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Code Readers VS Car Scanners—Which Do You Need

2023-04-05 by UDIAG

Comparison

	Code Readers	Scan Tools
FUNCTIONS	Display the names of trouble code Read and display live data Display freeze frame data Display readiness monitor status Reset readiness monitors Provide basic access to the full range of parameter IDs Provided by a vehicle’s onboard computer	Provide troubleshooting information or tips Record and play back live data Graph data or graph specific PIDs Read manufacturer or pending codes Utilize functions that require bidirectional communication
PROS	Wide price range makes for wide range of features and options Extremely affordable—many available for around $20	Sophisticated diagnostic and troubleshooting tool Advanced features such as data reading and playback, knowledge bases, diagnostic instructions, and built-in testing equipment
CONS	Not as advanced, accurate, or helpful as scan tools	High cost Need technical support

The Differences Between Car Code Readers and Car Scanners

Car code readers and car scanners are both used to diagnose and troubleshoot issues with vehicles, but there are some key differences between the two.

Car code readers are basic diagnostic tools that can retrieve and display diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in a vehicle’s onboard computer. They are typically less expensive than scan tools and are designed to provide basic diagnostic information to vehicle owners or technicians. Code readers can read and clear codes, but they may not have the ability to view live data or perform advanced diagnostic functions.

Car scanners, on the other hand, offer more advanced diagnostic capabilities. In addition to reading and clearing codes, they can also display live data from the vehicle’s sensors and perform bi-directional control, which allows them to communicate with and control various vehicle systems. This allows technicians to perform more in-depth diagnostics and testing, making it easier to identify the root cause of a problem.

Summary

Depending on what you intend to do with the scan tool device; you can decide to go for a code reader or scan tool. If you want to read and erase codes, a code reader is the best for you. But if you want to do more than just reading and erasing codes, then a scan tool will be the most ideal for you. Whatever the case, you will have to decide if you want a basic or versatile tool for your needs.