The OBD2 scanners are the 2nd generation diagnostic scanners of the OBD scanners. The OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics. They are small devices that can be plugged into the car and access the car’s computer system to diagnose the vehicle.
The OBD2 scanners primarily scan the vehicle’s current state and show you reports of the vehicle’s various functions, such as engine, transmission, coolant, etc.
Although they share the same purpose, they are unsuitable for all vehicles. Thus, you cannot just buy one OBD2 Scanner and hope it will work like magic on your car. So today, we will introduce you to the Best OBD2 Scanner for Prado. Let us begin right away.
Here we have discussed some of the Best OBD2 Scanners for Prado. They all have unique properties that have earned them a spot on the list. Let us dive right in.
Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner
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The Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner is one of the Best OBD2 Scanners for all Toyota Prado models after 1996. This Scanner is designed to work well with all kinds of vehicles. Be it a sedan, SUV, or light truck. Since the Toyota Prado is an SUV, it shall have no problem diagnosing the vehicle.
So, what makes us pick the Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner in our list of Best OBD2 Scanners for Toyota Prado? Well, for starters, it can read and erase the codes of your Toyota Prado like all other OBD2 scanners. However, the Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner can also view the VIN of your Prado. The final feature that won the Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner this spot is that it requires no battery. The Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner uses a 16-pin OBD2 cable. This allows the Scanner to take power from the battery of your Toyota Prado and scan the vehicle.
This Scanner can scan your Prado’s components like transmission, O2 sensor, and other emissions. The Scanner can then prepare an I/M Readiness status for the vehicle, which can then be used for your vehicle smog test. We think you will love this Autel MS300 OBD2 scanner.
Key features:
- Requires no battery, uses vehicle battery to operate
- Features an easy two-button interface with a backlit LCD
- Supports all post-1996 Toyota Prado
- Supports CAN and all OBD2 protocols
SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner
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If you are looking for something more professional and complex rather than a simple scanner like the Autel MS300 Universal OBD2 Scanner, then you will love the SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner.
The SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner is designed to be one of the best professional OBD2 scanners out in the market. It is compatible with all vehicles manufactured after 1996 and supports all current OBD2 protocols. So, there is no worry about its compatibility with your Toyota Prado.
The SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner features a very unique one-click IM readiness status function. With just one click, the Scanner will scan all the relevant features of your vehicle and provide you with the necessary data. The SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner will scan your vehicle’s emission statuses and help your Prado pass the Smog check.
What makes this Scanner best for your Toyota Prado? Free lifetime software update for code and bug fixes. With this feature, you won’t have to worry about buying a new OBD2 scanner. This one OBD2 Scanner alone will do the job for you.
So, for these reasons, we think the SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner will be a great fit for Toyota Prado (Post 1996 versions). So we recommend you try out the SEEKONE OBD2 Scanner for your Toyota Prado.
Key features:
- Free lifetime software update and code fix
- Durable design (anti-shock and anti-slip)
- Comes with Red-Yellow-Green LED indicators and a built-in speaker
- Supports 8 different language
- Compatible with all OBD2 protocols
LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner
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Here is another great and professional OBD2 scanner for Toyota Prado. The LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner is somewhat similar to the SEEKONE OBD2 scanner, but they have their differences.
For similarities, they both have full-colored displays and come with a durable anti-shock body. But the LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner comes with 1000+ car modes. No matter how updated your Toyota Prado is, the LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner won’t fail to scan it deep through and prepare reports.
Moreover, the LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner comes with lifetime free code and bug fix updates. Thus you won’t need to worry about it getting back-dated at all.
The LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner comes ready with all the necessary codes for your Toyota Prado in the box. Also, this scanning tool comes with 2.5 feet long OBD2 cable. So no need to bend down to operate the LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner. Just plug it in and relax on your seat.
The features that have brought the LAUNCH Creader 3001 OBD2 Scanner to our attention are its ability to read live data, VIN information recovery, data recording, data replaying, data printing, and of course, the lifetime update.
Key features:
- Features full-detail I/M readiness test
- Can view live data and performance of the vehicle and record it
- Offers lifetime free code updates and bug fixes
- Supports all OBD2 protocols
- 5 feet long cable
THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner
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If you want your OBD2 Scanner to match the slick look of your modern Toyota Prado vehicle, then we think that no other OBD2 scanner aces the competition like the THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner. Unlike other traditional OBD2 scanners, the THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner offers a very distinctive and stylish look with its physical body. It will look like those old Apple iPods.
Looks are not the only thing the THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner offers. This OBD2 Scanner is a full-range package. It comes with all the features and functionalities you can expect from an OBD scanner.
The THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner can scan your Prado’s codes, fix, or erase the codes, show the live performance of the car, record, replay performance data, and perform Evap tests and O2 sensor tests, recover vehicle information, detect MIL faults, and many more.
You don’t need a second OBD2 scanner for your Prado if you have the THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner.
The THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner is made for all kinds of cars alongside the Toyota Prado. It can be used for American, EU, and also Asian cars. The THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner offers a lifetime warranty. Whenever your THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner is showing errors, just bring it to them, and they will replace your THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner with a new one.
The THINKCAR 100 OBD2 Scanner offers free lifetime code updates and bug fixes. Overall, it is one of the Best OBD2 Scanners for all vehicles.
Key features:
- Full-package OBD2 scanners
- Supports all OBD2 protocols since 1996
- Lifetime warranty and code update
Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner
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.
If you are looking for something simple and basic but powerful, then the Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner is the Best OBD2 Scanner on the market. Not only is it best for your Toyota Prado, but it is also best for all car brands.
The Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner comes completely ready in the box. All you need to do is plug it in your Toyota Prado’s OBD2 port and play it.
The Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner comes with a wide range of functions and procedures that you can try out. The Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner can read, erase, or reset your Prado’s code. It can perform component testing of the vehicle, O2 sensor testing, emission testing for I/M reporting, and also fix various issues in your Prado.
The device also comes with a one-year warranty. What makes this device compelling is its simple interface design. It only has two buttons. One is the scroll button, and the other is the select button. With these two simple buttons, you can control all the powerful features of the Autel MS309 OBD2 Scanner.
Key features:
- Simple two-button interface
- One-year warranty
- Comes with all the OBD2 protocols and features in the box
Innova 3150RS OBD2 Scanner
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Here is one unique OBD2 Scanner for your Toyota Prado. The Innova 3150RS, also known as the Innova 3150, is one powerful OBD2 Scanner.
It features all the OBD2 features and protocols you can ask for from an OBD2 scanner. The Innova 3150RS also comes with a companion app, the RepairSlutin2 app. Thus, the RS is included in the name.
With this companion app, you can check all the key functions of your Toyota Prado and perform necessary tests like O2 sensor, emission, and component tests. You can also view live performance data and save/ record it for later use.
The companion app is not a mandatory thing. Because the Innova 3150 OBD2 scanner also features a built-in color display and dedicated keys. You can operate the Innova 3150 OBD scanner as a single unit.
Since you have read our Innova 3150 Review, we recommend you also check out the Innova 3020 (Innova 3020 Review). They both share some unique features, and we are certain that they will work as a great edition for your Toyota Prado.
Key Features:
- Runs on 3AA batteries (included in the box)
- Features the RepairSolution2 companion app
- All OBD2 features and protocols
- Built-in display and dedicated hotkeys for different features
- Durable and shock-proof exterior
Buying guide: Best OBD2 Scanner for Prado
We hope that you loved our selection of OBD2 scanners in the review section. Now before you blindly jump into buying one, it is best to understand what you are buying. For that, here is a short buying guide for OBD2 scanners.
We must keep a few things in mind to discover the most appropriate OBD2 scanners for your vehicle. The compatibility, connectivity, features, and price of the OBD2 Scanner.
Compatibility
The first thing you must consider is the compatibility of your Toyota Prado. The fact is, vehicles before 1996 are not compatible with OBD2 scanners. They are compatible with an OBD1 scanner.
So, if your Toyota Prado is a post-1996 model, then you don’t have to worry about the compatibility of the OBD2 Scanner. Just make sure that the model of the OBD2 Scanner has the necessary codes for scanning your Toyota Prado.
Connectivity
Connectivity will matter if you are using a Bluetooth/ wireless OBD2 scanner. In that case, you will need to check the device’s companion app and see its reliability. If it is not that useful, then try another OBD2 scanner.
But if it is a traditional OBD2 scanner with a digital display, there shouldn’t be a connectivity issue.
Reliability
Let’s not forget about the reliability of the OBD2 Scanner. You don’t want to purchase a scanner that will give false data about your car. Reliability is somewhat related to the brand. Look for scanners from brands that have been around for some time. Also, check out what others have to say about them. Ask a friend, or check Amazon reviews. Or maybe google reviews with the Scanner’s name.
Expensive scanners have good reviews. You don’t necessarily need to buy something expensive. You can find some reasonably priced, affordable scanners that offer great reliability. Go for those OBD2 scanners for your Toyota Prado.
Battery, or non-battery
Both have their ups and downs. The battery-less ones tap power from the car’s battery. So they can be used anytime. However, if you leave them plugged, they will drain your car’s power.
The battery ones will not drain the car’s battery, but you will need to have separate batteries ready for them
Features
You should pay some attention to the features that the OBD2 scanners are offering. Who knows what features may come in handy. Some offer wireless software updates. Some offer diversity. Some offer 1000+ car models. In reality, you don’t need all of these features in your OBD2 Scanner. So how do we choose the best one? The best thing to do is get the most features at a reasonable price.
Updates
Another thing to consider is the update of the OBD2 Scanner. Usually, all OBD2 scanners can be updated manually by connecting the Scanner with your computer and downloading the codes. But there are better ways to do that. Such as updating the Scanner via the companion app.
However, you must remember that the Scanner should have an updated code file for installation. If that’s not the case, then updating the Scanner will be difficult.
Our advice: look for OBD2 scanners that offer free lifetime code updates and bug fixes. That way, you won’t need to buy a second OBD2 scanner again. Then if you want convenience, look for a scanner that can be updated wirelessly via the companion app
Price
The last thing to consider is the price. It must be within your budget. It is not necessary to buy an expensive OBD2 scanner. But you should not resort to cheap products either. Go for something that offers reliability and all the necessary features while also having an affordable price tag.
What scan tool does Prado use?
The modern Toyota Prado cars use the Universal AutoLink OBD2 and CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool by Autel®. Thus, you can use almost all kinds of OBD2 scanners on the Toyota Prado. But we recommend that you use the best OBD2 scanner for Prado.
How do you scan a Toyota?
To scan a Toyota, you will need an OBD2 scan tool. You will need to hook the scanner with the OBD2 scan port of your Prado. Usually, the Toyota Prado has its OBD2 scan port under the steering wheel (Post 1996 Prado models). You can connect the OBD2 scanner and start scanning your Prad as per the instruction of the OBD2 port.
Which OBD2 protocol does Toyota use in their vehicles?
Toyota uses many OBD2 protocols. They have added new protocols to their vehicles over the years. Toyota used the J1850-10.4, ISO9141 protocol during 1997-1999, and during 2000-2003, it used ISO 9141. Later, between 2004-2007, they used ISO 9141 and CAN. From 2008 to 2009, Toyota only used the CAN BD2 protocol in their manufactured cars. These differences in OBD2 protocol are exactly why you need the best OBD2 scanner for Prado.
How can the best OBD2 scanner for Prado help me?
With the best OBD2 scanner for Prado, you can get more data and insight into Prado’s performance. You can check engine status, transmission, and other computerized systems and fix them.
Without an OBD2 scanner, you may be unable to fix these problems without spending much money and a visit to the mechanic. But with it, there is no need to worry.
FAQs
Here we have discussed some frequently asked questions regarding Toyota Prado and OBD2 scanners. Have a look. We hope they will turn out to be helpful for you.
Where is the OBD2 port of the Toyota Prado?
The OBD2 port of the Toyota Prado is located under the steering wheel and above the paddles. You can easily reach it if you bend down.
Will all Prado support OBD2 scanners?
No. The Toyota Prado that was manufactured after 1996 comes with OBD2 ports. Those before that cannot comply with an OBD2 scanner.
Is it safe to leave the OBD2 Scanner plugged in my OBD2 Scanner?
It is safe to do so, but we do not recommend it. That’s because it may drain your car’s battery.
Can I use any OBD2 scanner in my Toyota Prado?
No. Some OBD2 scanners may not comply with SUVs. So they will not work.
How To Use obd2 Bluetooth Scanner with Toyota Prado?
First, download the companion app of the Bluetooth OBD2 scanner. Now plug the OBD2 scanner into your Prado’s OBD2 port above the paddles. Open the app and pair the scanner. Then follow the tutorial on the app and that is how to use OBD2 bluetooth scanner.
Final Thoughts
So that marks the end of our guide to the Best OBD2 Scanner for Prado. We hope that this guide has been helpful for you. OBD2 scanners play a very vital role in the vehicle. Because they can determine errors in your car and help you prevent potential troubles with the car.
So be sure to check out all the OBD2 scanners we have recommended on the list. Feel free to explore outside of our selection of OBD2 scanners. However, follow our OBD2 buying guide to find the most suitable OBD2 Scanner for your Toyota Prado. We bid you farewell on your journey to finding the Best OBD2 Scanner for your Prado.
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.