Top Ten Best Car Diagnostic and Test Tools of 2021
Check out the best car diagnostic and test tools below:
Table of Contents
- #10 Launch CRP129 OBD2 Scanner Scan Tool
- #9 Lisle 52750 Stethoscope Kit
- #8 Mestart Bluetooth OBDII OBD2 Car Scanner Auto Diagnostic Tool for Android Devices
- #7 INNOVA 3620 Vacuum/Carburetor Fuel Pressure Tester
- #6 INNOVA 3145 Ford Digital OBD1 Code Reader
- #5 INNOVA 3555 Advance Timing Light
- #4 Foxwell NT201 OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool
- #3 Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader + ABS/SRS Diagnostic Scan Tool
- #2 AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- #1 AL200 OBD2 Scanner by TOPDON
#10 Launch CRP129 OBD2 Scanner Scan Tool
The Scanner Scan Tool from Launch is the most expensive OBDII code reader tool on our list. This tool covers a comprehensive list of makes and models of vehicles made after 2006. In order to make sure your make and model is covered by this vehicle, you are invited to contact the company to double check before purchase.
This device can read diagnostic trouble codes (DTC), do smog tests, and will let you view live graph performance charts from your car’s functions. Once plugged into the OBDII port, the power cord is long enough that you can extend the device out to the windshield.
All functions of the data scan tool are available in various languages, French, Spanish, German, Dutch, Italian, Russian, and Polish. The scanner tool has DTC look up so if you know what code you’re looking for, it will tell you the code result.
The diagnostic tool can be upgraded through the USB port if connected to a Windows-based PC, and the company provides a 12-month warranty from the purchase date and free software upgrades for life.
#9 Lisle 52750 Stethoscope Kit
While it may seem strange at first to see the Stethoscope Kit from Lisle on this list, it actually is a great diagnostic tool for automotive use. This Kit has multiple attachments that will allow you to detect and listen to mechanical and air-induced noises.
There is a black diaphragm chamber with screw-in metal probe that will help you listen and identify problems with engines, transmissions, bearings, and other mechanical devices. For problems like exhaust leaks, vacuum,leaks, air leaks and or finding out where wind noise is coming from, you can use the funnel amplifier attachment.
This is one of the best stethoscopes for self-diagnosing car problems on the market, and the reviews for this one really shine.
#8 Mestart Bluetooth OBDII OBD2 Car Scanner Auto Diagnostic Tool for Android Devices
The incredibly compact OBDII Scanner Diagnostic Tool from Mestart is the smallest device we’ve seen for this. It has no wires or display screens that are included as it transmits the information directly to your Android phone via Bluetooth. If you need one of these for iPhone or iOS, there is a choice for a WiFi Enabled OBD2 Scanner Port that transmits data via WiFi instead of Bluetooth. Only Android can use the Bluetooth model.
This OBDII scanner plugs directly into your OBDII port in your vehicle. Then after enabling Bluetooth on your phone, tablet, or computer, you can then pair with the device (OBDII, pin is 1234). Once it connects to your car’s ECU, you’ll then have the data at your fingertips through the accessibility of the software app. There are several apps that you can use, such as OBD Car Doctor, Torque Lite, Torque Pro, and more. It does include installation instructions for a standard app.
This will work on most OBDII (OBD2) and newer cars, which are most cars after 1998 in the USA. If working on cars from Europe, this should also work on EOBD cars from Europe that were built from 2001 to 2004.
#7 INNOVA 3620 Vacuum/Carburetor Fuel Pressure Tester
This has a 24 inch oil resistant rubber hose that has three attachments for various utilities. It has a tapered adapter, a “Tee” connector, and a universal fitting adapter to help you use this when you need different connection types. If you’re trying to diagnose and find faulty fuel pumps, fuel pressure regulators, carburetors, vacuum leaks, or more, this is the device for you.
The Vacuum/Carburetor Fuel Pressure Tester from Innova is simplistic in design, offering a dual-calibrated and color-coded scale system that is easy to read on the 3 ½” dial. This device will help you diagnose and identify vacuum leaks, fuel pressure as it moves through the carburetor, and other problems in the engine of your car.
There is an alternative Fuel Pressure Tester sold by Innova as well.
#6 INNOVA 3145 Ford Digital OBD1 Code Reader
The Ford Digital OBD1 Code Reader from Innova allows the user to view diagnostic trouble codes from Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury cars and trucks from 1982 to 1995.
On some of these older vehicles, you have to jump two pins in order to have the panel flash a series of lights. It’s up to you to discover what those lights mean. This digital code reader for OBDI ports is the clear superior alternative when it comes to diagnosing older cars. It has a digital display that allows you to easily read the error code number. The memory function will store the codes so that you can read them again after the unit has been unplugged.
This is compatible with EEC-IV and MCU computer control systems. There are instructions included that will also tell you how to perform all the Ford self-tests to help you diagnose your problem.
#5 INNOVA 3555 Advance Timing Light
The Advance Timing Light from Innova allows a user to check the base timing of an advance timing. Using this, you’ll be able to advance or retard and see the result. It has a rotating and slim barrel so you can target the timing mark easier.
It has a direct reading advance scale that is adjustable from 0 to 60 degrees. This will work with conventional, computer controlled, and electronic systems. These can be domestic or import.
Other options include Digital, Digital Pro, and Inductive, each which their own benefits. The Digital has a split-screen digital LCD screen that displays the advance functions and tachometer. While the advance can only go up to 60 degrees, the Digital can adjust from 0 to 90 degrees.
#4 Foxwell NT201 OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool
The Foxwell OBDII & EOBD Scanner Tool is a diagnostic tool that can help you read check engine light codes and monitor real-time engine usage. It plugs into the OBDII port in your vehicle and is incredibly compact and portable. Once connected, you’ll be given a System Status showing how many codes were found and basic information about the status of your car.
It has an easy to view LCD screen with enough of a menu to navigate it fairly simply. It has an Mini-USB port so you can connect it to your computer and download any version upgrades or improvements to the software. Viewing the live data will give you a breakdown of the fuel systems, RPM, and more.
It has a DTC Lookup and you can look up error codes if you know the number. The Review option allows you to look at previous error codes that have been read. These are new additions to the Foxwell Scanner Tool from the previous version. The affordability and abilities of this Scanner Tool make it a worthwhile purchase.
#3 Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 Scanner Code Reader + ABS/SRS Diagnostic Scan Tool
The ML619 OBDII Scanner Code Reader from Autel MaxiLink plugs into your OBDII port in your vehicle and will allow you to read the error codes that your car is reporting.
These errors code usually trip the check engine light, so if you have a check engine light and need to know what’s going on, you’ll need to have your codes read to see what the problem is. This lets you do that yourself instead of taking it to an Auto Parts Supply store.
This works on a wide variety of vehicles made after 1996, as long as they have an OBDII port that you can plug into. The scanner has free software updates and upgrades that are available for free of charge online. This device can help to retrieve both generic and manufacturer specific error codes and pending codes.
The live data display can show you in real time how your car is functioning and also allows you to view freeze frame data. It can read, store, and playback live sensor and PCM data stream data so you can know exactly what’s going on with your truck, car, or motorcycle.
You’ll be able to diagnose and find out what exactly is causing problems with your vehicle. You can clear error codes, warning lights, and check engine lights through the use of the scan tool.
#2 AstroAI Digital Multimeter
The Digital Multimeter from AstroAI is secure and reliable thanks to built-in F10A/600V and F400mA/600V explosion-proof ceramic fuse tubes. Through all ranges, this will provide overload protection for the digital multimeter.
This multimeter will allow you to perform a range of tests on your electronics. Some of these tests include testing diode transistors, temperature, resistance, current, voltage, frequency, continuity and capacitance.
This multimeter is durable and reliable as it is built to withstand intense commercial use. For ease of use, it has an LCD backlit screen, memory to retain data, a kickstand, a hanging magnet and auto shut-off to save battery life.
AstroAI backs this product with a three year warranty, so if you encounter any problems, don’t hesitate to contact them.
#1 AL200 OBD2 Scanner by TOPDON
The AL200 Model OBDII Scanner Tool plugs into the OBDII port of a 1996 or newer model vehicle in order to diagnose and read live data directly from the car. Diagnostic trouble codes are identifiable through the card reader when the check engine light has turned on. After you’ve diagnosed the problem with the tool, you can perform repairs. Onc
e repairs are completed, the Topdon AL200 can reset your check engine light and turn it off for you.
Other features include reading freeze frame data that the ECU records as well as retrieving emission related faults. Emission problems can be detected and solved before your annual inspection, saving you time and money.
There is also a built-in library of DTC codes that you can lookup through the tool to learn more. Topdon supports this product with 12 months of 24 hour online consulting service in order to answer questions and concerns.
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