Best OBD2 Scanners in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 17, 2024
Using an automotive scan tool is similar to having a mini service station right on board your car. If you're searching for a decent ...Read more
PROS

The device allows you to get extended information on the DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES) LIST, where you can study in detail the information regarding errors in electronic control units. And here it provides the function of resetting SRS-codes.

CONS

Loads a little slowly.

OUR VERDICT

The main advantage of the Autel MaxiLink ML629 is that it is compatible almost with all cars produced from 1996 and newer that support the function of OBDII scan. Not only that. It is also one of the few scanners that allow you to get VIN, CALID and CVN codes.

detailed parameters
Diagnostic Features

Engine diagnosis, Transmission diagnosis, ABS/SRS diagnoses, DTC (Diagnostics Trouble Codes) lookup, Retrieving vehicle information (VIN, CALID and CVN)

Connection Options

OBD2 port, USB, MicroSD card slot

Controls

LCD screen with a control panel

Data to Display

Misfire Monitor, Fuel System Monitor, Comprehensive Component Monitor, EGR System Monitor, O2 Sensors Monitor, Catalyst Monitor, Evaporative System Monitor, O2 Sensor Heater Monitor, Secondary Air Monitor, Heated Catalyst Monitor etc.

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The scanner has extended functionality, making it suitable both for spark ignition engines and for compression ignition engines. Also, it is distinguished by the EGR system which allows normalising the level of harmful substances emitted into the atmosphere.

CONS

Keyless remote programming is unavailable.

OUR VERDICT

This model can not only detect the error code and output it on the screen, but also show the type of malfunction. This way, detecting and fixing a problem will take you considerably less time. The menu of the device is available in 7 languages.

detailed parameters
Diagnostic Features

Engine diagnosis, Transmission diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostics Trouble Codes) lookup, Retrieving vehicle information (VIN, CVN)

Connection Options

OBD2 port, USB

Controls

LCD screen with a control panel

Data to Display

EGR System Monitor, O2 Sensors Monitor, Catalyst Monitor, Evaporative System Monitor, O2 Sensor Heater Monitor, Secondary Air Monitor, Heated Catalyst Monitor, NMHC Catalyst Monitor, NOx Aftertreatment Monitor, Boost Pressure System Monitor, Exhaust Gas Sensor Monitor, PM Filter Monitor

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The heavy-duty cable measures 2.5 feet (76 centimetres) long, so you won't feel tied down (literally) when sitting and running diagnostics tests. The rubberised casing protects the internal components from impact damage and offers a non-slip grip.

CONS

The screen is difficult to read under direct sunlight. 

OUR VERDICT

The Foseal FO-01 has a separate real-time curve function. It sports the most well-thought-out design, with its large, 2.8-inch LCD screen that features ample backlighting and lets you tweak the contrast. Even better, this device features separate VIN and DTC buttons.

detailed parameters
Diagnostic Features

Engine diagnosis, Transmission diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostics Trouble Codes) lookup, Retrieving vehicle information (VIN, CVN)

Connection Options

OBD2 port

Controls

LCD screen with a control panel

Data to Display

Misfire Monitor, Fuel System Monitor, Comprehensive Components Monitor, Catalyst Monitor, Heated Catalyst Monitor, Evaporative System Monitor, Secondary Air System Monitor, Air Conditioning Refrigerant Monitor, Oxygen Sensor Monitor, Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor, Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Monitor 

Warranty

2 years

PROS

This multifunctional OBD2 code reader has a built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library that will help with most car problems. The convenient buttons quickly query the vehicle's VIN number and DTC fault code.

CONS

Great for basic diagnostics, but relatively few advanced features.

OUR VERDICT

The convenient LCD screen with contrast adjustment will help you quickly understand the issues with cars made in 1996 and later. The support for 6 languages and compact design make this scanner indispensable for travelling.

detailed parameters
Diagnostic Features

Engine diagnosis, Transmission diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostics Trouble Codes) lookup, Retrieving vehicle information (VIN, CVN)

Connection Options

OBD2 port

Controls

LCD screen with a control panel

Data to Display

Misfire Monitor, Fuel System Monitor, Evaporative System Monitor, Secondary Air System Monitor, O2 Sensors Monitor, O2 Sensor Heater Monitor, NOx Aftertreatment Monitor

Warranty

2 years

PROS

This scanner can read and erase the fault codes that are causing problems in your vehicle, turn off the check engine, and cancel the check. It supports the O2 sensor and EVAP system test, letting you view the recorded DTC and status reports.

CONS

The long setup of the Polish language.

OUR VERDICT

In the library of error codes, you can find related definitions that will help you determine if your car needs repair. This sensor will save you time and money, significantly increasing the lifespan of your car.

detailed parameters
Diagnostic Features

Engine diagnosis, Transmission diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostics Trouble Codes) lookup, Retrieving vehicle information (VIN, CVN)

Connection Options

OBD2 port, USB

Controls

LCD screen with control panel

Data to Display

Misfire Monitor, Fuel System Monitor, Comprehensive Components Monitor, Catalyst Monitor, Heated Catalyst Monitor, Evaporative System Monitor, Secondary Air System Monitor, Air Conditioning Refrigerant Monitor, Oxygen Sensor Monitor, Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor, Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Monitor

Warranty

1 year

Full Functionality

A car mechanic, in many instances, is only as good as the tools that they use. In order to diagnose and repair problems with any vehicle, any number of tools are required for this task, and of course the better the quality of the tools, the more thorough a job can be done. Any mechanic using inferior tools is sure to run into problems with being able to fully fix a vehicle they are repairing, so it is of the utmost importance to ensure that they are using the highest quality tools possible in order to ensure a quality diagnosis and repair job.

This extends to ODB2 scanners, where the quality of the device is going to directly affect the information that can be gathered and analyzed by the mechanic. The Autel MaxiLink ML629 OBD2 Scanner provides any mechanic with a great quality scanner that can be used in almost any situation. The device allows you to get extended information on the DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES) LIST, where you can study in detail the information regarding errors in electronic control units. In addition, it also provides the function of resetting SRS-codes, giving you a fully-featured device that lets you get to the root of any vehicle's problems in a quick and accurate manner.

High Compatibility

One of the main advantages of this model is that it is compatible with almost all cars of 1996 release and later, including European, Asian, and domestic vehicles, which is a much higher range of compatibility than many other competing devices. This device supports the OBDII scan function, and it is also one of the few scanners that allow you to get VIN, CALID, and CVN codes. Basically, the functionality featured in this model is superb, offering you quite a bit, especially for a device in its price range.

Unlike many other OBD2 scanners, this device is extremely easy to use, with very intuitive controls that are displayed through a color LCD screen. The different functions of the device are located in menus that are displayed as icons on the screen that can be navigated through by using the four direction control pad. As everything in the menu is laid out in a logical manner, you can quickly and easily find the functions and data that you need. The device itself is housed in a durable shell that can withstand the rigors normally associated with vehicle maintenance. With all of these features combined into a sturdy and compact unit, any mechanic who needs a fully-featured ODB2 scanner will find few faults with this model. 

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07QK4ZZ72

Easy Diagnostics

ODB2 scanners have been a real godsend to mechanics. Thanks to their ability to interface with the computer in almost any car, they are able to help detect issues with the car both quickly and accurately. However, many of the top models available tend to be pretty expensive, which puts them out of the price range for those who like to work on their own cars instead of relying on a mechanic. This, in turn, tends to take away the ability to quickly and easily detect issues with a vehicle. Not all of the top models are so expensive, though, and the Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD II & CAN Scan Tool is a great example of this.

This is an affordable and easy-to-use OBD2 diagnostic scanner that works on all models and makes of car from 1996 and newer. With the Autel AutoLink AL319, you won't need to go through guesswork when troubleshooting an issue and work out what part of the whole system has gone out of order. It quickly detects all malfunctions, notifies the user about the error codes by displaying a message on the screen, and explains the issues so that it’s not necessary to look up online for further explanation. The Autel AutoLink AL319 will assist users in verifying road tests, solving basic engine problems, checking the emission monitor status, resetting monitors, displaying and clearing error codes, and viewing freeze frame data.

Highly Portable

To have the Autel AutoLink AL319 work, make sure it’s plugged into the vehicle's OBD2 port via a cable. Due to its small size and imponderable weight, it’s extremely portable and easy-to-use. Via a USB cable, you can connect the unit to a PC or laptop and have all the data about your vehicle displayed on the screen. This is one of the most affordable and yet, universal scan tools available on the market. The ability to connect it to virtually any PC makes it an invaluable tool for helping to track issues with any vehicle.

We are amazed at the value of the scan tool considering its very affordable price. Not only does this diagnostic device have a color LED screen, it’s also equipped with a built-in speaker, both aimed to provide a full (visual and audible) indication of car issues. By just the single push of a button, you’ll be able to quickly get all the required information of your vehicle's health right on the screen - the stored and pending codes, freeze frame data, the status of monitors, the status of MIL, manufacturer and generic specific codes and more. It’s one of those rare cases when you don’t really need to pay a fortune to get a quality device that will work just as expected.

In short, those who are on a budget will certainly appreciate the convenience and ease of use of this ODB2 scanner.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £29.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B007XE8C74

VIDEO

Separate VIN and DTC Buttons

The Foseal FO-01 covers a little more than its contemporaries, solidifying its spot on this list. To start with, the 2.8-inch LCD screen is quite large, making the on-screen information readable even without staring at the screen from <10 centimetres. The font is reasonable, fitting ample information at a time but also making sure that you can read that information without much trouble. What's more, the screen is backlit, so you'll be able to read the information on the screen even at night without turning on the lights. Also, you can adjust the contrast, preventing the display from turning excessively bright. It seems like the screen also features some anti-glare treatment but it is not sufficient at all, so you'll still have to shield the display from the sun when using the device on sunny days.

On the bright side (pardon the pun), what the experts at Foseal call a grab design makes this device plenty comfortable. While the screen is large, the bottom half thins out, making the model more practical and comfortable to hold. As it is almost always the case, the sides are rubberised, preventing the scanner from slipping away and protecting its internal components from shock damage upon impact. The plastic behind the rubberised casing is not fragile as well, so there's a pretty good chance that this device will last. Even the 2.5-feet (76-centimetre) cable is pretty sturdy, so you can sit with comfort when running diagnostics tests.

As much as we like the screen, the controls sell this scanner even more than the display. To go with standard Scroll Up, Scroll Down, Escape, and Okay buttons, this device adds VIN and DTC buttons. With the former, you'll be able to check the vehicle ID number with one click. The latter, on the other hand, will let you access the trouble codes with one click as well.

Separate Real-Time Curve

Looking at its functions, this OBD2 scanner is not introducing anything new to the game besides the separate real-time curve option. Setting this option aside, the model will let you read vehicle information, check the I/M readiness status, view freeze frame data, read and erase codes, check the engine coolant temperature, as well as monitor misfire, the fuel system, the catalysts, the air systems, the usual drill.

In closing, provided you want something that is equally functional and practical, the Foseal FO-01 will not let you down. Plus, the model will let you choose between six languages.

Last updated price £19.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07RQCP5PY

A Real Money Saver

Why overpay for costly diagnostics at a local auto service when you can perform the basic scans in your own garage? The MOTOPOWER OBD2 is a practical scanner that works with the 1996+ cars and easily uncovers the basic issues in your vehicle.

To start with, this scanner features the integrated OBD2 DTC lookup library that covers multiple tasks. View the vehicle info, check out the speed data, calculate the load value, and do much more with this handy device. A scanner such as the MOTOPOWER is indispensable if you keep getting a fault code and the standard auto service cannot help.

The LCD screen of this scanner is backlit and has contrast adjustment. Your eyes won’t get overstrained when you’re using the device, and all the information will be readily available to you at a glance. The scanner gets powered up directly from your car via the OBDII Data Link Connector.

This device was really designed to last. The flexible insulator is extra thick, so don’t worry about accidental damage. The 6 handy buttons let you navigate the menu as well as quickly query the VIN vehicle number or the DTC fault code.

Widely Compatible

The MOTOPOWER is compatible with most 1996 US-based cars or 2000 EU- and Asian based vehicles. The newer OBD2 / CAN cars are also on the list, domestic or imported. With the 6 language support, this scanner is simply perfect for car travellers. Keep in mind, however, that the ABS / Airbag codes are not supported by this device.

Is this scanner hard to connect? Actually, not at all. Your only task will be to follow the instructions that come with the user guide, and you don’t need to be tech savvy for it. Simply plug the device into your car’s OBD2 port; turn on ignition; and push the OK button for connecting. It’s as simple as it gets for uncovering your vehicle’s issues. Be sure to start the engine if you want to get live data from the car.

Can the MOTOPOWER help with complex issues? Being a basic model, it doesn’t have as many features as the high profile car scanners. What it can do is save you lots of money on frequent garage visits.

Finally, the compact design and a 2.5 ft. cable allow you to use the device on the go, including car trips.

All in all, the MOTOPOWER scanner is a reliable unit for basic vehicle diagnostics, whenever you may need it.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B081635ZLF

Multiple Scanner Features

Looking for a versatile and user-centric vehicle scanner? The AUTOPHIX may be your best choice in this case. It offers many features but doesn’t force you to become an auto mechanic to use it. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this device so practical.

First off, this scanner comes with as many as 14 special features, letting you read/erase the emission related or pending codes; view the vehicle information and the recorded DTC; and more. If your local car service cannot locate the issue, try this versatile device, and your problem may be gone for good. Find car faults easily and save up on the (costly) diagnostics.

The enhanced OBD2 scanner will read and erase all the trouble codes that may trigger the emission issues. It can also turn the MIL off and reset the monitor. The DTC lookup library will let you find code definitions to know for sure if your vehicle is in need of repair. This, in turn, will boost your car’s performance and extend its lifespan.

The 2.4" TFT 262K colour LCD screen of this scanner is a real pleasure to use. The keypad is silicone coated and very intuitive even for complete beginners.

User-Centric Model

This scanner can be used for any compatible car from 1996 and on. Imported vehicles also make it to the list of what the device can cover. It supports 9 European languages plus Russian, which is great for avid travellers and visiting car stations abroad. The only issue is that the Polish language takes quite a lot of time to set up.

Thanks to the enhanced data read, this scanner can retrieve specific data for domestic and imported vehicles. The ARM 32-bit chip makes the device even more functional and responsive, boosting the scanning speed almost twofold.

Can you do a leak test for your car’s EVAP system? Absolutely. This scanner supports the EVAP test and O2 sensor, allowing you to diagnose the fuel efficiency plus emissions.

Want to access the features a.s.a.p.? Couldn’t be easier with this device. Use the Read DTC and I/M shortcuts to receive immediate feedback and not waste time on navigating the menus. Goes to show that utilizing this scanner is actually easy as pie.

As evident, the AUTOPHIX vehicle scanner is what you’ve got to have for the quick and precise car diagnostics, at home or on the go.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07M8B7TXD

Infographics


What Is an OBD2 Scanner?

An OBD2 auto scanner is a lightweight, compact size and comparatively inexpensive auto diagnostic tool with built-in software, designed to continuously control a vehicle and inform its owner about all malfunctions in a real-time mode. This is a perfect device for both professional and custom diagnostics in service stations. Most customers give preference to using OBD2 scanners over other similar tools due to their price, compact size and simplicity of use.

Portable OBD2 scanners are commonly used for diagnostics of electronic engine management systems and other systems found in most modern cars. As they don’t require connection to a PC, they are handy to keep in a glove compartment and easily accessible to run a quick scan of a vehicle.

One other device that will certainly go no amiss is a jump starter. If you have not got one yet or look for an upgrade, make sure to take a look at our review of jump starters. With a jump starter at your disposal, a depleted battery won't be an issue for you whatsoever, no matter how far from your home you land.

What Features to Compare

Diagnostic Features

The first thing to consider when searching through a plethora of OBD2 scanners available is its diagnostic features. This is prime information that is gonna tell you whether (or not) a certain device will go with your car make. The cars manufactured before 1996 will not be compatible with any of the scanners on the market for the reason they’re not equipped with an OBD2 port, so, be aware. All scanners provide some built-in programming diagnostic software or a CD so a user doesn’t need to buy any special hardware. Diagnostic features vary a lot depending on the model of a device and a manufacturer (though, the plan is to extend functionality for more vehicles). However, there are certain things that are common for all - most OBD2 scanners are capable of updating their software and extending functional with micro-programs via the Internet and PC. These programs are usually easily found on the official websites of manufacturers and available for free download. 

The minor flaw of these devices is limited functionality. They're only aimed to read and stream error codes on a display. As such, diagnostic scanners that can be paired with computers may be a more beneficial purchase in this sense. Within the same price range, it offers much more functionality. On using a stationary PC or laptop, it’d be possible to access way more programming capabilities of such a scanner.

Connection Options

In order to update the software or stream data on a display, a scanner should be connected to the storage source via USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. This is where you may want to consider the available connection options of a chosen model and make sure that it will work for you as expected. Portable scanners are usually charged either via a battery or onboard power. Which one to choose will depend on what features you’d like your scanner to provide. For example, with OBD readers that provide printouts, it may be a good idea to buy a battery-operated model. When compared to an onboard analog, it will provide an owner with more mobility options so that he can disconnect it and print out all the needed information on a car in any copy center.

Data to Display

The information on a car can be streamed right on a display of a scanner, smartphone, or PC, depending on what option is supported by a device. Consider data to display feature and check what kind of information is gonna be displayed on your device - a short error code or a code with a definition. 

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