Navigating the world of car diagnostics can be overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of OBD2 scanners on the market. If you’re looking to purchase an OBD2 scanner and want to understand the different types available before making a decision, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will break down the Different Types Of Obd2 Scanners, helping you identify the best tool to suit your specific needs, whether for personal car maintenance, professional automotive work, or anything in between. Before diving in, we also recommend checking out our article on essential steps to consider before buying an OBD scanner for additional insights into the selection process.
The most crucial step in choosing an OBD scan tool is pinpointing your exact requirements. Are you a DIY enthusiast looking to understand your car’s basic health? Or are you a professional mechanic needing advanced diagnostic and programming capabilities? Understanding your needs regarding car coverage, features, and functions is paramount. For instance, a mechanic specializing in European vehicles might prioritize a professional-grade scanner focused on European brands. Conversely, a mobile mechanic might not require advanced ECU coding features if their work primarily involves on-site repairs. Remember, the most expensive scanner isn’t always the optimal choice for everyone.
Before proceeding with this guide, it’s vital to confirm whether your vehicle is OBD2 compatible. Simply having a 16-pin OBD port doesn’t guarantee OBD2 compliance. Consult our OBD2 Australia Compatibility List to verify your vehicle’s compatibility. As a general rule, vehicles newer than 2012, even if not on the list, are likely OBD2 compliant.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types of OBD2 scanners to help you make an informed decision:
1. Engine OBD2 Code Readers
Engine code readers represent the entry point into OBD2 diagnostics. These basic OBD2 scanners are designed to diagnose engine-related trouble codes, providing you with the reason behind your “Check Engine” light illumination. If an issue arises within the engine system, these tools will identify the problem, allowing you to clear the fault code and reset the Check Engine light. When selecting an engine code reader, consider factors like price, brand reputation, and the inclusion of enhanced Mode 6 features. Mode 6 functionality allows for in-depth testing of various systems, including fuel and emission health checks and oxygen sensor assessments.
2. Bluetooth/WiFi OBD2 Scanners for Smartphones
Bluetooth and WiFi OBD2 scanners offer a wireless bridge between your vehicle’s computer and your smartphone (Android or iPhone) via the OBD2 port. These scanners vary in device compatibility, connection type (Bluetooth or WiFi), app compatibility, and data transfer speeds. Our range includes everything from basic Bluetooth/WiFi OBD2 engine scanners to advanced AFR wideband smartphone gauges and battery testers. Generally, these scanners excel at real-time monitoring of various diagnostic parameters and trip data. For diagnostic purposes, most apps primarily focus on engine diagnostics unless specified as multi-system or bi-directional in their features.
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3. OBD2 Gauges & Monitors
OBD2 gauges and monitors share similarities with engine code readers and basic OBD2 tools, but instead of relying on a handheld screen, they display OBD2 data as real-time gauges directly in your vehicle. These tools are popular among drivers who want to continuously monitor critical vehicle parameters such as temperature and pressure sensors. Beyond these, OBD2 gauges can also display speed, fuel consumption, and comprehensive trip data, contributing to safer and more efficient driving habits.
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4. Multi-System OBD Scan Tools
Multi-system scan tools elevate diagnostic capabilities beyond just the engine, allowing you to diagnose a wider range of vehicle systems. This expanded coverage typically includes systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System – airbags), body control modules, transmission, and more. The extent of system coverage varies depending on the specific scan tool – some may cover a few additional systems, while others offer comprehensive, all-system diagnostics for OBD2-compliant vehicles, and in some cases, even older OBD1 vehicles. Furthermore, you can find multi-system scan tools designed for heavy-duty diesel vehicles. Many of these tools also incorporate service reset functions for tasks like oil changes, steering angle sensor (SAS) resets, and diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration. If you require such service functions, filtering your search to include these features is recommended.
multi system obd2 scanner diagnosing various car systems
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5. Single-Make OBD Scan Tools
For professionals or serious DIYers seeking in-depth diagnostics for a limited number of car brands (typically one to five), single-make scan tools provide a focused and cost-effective solution. These tools deliver comprehensive diagnostics, accessing most vehicle systems and essential service/reset functions for the chosen brand(s). They are ideal for specialized workshops, dealerships, or individuals who require multi-system diagnostic capabilities for specific marques without the investment of an all-makes scan tool.
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6. Professional OBD Scan Tools
Professional OBD scan tools represent the pinnacle of diagnostic capability, designed for workshops and mechanics demanding comprehensive features and broad vehicle coverage within the Australian market. These advanced scanners offer extensive bi-directional controls, coding, and programming functions. Professional-grade scanners also often incorporate enhanced hardware features that further expand their diagnostic potential. These features can include integrated online search and support resources, client management systems, automotive oscilloscopes, faster scanning speeds, and more, streamlining the diagnostic process and enhancing efficiency.
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7. Service Reset OBD Scan Tools
Service reset OBD scan tools are specifically engineered to perform advanced service functions on a wide range of vehicles. Beyond basic code reading, these tools offer functionalities like oil service and mileage interval resets, electronic parking brake (EPB) service, brake bleeding, battery replacement and programming, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) functions, throttle body alignment, immobilizer functions, diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration, and numerous other maintenance procedures.
8. OBD1 to OBD2 Cable Adapters
OBD1 to OBD2 cable adapters serve as a bridge to connect your OBD scanner to older vehicles equipped with manufacturer-specific OBD diagnostic ports (OBD1). While these adapters facilitate physical connection, it’s crucial to ensure your scan tool is also compatible with the specific diagnostic protocols and parameters of the OBD1 vehicle you are working with. These adapters simply enable connection; scanner compatibility remains paramount.
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While this guide provides an overview of the different types of OBD scan tools, it is not exhaustive. Within each category, diagnostic scan tools will vary in compatibility, coverage, specific features, and functions. If you have any questions or need assistance in selecting the best OBD scan tool for your unique requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact our support team. We are here to help you navigate the options and make the right choice.
