Innova 3040rs Review: How to use, update(3040, 3040e) scanner?

Last Updated on April 11, 2025

As a mechanic who regularly works with different car makes and models, I needed a dependable OBD2 scanner for my side projects at home. After comparing several Innova scan tools, their features, and pricing, I chose the Innova 3040RS diagnostic code reader. It offers more functionality than the Innova 3030h, including support for Domestic ABS codes, EVAP codes, Oil Light Reset, and Live Data Graphing. If you’re considering a budget-friendly OBD2 scanner, this Innova 3040rs review will help you decide whether this tool is the right fit for your home garage or small repair shop.

👉 Related: Innova 3140 Review [ABS, Bluetooth, Live Data Scan Tool]

This scanner turned out to be the perfect choice for me, as I mostly handle basic mainenance work that doesn’t require a high-end professional tool. At its price point, the Innova 3040RS is an excellent option for DIYers, beginner mechanics, and small car shop owners.

👉 Related: Similar pricing – Innova 3100 Review [Latest Version of Innova 3100j]

Note: The Innova 3040RS is the updated version of both the Innova 3040 and 3040e scanners, offering more advanced features and broader vehicle compatibility. If you’re planning to buy a reliable and budget-friendly scan tool, the 3040RS is definitely the best choice among the three.

Why Choose the Innova 3040RS Scanner?

The 3040rs features a patented all-in-one screen that clearly displays diagnostic results, including codes, real-time data, and system status. Connecting it to your vehicle is simple, and the device becomes even more powerful when paired with the Innova RepairSolutions2 App, available for download.

It also supports software updates via USB, allowing you to stay current with the latest vehicle protocols and bug fixes.

The scanner is compatible with most 1996 and newer OBD2-compliant vehicles, including domestic, European, and Asian cars, SUVs, light trucks, and hybrids.

Technical Specifications of the Innova 3040rs diagnostic scan tool:

Feature	Details
Device Type	Entry-level OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner
Compatibility	Works with most 1996 and newer OBD2-compliant vehicles (US, Asian, European)
Display	All-in-One Backlit LCD Screen with Clear Icons
Live Data	Yes – View and Graph Live Data
ABS Code Read/Clear	Yes – Reads and clears anti-lock brake system (ABS) codes
Check Engine Light	Yes – Reads and clears CEL codes
Oil Light Reset	Yes – Resets oil maintenance light
EVAP Code Retrieval	Yes – Supports EVAP-related diagnostics
Battery & Charging System Test	Yes – Checks battery voltage and alternator performance
Freeze Frame Data	Yes – Captures snapshot when DTC is set
Readiness Monitors (I/M)	Yes – Checks emission test readiness
Code Severity Indicator	Yes – Identifies urgent vs. non-urgent issues
Vehicle Information (VIN, CIN)	Yes – Retrieves and displays key vehicle info
Internet Updateable	Yes – Free software updates via USB
Mobile App Compatibility	Yes – Works with the RepairSolutions2 app for enhanced diagnostics
Multilingual Support	Yes – English, Spanish, and French
Warranty	1-Year Limited Warranty
Price:	Check Today’s Price

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, easy-to-use OBD2 scan tool for basic diagnostics and maintenance tasks, the Innova 3040rs is a great pick. Its added features over the 3030h make it a better choice for those who need a little more than just check engine light reading.

How to Use the Innova 3040rs OBD2 Scanner:

1. Prep Your Vehicle: Before scanning, check fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, etc.), and clean the air filter, battery terminals, and spark plugs if necessary.
2. Locate the OBD2 Port: Turn off the ignition and find the 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC). It’s usually located under the dashboard near the driver’s seat.
3. Connect the Scanner: Plug the OBD2 cable firmly into the DLC.
4. Power On the Scanner: Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start the engine). The scanner will automatically power up.
5. Begin Diagnostics: Follow on-screen instructions to read the trouble codes. You can use the included manual or the app to decode the issues.

Code Reader Innova 3040rs Review 2025

This is an amazing automotive diagnostic scanner that will allow you to do more for less than the initial cost.

• Wide functions
• Compact design
• Economical
• Extensive coverage

Functionalities

The Innova 3040rs scan tool provides the user with lots of functions. The scan tool can read and erase warning lights, view live data in real-time, reset oil service light, perform battery or alternator test, read and erase ABS light, check emissions readiness status, view freeze frame data.

Related: For more advanced Functionalities – Innova 3160g Reviews [Innova 3160 Scan Tool Latest Version]

Extensive vehicle coverage

If you are a car owner or a DIY enthusiast, this code reader will greatly help you. It is able to cover a wide range of vehicles, such as Ford, Honda, Toyota, Chevy, Chrysler, and Lexus. It functions on all OBD2-compliant vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. This includes both domestic and foreign vehicles.

Internet updateable

You don’t have to worry about using this device in the latest car makes and models. This is because it can be updated over the internet. Just connect the device to a PC and update it via the internet. This will ensure that your device is up-to-date with the most current technology and information.

Large LCD color screen

The Innova 3040e scan tool has a large LCD color screen that lets you read and erase error codes in poorly lit and well-lit areas. In addition, it has clearly labeled hotkeys that even starters will have an easy time using.

Related: Innova 3120f Review [Bluetooth Diagnostic scan tool]

Affordable

When it comes to its initial cost, this is a very affordable scan tool. It may be an entry-level scanner, but it comes with more features when compared to its competitors. It is also compact and very easy to use or store.

Customer support and repair solutions

If you have any issues with this gadget, just contact customer support at Innova, and you will get the much-needed help. The support is made available in English and Spanish languages. Apart from that, it comes with a repair solutions app that provides the user with quick, verified fixes, step-by-step videos, and repair costs.
Check Price

Summary: Why buy the Innova 3040rs code reader?

• Large display screen
• Compact and lightweight gadget
• Broad vehicle coverage of 1996 and newer OBD2 compatible vehicles
• Free internet updates
• Intuitive user interface
• Wider functions and features

Setbacks:

• The device is not compatible with all the vehicles it says it is. Therefore, contact the manufacturer before buying this scan tool.
• Many users have complained about poor customer service. Most of the users say that the support team is not very helpful in finding solutions for them.

How to access or update software in RepairSolutions®?

For access or update, you need a computer with the configuration below.

For the Windows operating system:

• Free space: 50 MB
• RAM: 128 MB
• USB port: 2.0

For the Mac operating system:

• Free space: 100 MB
• RAM: 256 MB
• USB port
• Minimum processor speed: 700 MHz

Now you need an internet connection and a browser.

Steps:

• Connect the OBD2 device with the vehicle’s DLC and retrieve all the diagnostic data.
• Download the latest PC-Link software from www.innova.com and install it on the computer. Just click on the Support tab and select Manual and Software.
• Connect the scanner to the computer using the USB cable. Login or create a new account with an email and finish further proceedings.

Innova 3040rs vs Innova 3100 Scanners

Features	Innova 3040rs	Innova 3100
Dimensions:	10.6 x 7.5 x 1.8 inches	12 x 8.5 x 2.5 inches
Weight:	1.1 Pounds	1 Pound
Operating System:	Windows	Windows XP
Display Size:	3.4 Inches	3.7 Inches
OBD II Cable Included:	No	Yes
Reads ABS Codes:	Yes	No
Backlit:	Yes	No

Summary

The Innova 3040rs scanner is a simple and affordable scanner for DIYers, car owners, and enthusiasts. It is able to perform most of the basic code reader functions, and it is very reliable. The scan tool can be updated and comes with free lifetime software updates. This is a fun and easy-to-use scanner with a large LCD color screen and clearly labeled buttons. I hope this Innova 3040 review will help you a lot.

FAQs

Question: Does the Innova 3040e or 3040rs work on OBD1 vehicles?
Answer: No, it doesn’t. The Innova 3040e scan tool is only compatible with OBD 2-compliant vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. If the car is OBD 1 compliant, then it won’t be compatible with this device. This includes domestic, European, and Asian light trucks, cars, hybrid, or SUVs. If you want an OBD I code reader, you should look here.

Question: Does this scanner feature Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?
Answer: No, it doesn’t. If you want an Innova scanner with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, you must acquire a more advanced scanner. For instance, the Innova 3160 scan tool or even the Innova 3140g scanner. Note that you will have to pay more to get high-quality diagnostic code readers.

To wrap up this Innova 3040rs Review, it’s safe to say that this scanner is an excellent choice for users who want reliable diagnostics without spending a fortune.