with the next one too.

Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) calibration : All modern vehicles are equipped with power steering systems that greatly assist in handling. If the SAS is improperly calibrated, your vehicle will be difficult to steer and may handle strangely (the wheel turning too easily, or only with difficulty). The SAS typically needs to be reset after any wheel alignment. Or, if you consistently work on multiple vehicles as a job or hobby, you may want a scanner compatible with foreign and domestic cars and receive updates regularly.

OBD diagnostics tools have been around for some time now, and they’ve been a godsend every single time. Its ability to pinpoint fault codes, analyse the condition and operational functionality of a car, or simply reset and turn off warning lights, is a blessing. While any OBD scanner and reader is far better than nothing, some are a league above the rest. This is TOPDON’s goal – make the best out there. Since the functionality and features vary depending on the brand and model of car scanner, our review team breaks down each in the following sections to help you make an informed decision about which OBD2 scanner is right for you.