Having a reliable OBD2 scanner is like having a secret weapon for car maintenance. It plugs into your car’s computer, giving you insights into what’s happening under the hood. Whether that pesky check engine light pops up or you just want to keep tabs on your vehicle’s health, an OBD2 scanner is your go-to gadget. You no longer need to rely solely on mechanics to diagnose issues, saving you time and money. But with so many options available, especially if you are looking for value, finding the best cheap OBD2 scanner in Australia can be overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve put in the hours testing a variety of scanners to help you find the perfect one without breaking the bank.
We’ve explored various OBD2 scanners, focusing on those that offer excellent functionality without costing a fortune. From wireless wonders to robust handheld devices, we’ve got the lowdown on what to look for. Keep reading to discover our top recommendations for the best cheap OBD2 scanners in Australia, plus a handy guide on how OBD2 scanners work and what those cryptic error codes actually mean.
For those in a hurry, some standouts include the Launch CR529 which we found offers incredible value for its affordable price. While if you are after advanced features without a huge price tag, consider options like the Topdon TopScan, balancing features and cost effectively. While professional-grade scanners like the Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 exist, our focus here is on budget-friendly options that are perfect for the average car owner in Australia.
Here are our top picks for the best cheap OBD2 scanners you can purchase in Australia right now.
Tom Pritchard
Tom is the Tech Expert, covering everything from vehicle gadgets to essential car maintenance tools. He’s passionate about empowering car owners with the knowledge and tools to understand and care for their vehicles.
Top Cheap OBD2 Scanners at a Glance
Based on our hands-on testing, here are the best value OBD2 scanners you can buy in Australia. Scroll down for detailed reviews and comparisons to help you choose the best cheap OBD2 scanner for your needs.
Topdon TopScan – Best Mobile Scanner for Comprehensive Diagnostics
1. Topdon TopScan
The Topdon TopScan is incredibly user-friendly and packed with features that punch above its weight. It’s a Bluetooth scanner that’s easy to set up and offers a range of diagnostic capabilities that feel almost professional. Expect features like detailed diagnostics, repair guidance, parts information, and even predictive analysis to anticipate potential issues.
Read more below
Launch CR529 – Best Budget-Friendly OBD2 Scanner
2. Launch CR529
The Launch CR529 is compact, robust, and delivers everything you’d expect from a quality OBD2 scanner, plus some higher-end features usually found in more expensive models. Lifetime support and updates make this scanner exceptional value for money, making it a top pick as a best cheap OBD2 scanner.
Read more below
Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 – Best Rugged and Advanced Scanner (Professional Level Features)
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2
The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2, with its durable design and tablet-like interface, is built for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. If you need a powerful scanner that can withstand tough conditions and offer in-depth diagnostics, this is a strong contender, albeit at a higher price point compared to purely ‘cheap’ options.
Read more below
Ancel BD310 – Best Dual-Purpose Scanner and Car Display
4. Ancel BD310
The Ancel BD310 is not only an effective OBD2 scanner but also doubles as a display for your car’s vital engine stats. It boasts a user-friendly design, smartphone compatibility, and a very attractive price, providing excellent value for Australian car owners.
Read More below
Carly OBD-II Scanner – Best Scanner with Companion App for Customization
5. Carly OBD-II Scanner
The Carly OBD-II Scanner’s value is heavily dependent on your car make, with brands like VW, BMW, and Ford benefiting the most from its extensive features. Its companion app is exceptional, offering numerous customization options and professional-grade diagnostic tests, making it a powerful tool if it suits your vehicle.
Finding the Best Cheap OBD2 Scanner in Australia: What to Consider?
Why Trust Our Recommendations? At [Your Website Name – e.g., CarPartEU], our team of automotive experts rigorously tests and reviews products to help you make informed decisions. We understand the needs of Australian car owners and focus on providing practical, reliable advice. [Link to your testing/review methodology if available].
Best Mobile OBD2 Scanner for Australian Car Owners
(Image credit: Topdon)
1. Topdon TopScan
Perfect for Deep Car Diagnostics on the Go
Our Expert Review:
Specifications:
- Display/size: None (App-based)
- Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/No
- I/M Readiness test: Yes
- Live data display: Yes
- Number of keys: None (App-controlled)
- Warranty: 2 years
- Size: 3.2 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 2.6 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Extensive vehicle diagnostic coverage, suitable for a wide range of car brands common in Australia.
- Real-time live data monitoring for in-depth analysis.
- Unique performance indicators to assess vehicle efficiency.
- Comprehensive maintenance item coverage.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Larger transmitter size may be slightly cumbersome.
- Some advanced features require a subscription after the first year.
The Topdon TopScan may appear unassuming, but this compact scanner is a powerhouse of features. It’s more than just a standard Bluetooth OBD2 module; it significantly exceeds the capabilities of other scanners in its class, making it a top contender for the best cheap OBD2 scanner that doesn’t compromise on features. Australian car owners will appreciate its ability to not only identify faults and perform essential I/M Readiness tests but also delve into vehicle performance and efficiency, even estimating horsepower and torque – features often found in much pricier professional tools.
For both fine-tuning your car’s performance and ensuring its roadworthiness for Australian conditions, the Topdon TopScan is an invaluable addition to your toolkit.
Read our full Topdon TopScan review
Best Value OBD2 Scanner for Australian Budgets
(Image credit: Future)
2. Launch CR529
Unbeatable OBD2 Scanning Power for Under $50
Our Expert Review:
Specifications:
- Display/size: Color/ 2.8-inches
- Bluetooth/handheld: No/Yes
- I/M Readiness test: Yes
- Live data display: Yes
- Number of keys: 8
- Warranty: 1 year
- Size: 6.5 x 3.8 x 1.2 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Extremely affordable, making it the best cheap OBD2 scanner for budget-conscious buyers in Australia.
- Lifetime free updates, ensuring long-term usability without extra costs.
- Convenient pre-inspection report feature.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks manufacturer-specific specialty codes, which might limit advanced diagnostics for some car brands.
- Heavier build may feel less comfortable for prolonged handheld use.
- 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors.
The Launch CR529 is arguably the best value OBD2 scanner on the market, particularly for Australian car owners looking for affordability. Its low price point is just the beginning; the level of diagnostic features it offers is truly impressive for the cost. We were surprised to find so much functionality in such an inexpensive device.
While compromises exist, such as the absence of manufacturer specialty codes and a slightly heavier feel, it still delivers essential features like live data, instant vehicle inspections, and detailed insights into your car’s operation. The lifetime updates are a significant bonus, ensuring the scanner remains useful for years to come without subscription fees.
For most Australian car owners, the CR529 is an excellent choice. While it might not satisfy professional mechanics, it’s perfect for DIY enthusiasts and anyone wanting a reliable, cheap OBD2 scanner for everyday car maintenance.
Read our full Launch CR529 review
Best Professional-Grade OBD2 Scanner (Features Beyond “Cheap” but Worth Considering)
[
(Image credit: Future)
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2
Bridging the Gap Between DIY and Professional Car Diagnostics
Our Expert Review:
Specifications:
- Display/size: Color/8-inch
- Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/Yes
- I/M Readiness test: Yes
- Live data display: Yes
- Number of keys: Touchscreen
- Warranty: 2 years
- Size: 10.2 x 7.2 x 1.7 inches
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
Reasons to Buy:
- Offers near-professional level OBD scanning capabilities.
- Versatile handheld device with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Large, user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen display.
- Excellent range of diagnostic tests and comprehensive live data.
- Includes adapters and a protective hard case.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Larger and heavier, potentially less convenient for some users.
- Higher price point compared to basic cheap OBD2 scanners.
- Subscription required after two years for continued updates.
The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 is a more significant investment than the truly ‘cheap’ scanners, but it delivers exceptional value by offering features that blur the lines between amateur and professional diagnostics. For Australian car enthusiasts and those who demand more advanced capabilities, this scanner is worth considering stepping up to.
Its wireless operation, with a Bluetooth receiver connecting the control pad to your car’s OBD port, provides excellent freedom of movement around the vehicle. While it’s bulkier and heavier, it features a kickstand and rugged build designed to withstand workshop environments.
You gain access to advanced features like live data graphing, detailed fault information, and much more, surpassing the abilities of most budget scanners. However, be aware of the subscription cost for updates after the initial 2-year period.
Read our full Topdon Phoenix 2 Lite review
Best Dual-Purpose OBD2 Scanner for Everyday Use
Ancel BD310 (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
4. Ancel BD310
An OBD2 Scanner That Works as a Secondary Car Display
Our Expert Review:
Specifications:
- Display/size: Color/2 inches
- Bluetooth/handheld: Yes/Yes
- I/M Readiness test: Yes
- Live data display: Yes
- Number of keys: 4
- Warranty: 3 years
- Size: 5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
- Weight: 5.4 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight and compact design for easy storage and portability.
- Functions as both an OBD2 scanner and a secondary car display.
- Offers both handheld and Bluetooth scanning options for versatility.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Minimalist interface may lack some user-friendliness for beginners.
- Small 2-inch screen can be limiting for detailed data viewing.
The Ancel BD310 stands out with its dual functionality. It operates as a standard handheld OBD2 scanner but can also connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth to serve as an auxiliary display, showing crucial engine data right in your car. For Australian drivers who appreciate multi-purpose tools, this is an appealing option in the cheap OBD2 scanner category.
Its compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly convenient to keep in your glovebox. While the 2-inch screen is small and the four-button interface is somewhat basic, it doesn’t hinder its diagnostic capabilities.
The generous 56-inch cable provides ample reach, and the BD310 effectively performs essential tasks like I/M inspection readiness tests and displays performance metrics such as coolant temperature, engine timing, and speed.
Read our full Ancel BD310 review.
Best OBD2 Scanner with Companion App for Enhanced Features
(Image credit: Carly)
5. Carly OBD-II Scanner
Unlock Advanced Features with a Powerful Companion App
Our Expert Review:
Specifications:
- Display/Size: No (App-based)
- Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/No
- I/M Readiness Test: No
- Live data display: Yes
- Number of keys: None (App-controlled)
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Size: 2.9 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches
- Weight: 0.7 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- User-friendly and intuitive app interface.
- Extensive customization options for diagnostics and vehicle settings.
- Real-time live data display for monitoring performance.
- Covers maintenance and repair functions beyond basic diagnostics.
- Impressive lifetime warranty and software updates.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Feature availability varies significantly by car model; compatibility check is crucial for Australian car brands.
- App subscription can become costly for full access to advanced features.
The Carly OBD Scanner excels with its exceptional companion app, setting it apart from many basic Bluetooth scanners that offer rudimentary app experiences. Carly’s app is one of the best we’ve tested, offering a wealth of features and a polished user experience.
Beyond basic fault code reading and clearing, it provides repair assistance, used car checks, and numerous customization options. The lifetime warranty is a standout benefit, offering long-term peace of mind for Australian users.
However, the functionality of the Carly scanner is heavily dependent on your specific car model. It’s essential to verify compatibility with your car before purchasing, especially for makes and models common in Australia. Also, accessing the full suite of features requires an ongoing subscription, which can add to the overall cost if you need more than just basic OBD functions.
Read our full Carly OBD scanner review
Other OBD2 Scanners We Tested (Worth a Quick Look)
-
Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 (★★★★☆)
The Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 is a highly innovative Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, inheriting Innova’s excellent features like predictive diagnostics in a wireless, phone-based format. Its incredibly simple setup makes it a strong Bluetooth-only option for those seeking ease of use.
Read the full Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 review -
ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 (★★★★☆)
While larger than typical Bluetooth OBD2 scanners, the ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01’s size contributes to its ruggedness and durability. It offers extensive manufacturer-specific error codes and advanced fault-code analysis that can resolve minor issues without needing a mechanic. A subscription is required after the first year.
Read our full ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 review. -
Autel AutoLink AL539 (★★★☆☆)
The Autel AutoLink AL539 is specifically designed for diagnosing electrical problems, featuring a built-in multimeter. It excels at identifying electrical faults like burnt cables, shorts, and blown fuses. It also provides a wide range of live data and pre-inspection readiness checks.
Read our full Autel AutoLink AL539 review
Frequently Asked Questions About OBD2 Scanners
What exactly is an OBD2 Scanner?
Ever wondered how mechanics quickly diagnose car problems? They use diagnostic scanners plugged into your car’s OBD port to access your car’s computer data. These OBD2 scanners, at their most basic, read and interpret error codes generated by your car when it detects an issue. More advanced scanners offer real-time system monitoring and can even predict potential future problems. For Australian car owners, having one of the best cheap OBD2 scanners means taking control of your car’s health without relying solely on expensive garage visits.
What is the OBD2 Port and Where is it Located?
The On-Board Diagnostics Version Two (OBD2) port is a standardized port found in almost all passenger vehicles sold in Australia since 2006, and in other major markets like the USA (since 1996), Canada (since 1998), and Europe (since 2004). This port serves as the interface to your car’s onboard computer. Besides OBD2 scanners, it’s used for various devices like insurance black boxes and dash cams.
If you’re unsure where your OBD2 port is located, here’s a guide to find your car’s OBD-II port in North American vehicles. For worldwide locations, you can check this guide to find your OBD-II/EOBD port worldwide.
Understanding DTCs: Diagnostic Trouble Codes
DTC stands for Diagnostic Trouble Code. These are error codes generated by your car’s OBD system when it detects a problem. OBD2 scanners read these codes, allowing you to understand what’s happening with your vehicle. While many DTCs are standardized across car manufacturers, some brands use unique, manufacturer-specific codes.
What do DTC Error Codes Actually Mean?
DTCs may seem like random letters and numbers, but they follow a logical structure to indicate the type and location of a problem.
- The first letter indicates the affected system: Powertrain (P), Body (B), Chassis (C), or Network (N).
- The second character is a number: 0 for generic codes, 1 for manufacturer-specific codes.
- The third character specifies the subsystem:
- 1: Fuel and air metering
- 2: Injector circuit fuel and air metering
- 3: Ignition system or misfire
- 4: Auxiliary emissions
- 5: Vehicle speed and idle control
- 6: Computer auxiliary outputs
- 7, 8, 9: Transmission/gearbox faults
- A, B, C: Hybrid propulsion faults
- The fourth and fifth characters are numbers from 0 to 99, detailing the specific fault.
OBD2 scanners translate these codes into understandable descriptions, and advanced models provide even more detailed information. While scanners help, online resources like Google can be invaluable for further understanding DTCs. There are thousands of potential DTCs, but not all indicate critical issues. Some may simply warn of minor issues like a slightly high engine temperature.
Choosing the Right Cheap OBD2 Scanner for Your Needs in Australia
If you want to understand your car better or diagnose issues yourself, an OBD2 scanner is essential. It’s the same technology used by mechanics, giving you access to vital car data. With the best cheap OBD2 scanner, you can have this capability affordably.
There are two main types:
- Handheld OBD2 Scanners: These have their own screen and connect directly to your car via a cable.
- Wireless OBD2 Scanners: These plug into your OBD port and connect to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth.
High-quality OBD2 scanners are available for under $200, and some excellent budget options are even under $50. Key features to consider when choosing the best cheap OBD2 scanner include:
- Easy Setup: A scanner should be quick and easy to set up, so you’ll use it promptly when issues arise.
- Faults and Explanations: The best scanners not only show fault codes but also explain what they mean, helping you decide on DIY repairs or when to see a mechanic.
- I/M Readiness Check: This feature checks if your car will pass emissions tests, crucial for registration in many Australian states.
- Accuracy: Reliable and accurate results are paramount for effective diagnostics.
- Size and Weight: A compact, lightweight scanner is more likely to be kept in your car for on-the-go diagnostics.
- Live Data: Real-time data monitoring helps diagnose intermittent problems effectively.
- Graphs: Visual data representations are often easier to interpret than raw numbers, especially for comparative analysis.
- Warranty: Look for scanners with a good warranty, ideally lifetime or extended warranties, for long-term reliability.
The ideal cheap OBD2 scanner balances these features with your budget. Decide if you prefer a handheld device or a wireless scanner for your smartphone. Consider features like screen size (for handhelds), ease of use, and extra functionalities like manufacturer-specific codes or PDF reporting. With prices comparable to a fraction of a mechanic’s hourly rate, a cheap OBD2 scanner is a smart investment for any Australian car owner.
How We Test OBD2 Scanners for Australian Conditions
To test OBD2 scanners, we use a 2014 Audi A4 Allroad, evaluating them in both garage and road conditions over several weeks. Our testing process includes:
- VIN Verification: Ensuring each scanner correctly reads the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Connectivity Testing: For wireless scanners, we test connections with devices like Apple iPads, Microsoft Surfaces, and Samsung Galaxy phones via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Handheld scanners are tested for direct OBD2 port plug-in functionality.
- Range and Cable Length: Measuring cable lengths of handheld scanners and wireless range for Bluetooth models.
- Live Data Monitoring: Running the car and monitoring engine and vital systems data in real-time.
- Fault Code Generation and Reading: Simulating a fault by disconnecting the engine’s oil temperature sensor, then using each scanner to read and interpret the fault codes.
- Fault Resolution and Code Clearing: Resolving the simulated fault, turning off the check engine light, and clearing the error code using the scanner.
- Road Testing: Driving the car to assess the scanner’s ability to display operational data like engine speed, timing, and coolant temperature in real-world driving scenarios. We evaluate data presentation in numbers, graphs, and gauge formats.
Our testing rigorously assesses each scanner’s ability to accurately diagnose and present vehicle data, ensuring our recommendations for the best cheap OBD2 scanners are reliable and practical for Australian car owners.
Understanding OBD2 fault codes is crucial. All codes consist of four numbers and a letter prefix indicating the system (Powertrain (P), Body (B), Chassis (C), or Undefined (U)). Of the thousands of possible codes, some are generic (starting with ‘0’) and apply across all car brands, while others are manufacturer-specific (starting with ‘1’), indicating more detailed or brand-specific issues. For example, a P0098 code generally points to an issue with the intake air temperature sensor, whereas a Ford-specific P1112 code indicates intermittent values from the same sensor, suggesting replacement. Having a good OBD2 scanner helps decipher these codes, empowering you to understand and address car problems effectively.
