The Best Airbag Code Reader / Scanner is what you’re looking for? Then you’ve landed on the right page.
Don’t have enough time to read the whole review?
Don’t worry!! Below are the best choices that I’ve picked out for you:
- Our Pick – Autel TS601: Check Price on Amazon | Read Review
- Best Preferred – MAOZUA V7.7: Check Price on Amazon | Read Review
- Also Great – Launch X431 V (X431 PRO): Check Price on Amazon | Read Review
Our cars are getting more advanced by the year.
As a result, diagnostic tools from a few years ago that worked like charms would be capable of testing only a handful of car systems today.
Advanced code readers give insight into the condition of various modern systems, including ABS, SRS, and Airbag Systems.
They’re a little more expensive than OBDII scanners, but that’s only because they are high-end diagnostic tools. Ultimately, their capabilities make them worth the extra coin.
If you’re a professional mechanic, these are a workplace necessity. Their wide range of features and advanced functionality make them ideal for auto shops.
That doesn’t mean that these advanced diagnostic tools shouldn’t find a home in the garage of every gearhead who loves taking care of their cars.
I’ve also prepared a comparison table of the Best Airbag Code Readers / Scanners for you convenience right below.
Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers
(4.4 / 5)
(3.9 / 5)
(4.1 / 5)
(3.7 / 5)
(4 / 5)
1. Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Airbag Scanner
(4.4 / 5)At this price point, the Autel MaxiCOM MK808 offers way more than you would expect. It is sturdy, lightweight, and features a beautiful 7″ touchscreen display.
Running on Android 4.4, the diagnostic scanner has no problem performing rapidly and with accuracy.
This airbag scanner gives you full diagnostic access to every system in your car.
It can read and clear DTCs in all car systems, including ABS, SRS, airbag, fuel, emission, transmission, lights, brakes, and wiper systems.
On top of all that, it packs special features such as EPB (electronic parking brake) and SAS (steering angle sensor) reset and services like BMS (battery management system) and anti-theft protection.
This IMMO service protects against vehicle theft when the owner loses their key by disabling the lost key and reprogramming a spare.
Pros and cons of Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Airbag
Pros Cons
(4.4 / 5)Who is it for?
Bonus: Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Detailed Review
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
2. Latest V7.7 MAOZUA Creator C310+ Airbag Code Reader For BMW
(4 / 5)A more affordable option for BMW drivers is the MAOZUA Creator C310 airbag code reader.
For just under $70, it offers to perform tasks such as clearing adaptations, reading and clearing error codes, displaying live stream data graphs and resetting the engine oil light.
The airbag tool is also capable of scanning and displaying vehicle information and clearing airbag error codes when the airbag light malfunctions.
It’s compact, the lightweight build is quite ergonomic allowing for easy one-handed operations. All the data is displayed on a bright 2.8″colour LCD.
This handheld scanner also comes with USB 2.0, which can be upgraded for free.
In as much as it supports every diagnostic function, including live stream data reading and graphic displays, it’s compatibility limits it to only one automotive brand.
Nevertheless, BMW users will find it to be a great airbag tool, provided they use it with the recommended 20-pin adapter.
Pros and cons of MAOZUA Creator C310+
Pros Cons
(4 / 5)Who is it for?
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
3. Launch X431 Creader VII+ (CRP123) OBDII Airbag Code Reader
(4.1 / 5)X431 Creader offers affordable professional diagnostics conveniently and comprehensively.
It is compatible with over 25 car models from Asia, Europe, and America.
Among its main functions is testing ABS, SRS, engine, transmission, and airbag systems.
Being one of the few airbag codes readers out there, you can use it to reset or turn off a faulty airbag light.
The scanner performs DTC reading and clearing, plus it supports all ten OBDII protocol test modes.
In addition to that, it can read live OBDII data streams, troubleshoot oxygen sensors and carbon canisters in all vehicles with a standard OBDII from as early as 1996.
Tasks such as turning off the check engine light, brake system lights, and airbag lights are made easier with this scanner, but that’s not all it does.
It can be used to read and clear DTCs in transmission, engine, and fuel systems as well.
It’s easy to use interface turns it into a user-friendly device with a load of useful features that even the average vehicle owner would find useful.
The airbag scanner is handheld and perfectly portable, although its wide profile requires two-hand usage for efficiency.
Its durable exterior is complemented by a large easy to read backlit LCD display. It doesn’t need batteries; it is powered via the OBDII cable it comes with.
Pros and cons of Launch X431
Pros Cons
(4.1 / 5)Who is it for?
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
4. FOXWELL NT630 Pro Airbag Code Reader
(3.7 / 5)FOXWELL NT630 Pro is an airbag scanner you’d expect to find at auto and body shops mainly because it is powerful and very thorough.
From basic DTC reading and clearing and turning off the Check Engine lights to diagnosing ABS, SRS, and airbag systems, it excels in everything it does.
Its construction is pretty impressive, with an impact-resistant outer case and a rubberized sleeve for extra grip and protection.
The widely compatible scanner works with vehicles that have either OBD or its second iteration, OBDII. This puts cars, SUVs, and trucks from as late as 2016 into its list of compatible vehicles.
Compatibility with older OBD1 models places, it in the right position to become a universal airbag diagnostic tool to be used by professionals who encounter various vehicle models on a day to day basis.
If you drive an old model and aren’t sure whether it has OBDII, you’d be better off going for this multi-protocol scanner.
In addition to reading and clearing DTCs, this airbag code reader shows live vehicle data in text and graph formats.
Graphs from different parameters can be viewed simultaneously or even merged to provide the most comprehensive view.
The FOXWELL NT630 Pro also promises free software updates for a lifetime and has multiple language support.
Pros and cons of FOXWELL NT630
Pros Cons
(3.7 / 5)Who is it for?
Bonus: FOXWELL NT630: ABS / Airbag / SAS Scan Tool Detailed Review
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
5. Launch X431 V (X431 PRO) Airbag scan tool
(4.4 / 5)Running an airbag diagnostic tool in an Android environment is a recipe for productivity. That much is evident when using the X431 Pro to conduct full vehicle diagnostics.
The tablet-like airbag code reader is powered by a rechargeable 3000 mAh lithium-polymer battery.
It sports a large 8″ screen with a resolution of 1024×600. Under the hood, 512MBs of RAM ensures that error code diagnosis is done rapidly and accurately.
The scanner also features 32GB of internal storage and an expandable memory slot for additional storage space.
Its software is more open-ended and as such, you can download and use a wide variety of apps, provided they run on Android.
Despite its wide profile, the airbag code reader is quite sturdy.
The manufacturers have paid special attention to its resilience by giving it a shockproof case and making it water resistant.
Ordinary functions such as reading and clearing DTCs, accessing live data streams, injector and key coding support, and other automotive diagnostics can be performed easily using this airbag tool.
Tasks as simple as clearing the check engine light and as complicated as code injection can be performed with equal efficiency.
Special features such as Bluetooth, wireless connectivity (when WiFi is available) and the multi-touch capacitive display feel gratuitous but contribute greatly to its functionality.
You will get two years worth of free software updates with the X431 Pro.
Pros and cons of X431 PRO
Pros Cons
(4.4 / 5)Who is it for?
Bonus: Launch X431 PRO (X431 V) Full System Scan Tool Detailed Review
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
6. Autel TS601 MaxiTPMS Airbag code reader
(4.4 / 5)T601 MaxiTPMS is one of the few airbag diagnostic tools dedicated to reading and clearing TPMS (tire pressure management system) codes.
Among its key features is its ability to activate all tire deflation sensors, whether they’re triggered by magnetism or frequencies.
It does this by emitting modulated or continuous 125KHz wave signals.
Other TPMS-related functions of this scanner include 315MHz and 433MHz signal reception, performing actuation tests, and reading sensor IDs from the vehicle’s ECU.
The build quality is satisfactory, with a grippy, shockproof outer case that is easy to handle and a robust feel to it that suggests it can take some drops and knocks.
It’s easy to read screen is a bonus at this price point and for a device running under such specific parameters.
All these features are neatly packed in a compact and robust handheld device with free software updates and a fair enough price tag.
The T601 MaxiTPMS is a great diagnostic tool despite its limited parameters. However, you should only consider it if all you need is a TPMS diagnostic tool.
Pros and cons of Autel TS601 MaxiTPMS
Pros Cons
(4.4 / 5)Who is it for?
Professionals will also enjoy its range of specialized features dedicated to a vehicle’s TPMS.
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
7. Autel Maxidiag MD802 Airbag Scanner
(3.9 / 5)Automotive scanners don’t get much better than the MD802 Maxidiag from Autel.
Its compatibility with popular car models from Asia, Europe, and America is only surpassed by its powerful functionality.
This is a serious diagnostic tool with the ability to read and clear trouble codes on all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic functions that can be performed with the MD802 Maxidiag include full OBDII scanning, reading and erasing codes, live data stream viewing, and 02 monitor testing.
Convenient add-ons such as a DTC lookup library makes it easier to understand the root of your car troubles.
The MD802 Maxidiag offers far more comprehensive vehicle coverage, including access to onboard communication modules, the body, and the chassis.
For this reason, it is best suited for auto and body repair and maintenance experts.
The MD802 is clearly built for advanced use. Professionals will find it ideal for their tech-heavy requirements.
At the same time, beginners will not be overwhelmed since it is fairly easy to use and understand.
Pros and cons Autel Maxidiag MD802
Pros Cons
(3.9 / 5)Who is it for?
However, unless you routinely service your car yourself, this is an airbag tool that is best left to the pros.
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
8. Launch X431 Creader VIII airbag scanner
(4.4 / 5)Compact, lightweight, and easy to use, the Creader VIII is one of the best airbag scanners out there.
Its tablet-style design is let down by the overly thick bezels, but that doesn’t dampen its performance in the least.
The easy-to-update Creader VIII is popular among vehicle owners, though it has what it takes to cut it on a professional level.
It features a standard shockproof build with large buttons on the sides of the screen.
Support for all 10 OBDII protocols including Check Engine light reset, airbag code reset, oxygen sensor tests, engine, ABS and transmission system diagnosis is one of the device’s key features.
Check engine lights, SRS lights, ABS lights, and a whole lot of other systems can be read, cleared, and reset using this handy airbag code reader.
Other than OEM level diagnostics, the Creader VIII offers code definitions, including manufacturer-specific ones.
It is compatible with over 20 vehicle models from America, Europe, and Asia.
Pros and cons of Launch X431
Pros Cons
(4.4 / 5)Who is it for?
Bonus: Launch X431 (Creader VIII) Detailed Review
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
9. Launch CReader 6011 airbag scan tool
(3.9 / 5)If you’re just in the market for a basic but accurate OBDII scanner, the Creader 6011 could be what you want.
It might not be the flashiest or most powerful airbag code reader you’ll see here, but it certainly gets the job done.
Everything about it is beginner-oriented. The fact that it is a budget device, however, doesn’t mean that it doesn’t read and clear DTCs like the best of them.
Its simple handheld design, which is nicely complemented by a large LCD screen, enhances its ergonomics considerably, making it a joy to use with one hand.
Despite its appearance, the Creader 6011 is capable of dealing with electronic systems such as ABS and SRS.
In fact, this airbag code reader can even help you to turn off the airbag light if it malfunctions.
The Creader 6011 also reads live data streams, freeze frame data, and I/M readiness status.
Pros and cons of Launch CReader 6011
Pros Cons
(3.9 / 5)Who is it for?
Bonus:
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
10. Innova 3140g airbag code reader
(4 / 5)Enjoy more functionality with the Innova 3140g, which OBD coverage with more advanced diagnostic parameters for ABS, SRS, Live Data Stream viewing, and OBDII scanning for all vehicle systems.
The 3.5″ LCD is a nice touch. It is bright, attractive, and quite easy to read both under normal conditions and in low-light environments.
At 4″ wide, the sleek sensor can be handled with one hand effortlessly.
Support for older models is a feature that many car owners with OBD1 will appreciate.
Live data streaming and graphing, with an option to review the data later on your PC, caters to users with more technical demands.
The icing on the cake is the rather convenient Bluetooth app connection.
Pros and cons of Innova 3140g
Pros Cons
(4 / 5)Who is it for?
Back to the Comparison table of 10 best Airbag Code Readers: Click Here
Recommendation of the best
Best For Professionals
The Autel Maxidiag MK808 Airbag scanner offers a uniquely comprehensive array of features.
Unlike other scanners, professionals can use this to gain access to the vehicles chassis, body, and other systems.
Therefore, it is a great fit for professional users in auto repair and servicing shops.
(4.4 / 5)Easiest To Use
Even a child can use the Autel Maxidiag MD802 Airbag scanner, which comes with an excellent array of features and an attractive build to boot.
Reading and clearing trouble codes on this device can be done much more comfortable even when one of your hands is occupied with other tasks.
It is recommended for beginners and entry-level enthusiasts who don’t know their way around OBDII scanners.
(4.4 / 5)Best Software/Hardware Combination
The Launch X431 V (X431 PRO) Airbag scan tool is the most attractively built scanner in the list.
It also runs on a recent Android version, making it a sound option in the software department as well.
If you want a well-built airbag code reader with the familiarity of Android, then this is where you should spend your money.
(4.4 / 5)Dedicated TPMS Tool
One of the entries in this list, the Autel TS601 MaxiTPMS Airbag code reader, stands out as a wonderfully dedicated TPMS diagnostic tool.
Under its specific parameters, it performs excellently and is definitely worth buying.
(4.4 / 5)Support For Older Models
If you’re looking for a 2-in-1 OBDII and OBD1 scanning device, look no further than the Innova 3140g airbag code reader.
This full-featured professional vehicle diagnostic tool will perform just as well on models from 1982 to 1995 with OBD1 rather than OBDII.
This versatility makes it ideal for use on a wider range of vehicles.
(4 / 5)Bottom line
If you need a lean, mean diagnostics machine, steer clear of perks such as massive touchscreen displays since these attract a larger price tag.
Instead, focus on the device’s scanning parameters, its build quality, its level of compatibility, and generally how well it will serve the specific purpose you need it for.
Airbag code scanners save you the trip to the mechanic every time the airbag lights malfunction.
The right scanner will allow you to diagnose, clear, and reset all your vehicle’s systems, effectively extending their longevity.
Cost shouldn’t be an issue for professionals, but non-certified technicians should be careful not to spend too much on a scanner since they can be quite pricey.
Powerful features are important but not absolutely necessary for ordinary day-to-day vehicle diagnostics.
Overall, when deciding on which airbag code scanner to buy, consider how much you expect to use it, the vehicle systems you wish to diagnose, and how tight your spending budget is.
No matter how specialized your diagnostics processes get, this list has all the equipment you’ll ever need to understand how your vehicle is performing, and what you can do to enhance that performance.
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