OBDI Code Readers still have their place inside the automotive community.
I mean, sure, most of us have moved on to newer cars with the OBDII system technology.
But plenty of people still need to maintain their older cars, and only an OBDI scan tool will do.
Here’s a look at the top OBD1 scanners on the market today.
Table of Contents
Best OBD1 Code Readers Review
| Editor's Picks | Products | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Actron CP9690 | 9.5/10 |
| Runner Up | FOXWELL NT510 Elite | 9.2/10 |
| For GM | INNOVA 3123 | 8.5/10 |
| For Ford | INNOVA 3145 | 8.5/10 |
1. Actron CP9690 Elite
Check out the Actron CP9690 if you need a good Toyota OBD1 scanner.
The Actron CP9690 works for most Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota models built between the years 1984-1995.
Users will find the nine button device with its color screen easy to use. This OBD1 and OBD2 scanner offers live data and graphs for OBD1 compatible cars. And the CP9690 features CodeConnect, a comprehensive database of over 26 million solutions for the various trouble codes the device discovers for you.
Cables that come with the device include the GM ALDL, the Ford MCU/EEC-IV, and the Chrysler SCI among others.
Pros
- Easy to use
- VIN number not needed to find car model
- Clear Screen
- More info for OBD1 vehicles than most OBD1 scanners
- Built in library code definitions
- Features three languages (English, Spanish, French)
Cons
- Not the best customer service
- Need to understand the information before using
- Mainly compatible for American cars
Who’s it For?
The Actron CP9690 works great for beginners with a real desire to learn how to use advanced OBD 1 and 2 code readers. This OBD1 and OBD2 scanner also works for professionals and DIYers who work regularly with OBD1 models.
Check Price at Amazon2. FOXWELL NT510 Elite
The FOXWELL NT510 works great for those in search of a BMW OBD1 scanner.
This OBD1 and OBD2 scanner reads and clears codes for any BMW model built between1987-1996. The rugged build of the NT510 makes the scan tool compatible with both garage and road testing. And the NT510’s portable design makes it easy to move from one location to another.
The menu on this FOXWELL brand is easy to read and navigate. Also, this BMW scan tool plays back and prints data from previous uses.
“You can also find more BMW Scan Tool“
Pros
- Comes pre-programmed
- Portable
- Durable
- Nice, easy to use display screen
- Stores and prints data
Cons
- More expensive than other OBD1 scanners
- “Free lifetime updates” is really 18 months
- No updates using Mac
Who’s it For?
Mechanics and professionals who regularly work with BMW brand cars.
Check Price at Amazon3. INNOVA 3123 GM OBD1 Code Reader
One of the best GM OBD1 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 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 3145 Ford OBD1 Code Reader
The Innova 3145 works great for those in need of a Ford OBD1 scanner.
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.
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 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
