10 Best Obd2 Scanners 2025 in the UK

The MOTOPOWER MP69033 OBD2 Scanner is a versatile and practical tool for diagnosing engine issues in a wide range of vehicles. It supports nine OBD2 and CAN protocols, making it compatible with most cars manufactured from 1996 in the US, 2000 in the EU, and newer models from Asian markets. The scanner’s multi-function capabilities include reading and erasing fault codes, viewing live data, and accessing vehicle speed, load value, and engine temperature information. This makes it a comprehensive tool for basic engine diagnostics.

The built-in DTC lookup library is a handy feature for understanding fault codes without needing additional resources. Though it excels in engine diagnostics, the scanner does not support ABS, airbag, or oil service light codes, which may limit its usage for some users. The user interface is straightforward, featuring a clear 128x64 pixel LCD display with backlight and contrast adjustment. The device is powered directly through the OBDII port, eliminating the need for external batteries or chargers.

The 2.5-foot-long cable and flexible insulator add to its ease of use. The scanner’s build quality is robust, and it includes a protective film on the screen to prevent scratches. In terms of data logging and storage, the real-time data flow and graphic view features are valuable for continuous monitoring. The device's compact and lightweight design makes it convenient to handle and store. For connectivity, users simply plug the scanner into the OBDII port and follow the straightforward connection guide. If any issues arise, MOTOPOWER’s customer service is available for assistance. This scanner is ideal for car owners looking for an affordable, easy-to-use tool for basic engine diagnostics, but those needing advanced system diagnostics may need to look elsewhere.

The TOPDON CarPal A OBD-2 scanner is a versatile tool designed to meet various car diagnostic needs. Its compatibility with both Android and iOS devices makes it accessible to many users, providing a broad coverage for car maintenance through its wireless Bluetooth feature. This allows you to diagnose your vehicle from a comfortable distance, which adds to convenience.

Functionality-wise, the CarPal A excels with all system diagnostics, offering essential maintenance functions like Oil and TPMS Resets and advanced options like Battery Testing and Smog Checks. These features can save time and money by providing real-time insights and assisting with maintenance decisions. The AutoVIN feature further simplifies use by automatically identifying your vehicle, minimizing manual input.

The user interface is designed for clarity, with live data presented in graphs and gauges, making it easier to interpret vehicle performance. The inclusion of repair guides and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) further aids in understanding vehicle issues and potential fixes.

However, the scanner's reliance on modern smartphones (Android 7.0/iOS 11.0 or above) and limitation in supporting 32-bit phones might hinder usage for some users with older devices. Also, while the multilingual support is a bonus, the need for frequent updates to ensure compatibility with new car models may require regular attention.

In terms of build quality, the CarPal A’s compact and lightweight design makes it portable, yet robust enough for regular use. The Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a stable connection, although the range is limited to around 33ft/10m.

The TOPDON CarPal A is well-suited for those looking to perform detailed diagnostics and maintenance on their vehicles without a tangle of cables, provided they have compatible smartphones. Its blend of advanced features and ease of use makes it a reliable choice in the OBD-2 scanner category.

The MOTOPOWER MP69039 Car OBD2 Scanner is designed for a wide range of vehicles, supporting most US, European, and Asian cars from 1996 onwards, including newer models with CAN protocols. Its compatibility is strong, covering many vehicle brands, which makes it a solid choice for general car owners and home mechanics looking to diagnose engine issues. The scanner offers a good set of functions like reading and clearing engine fault codes, viewing live data in real-time curves, freeze frame data, and checking emission readiness, which can help you understand your car’s health and smog test status.

The 2.8-inch color screen is clear and shows data in an easy-to-read format, making the user interface fairly straightforward for beginners. It powers directly from the car’s OBD port, so no batteries or charging are required, which adds to convenience. However, it does not support advanced diagnostics beyond the engine system, such as ABS, airbag, or SRS codes, which limits its use if you want a more comprehensive vehicle scan. Connectivity-wise, it works as a standalone device without wireless options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, but it allows data printing and lifetime free updates via a Windows program, so you can keep it current and review reports on a PC.

The build is compact and lightweight, though it may not be as rugged as higher-end tools used in professional shops. This scanner is well suited for car owners who want an affordable, easy-to-use device for basic engine diagnostics and emission checks, but it is less ideal if you need deep diagnostics for other vehicle systems.