Types of Scan Tools
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Time to read 4 min
In the modern automotive industry, diagnostic scan tools have become essential for every technician.
Whether you're an experienced mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the types of scan tools available can drastically improve your diagnostic capabilities, efficiency, and accuracy. With so many options out there—from basic code readers to advanced scan tools —it's crucial to choose the right car scanner tool for your needs.
In this post, we’ll break down the different types of scan tools, their features, and which ones best suit various automotive applications.
Basic Code Readers - entry-level car scanner tools designed to perform simple tasks.
Smartphone Bluetooth Scanners - wireless car scanner tools that connect to your smartphone or tablet through a mobile app.
Professional Diagnostic Scan Tools - designed for professional workshops and offer extensive capabilities.
OEM-Specific Scan Tools - dealer-level tools built by manufacturers for use on their own vehicle brands.
Table of Content
What Are Scan Tools?
A scan tool is a diagnostic device used to communicate with a vehicle’s onboard computer system (OBD). These tools can read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitor live data, run system tests, and even perform advanced functions like programming or bi-directional control, depending on the model.
Must Have Products For Beginners
Types of Scan Tools
Basic Code Readers
Basic code readers are entry-level car scanner tools designed to perform simple tasks, such as:
Reading and clearing engine fault codes (DTCs)
Viewing freeze frame data
Checking emission readiness status
Ideal for: DIYers and entry-level mechanics looking for an affordable tool to quickly diagnose engine-related issues.
Limitations: They usually lack the ability to scan other systems like ABS, SRS, transmission, or perform special functions.
Bluetooth Car Scanner Apps
Bluetooth scanners are compact, wireless car scanner tools that connect to your smartphone or tablet through a mobile app. Despite their small size, many Bluetooth scan tools offer impressive functionality:
Wireless connection via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
Read and clear engine codes
Real-time sensor data and live data graphs
Emission system checks and diagnostics
Ideal for: DIYers, mobile mechanics, and anyone who prefers a portable, smartphone-integrated diagnostic option.
Limitations: While convenient, Bluetooth scanners typically don’t offer advanced functions like coding, bi-directional tests, or full system coverage.
Recommendations: The Topdon TopScan PRO is one of the few smartphone scanners that offer full system diagnostics and bi-directional control!
Professional Diagnostic Scan Tools (Advanced Scan Tools)
These advanced scan tools are designed for professional workshops and offer extensive capabilities:
Full system diagnostics (engine, ABS, SRS, transmission, etc.).
Active tests and bi-directional controls.
ECU coding and reprogramming (in some models).
Maintenance functions (oil reset, EPB, DPF regen, etc.).
OE-Level Coverage across multiple vehicle brands.
Ideal for: Automotive professionals and workshops that need comprehensive diagnostic scan tools for automotive systems.
Professional Level: Autel MaxiSYS Ultra, FCAR F7S-G, Topdon Phoenix Max, ThinkCAR ThinkTOOL MAX.
Mid-Range: Topdon Phoenix Lite 3, Autel MaxiDAS DS900, FCAR HDS600.
OEM-Specific Scan Tools
These are dealer-level tools built by manufacturers for use on their own vehicle brands. They offer the deepest access and most accurate data for specific makes.
Ideal for: Specialist workshops or mobile techs who work on specific brands and need access to factory-level functions.
Examples:
Techstream (Toyota)
IDS (Ford)
VCDS (Volkswagen/Audi)
Limitation: Limited to specific makes and often more expensive than multi-brand tools.
Final Thoughts: Which Scan Tool Is Right for You?
Choosing from the many types of scan tools depends on your needs, budget, and the level of diagnostics you perform.
A DIYer may only need a basic code reader or Bluetooth scanner, while a workshop requires advanced scan tools that provide comprehensive coverage and bi-directional control.
If you're looking to equip your workshop with reliable diagnostic scan tools automotive professionals trust, make sure to invest in tools that support the brands and systems you frequently service.
Basic Code Readers - entry-level car scanner tools designed to perform simple tasks.
Smartphone Bluetooth Scanners - wireless car scanner tools that connect to your smartphone or tablet through a mobile app.
Professional Diagnostic Scan Tools - designed for professional workshops and offer extensive capabilities.
OEM-Specific Scan Tools - dealer-level tools built by manufacturers for use on their own vehicle brands.
Looking for the best scan tools for your workshop?
Visit AutoTech Workshop Solutions to explore a wide range of DIY up to professional-grade scan tools tailored for modern vehicles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of scan tools?
The main types of scan tools include basic code readers, Bluetooth scanners, advanced professional scan tools, OEM-specific diagnostic tools, and tablet-based smart tools.
What is the difference between a code reader and a scan tool?
A code reader only retrieves and clears basic engine fault codes, while a scan tool provides additional functions like live data, system tests, and multi-module diagnostics.
Are Bluetooth scan tools reliable for vehicle diagnostics?
Yes, Bluetooth scan tools are reliable for basic diagnostics like reading and clearing codes, viewing sensor data, and checking emissions—but they may lack advanced functions such as module coding.
Can one scan tool work on all car brands?
Many advanced and tablet-based scan tools are multi-brand and support a wide range of vehicles. However, OEM-specific tools offer the deepest access for individual makes.
