Last Updated on April 11, 2025
Ancel is one of the most trusted and widely recognized automotive scanner brands on the market today. From DIY car owners to professional technicians, Ancel has become a go-to name for reliable, easy-to-use diagnostic tools. One reason for this popularity is that every scanner they produce comes with a simple user manual, making it beginner-friendly while offering powerful features. If you’re using any of these Ancel FX series scanners regularly, make sure to follow essential car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly and extend its lifespan. In this Ancel FX2000 vs FX3000 vs FX4000 vs FX6000 comparison, we break down the key similarities and differences to help you choose the right OBD2 scanner for your vehicle diagnostics needs.
In this article, we compare four of Ancel’s mid-range diagnostic scanners—FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000—to help you determine the right one for your garage. First, we’ll explore the key similarities, followed by the major differences so you can make an informed decision based on your needs.
Ancel FX OBD2 Series FX2000 vs FX3000 vs FX4000 vs FX6000 Comparison Chart
| Features | FX2000 Price | FX3000 Price | FX4000 Price | FX6000 Price |
| ABS Bleeding: | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Maintenance (BMS): | No | No | No | Yes |
| SAS Calibration: | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| EPB & Oil Reset: | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ECU programming: | No | No | No | Yes |
| Check Brake System: | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| System Diagnostics: | 4 systems | 4 systems | All systems | All systems |
| Suspension and Steering Systems: | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Check Exhaust System: | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel System: | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Diagnose Electrical Systems: | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Check Ignition System: | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Special Functions: | No | 2 functions | 4 functions | 11+ functions |
✅ What Are the Similarities Between FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000?
All four scanners share a solid set of core functions that make them stand out in their price range:
🔧 1. Full OBD2 Functionality
Each scanner—FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000—supports all 10 OBD2 test modes, allowing users to read and clear codes, check emissions readiness, view live data, and more.
📊 2. Live Data Stream
Live data is crucial for pinpointing engine issues, and all four devices provide real-time data streaming to help you analyze performance in depth.
⚙️ 3. Read & Clear Codes
Designed as full-fledged diagnostic tools, these scanners allow you to read trouble codes, identify problems, and clear stored codes from the ECU after the issue is resolved.
📋 4. I/M Readiness & VIN Retrieval
All models support I/M readiness checks and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) retrieval, enabling users to verify emission compliance and fetch important vehicle info quickly.
🌍 5. Extensive Vehicle Brand Coverage
Whether you’re working with a modern or vintage vehicle, these Ancel scanners support a wide range of global car brands, making them ideal for multi-vehicle garages and professionals who work with different models.
🌐 6. Internet Upgradable
Stay up to date with new features and vehicle coverage. All four scanners can be updated online, ensuring long-term compatibility and performance enhancements.
🗣️ 7. Multi-Language Support
To accommodate international users, the FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000 offer multi-language support, including English, Spanish, German, Russian, Dutch, and more.
🚘 8. Broad Vehicle Compatibility
These models support all OBD2-compliant vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and 12V light trucks.
🛠️ 9. ABS/SRS/Transmission Codes
All four Ancel scanners can read and clear ABS, SRS, and transmission-related trouble codes, which is essential for safety-related repairs.
🔍 10. O2 Sensor Test
Each of these models features an O2 sensor test, helping users check whether the engine’s air-fuel ratio is optimal. This is crucial for ensuring performance and reducing emissions.
While these shared features make all four models a great choice, there are important differences that may influence your buying decision. Let’s dive into those in the next section.
Ancel FX2000 vs FX3000 vs FX4000 vs FX6000: Key Differences
While the Ancel FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000 scanners share many core features, they were launched at different times and are built for different user needs. Let’s break down the main differences among these four models to help you find the best one for your budget and requirements.
🔍 1. Supported Applications
The biggest difference lies in the range of diagnostic functions:
- FX4000 and FX6000 support full-system diagnostics, allowing you to scan all modules within a vehicle.
- FX2000 and FX3000 are more limited, supporting essential systems like Engine, ABS, SRS, and Transmission.
✅ Winner: FX4000 and FX6000 for complete system coverage.
📺 2. Screen Size and Display
Screen clarity and size matter—especially when analyzing live data or diagnosing complex issues.
- FX2000 and FX3000: 3.5-inch TFT color screens (480×272 resolution)
- FX4000 and FX6000: 4.3-inch TFT color screens (480×272 resolution)
A larger screen makes it easier to detect minor issues during analysis. If you use the scanner frequently, go with FX4000 or FX6000.
✅ Winner: FX4000 and FX6000 for bigger, clearer display.
🔧 3. Number of Diagnostic Systems
- FX2000: Diagnoses 4 systems
- FX3000: Diagnoses 6 systems
- FX4000 & FX6000: Support all systems
✅ Winner: FX4000 and FX6000 for advanced diagnostics.
🅿️ 4. EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) System
- FX2000 does not support EPB diagnostics.
- FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000 can read and reset EPB codes.
✅ Winner: FX3000 and up.
🔋 5. Fuel, Electrical, Brake & Ignition System Support
Only FX4000 and FX6000 include access to these advanced systems. FX2000 and FX3000 lack these functions as they are older models.
✅ Winner: FX4000 and FX6000 for broader system support.
🔁 6. Oil and EPB Reset Functions
- FX2000 lacks both oil reset and EPB reset capabilities.
- FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000 support these essential maintenance functions.
✅ Winner: FX3000 and above.
🔌 7. 11 OBD1 Connectors
Only FX6000 comes with 11 OBD1 adapters, making it compatible with a wider range of older and newer vehicle models.
✅ Winner: FX6000 for maximum compatibility.
💰 8. Price Comparison
- FX6000: Most feature-rich and professional, priced around $400.
- FX3000 and FX4000: Mid-range models, perfect for advanced DIYers and small garages.
- FX2000: Budget-friendly yet capable, available for around $200.
✅ Winner: Choose based on your budget and needs.
🏁 Final Recommendation
Choosing between Ancel FX2000, FX3000, FX4000, and FX6000 depends on your personal needs and budget:
- If you want a premium all-in-one tool with full system diagnostics, OBD1 adapters, oil/EPB reset, and a larger screen, the FX6000 is the best pick.
- For users on a budget looking for reliable diagnostics on core systems, the FX2000 is a great entry-level option.
- The FX3000 and FX4000 are excellent middle-ground tools with more advanced functions than FX2000 but at a lower price than FX6000.
All four scanners are reliable and backed by Ancel’s reputation for quality and ease of use. Choose wisely by matching your diagnostic needs with the feature set of each device.