For automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, having a reliable scan tool is indispensable. When it comes to diagnosing vehicles, especially those spanning different eras of automotive technology, you need a scanner that bridges the gap between OBD1 and OBD2 systems. This guide highlights the Best Obd2 And Obd1 Scanner options, focusing on Innova products known for their quality and comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
Top Pick for OBD1 Vehicle Owners
If your garage primarily houses older, OBD1 vehicles, the Innova 5512 emerges as the most cost-effective and practical choice. Building upon the robust features of the Innova 5510, the 5512 distinguishes itself by including an invaluable OBD-1 Kit. This inclusion makes it an exceptional value proposition for anyone working with classic cars or older models.
The comprehensive OBD-1 Kit bundled with the Innova 5512 provides essential adapters for a wide array of makes and models:
- General Motors (GM): Covers models from 1982 to 1993, and select models extending into 1994 and 1995.
- Ford, Lincoln, Mercury: Compatible with 1983 to 1995 models equipped with EEC-IV Systems.
- Toyota / Lexus: Supports models from 1991 to 1995.
- Chrysler / Dodge / Plymouth: Works with vehicles manufactured between 1984 and 1995.
- Jeep: Compatible with models from 1993 to 1995.
- Honda: Supports various OBD1 Honda models.
The Innova 5512 package, including the OBD-1 Kit, is priced at $299.99. Considering that the Innova 5510 alone costs $249.99 and the OBD-1 Kit is sold separately for $117.64, purchasing the 5512 effectively gets you the OBD-1 Kit for a significantly reduced price of approximately $50. Beyond its OBD1 capabilities, the Innova 5512 also seamlessly diagnoses modern OBD2 vehicles, making it a versatile tool for diverse automotive needs.
Second Best for Both OBD1 and OBD2 with Advanced Features
For those who maintain a mixed fleet of OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles and require advanced diagnostic functionalities, the Innova 5610 stands out as a premium, high-performance option. As Innova’s most advanced handheld scan tool, the 5610 boasts a wide spectrum of sophisticated features, including access to OEM live data and bi-directional controls. These advanced capabilities empower users to perform in-depth diagnostics and system checks, making it suitable for complex repairs and maintenance tasks.
It’s important to note that the Innova 5610 does not include the OBD-1 Kit in its standard package. To diagnose OBD1 vehicles with the 5610, the OBD-1 Kit must be purchased separately. Despite this, the 5610’s extensive OBD2 capabilities and advanced features make it a top contender for users who prioritize comprehensive diagnostics across both OBD1 and OBD2 platforms.
Third Option: OBD2 Focus with Future OBD1 Readiness
If your immediate diagnostic needs are primarily focused on OBD2 vehicles, but you anticipate working with OBD1 systems in the future, the Innova 5510 presents a solid, forward-looking choice. While it doesn’t include the OBD-1 Kit out of the box, the 5510 retains the underlying capability to diagnose OBD1 vehicles when paired with the OBD-1 Kit (purchased separately).
The Innova 5510 is positioned as the most budget-friendly option among these three scanners. However, for a minimal price difference, the Innova 5512 offers significantly greater value by including the OBD-1 Kit, making it a more practical investment for most users considering OBD1 diagnostics. The 5510 serves as a competent OBD2 scanner with the potential for OBD1 functionality, but the 5512 generally offers a more compelling overall package.
Important Consideration for Other Innova Scanners
It’s crucial to understand that beyond the Innova 5510, 5512, and 5610, Innova’s handheld scanner lineup (models 5110 through 5410) does not support OBD1 vehicle diagnostics. Even with the addition of an OBD-1 connector, these models lack the internal hardware and software to communicate with OBD1 systems. Therefore, if OBD1 diagnostic capability is a requirement, selecting from the 5510, 5512, or 5610 is essential.
A Word of Caution Regarding OBD1 Advanced Functions
When working with OBD1 vehicles, it’s important to remember the technological limitations of older automotive systems. OBD1 vehicles often lack the sophisticated computer modules necessary to support certain advanced diagnostic functions commonly found in modern OBD2 systems.
While advanced scanners like the Innova 5610 may offer features such as calibrations and relearns, these functions may not be supported by the computer systems in older OBD1 vehicles. In such cases, the scanner will typically display a “Not Supported” message, indicating that the vehicle’s onboard systems are not capable of executing the requested function. Understanding these limitations is key to effectively using OBD2 and OBD1 scanners and interpreting diagnostic results accurately.
