The three kinds
| Generic adapter | Full-system app scanner | Brand specialist | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reads | Engine and emissions | Every module | Every module, one make |
| Service resets | Rarely | Yes | Yes, for that make |
| Coding | No | Some | Yes, that's the point |
| App | Third-party apps | The maker's own app | The maker's or a dedicated app |
| Watch for | iPhone support | Per-brand licences | Only works on its make |
1. Generic adapters: the cheap way to read engine codes
These are ELM327-type adapters. Paired with a phone app, they read and clear engine fault codes, show live engine data and tell you whether emissions monitors are ready. For a check-engine light, that's often all you need; the code reader guide walks through it.
What they generally can't do: reach ABS, airbag, transmission or body modules, or run service resets. If your warning light isn't the engine light, a generic adapter usually can't help.
- Vgate iCar Pro (BLE), €45: Bluetooth Low Energy, works with iPhone and Android.
- Vgate iCar Pro (Wi-Fi), €43: connects over Wi-Fi, so it works with iPhone without pairing.
2. Full-system app scanners: every module from your phone
These come with the maker's own app and manufacturer software. They read every module, show system-specific live data, and run service resets like oil service, electronic parking brake retraction and steering angle calibration. Some can also run bidirectional active tests.
| Scanner | What to know | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Autel AP200 | Full-system for one car brand of your choice included; more brands are added in the app | €75 |
| KONNWEI KDIAG | Full-system with active tests on supported vehicles | €89 |
| Thinkdriver Pro | Full-system scan and common resets | €129 |
| ThinkDiag 2 | Active tests and CAN FD; manufacturer coverage is licensed per brand each year | €219 |
3. Brand specialists: the deepest route for one make
If all your cars are one make, a specialist tool goes further than a general scanner, especially for coding.
- OBDeleven NextGen, €119: VW, Audi, Seat, Škoda and Cupra. Coding, adaptations and diagnostics; the Pro plan and credits are bought in the app. See the OBDeleven guide.
- vLinker BM+, €55: on BimmerCode's official adapter list for BMW and Mini. See the BimmerCode adapter guide.
Ford or Mazda? Their deep route is FORScan, which works best over a USB adapter: see the FORScan guide.
iPhone or Android
Android works with almost any Bluetooth adapter. iPhone is pickier: apps generally can't connect to adapters using classic Bluetooth. For iPhone, choose an adapter that supports Bluetooth Low Energy or Wi-Fi, or a scanner whose own app is on the App Store. Wi-Fi adapters are the other iPhone-friendly route, at the cost of borrowing the phone's Wi-Fi while connected. If you're on iPhone, check the product listing says iOS before you buy.
Bluetooth or a handheld?
A phone-based scanner is smaller, cheaper for the same depth, and easier to update. A handheld or tablet doesn't depend on your phone and is handier in a workshop. If you'd rather not use your phone at all, see the buyer's guide for handhelds and tablets.
Questions people actually ask
Why won't my adapter connect to my iPhone?
Can a Bluetooth scanner turn off the ABS or airbag light?
Can I leave it plugged in?
Do I need a subscription?
Phone-based scanners in the shop.
From €43 for engine codes to €219 for full-system active tests. Shipped free, 2-year warranty.
See the range → Which tool do I need?