Best car diagnostic tools you should know about

If people had to climb their roofs to get good TV reception before, today, TV entertainment is easier. If you remember having to leave your car at the mechanic’s for days, you’ll appreciate diagnostic tools today.

These handy devices don’t only make fixing your car easier. The right device may even let you know just what’s wrong with your vehicle. Philkotse.com prepared a list of the best diagnostic tools for your reference. 

Choosing a diagnostic tool

If you haven’t done your research yet, there are actually tons of these tools in the market. Whether it’s online or in physical stores, we’re sure you’ll be able to get your hands on them. There are various types and various brands to choose from. So before you add to cart, you will first need to consider a few factors.

If you haven’t done your research yet, there are actually tons of these tools in the market

The first thing you need to keep in mind is your budget. How much are you willing to spend on a car diagnostic tool? Or rather, how much do you need a diagnostic tool? You may definitely need a diagnostic tool every now and then. But you can definitely live and own a car without one.

As a matter of fact, you can even get diagnostic services for free at select automotive repair shops. If you can’t get them for free at your local shop, you may have to pay for the service. The fee will depend on the technician. But some vehicle owners actually prefer this option overspending on a mighty expensive diagnostic tool.

You can even get diagnostic services for free at select automotive repair shops

The second factor that needs to be taken into consideration is the features you need. The features of the diagnostic tool will most likely affect its price. So it only makes sense to pick out a diagnostic tool that has everything you need. To help you get an idea of which diagnostic tools are worth the spend, we listed down some of the leading tools in the market.

>>> Related: What you need to know about car diagnostic tool

Foxwell NT301

The first device on our list is a top choice for automotive technicians and professionals all over the globe. The company, Foxwell, has been crafting some of the industry’s leading OBDII code readers. The Foxwell NT301 is a great diagnostic device that’s packed with tons of helpful features. Some of its functionalities include the following:

• Read DTC engine codes from your vehicle and give definition to the gathered trouble codes.
• Can delete and reset codes once the repairs have been done
• This also comes with a unique “early warning system”. This is supposed to help you identify any possible problems with your car that are likely to come out soon. The Foxwell NT301 utilizes green, yellow and red LED lights. These lights are used to indicate the current health state of your vehicle.

Foxwell has been crafting some of the industry’s leading OBDII code readers

>>> Related: Why you should get an OBD-2 scanner for ECU-equipped cars?

Launch X431

The Launch X431 is one of the many newest additions to the brand’s collection of diagnostic tools. If you decide to purchase this model, expect the package to include four pieces. This includes the BDScar diagnostic connector, OBD2 connectors, protective sleeve, and PRO pad computer.

The device communicates with your vehicle’s system using the DBScar connector to read a vehicle’s DTC. You can also count on this device for other functionalities such as the ones listed below:

• It can give the user more applications and services. This is thanks to the internet connection feature.
• The Launch X431 can also maintain a case library and a database.
• Can also provide the user with instant maintenance info
• Comes with the latest technology with the help of Android

The Launch X431 is one of the many newest additions to the brand’s collection of diagnostic tools

>>> Related: 10 recommended software for OBD II scanner

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro is another favorite because of two things. First off, it’s designed by professional American engineers. Second is that it’s priced quite reasonably wherein average car owners will still have the financial capability to buy it.

According to reviews, this OBDII is amazingly versatile. It packs all the features you would ever need for car diagnostics. You don’t even need to be a total professional to understand how to work the tool. Asides from that, it also has these other features:

• It is extremely portable. You can carry it in your pack or keep it in your glovebox.
• It is capable of a basic scan of practically all vehicles.
• The BlueDriver can sense tranny codes and dash
• Gives the user alerts if there are error codes.
• Very easy to navigate

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro is another favorite because of two things

Ancel AD310

The Ancel A310 is an OBD II Scanner with a very easy-to-use interface. It comes in a classic design that lets you get a good grip of the device. We can say that this device is evidently a basic one. But if you don’t have complicated problems going on under the hood, this should be enough for personal needs. These are some functionalities that the Ancel AD10 can offer:

• It can support all the OBD II protocols out there.
• Works like most high-end diagnostic tools
• You don’t need to download any apps for your phone to use it.
• An affordable choice

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Actron CP9690

This entry from Actron comes with all the possible adapters and connectors that you may need. The Actron CP9690 is a scan tool that is compatible with both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles. So whether you have a hobby for dabbling with cars or you do it for a living, this is perfect for you.

It does, however, share its own share of cons. One of them is that it has limited features. But if you’re looking for a dependable car scanner tool, this should have every basic tool you need. Here are other features you may be interested in:

• This tool has a wider screen
• It also has a battery reset and oil light
• The Actron CP9690 features Bluetooth connectivity so it can pair with your device.