What OBD II scanner to buy

[rumblecloud]

I have an ONDI scanner. It is okay. beats counting flashes.
EDIT: ONE

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

I have an ONDI scanner. It is okay. beats counting flashes.

I have one of the ones that you count flashes. Always hated that, usually had to do it at least twice. When I saw the ones that give you a digital readout, I had to have it. Makes doing all the diagnostic tests easier too, though there’s not much it does.

 

[Brain75]

not to steer us back to OBD2, from the OBD1 sidetrack, but I would ask if anyone knows for sure (I haven't tried it yet), but does the "Tech 2" software (GM's propriety - basically Forscan for chevy's) work with the V-linker cable... I am being terribly lazy here and haven't tried it even though I downloaded the software and own the cable and and... But if it works that is another huge vote for a $30 cable instead several different $190+ readers one for each mfg.

I downloaded because I was thinking I would be forced to use it to diagnose the convertible top on my GM - (supposedly it stores all kinds of codes in the BodyControlModule), but I solved it on my vehicle without, and have yet to need it again.

If nobody has a review or comments, I'll get off my lazy butt and see if it works..

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

not to steer us back to OBD2, from the OBD1 sidetrack, but I would ask if anyone knows for sure (I haven't tried it yet), but does the "Tech 2" software (GM's propriety - basically Forscan for chevy's) work with the V-linker cable... I am being terribly lazy here and haven't tried it even though I downloaded the software and own the cable and and... But if it works that is another huge vote for a $30 cable instead several different $190+ readers one for each mfg.

I downloaded because I was thinking I would be forced to use it to diagnose the convertible top on my GM - (supposedly it stores all kinds of codes in the BodyControlModule), but I solved it on my vehicle without, and have yet to need it again.

If nobody has a review or comments, I'll get off my lazy butt and see if it works..

Interesting… I don’t know but if it does, that would be rather useful to me…

 

[Terrys87]

This is 10+ years old and I have used it many times and works great for what I need. I just read codes and refer to manual or Google. It clears codes and can do some other things with it I have never tried. Easy to operate and seems great quality.


Forecan, laptop, v-link, huh? Way above my skill level. I do like the idea of keeping a cheap scanner in glove box for annoying emission code or motor is getting ready to have a nuclear meltdown. Just something I never thought of.

 

[mikkelstuff]

I bought a vLinker MC+ scanner and Forscan Lite for my iPhone. All is great, runs full time, and shows the source of my error code.

However, I do not see how to clear the error code with Forscan Lite. Am I missing something?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

View attachment 130531
This is 10+ years old and I have used it many times and works great for what I need. I just read codes and refer to manual or Google. It clears codes and can do some other things with it I have never tried. Easy to operate and seems great quality.


Forecan, laptop, v-link, huh? Way above my skill level. I do like the idea of keeping a cheap scanner in glove box for annoying emission code or motor is getting ready to have a nuclear meltdown. Just something I never thought of.

Be aware that Actron is no longer supporting their code readers. I found that out recently when I bought one on clearance and phoned into the help center. There was still real people answering the phone but no more updates of software. The one I bought was up to date enough that I kept it as something similar would have been 3-4 times the price I paid. I have no plans on buying newer vehicles.
I think Actron was bought out and shut down.

 

[Brain75]

...I would actually like to find a scan program for a laptop that will work with any OBD2 that isn’t super expensive....

Between your request and the fact I never fixed my mom's convertible (same issue with the top as mine, rewire fixed mine didn't hers). I just dug into this recently. I gave chagpt5 explicit clear instructions to fabricate nothing, verify everything and here is what it said:
"

Vgate vLinker FS USB + Forscan — Practical Review​

What it does well

• Ford/Mazda/Lincoln/Mercury (2000s–present): Full Forscan support. Reads all modules (PCM, ABS, SRS, BCM, TCM, etc.), runs live data, bi-directional tests, service resets, and programming/config (PATS keys, tire size, injector coding).
• GM (Chevy/Pontiac/Cadillac/GMC): Acts as a high-quality ELM327. Reads powertrain codes reliably. Can access many body modules (BCM, ABS, SRS, CTCM on G6). Supports live data, though not as deep as Tech2.
• Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep: Same story—generic OBD-II plus some enhanced data where SAE PIDs overlap. Reads/clears engine/trans codes, some ABS/SRS, but lacks OEM-level bidirectional control.
• Imports (Toyota, Honda, VW, Nissan, etc.): Solid generic OBD-II (engine/OBD emissions), some ABS/SRS if the protocol is open. Works fine for diagnosis, code clearing, and monitoring live PIDs.

What it can’t replace

• Doesn’t unlock OEM-only programming suites (Tech2Win for GM, Chrysler WiTech, Honda HDS, BMW ISTA, etc.).
• Limited/partial bi-directional controls outside Ford family. You won’t be commanding ABS bleeds on a Toyota or programming keys on a Chevy.
• Won’t touch dealer-locked calibrations/updates—module flashing still requires OEM J2534 pass-thru hardware + subscription.

Bottom line
For ~$35, the FS USB is the best all-around ELM327-class tool: rock-solid on Fords/Mazdas, very capable on GM body systems, and a reliable OBD-II reader/logger on everything else. It’s not a substitute for Tech2/DRB3/Dealer tools, but it’s a safe, cost-effective buy for the self-repair crowd.
"

Now my personal take, I downloaded Tech 2 only to find out it requires $600-$6000 hardware to talk to a GM. And per ChatGPT (pending verification) my own issue is not recorded in the Body Control Module, it is in the CTCM (Convertible Top Control Module) which is exposed via protocols the V-linker does handle.
I pasted a concise comparison not a detailed 10 page, but what is hidden behind what protocol and what protocols the "FS" (stands for FORScan Special) model of V-gates cable, I would call it "the one cable to rule them all" and the one program to rule them all to boot (Forscan). Go ahead and try Forscan on your Chevy/Dodge/Import, it will show you more than you expect, well beyond just P-codes.

Recommendation: If you’re a DIY mechanic with more than one Ford/Mazda in the driveway—or if you just want a dependable “one cable to rule them all” OBD interface—this is the one I’d vouch for."

 

[Brain75]

I'll also give the direct link to V-gate since they ($33/free ship) substantially beat Aliexpress ($49.99):

vLinker FS USB

vgatemall.com

Edit: Amazon is $1 cheaper it looks like

Amazon.com: V-gate vLinker FS USB FORScan OBD2 Adapter for HS/MS-CAN Auto Switch, Wire OBD2 USB FORScan Adapter Code Readers & Scanner Diagnostic Tools : Automotive

Buy V-gate vLinker FS USB FORScan OBD2 Adapter for HS/MS-CAN Auto Switch, Wire OBD2 USB FORScan Adapter Code Readers & Scanner Diagnostic Tools: Code Readers & Scan Tools - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[SenorNoob]

Vlinker + USB OTG adapter works with the Torque app on android too. Pretty handy. I will note that I couldn't get the demo version to work. Only once I bought Torque Pro would the Vlinker connect. It reads codes and live sensor data on Nissan at least.