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Innova Scan Tool offers a wide range of products for both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles. Few brands offer as strong a line-up of brand-specific scanners as Innova.
And while many scanner brands work almost exclusively with OBD2 models, Innova ensures the market will have a strong series of OBD1 scanners for those still working and driving their pre-1996 cars.
Let’s take a look at the best Innova scanner models on the market today.
Best Innova Scan Tools
| Editor's Picks | Products | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | INNOVA 3040RS | 9.5/10 |
| Runner Up | INNOVA 3030H | 9.5/10 |
| Best Budget Buy | INNOVA 3120F | 8.8/10 |
1. Innova 3040RS
For those who want an OBD2 scanner that does more than clear the check engine light, check out the Innova 3040RS Diagnostic Scan Tool.
Along with reading and erasing the check engine light, the 3040RS also does the same for the ABS system and the oil reset light. View live data and run battery/alternator test checks as well. The 3040e also reads live data and presents it in easy to read graphs. Other advanced features on the 3040RS include freeze frame data, EVAP codes, and checking emissions readiness.
And like most Innova models, the 3040RS offers free internet updates. DIYers will also have access to Innova’s RepairSolutions on their laptop.
The 3040RS works for most cars made since 1996 and compatible with most major OBD2 compliant protocols.
Check Price at Amazon2. INNOVA 3145
The Innova 3145 works great for those in need of a Ford Innova code reader.
Most OBD1 scanner tools flash a code a certain number of times to indicate the problem. Users then count the number of flashes to determine the specific problem.
But the Innova 3145 shows numeric trouble codes, eliminating the hassle of counting.
And the memory in the Innova 3145 stores codes even when the device is unplugged.
The Innova 3145 OBD1 reader is compatible with Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models built between 1982-1995.
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Pros
- Shows numbered DTCS, so no need to count flashes
- Comes with clear instruction book
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Clear LCD screen
Cons
- Terminal blades slide back
- Reads codes, does not clear them until the problem is fixed
- Does not work with most medium or heavy-duty trucks
Who’s it For?
Ford car and truck owners who want to save money not taking their car to a mechanic to take care of simple problems.
Check Price at Amazon—-
3. INNOVA 3123
One of the best Innova OBD scanners is the Innova 3123.
This model does the very simple of work of reading codes from your ECU and clearing the check engine lights once those codes are diagnosed.
The Innova 3123 can also check and reset codes for you ABS and CEM systems. Codes receive quick definitions from this OBD1 scanner. And this Innova model is compatible with Windows software, so you can view data from it onto your computer.
The Innova 3123 works with any GM car built in the years 1982-1995.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Affordable
- Available in three languages (English, French, and Spanish)
- Comes with codebook
- Compact Design
Cons
- No live data
- Terminal blades protrude back after frequent use
- Limited to use on GMs
Who’s it For?
Owners of GM cars built before 1995 who simply want to be able to read and clear engine, ABS, and CEM codes.
Check Price at Amazon4. Innova 3030H
If you want an Innova diagnostic tool that’s easy to read and determines how critical the code you are reading is, then the 3030h is the model for you.
Along with reading and clearing the check engine light, the Innova 3030h offers DTC severity. This feature tells you just how critical any codes showing are.
That way, you know if your check engine light is caused by oxygen sensors that are not going to keep your car from running or if it’s something you need to take to the shop right now.
Also, check out RepairSolutions when you plug this Innova 3030 model into your laptop. View verified fixes, cost analysis, and step-by-step instructions and videos for DIY fixes.
Know your car’s emissions status with red, yellow, and green LED lights. Check engine conditions such as engine coolant temperature and fuel trim with freeze frame data. And this data refreshes every 30 seconds when it’s connected to your vehicle.
The 3030h clears check engine lights for any car, foreign or domestic, built from 1996 to today, including hybrids. And the 3030h is compatible with all major OBD2 protocols.
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Pros
- DTC Severity feature
- Free internet updates
- Easy to read
- Durable
- Solid online instruction manual
Cons
- No ABS, SRS, or Transmission support
- Cumbersome online support process
- Out of date instruction manual
Who’s It For?
DIYers who like step by step instructions or car owners who like the DTC Severity feature when you wonder whether a problem is really worth looking into.
Check Price at Amazon5. Innova 3120F
Check the Innova 3120 for another great model from the Innova 3100 series.
The 3120 works for many other brands built between 1981-1995, including Ford, GM, Honda, Toyota, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, and Lexus. The 3120 can diagnose and re-program your OBD1 computer. And this Innova model refreshes every 30 seconds to determine if problems have been fixed.
A 2.8 inch grayscale screen makes the 3120 easy to read. And the user-friendly interface makes this OBD1 scan tool accessible to beginners and experts alike.
The Innova 3120 reads and clears trouble codes for your engine, transmission, and emissions systems. A three-color system of warning lights indicates whether you will pass or fail your next emissions test.
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Clear emission readings
- Presents code definitions
- Erases faulty codes
- One year warranty
Cons
- Model specs may not line up with car you are connected to
- Does not read live data
- Does not read or clear ABS or SRS codes
Who’s it For?
People from all levels of automobile expertise who prioritize products that are easy to operate.
Check Price at Amazon6. Innova 3160g
Another great Innova OBD2 scanner is the Innova 3160g.
The Innova 3160g reads and clears check engine light, ABS, and SRS codes for any car made after 1996. You can also perform oil resets, battery reset, and battery initialization with the 3160g.
The 3160g reads live data and stores it so you can view on a computer later on. And the scan tool saves DTC’s from the previous three vehicles it’s scanned.
The bright color screen is easy to read. Users will also love how easy the handheld device is to carry around and store.
Many SUV’s, light trucks, diesel engines, and hybrids are compatible with the 3160g. And this Innova model is compatible with most major OBD2 protocols, including SO 9141, Keyword 2000, J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW, and CAN protocols
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Pros
- Bidirectional
- Reads in 3 languages
- Bluetooth accessible
- Clear screen
- Easy to carry around
- Affordable
Cons
- Does not perform brake bleeding or read transmission codes
- Company does not frequently update software
- Poor Customer Service
Who’s It For?
At home mechanics who can fix most issues and need a scanner to identify those problems.
Check Price at AmazonThe Bottom Line
Innova brand scanners are not the most advanced on the market today. Few read transmission codes or perform bidirectional features.
But affordability is a definite plus in the column for Innova scanners. And when placed through the view of the cost, Innova brand scanners truly do offer bang for the buck.
Owners of old Fords will love the 3145 and the ability to check on issues without having to worry about counting flashes. The ability to store codes is another plus of the 3145.
With its SRS code reading capabilities and freeze frame data, the 3100j is a great model for those seeking out a solid diagnostic scanner. But also check out the 3040e for those who want to add the battery and alternator testing to the other great features Innova scanners offer.
And if you aren’t sure what scanner to buy, Innova provides a search engine on its website so you can determine what scanners are compatible with your car or cars.
Bonus: You can search more about Best Foxwell Scanner HERE
