Are you exhausted from taking your car to a mechanic? Or do you want to diagnose your vehicle upfront before visiting a mechanic? Worry not, as we’ve got you covered. If your vehicle was manufactured before 1996, we’ve featured some of the best car automotive obd1 scanners that you can get. If you don’t know the differences between obd1 and obd2, then check here. You may find lots of quality obd2 scanners on the market. But, finding a reliable OBD1 scanner reliable OBD1 scanner is challenging.
Hence, that’s why we’ve highlighted some of the best OBD1 scanners to simplify your work. The units that we included are easy to use, dependable, sturdy, and affordable. Ensure to choose a diagnostic scanner that matches your needs and budget.
What does OBD1 mean?
OBD1 was introduced in 1991, but this system does not support all older cars. The diagnostic system was first made for vehicles sold in California between 1991 and 1996. However, this scan tool is only compatible with one car model, meaning it is manufacturer specific. And that’s why it cannot run on two different vehicles even with the same engine problems. OBD1 scanners are also connected via an OBD port with no wireless options.
Note: An OBD2 scan tool is an advanced unit derived from the OBD1 code reader. OBD1 was improved to diagnose all vehicles with a lot of ease.
3 Best OBD1 Scanners Comparison Chart
| Compare | LAUNCH X431 V+ | Autel MaxiPRO MP808K | Innova 3120e |
| Features: |
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| Best For: | Only Professionals | Pro DIYers & Mechanics | All |
| Price: | High | Medium | Low |
Page Contents
What to consider when choosing an OBD1 scanner?
Compatibility
One of the first things to look at when buying an OBDI diagnostic scanner is compatibility. Unlike an OBDII scan tool, OBD1 cannot work with any vehicle make or model. They only work with manufacturer-specific vehicles. Therefore, you need to ensure that the scanner you’re buying is compatible with your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
Accuracy
Another challenging thing about using an OBD1 scanner is accuracy. Most of the OBD1 scan tools are not very accurate, which is worrying. If you want to remove this doubt from your mind, it’s best to buy from reliable brands with a proven track record.
Features and functionalities
Before buying an OBDI scan tool, you have to know what you intend to use the tool to diagnose. If you want a simple canner to read and erase error codes, you should go for a basic scanner with a handful of functions. But if you’re a professional mechanic who deals with various cars and conducts a variety of tests, you require an advanced OBD2 diagnostic scanner. Such a scanner may be slightly costly, but it is worth investing in.
Ease of use
Like any tool on the market, some are easy to operate while others are challenging. For this reason, you need to pick a scanner that is easy to use. If you’re a beginner, choosing a sophisticated scanner may be troublesome if you don’t know how to operate it. Also, some units come with large screens, while others are tricky to read in the dark.
Price
In most cases, the cheaper OBD1 code readers only come with basic functions. If you want an OBD1 scan tool with advanced functions and performance, you will have to dig deeper into your pockets.
8 Best OBD1 Scanner Review 2023
Here are the best OBD1 scan tools on the market:
Launch X431 V Pro Bi-Directional Full System Scanner
The Launch X431 V Pro Bi-directional full system scanner is the most advanced and best OBD1 scanner on our list. This unit performs both basic and advanced functions. These include read/clear DTCs, viewing live data, perform active tests and service functions for all systems. Other vital functions are ECU coding, matching, key fob, Auto Vin detection, Adaptation, and much more.
Technical Specifications of the Launch X431 V Pro Scan Tool
| Features | Launch X431 V Pro |
| Works: | Over 68 car brands and 220 car models from America, Europe, Asia |
| Wifi & Bluetooth: | Yes |
| Main Brands: | Skoda, Opel, Citroen, Porsche, Rover, Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Acura, Lexus, Honda, Ford, Nissan, Lincoln, Mazda, etc |
| Software Update Option: | Yes, 2-Years Free Update |
| OS: | Android |
| Check Engine Light: | Yes |
| View Live Data: | Yes |
| Active Test: | Yes |
| View Freeze Frame: | Yes |
| Oil Reset Service: | Yes |
| Tooth Learning/Anti-theft Matching: | Yes |
| ABS, SRS, Body control module: | Yes |
| Battery Register /Battery Maintenance: | Yes |
| Warranty: | 5-year warranty |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
Apart from the variety of functions that this unit comes with, it is also beautifully designed for ease of use. Thanks to the large 8-inch display, that makes the reading of results easy. Additionally, it is fitted with the Android 7.1 operating system, which makes it fast and smart. Together with the Wi-Fi connection, this unit is very efficient in performance. The only challenge is that newbies may find it cumbersome and somewhat complicated to use. Choose one of the 24 languages to diagnose more than 150 car makes or over 1000 vehicle models.
Pros:
- It provides extensive vehicle coverage
- Reads and clears DTCs
- Performs both basic and advanced functions
- Diagnoses both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
- It is Wi-Fi enabled for ease of use
- Launch X431 V Pro is fast and smart in operation
- It is easy to read and interpret results with a large screen
- It has a multilingual menu for easy use
- The manufacturer provides 2-years of free updates
- It comes with a 5-year warranty
Cons:
- It is somewhat expensive
- It may be quite challenging for a beginner to use
- Poor customer support
Autel MP808K Diagnostic Scanner
Autel is famous for its high-quality and reliable diagnostic scanners. The Autel MP808K scanner is an upgraded version of the Autel MP808 and DS808 scanners. Therefore, it comes with some extra features that make this unit more advanced. The unit features 11 connectors that allow it to cover a variety of OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles. If you deal with many cars, you will be glad to learn that you can diagnose more than 80 cars from the US, Europe, and Asia, as long as they are OBD2 compliant.
Technical Specifications of the Autel MP808K – Upgraded Version
| Features | Autel MP808 |
| Vehicle Coverage: | More than 80 US, Asian and European vehicle |
| Read & erase DTCs: | Yes |
| View live data: | Yes |
| Oil Reset: | Yes |
| Turbo Acutator Calibration: | Yes |
| Transmission Adaption: | Yes |
| Throttle Adaptation: | Yes |
| Upgraded version: | Yes, of the Autel MP808 and DS808 |
| Active Tests/Bi-Directional Control function: | Yes |
| Reads and stores Data: | Yes |
| Ideal for: | both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles |
| Diagnoses all systems: | Yes |
| Weight: | 14.85 pounds |
| Voltage: | 12 Volts |
| Update: | 12 Months of Free Software Updates |
| Warranty: | 12-month warranty |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
This diagnostic scanner’s notable functions include bi-directional control, injector coding, active tests, oil reset, BMS, SAS, and 23 services. Apart from that, it has a large screen for displaying outcomes. However, the processor is relatively slower, which is the only setback that this scan tool has.
Pros:
- It is sturdily made to last with a rubber housing
- Intuitive user interface
- It diagnoses all systems
- Performs both basic and advanced functions
- Ideal for both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
- It comes with a 12-month free software update
- It comes with extensive vehicle coverage of more than 80 cars, makes
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It is expensive
- The processor is quite slow
Actron CP9690 Elite AutoScanner Kit Enhanced OBD I & OBD II Scanner
If you’ve been looking for a reliable and affordable best OBD1 scanner, the Actron CP9690 Elite automotive scanner is the perfect tool for you. Not only does this tool conduct OBD1 functions, but as well OBD2 functions. The unit reads and clears codes for three major systems: engine, ABS, and SRS. Along with that, it reads live engine data for both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles.
Technical Specifications of the Actron cp9690 trilingual OBD1
| Features | Actron CP9690 |
| Support: | OBD-I, OBD0-II |
| Views freeze frame data: | Yes |
| Check Engine Light: | Yes |
| Larger Screen: | Yes |
| Works: | ALL 1996 and later vehicles |
| Display: | Easy-to-read color LCD screen |
| Powertrain and ABS Vehicle coverage: | Yes |
| Record, playback, and graph live engine data: | Yes |
| OBD I cables and coverage: | Yes |
| Oil light and battery reset: | Yes |
| Code Connect: | Yes |
| Battery system monitor: | Yes |
| Update option: | Yes (Via the internet) |
| Dimensions: | 10.2 x 13.6 x 5.4 inches |
| Weight: | 3.8 pounds |
| Warranty: | One year |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
The Actron CP9690 scanner is compatible with most 1996 and newer vehicles such as GM, Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Chrysler, Hyundai, and Honda. However, it works on the following manufacturer-specific OBD1-compliant vehicles: 1984-1995 Ford & GM and 1989-1995 Toyota and Chrysler vehicles. And with the CodeConnect feature, users have 26 million experience-based fixes to look up to. Get to read all the results on the large 3.5-inch color display.
Pros:
- It has an excellent built-in DTC lookup library
- Actron CP9690 provides more comprehensive vehicle coverage
- It is strongly built for longevity
- Easy-to-read outcomes with a large screen
- It is compact and portable for quick use and storage
- The trilingual menu makes reading error codes simple
Cons:
- The CodeConnect feature is only in English
- The online instructions are not very clear
- You will be required to purchase a separate adapter
OTC 3211 OBD1 & OBD2 Scan Tool
If you’re a beginner who desires an easy-to-read and interprets OBD1 scan tool, the OTC 3211 is the ideal automotive scanner for you? This unit also doubles up as an OBD2 scanner, meaning you can utilize it to read and erase fault codes on most 1996 or later vehicles. This unit can be used on specific OBD1-compliant vehicles, including 1984 to 1995 GM and Ford and 1989 and 1995 Toyota and Chrysler vehicles.
Technical Specifications of the OTC 3211 Automotive Scanner
| Features | OTC 3211 |
| Works: | All 1996 and newer cars and light trucks (OBD II and CAN) |
| ABS and Airbag/SRS coverage: | For most GM, Ford, Chrysler, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, and Toyota vehicles |
| Global OBDII: | Yes |
| EVAP Leak Test: | Yes, (Typical special test options include) |
| Airbag Diagnostic Functions: | Yes |
| CodeConnect Top Reported Fixes: | (over 26 million) |
| Multilingual: | English, Spanish, and French |
| Update Option: | Updated by connecting it to a computer |
| Live data: | Yes |
| Oil Light Reset: | Yes |
| Battery Reset: | Yes |
| Battery/Alternator/Charging System Monitor: | Yes |
| Reads and stores Data: | Yes |
| Dual PID Graphing: | Yes |
| ABS and Airbag lights: | Yes |
| Weight: | 10.4 ounces |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
OTC 3211 OBD1 and OBD2 scanners can be used by both professional and startup mechanics to diagnose all OBDII modes. These include the EVAP Leak test, O2 sensor test, Record/Playback of the live OBD2 data stream, and freeze frame data. Other functions that this unit tests include oil light reset, battery/charging system monitor, and battery reset.
The unit is easy to operate, with a large screen and clear buttons. In conjunction with CodeConnect’s top-reported fixes, you will have an easy time diagnosing your vehicles.
Pros:
- Easy to use with an intuitive user interface
- Wider vehicle coverage
- Diagnoses both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
- Performs a variety of functions
- Compact and portable for straightforward use and storage
Cons:
- It has limited functions
- Users have reported compatibility problems
INNOVA 3140 OBD1 scanner
The INNOVA 3140 OBD1 and OBD2 diagnostic scanners offer value for money. The unit is well-built to last long and is easy to use. It has a compact design for ease of handling and storage. The large screen displays all the results, even in the dark.
Technical Features of the Innova 3140g Diagnostic Scanner
| Features | Innova 3140 |
| Vehicle Health Monitors for Instant Vehicle Emissions Check: | Yes |
| Read & Erase ABS Light Trouble Codes for most GM, FORD, CHRYSLER, & TOYOTA: | Yes |
| USB for tool Updates and Upgrades: | Yes |
| Works: | all OBD2 (1996 and newer) |
| Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD1 Trouble Codes: | Yes |
| View Live Data from your engine: | Yes |
| Graph, Read, and Record Live data values from your engine: | Yes |
| ABS, SRS Codes: | Yes |
| View Live Data: | Yes |
| LED Lighted Connector: | Yes |
| Charging System Test: | Yes |
| Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD2 Trouble Codes with Battery Backup: | Yes |
| Multilingual on-screen: | English, Spanish, and French |
| Warranty: | 1 Year |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
You will be bewildered at the number of functions that you can execute with this scanner. It reads/erases error codes, monitors vehicle emissions, reads/erases ABS light trouble codes, and also provides SAE-enhanced live data. What’s more, you can update this unit to enable it to diagnose the latest vehicle makes and models.
With a multilingual menu and coverage of most 1996 and newer vehicles, this is a great bargain. It is also compatible with most 1981 to 1995 OBDI vehicles. You can also rely on this unit to provide you with precise results, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
Pros:
- Covers both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
- It is straightforward to use
- Sleek and stylish design for ease of use
- Performs various functions
- It is internet updateable
- It comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It offers limited functions for its price
- Several users have complained about compatibility problems
- It lacks the FixAssist feature
INNOVA 3145 Ford Digital OBDI Code Reader
Are you tired of seeing flashes when detecting error codes on your vehicle? Look no further, as the Innova 3145 digital OBD1 code reader is here to save you stress. This unit has a digital display that presents results in numeric trouble codes instead of flashes. So, no more counting of flashes.
Technical Features of the Innova 3145 Scan Tool
| Features | Innova 3145 |
| Works: | Only Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln domestic vehicles and trucks manufactured from 1982 to 1995 |
| Compatible with: | MCU and the EEC-IV computer control systems |
| ABS/SRS Codes: | Yes |
| Freeze Frame: | Yes |
| Views stored codes: | Yes |
| Memory feature stores codes: | Yes |
| View Live Data from your engine: | Yes |
| Comes with: | Small screen for viewing results |
| Pricing: | Cheap |
| Dimensions: | 10 x 2.1 x 6.25 inches |
| Weight: | 8.6 ounces |
| Easy-to-view digital display: | Yes |
| Update Option: | Free updates |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
What’s more, the INNOVA 3145 Ford digital code reader works on only Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln domestic vehicles and trucks manufactured from 1982 to 1995. It is also compatible with EEC-IV and MCU computer control systems. With its compact design, you won’t have trouble traveling with this tool as you can slide it into your pocket.
However, this unit comes with limited functions and coverage. Furthermore, it does not generate codes but only retrieves them. Nonetheless, it is easy to operate, and its memory feature can store codes even when the reader is unplugged.
Pros:
- It is straightforward to use
- Innova 3145 is easy to interpret with the DTC guide
- It is quite cheap
- The unit shows results in numeric form
- It comes with a small screen for viewing results
- It is compact for easy storage and transportation
Cons:
- The unit is made of a cheap housing
- It has a short cord
- It does not generate codes
INNOVA 3123 GM OBDI Code Reader
If you want an affordable best OBD1 scanner to diagnose your old car make, the INNOVA 3123 GM OBD1 code reader is the perfect tool. Despite its small size, this gadget can perform a variety of functions. You can use it to read or turn off the check engine light and diagnose ABS. Besides, it works on most GM domestic vehicles manufactured from 1982 to 1995. It will access the onboard computer of these vehicles to read ECM and ABS codes without harming them.
Technical Features of the Innova 3123 OBD1 Scanner
| Features | Innova 3123 |
| Works: | Most General Motors domestic cars and trucks from 1982 to 1995 |
| Display: | 2.8-Inch all-in-one color display |
| Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD1, OBD2 : | Yes |
| Read & Erase ABS Light: | Yes |
| Price: | Affordable |
| Simple to use: | Yes |
| Weight: | 11.2 ounces |
| Multilingual: | English, French, and Spanish |
| Dimension: | 10 x 2 x 6 inches |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price |
Surprisingly, the code reader also comes in multiple languages: English, French, and Spanish. The OBD1 code reader will not diagnose the problem but tell you what the problem is and to visit the mechanic with full knowledge. What’s more, it is user-friendly and comes with a guide that pinpoints the problem.
Pros:
- It is compact and portable
- Works on a variety of GM vehicles made between 1982 and 1995
- It is simple to use
- Innova 3123 has a user guide to help you know the fixes
- It is multilingual
- It is affordable
Cons:
- It is flimsily made
- Not very reliable
- It does not erase error codes
Innova 3120e Code Reader with ABS for OBD2 Vehicles
The Innova 3120e is among the budget OBD1/OBD2 scan tools on the market. Made by one of the top diagnostic scan tool brands on the market, the Innova 3120e code reader can be relied on to deliver accurate results. This unit comes with a large color screen for a clear display of results, even in the dark. And with the multilingual menu, users have the option of selecting a language that they understand best.
Technical specifications of the Innova 3120e diagnostic scan tools
| Features | Innova 3120e |
| Battery/Alternator Test: | Yes |
| Update option: | Yes (Via the internet) |
| Works: | ALL 1996 and newer vehicles |
| Freeze Frame: | Yes |
| Multilingual menu: | Yes |
| Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD1, OBD2 Trouble Codes | Yes |
| Live Data: | Yes |
| Battery Backup: | Yes |
| DTC Severity: | Yes |
| Emissions Readiness: | Yes |
| Fix Assist: | Yes |
| EVAP Codes: | Yes |
| Repair Solutions: | Yes |
| Weight: | 3.54 pounds |
The Innova 3120e automotive scanner is compatible with most foreign and domestic 1996 and newer OBD2 cars, SUVs, light trucks, and even Hybrids. It can also retrieve OEM-enhanced and transmission diagnostic trouble codes on famous 1982 to 1985 OBD1 vehicles. It can also read/erase ABS light on most OBDII-compliant Honda, Ford, Toyota, GM, and Chrysler vehicles. Innova 3120e is the best obd1 scanner for the money.
Pros:
- It is sturdily constructed to last long
- The unit is easy to use, and read results
- It is compactly designed for easy use and storage
- Innova 3120e can diagnose the vehicle when the engine is off
- It has a multilingual menu for use by different language speakers
Cons:
- The unit has compatibility problems
- It does not support advanced functions
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dependable and quality OBD1 scanner, you can select from our list above. OBD1 scanners diagnose most vehicles manufactured between 1982 and 1995. Unlike OBD2 scanners, these diagnostic scan tools are cheaper and easy to use. Make sure the car code reader you pick is compatible with the vehicle’s make and model. Also, it should perform the functions that you want it to. We hope you have found a quality and excellent OBD1 scan for your needs from this Best OBD1 Scanner Review article.
FAQs
How do I tell if my car is OBD1 or OBD2?
When your car’s check engine light comes on, you should be able to diagnose it using a scanner. But how do you tell whether to use an OBD1 or OBD2 scanner? To start with, OBD1 supports only manufacturer-specific vehicles, while OBD2 is universal. OBD1 scanners work on cars made before 1996, while OBD2 work on cars made after 1996. OBD1 scan tools can only be connected via an OBD port, while OBD2 scanners can be connected via an OBD port and wireless connection. In terms of accuracy, OBD2 scanners are more accurate than OBD1 scan tools.
OBD1 vs. OBD2: What are the differences?
| Comparison | OBD1 | OBD2 |
| Diagnosing Time: | Slow | Fast |
| Supported Car Models: | 1991-1996 | 1996-Present |
| Accuracy: | Low | High |
| User Interface: | Manufacturer-Specific | Universal |
| Connection Type: | Via cable | Wired/Bluetooth/Wifi |
| Professional Use: | No | Yes |
| Reliability: | Low | High |
| Advanced Features: | No | Yes |
| Popularity: | Low | High |
| Standard: | California | Federal |
Can I use OBD1 on even the latest vehicle makes and models?
No, you can’t. As stated earlier, OBD1 scanners worked on most vehicles manufactured between 1991 and 1995. Therefore, if your car is ancient or made after 1996, this tool cannot read or erase errors in your vehicle. Nonetheless, some scanners come with both OBD1 and OBD2 functions. The challenge is that you will only apply OBD1 to diagnose specific cars, while the OBD2 feature can be used for all vehicles as long as they are compatible.