An OBD2 scanner is undoubtedly a must-have tool for DIYers as they help you read and clear error codes in your vehicle. However, these DIY scanners can provide limited functionalities.
If you’re a mechanic or want to have comprehensive scanning features, you better consider investing in a professional OBD2 scanner.
Not only offer more extensive functions, but these professional obd2 scanners also typically have more reliable performance. Check some best professional obd2 scanner products we’ve picked and reviewed for you below.
Top 6 obd2 Scanner complete reviews (Only for Professionals)
1. FIXD
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
Bluetooth auto scanners have changed the game in the industry as it provides wireless connection and broader access to functions through more flexible interfaces, like your smartphone’s screen.
FIXD is a professional Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool for IOS and Android users. FIXD is renowned for its premium services and features that you can unlock with a subscription. However, you can use the OBD2 functions without any subscription.
Complete Services on FIXD Premium
FIXD offers all necessary services to help you diagnose and solve problems in your vehicle. With the codes appearing on your screen, you can also obtain the repair estimates and on-call consultation with technicians through the FIXD app.
This way, you can make informed decisions when taking your vehicle to the repair shop nearby. Talking to a mechanic is only one of the various advantages of FIXD premium. You can get the estimation of repair cost according to issues interpreted from the error codes.
Checking your emission at home with FIXD would save you valuable time and money and pass the emission test with confidence. Another ultimate advantage of FIXD premium is identifying the actual and potential problems of your vehicle so that you can plan proper maintenance.
Extensive Error Codes To Interpret
With the FIXD app, you can interpret thousands of engine error codes that cause your engine light to turn on. You can view the engine diagnostics, the severity of auto problems, maintenance alert, and multi-vehicle examination interface.
It’s pretty interesting as you can deal with multiple vehicles and error codes at once with the FIXD app. Multiple sensors for one account is a brilliant solution for a family with multiple cars to scan.
FIXD is no ordinary scanner as it allows you to keep updated with your car conditions and maintenance. You can leave the sensor plugged in your OBD2 port and paired with your smartphone, where you’d get notifications about problems and regular maintenance.
This way, you won’t miss your scheduled services or regular oil changes to avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle’s best performance. In the long-term, FIXD allows better care for your car no matter what the makes and models.
Customer Reviews
FIXD is one of the best-selling Bluetooth OBDII scanner products, but it’s undoubtedly a professional-grade item to purchase. The Bluetooth auto scanner is currently available on Amazon with 4.1 out of 5 stars, and tens of thousands of units have been sold on the platform.
While the Bluetooth sensor does excellent work, many customers are disappointed with the limited experiences without FIXD premium. You’d likely have to subscribe to the premium plan to unlock those services.
Verdict
FIXD comes as a professional auto scanner with its mobile app access to extensive auto services. While the app itself is free, the subscription does apply for premium services.
However, it would be a great deal for a family or a car rental company to purchase multiple sensors for their fleets and one premium account to access all of them. Get in touch with the official seller or the manufacturer for further information.
2. OBDeleven Pro Edition
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
With the growing demand and complexities of auto scanning, Bluetooth scanners are rising in popularity as it solves most problems with the typical scanner’s interface.
OBDeleven Pro Edition is a professional OBD2 Bluetooth auto diagnostic scan tool for Android and iOS devices. Like other Bluetooth scanners, it comes as an adapter without a built-in display or buttoned interface.
However, OBDeleven Pro Edition offers functions and features for professional uses, including programming, monitoring, and adaptations.
Professional Features
Despite clearing and reading codes, OBDeleven Pro Edition comes with the “PRO” features. These include the coding, advanced control, subcontrol coding, long coding adaption, gateway installation, output test, control unit programming, and so forth.
Manufacturers emphasize that further knowledge about vehicle programming is essential to use these functions. Nevertheless, these would extend diagnostic performance that helps professional mechanics further.
User-Friendly Mobile Application
While OBDeleven Pro Edition has kept the pro features for professionals, the mobile application is effortless to use. Once your smartphone and the adapter have been paired via Bluetooth, you can use the mobile application to read and clear error codes easily on Engine, ABS, Transmissions, SRS, and other systems with one touch.
Not only versatile, but the mobile apps also allow you to share diagnostic reports with technicians or pro mechanics via email so you can obtain more proper solutions to your problems whenever necessary.
OBDeleven Pro Edition also comes with a range of gauges that allow you to check your vehicle’s parameters. Every time the interface shows you the error code, you can easily find the definitions from notable sources as your references. You can observe all parameters live from your smartphone’s screen even though the data freezing feature isn’t available yet.
Customer Reviews
OBDeleven Pro Edition is one of the top Bluetooth automotive scanner products available at Amazon. It currently has 4.4 out of 5 stars, with most customers satisfied with its easy operation and intuitive mobile apps.
However, there are some issues for iOS users, including limited or unsupported pro features even if they’ve obtained the Pro license that’s included in their purchases.
Verdicts
OBDeleven Pro Edition is trying to bridge the standard and professional scanning experience. Coming with a Bluetooth connection and mobile app interface, it has many potentials to deliver broader services to a diverse range of customers.
However, if you are an iOS user, you need to keep updated on whether or not improvements on OBDeleven Pro Edition for iOS devices before purchasing one.
3. Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
Autel has some legit products in the pro-class scanner. Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 is another newest product from the manufacturer that every car shop and a professional mechanic should have in 2021.
It covers the most popular services, diagnoses all modules, and comes with IMMO features at a price below $500. Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 purchases also come with adorable inclusions from the manufacturer.
Full System Diagnoses
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 comes with fundamental functions to perform tests and troubleshoots on your vehicle’s system. It allows you to read and clear codes but also view the live data and ECU information.
The professional scanner can diagnose problems on the engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, EPB, chassis, steering, and so forth. It provides you access to primary and advanced repairs for the most significant vehicles.
The scanner allows you to work on all-important modules in your vehicle systems for maintenance, adjustments, and repairs. You can not only improve the performance, but you can also reduce the emissions and save energy for your vehicle. Above all, Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 can help you identify errors that ordinary scanners cannot scan.
25 Service Functions
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 deserves on this list simply because of its extensive service functions. From oil reset to injector reset, you can access them throughout the scanner’s 7-inch touchscreen interface. Immo keys feature is also available where you can disable the lost vehicle keys.
It’s pretty much like having a tiny automotive service shop with this scanner. The services support multiple vehicle models from European, Asian, American, and Australian manufacturers.
Whether you’re a mechanic shop owner, car hobbyist, or someone who’s pretty serious about cars, Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 is for you. You can interpret the data easily as it also supports 13 universal languages that make all services easier to access for any mechanic around the globe.
Customer Reviews
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 is one of the manufacturer’s best-selling products on Amazon. The pro-grade scanner currently has 4.6 out of 5 stars, with thousands of units sold on the e-commerce platform.
Most customers adore the user interface, 7-inch touchscreen display, accuracy, tech support, and easy operation. However, there are some compatibility issues in functions and features for specific vehicle models.
Verdicts
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 2021 brings some advancements that make it more functional and reliable than its predecessor. Priced below $500, it’s an excellent value for your money when it comes to professional all-around auto scanners.
It’s essential to ensure the compatibility of vehicles you want to scan before making purchases on MK808. Auto shop owners or serious car DIYers would find this scanner helpful for maintenance, adjustment, and even extensive repairs.
We have a full details review about Maxicom Mk808.
4. LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
LAUNCH has launched its newest all-system diagnostic scanner, LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0, with the operation. It’s the advanced version of the former LAUNCH X431 scanner from the same manufacturer with many improvements in functions and features.
LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 has become one of the most reliable OBD2 scanners available in the market. Coming with a 10.1-inch display, the scanner is now notable for its advanced OE-level functions and bi-directional communication.
Advanced OE-Level Functions
LAUNCH features advanced OE-level functions in the new X431 that extend the diagnostic performance with wider vehicle compatibility.
These include the NOX reset, anti-theft IMMO service, component matching flash hidden functions, setting & changeover, and so forth. To be fair, there are more than 31 service functions that users can access in LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0.
The professional advancement also comes in its coding features, personalization, and customization. LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 allows you to have both online and offline coding.
An online exposure also covers the account login service, calibration, and parameterization. The scanner also provides ECU replacement & coding as well as VAG Guided functions.
Some updates that differ LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 from its predecessor include the extended memory, fixed battery life issue, downloadable applications, vehicle software updates, OBD1 & OBD2 diagnosis, faster update frequency, and the ECU replacement itself. The key programming has become more extensive than the classic X431.
Comprehensive Bi-Direction Coverage
Bi-directional communication in LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.O covers more comprehensive active tests including ABS, SRS, TCM, ECM, TPMS, BMS, BCM, SAS, fuel system, air conditioner system, light system, and so forth.
The scanner can send commands to the related system or module and perform active tests to support further diagnostic, maintenance, and repairs. The new version can actuate solenoids and actuators for active testing performance.
Customer Reviews
LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 is one of the top-selling professional OBD2 scanners available on Amazon. Currently, the scanner is rated with 4.5 out of 5 stars. The new version of X431 turns out to be a very reliable scanner for diagnostic and active tests. Some negative impressions refer to the tech support and QC issues.
Verdicts:
LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 is a tremendous professional OBD2 scanner to invest in for dealership-level uses. Comprehensive diagnostic and active test functions support maintenance and repairs like they’re done in professional auto shops.
The customization and personalization flex the way users using the scanner to fix their auto problems. The built-in 10.1-inch interface display is a reasonable installment to access such diverse services in the scanner.
5. INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
For professional mechanics, having a scanner that can provide solutions is essential. INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 is a versatile scanner that provides you with real-time answers and fixes to your vehicle’s problems throughout the application RepairSolutions2.
Both Android and iOS users can use the scanner and applications to fix automotive issues from the beginning into completion. Let’s have a closer look at one of INNOVA’s best-selling products.
RepairSolutions2 App Compatibility
INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 covers the auto repair solutions from A to Z with the RepairSolutions2 App accessibility for Android and iOS users. Not only can it read and clear the codes, but the scanner can also provide you with verified fixes and even shop around the replacement parts with the same app.
This way, the scanner allows you to fully fix problems in your vehicle, whether it’s for repairs or part replacement. You can extend the interface through your smartphone’s screen to access more features and services.
It also provides access to Innova’s database and other valuable amenities, including scheduling maintenance, part shopping, technical reference, and so forth. This way, you can maintain optimum performance and safety when driving the vehicle.
Active Tests
As a professional-grade scanner, INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 also comes with bi-directional communication that allows you to perform active tests on modules and components, including ABS, fuel pumps, injectors, and so forth.
You can send commands to activate the actuators or enable the targeted components to function, like performing the ABS brake bleeding. This way, you can ensure all components in your vehicle systems are working correctly in real-time.
Dealership Level Relearn Procedures
INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 is a pro scan tool as it has dealership level relearn procedures that would help you completing maintenance, repairs, and replacements with special reset functions. This way, you reset the codes or warning light after making adjustments or replacements on components.
On the other hand, you can also obtain real-time verification of the transmission fluids. Undoubtedly, Dealerships would find INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 very helpful for their services.
Customer Reviews
INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 is among the manufacturer’s popular products for professionals. It’s currently available on Amazon with 4.6 out of 5 stars. Most customers adore the scanner’s accuracy, easy operation, and value for money.
It’s a decent code reader with bi-directional communication and mobile app accessibility. However, some compatibility issues make active tests not performing on some vehicles.
Verdicts
INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 serves professional auto needs with access to the RepairSolutions2 app. The mobile app connectivity extends your access to functions, features, and amenities. The scanner covers the complete auto repair or maintenance process from scanning the error codes to buying replacement parts.
Overall, INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 is a complete package that suits the needs of auto shops, dealerships, or professional mechanics.
6. Autel MaxiCOM MK908
For transparency, please note that some of the links on this website are Amazon Associate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. The use of such links comes at no additional cost to you.
Autel has a diverse range of auto-scanners products available in the market, but Autle Maxicom MK908 is definitely for professionals.
The professional auto scanner comes with the wireless operation and has complete functions and features to support comprehensive OE-Level all system diagnosis.
Not only does it support the Bi-directional controls, but Autel MaxiCOM MK908 also comes with standard parts compatible with particular vehicle models. The notable features include the Adas Software, advanced ECU Coding, and comprehensive coverage.
Wireless All Systems Diagnosis
Autel MaxiCOM MK908 comes with a robust wireless connection to support all range OE-level diagnostics from an extended distance of 230m.
The professional scanner can access all modules and perform all possible OR-level diagnoses on practically all systems in your vehicle. Paired with code reading, live data viewing, and multiple gauges, Autel MaxiCOM MK908 allows you to have comprehensive yet more accurate data review and analysis that enhance accuracy.
Adas Calibration Compatibility
Despite its comprehensive functions, Autel MaxiCOM MK908 is one of few scanners to support ADAS calibration capability. It allows you to calibrate diverse safety and assistance functions from ACC to RCW that enhance the safe riding experience.
Even though the software and framework aren’t included in your purchase, the compatibility allows you to extend the calibration performance of the scanner on compatible vehicles.
Comprehensive Coverage
Autel MaxiCOM MK908 has everything you need to diagnose and analyze problems on compatible vehicles. It covers all standard services, including oil reset, ABS/SRS Services, EPB services, SAS calibration, and DPF regeneration.
However, it’s pretty unfortunate that this Autel’s scanner doesn’t support TPMS services. Autel MaxiCOM MK908 focuses on functional diagnosis but aiming for more in-depth performance with complete bi-directional controls that allow active tests.
It covers all available tests that enable you to ensure the system’s integrity, from ABS bleeding to motor pump tests. Your purchase also includes one-year free software and warranty, which are a great deal.
Customer Reviews
Autel MaxiCOM MK908 is among the best pro auto scanner products on Amazon. The Autel’s 2021 newest model currently has 4.9 out of 5 stars which is the highest.
Most customers refer to the reliable performance, professional-grade, easy to use, wireless connection, tech support, and software updates. Overall, Autel MaxiCOM MK908 is the best value for money when it comes to a professional auto scanner.
Verdict
Autel MaxiCOM MK908 is a fully equipped professional auto scanner that comes with wireless connectivity. All-system diagnosis, complete bi-directional control, ECU coding, and other inclusions make your purchase on this scanner best valued.
It’s best for professional mechanics and serious DIYers that need reliable performance for full diagnostics and active tests.
Buying Guide for best professional obd2 scanner
A professional OBD2 scanner is a necessary investment for an auto shop, dealership, or serious auto DIYers. Since there are various scanners with “pro-grade” available in the market, you better consider factors before purchasing a product. These include:
What professional diagnostics does the scanner cover?
First of all, you need to ensure the scanner’s professional diagnostic coverage differs from ordinary scan tools.
These include advanced features like key programming, ECU coding, EPB, DPF, bi-directional, etc. Professional OBD II scanners usually also offer more functions than DIY OBDII scanners. A professional OBDII feature must cover all OBD II functions before anything else.
Is the scanner compatible with the vehicle?
If you may have different vehicles to scan, you need to ensure that the professional OBD II scanner is compatible with all or most vehicles you’d regularly deal with.
The manufacturers usually disclose this information in the product descriptions, but you better confirm the compatibility directly to their customer service or official website.
Does the scanner have advanced features?
Some professional scanner products offer advanced features like BMC coding, oil reset, ECU programming, ECU coding, online programming, and so forth.
These features allow a broader diagnosis and possible troubleshooting. Other scanners may also provide verified solutions for repairs, maintenance, or replacements.
How are the customer reviews?
It’s essential to research the customer reviews of the professional OBDII scanner product you want to buy. Here, you can obtain an overview of the user’s experience.
How the scanner can deliver the claimed performance or meet your needs. Check product reviews in e-commerce platforms where they’re available. Checking photos or footage from previous customers also gives you a better overview of the physics of the product.
What does your purchase include?
Professional scanners may come with different inclusions like gauges, boxes, adapter, guarantee, software updates, etc. Compare products to get the best value for your money. Generally speaking, expensive scanners should have lengthy warranties and after-sales services.
Is the customer/technical support good?
Technical support is essential when operating a professional OBDII scanner. It’s because this kind of scanner has more extensive yet complicated features than DIY scanners.
Even if you’re a professional mechanic, you may still have to comprehend new features in the professional scanners’ interface. If you find the technical support unresponsive or even unavailable, it’s a red flag for the scanner.
FAQ
What is the best professional automotive diagnostic scanner?
There are various auto diagnostic scanners with “professional” tags. These are some best products you may consider for your auto shop:
- FIXD
- Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808
- OBDeleven Pro Edition
- LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0
- Autel MaxiCOM MK908
- INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610
Is it worth buying an OBD2 Scanner?
An OBD2 scanner is a helpful tool for professional mechanics and DIYers or any responsible car owner.
Whether or not an OBD2 scanner is worth buying would depend on your needs. If you’re a vehicle owner, a dealership-level professional auto scanner might not be worth buying.
How accurate are OBD scanners
Reliable OBD2 scanners are generally accurate in providing information about what’s actually or possibly wrong in your vehicle system’s modules and components.
However, it’s not telling you exactly the exact part that needs repairs or replacement. You’d need to check the component physically to figure out the actual problems.
How can I find the code for my car without a scanner?
Despite using an OBD2 scanner, you can alternatively use the odometer and follow these steps
- Find and press the reset button in your odometer, and hold
- Turn on and off the ignition key in the meantime simultaneously
- Turn the ignition on
- Release the reset button
- When done correctly, the error codes would appear on the odometer’s display
- Get the references to interpret the error codes
Is it OK to leave OBD2 plugged in?
It’s totally okay to leave an OBD2 plugged in as there would be no voltage happening in the meantime.
Some Bluetooth OBD2 scanners even allow you to keep the sensor plugged into the OBD2 port so you can keep updated with your vehicle’s status throughout notifications sent to your phone.
Are cheap OBD2 scanners any good?
OBD2 scanners are widely available in the market at a wide range of prices, starting from as low as $30 to thousands of dollars.
Generally speaking, the prices speak for the quality, functions, and features. A $50 scanner may do some work, but you can’t expect it to have the same performance as a $500 scanner.
Will an OBD2 Scanner drain my battery?
When plugged into your car’s port, any electronic peripheral would consume power from your battery except that the device is self-powered.
While some well-designed OBD2 scanners are quite efficient, the poor ones may drain your battery rapidly when left plugged into the port.
Are Bluetooth OBD2 scanners any good?
Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are a game-changing innovation that allows you to communicate with your vehicle through a wireless connection.
As long as it’s compatible, the Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are excellent in providing more flexible and easy operation. Bluetooth scanners typically come with a compatible or third-party app.
Can you use a code reader on a car that won’t start?
You can use an OBD2 scanner to figure out problems that cause your vehicle not to start. As you have the error codes in the scanner’s display, you can perform relevant troubleshooting on the components or parts that have triggered the codes.
If you have multiple error codes, then your vehicle may have different problems that make the engine won’t start.
Does the car have to be running to use the OBD2 Scanner?
The manual book of the OBD2 scanner has detailed instructions about when you should turn the ignition, start the engine, or run the car. It contains what you should and shouldn’t do when using the scanner.
You better strictly follow the instructions carefully as failure may corrupt the scanner’s firmware or data. It’s very important to comprehend the manual book before using your OBD2 scanner.
What can a car diagnostic test tell you?
Diagnostic tests or active tests are sets of procedures to check and assess the performance of components in your vehicle, including brakes, engine, transmission, or exhaust system.
The tests can reveal what’s wrong with these components so you can decide whether it needs adjustment, calibration, repairs, or replacements.
How long does it take for an engine code to clear?
You can clear the engine code naturally after you apply troubleshoots or fixes. However, it may take a longer time to clear the code without a scanner.
You may require tens of successful cycles before the engine code is fully cleared. An OBD2 scanner allows you to clear the code in seconds.
Do all OBD2 Scanner erase codes?
OBD2 Scanners not only read but also clear the trouble codes. It can clear the engine light and other error codes instantly.
However, the scanner can only do its job if it’s compatible with the scanned vehicles. Be sure to purchase an OBD2 scanner that’s compatible with your vehicle.
Final Word
Professional OBD2 scanners are undoubtedly different from DIY scanners. It has more advanced functions and features, but these scanners also have better performance that suits the needs of auto shops or dealerships.
Among the products we’ve mentioned above, Autel MaxiCOM MK908 is the best professional obd2 scanner due to its technical specifications, performance, and customer satisfaction.
Paired with the RepairSolutions2, INNOVA CarScan Pro 5610 is a viable option if complete fixes are your concern. After all, you can’t go wrong with the best scanner on your hand.
As a mechanical engineer, it’s easy for David to explain the functionality of the tool. David test most of the tools before writing a review. its help him to learn something new and suggest the best product for you.