Is your car’s check engine light on? Don’t rush to the mechanic just yet. With the right OBD2 scanner, you can diagnose many car problems yourself, saving time and money. These handy devices plug into your car’s OBD2 port (standard on all US vehicles since 1996) and read diagnostic trouble codes, giving you insights into what’s going on under the hood. And the best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a capable scanner. We’ve compiled a list of the best OBD2 scanners for sale under $50 that offer excellent value and features for DIY car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
OBD2 scanners are more than just code readers; they are gateways to your car’s computer. They can not only tell you why that check engine light is illuminated, but also allow you to clear codes and even monitor real-time vehicle data. Whether you’re trying to figure out a persistent engine issue, want to check your car’s emissions readiness, or simply want to be informed about your vehicle’s health, an OBD2 scanner is an invaluable tool.
You might be surprised to learn that a quality OBD2 scanner doesn’t have to break the bank. While professional-grade scanners with advanced features can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, there’s a sweet spot of affordable and effective scanners available for under $50. These budget-friendly options are perfect for most car owners and can quickly pay for themselves by helping you avoid unnecessary trips to the repair shop.
However, it’s crucial to be discerning when looking at the cheapest OBD2 scanners. As ELM Electronics, a key manufacturer of OBD2 microcontrollers, indicates, the core components themselves have a minimum cost. Extremely cheap scanners might cut corners on quality or use counterfeit components, potentially leading to unreliable readings or even damage to your vehicle’s electronics. Therefore, focusing on reputable brands and models with positive customer reviews is essential, even when shopping on a budget.
Here are some of the best OBD2 scanners for sale under $50, balancing affordability with functionality and user satisfaction. Remember to use Amazon’s “Shop by Vehicle” feature or similar compatibility checkers to ensure any scanner you choose physically fits your specific car model.
1. Autel MaxiLink ML329 Code Reader and Scan Tool
Good Value Price: $38 | Great Deal Price: $33
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Home Depot | Walmart
Alt text: Autel MaxiLink ML329 OBD2 Scanner displaying diagnostic information on its color screen.
The Autel MaxiLink ML329 is a popular choice for its ease of use and reliable performance. Customers praise its automatic VIN identification feature, which makes setup a breeze – simply plug it in, and it’s ready to diagnose. It excels at reading and clearing trouble codes and is considered a user-friendly, plug-and-play option. While some users have noted the small font size in the instruction manual and questioned the durability of the plastic casing, the overall consensus is that the ML329 offers excellent value for its price, making it a strong contender for the best OBD2 scanner under 50 dollars.
Pros:
- Automatic VIN identification
- Easy to use, plug-and-play operation
- Reliable code reading and clearing
Cons:
- Small font in instruction manual
- Plastic casing durability questioned by some users
2. Bafx Products Bluetooth Diagnostic OBDII Reader/Scanner for Android
Good Value Price: $23 | Great Deal Price: $14
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Newegg | Walmart
Alt text: Bafx Products Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner, a compact wireless adapter for Android devices, shown plugged into a car’s OBD2 port.
For those who prefer a wireless solution, the Bafx Products Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner is a solid pick. This Bluetooth dongle pairs with your Android phone or tablet, allowing you to view diagnostic data through a compatible app (Torque Pro is a popular recommendation, purchased separately). Users find it relatively easy to set up and appreciate the convenience of wireless diagnostics. Keep in mind that this model is specifically for Android devices; an iOS-compatible version is available at a slightly higher price. If you’re in the market for a bluetooth OBD2 scanner under $50 and are an Android user, this is a strong contender.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for Android devices
- Relatively easy setup
- Compact and wireless
Cons:
- Requires a separate app purchase (e.g., Torque Pro)
- Android-specific model (iOS version available separately)
3. Autel AutoLink (AL319) OBD2 Scanner
Good Value Price: $35 | Great Deal Price: $25
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Walmart
Alt text: Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD2 Scanner with a clear LCD screen displaying diagnostic codes and descriptions.
Another excellent offering from Autel, the AutoLink AL319, is praised for its user-friendly interface and clear error code descriptions. Customers appreciate how the scanner not only provides the code itself but also a plain-language explanation, making it easier to understand the issue. The AL319 is known for being easy to read and navigate. Some users have mentioned wanting a longer connection cable for more flexible use within the car. If you value clarity and ease of understanding in your diagnostic tool, the Autel AL319 is a top OBD2 scanner under $50.
Pros:
- Easy to read and understand display
- Provides descriptions of error codes
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Connection cable could be longer for some users
4. Ancel (AD410) Enhanced OBD II Vehicle Code Reader
Good Value Price: $44 | Great Deal Price: $36
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Alt text: Ancel AD410 Enhanced OBD2 Vehicle Code Reader featuring a large color display and multiple function buttons.
The Ancel AD410 stands out with its large, easy-to-read screen, a significant advantage for users who prefer clear visual feedback. Customers appreciate the screen size, making it simple to view diagnostic information at a glance. However, some reviewers found the included instructions to be less helpful and sought out supplementary information on platforms like YouTube. Despite this, the AD410 is a capable scanner with a robust feature set for its price, making it a strong contender in the best OBD2 scanner under $50 category, especially if screen readability is a priority.
Pros:
- Large and easy to read screen
- Feature-rich for the price point
Cons:
- Instructions may be unclear for some users
5. Foxwell NT201 OBD2 Scanner
Good Value Price: $40 | Great Deal Price: $30
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Walmart
Alt text: Foxwell NT201 OBD2 Scanner with a user operating the device to check vehicle diagnostic information.
The Foxwell NT201 is known for its simplicity and effectiveness in basic diagnostics. Users report it is simple to use and has an easy-to-read display, making it accessible for beginners. It’s particularly useful for checking emissions test readiness, a common need for vehicle owners. Some users have wished for a built-in code definition list and cautioned that it may not read vehicle-specific codes beyond the generic OBD2 standards. However, for general check engine light diagnosis and emissions checks, the Foxwell NT201 is a reliable and affordable OBD2 scanner option under $50.
Pros:
- Simple to use and straightforward interface
- Easy-to-read display
- Useful for emissions test readiness checks
Cons:
- Lacks built-in code definitions
- May not read vehicle-specific codes
6. Veepeak Mini Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner (Supports Torque App)
Good Value Price: $12 | Great Deal Price: $10
Check Current Price on: Amazon
Alt text: Veepeak Mini Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner, a very small and discreet Bluetooth adapter plugged into a car’s OBD2 port.
The Veepeak Mini Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner is one of the most budget-friendly options available. Its compact size and low price point are major draws. Users acknowledge that it can be a little finicky to initially sync and might require occasional unplugging and replugging. Despite these minor inconveniences, many customers are satisfied with its performance, especially considering its incredibly low cost. If you are looking for the cheapest OBD2 scanner under $50 and are comfortable with potentially minor setup quirks, the Veepeak Mini is worth considering.
Pros:
- Very affordable and budget-friendly
- Compact and discreet size
Cons:
- Can be finicky to sync initially
- May require occasional unplugging/replugging
7. NEXAS NL101 OBD2 Scanner and Diagnostic Tool
Good Value Price: $46 | Great Deal Price: $35
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Walmart | Newegg
Alt text: NEXAS NL101 OBD2 Scanner kit shown with the handheld device, carrying case, and included accessories.
The NEXAS NL101 offers a bit more than basic code reading with its built-in battery and included carrying case, features appreciated by users. The easy-to-read screen is another positive point. Some reviewers have expressed a preference for a different USB cable type than the mini-USB it uses. Overall, the NEXAS NL101 is a well-rounded OBD2 diagnostic tool under $50 that provides added convenience with its battery and case.
Pros:
- Built-in battery
- Easy to read screen
- Includes a carrying case
Cons:
- Uses a mini-USB cable, which some users dislike
8. OxGord OBD2 Scanner (MS309)
Good Value Price: $17 | Great Deal Price: $10
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Alt text: OxGord OBD2 Scanner MS309, a basic code reader with a small screen and directional buttons for navigation.
The OxGord OBD2 Scanner (MS309) is a very basic and inexpensive option that can get the job done for simple code reading and clearing. Users report it works well for the money. However, a notable complaint is that the navigation arrow is only downward-scrolling, despite product photos suggesting up-and-down navigation. If you need a bare-bones, cheap OBD2 scanner for under $50 and don’t require advanced features or extensive navigation, the OxGord MS309 is a functional choice.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Functional for basic code reading and clearing
Cons:
- Downward-scrolling navigation only (despite product photos)
9. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
Good Value Price: $32 | Great Deal Price: $22
Check Current Price on: Amazon
Alt text: Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth Scanner, a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter optimized for BMW vehicles, shown in packaging.
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth Scanner is a specialized option that is particularly recommended for BMW owners. Customers report excellent integration with BMW-specific apps like BimmerCode and BimmerLink, unlocking advanced coding and diagnostic capabilities for these vehicles. Some reviewers mention slower Bluetooth connection speeds and the necessity of purchasing a third-party app to utilize the scanner. If you drive a BMW and want to leverage its coding potential on a budget, this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner under $50 is a strong contender.
Pros:
- Excellent for BMW vehicles (BimmerCode/BimmerLink compatible)
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- Bluetooth connection can be slow for some users
- Requires a third-party app purchase
10. Kitbest Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Adapter for Android
Good Value Price: $11 | Great Deal Price: $9
Check Current Price on: Amazon
Alt text: Kitbest Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Adapter, a small blue Bluetooth dongle shown plugged into a car’s OBD2 port.
The Kitbest Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Adapter is another very affordable Bluetooth option. Many users have successfully used it to diagnose check engine lights and issues like faulty gas caps. However, some customers note that it primarily provides generic error codes and may not offer car-specific diagnostics. For basic code reading wirelessly, the Kitbest adapter is a very cheap Bluetooth OBD2 scanner under $50.
Pros:
- Very affordable Bluetooth option
- Suitable for basic check engine light diagnosis
Cons:
- Primarily provides generic error codes, not car-specific ones
11. SEEKONE SK860 OBD2 Scanner
Good Value Price: $60 (Slightly above $50, but often on sale) | Great Deal Price: $43
Check Current Price on: Amazon
Alt text: SEEKONE SK860 OBD2 Scanner featuring a color display, function buttons, and a long OBD2 connector cable.
While slightly above our strict $50 limit at its good value price, the SEEKONE SK860 is frequently available on sale for under $50 and deserves consideration for its enhanced features. Users praise its logical interface, long cord, and effective fault code clearing. Some have commented on the plastic housing feeling somewhat cheap and the software update process being a bit cumbersome (requiring RAR file extraction software and patience). However, for its functionality and often discounted price, the SEEKONE SK860 is a worthwhile option to consider when looking for a feature-rich OBD2 scanner under $50.
Pros:
- Logical interface and easy to navigate
- Long connection cord
- Effective fault code clearing
Cons:
- Plastic housing may feel cheap
- Software update process can be cumbersome
Conclusion:
Finding the best OBD2 scanner for sale under $50 is absolutely achievable. This price range offers a variety of reliable and functional tools that can empower you to understand and address common car problems. Whether you prefer a handheld scanner with a screen, a Bluetooth dongle for your smartphone, or a model with specific features like BMW compatibility, there’s an affordable OBD2 scanner on this list to meet your needs and budget. Investing in one of these scanners can save you money on diagnostic fees and give you greater control over your car’s maintenance. Choose the one that best fits your technical comfort level and car type, and start diagnosing with confidence!
