[Tested] 5 Best Ford Diagnostic Tools for 2024

Are you searching for the best Ford diagnostic tool but feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options available? Unsure if they will support your Ford vehicles?

This post is here to help. Our dedicated testing team has tested 11 scanners on 5 different Ford vehicles to determine their compatibility and reliability. We have carefully selected the top 5 scanners that consistently perform exceptionally well on Ford vehicles.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you’ll find a suitable scanner for your Ford in our recommendations.

Testing Records

Tester	OBD Advisor’s Testers
Testing date	Sep 20th – Oct 4th, 2023
Number of tested products	11
Number of tested cars	5

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Best Ford Diagnostic Scanners Comparison Chart

[Mobile users: Swipe left for full table]

Product	Score	Quick review
Editor’s Pick AUTOPHIX 7150 (for Ford)	9.8	[Fit beginners/ home mechanics] • Full diagnosis • Ford enhanced diagnosis • 20+ service functions	Check Price
ANCEL FD500 (for Ford)	9.3	[Fit beginners/ home mechanics] • Full diagnosis • Ford enhanced diagnosis • 4 service functions	Check Price
Best Cheap OBDLink EX (+FORScan)	9.5	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis + Active tests • Ford enhanced diagnosis • Numerous service functions • Configuration & Programming	Check Price
OBDLink MX+ (+OBDLink App)	9.0	[Fit beginners/ home mechanics] • Full diagnosis • Ford enhanced diagnosis	Check Price
FOXWELL NT710	8.8	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis + Active tests • 30+ service functions	Check Price

Click HERE to see full comparison chart (PDF, Free Download)

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Best Ford Diagnostic Scanners Review

#1. AUTOPHIX 7150

The AUTOPHIX 7150 scanner is the best one we have tested for Ford vehicles. One of the reasons we give it a high score is because AUTOPHIX 7150 supports every Ford line we tested it on, including models like Ford Ranger, Ford Focus, and Ford Explore. This scanner is extremely easy to use as everything is displayed on the main menu.

The first thing that impresses us is AUTOPHIX 7150 looks very sturdy with a protective case. The instructions and explanations for each step are shown on the screen. However, it is important to note that this scanner does not provide instant responses. It takes about 30 seconds to respond to each function.

A crucial feature of the AUTOPHIX 7150 is its ability to access “Ford manufacturer/special codes”, which only a few scanners can do. This scanner can pull all the Ford manufacturer codes in its “For Ford” function. Additionally, we love that the AUTOPHIX 7150 can perform DPF regen, which is essential for Ford diesel vehicles

Besides the diagnostic ability, AUTOPHIX 7150 performs some service functions like Battery Registration and Oil Reset. Nonetheless, all these basic reset functions worked well during our test. We consider those functions to be enough for home mechanics. However, if you are looking for a scanner that can perform advanced maintenance tasks, the AUTOPHIX 7150 may not be the one.

Today’s best AUTOPHIX 7150 price:

#2 ANCEL FD500

The ANCEL FD500 is a more affordable scanner option specifically designed for Ford vehicles. We really like how easy it is to use, with clear buttons and a simple menu layout. Plus, it even comes with a protective case, which is impressive considering its low price.

One of the best things about the ANCEL FD500 is its speed. It responds and works quickly, providing results in just a few seconds. In less than 30 seconds, it can pull all the basic codes. ANCEL FD500 also has the “For Ford” function, where you can find the Ford-specific codes. We’ve noticed that this function works just as well as the AUTOPHIX 7150 in pulling very specific and accurate codes.

Same with AUTOPHIX 7150, this scanner is not for you if you want to perform advanced maintenance tasks like relearning or calibration. It is for home mechanics who want to have a quick check of their vehicles at home. Thus, the ANCEL FD500 scanner does not have the DPF Regen function. So, if you own a Ford Diesel vehicle and wish to have the DPF regen function, you may need to consider the AUTOPHIX 7150 scanner instead.

Today’s best ANCEL FD500 price:

#3. OBDLink EX Adapter

It’s essential to note that the OBDLink EX is an adapter that works with software. In this case, we highly recommend using the OBDLink EX Adapter with the FORScan software, which is considered the best diagnostic software for Ford vehicles. We were impressed with this combination because the adapter unlocks all the features of the FORScan software (although some advanced features may require payment). It allows you to scan the entire Ford vehicle and pull every code, including Ford-specific ones.

Plus, the scanning process is incredibly fast, which is a big advantage, it takes under 1 minute to scan the whole vehicle. We really appreciate how the sidebar displays all the different modules, and it also indicates whether any module has any trouble codes, which makes diagnostic tasks much easier.

However, we must mention that the interface of FORScan can be quite complex, it may take a bit of time to get used to it. But in our experience, it’s definitely worth it. One more thing to consider is that since the OBDLink EX works with software, you’ll need to work on a laptop. We have to admit that doing home diagnostics and maintenance solely on a laptop isn’t ideal from our perspective. 

Today’s best OBDLink EX price:

#4. OBDLink MX+

My First-hand Experience

While OBDLink MX+ is not specifically designed for Ford vehicles, we were pleasantly surprised during our tests. It turns out that this scanner is capable of pulling thousands of manufacturer-specific trouble codes and parameters, just like those designed for Ford.

The standout feature of the OBDLink MX+ is its connection. This adapter connects to your phone and allows you to diagnose your vehicles using its own app. However, do keep in mind that it runs with Bluetooth 3.0, which means there is a limited connection range. You’ll need to be within about 5 meters of the vehicle to maintain a strong connection. Despite this limitation, we found the OBDLink MX+ connection to be strong and fast.

Now, here’s something important to note: the OBDLink app primarily focuses on diagnostics for your Ford vehicles and doesn’t offer maintenance functions. So, if you’re looking to perform tasks like resets or relearns, you might need to explore third-party apps (which may come at an additional cost). We recommend the OBDLink MX+ for those who own Ford vehicles and also have vehicles from other brands at home. It provides comprehensive diagnostics and offers a convenient wireless connection through your phone. 

Today’s best OBDLink MX+ price:

#5. FOXWELL NT710

My First-hand Experience

The FOXWELL NT710 scanner caught our attention with its impressive and fancy appearance. However, it does come with a higher price compared to other scanners. In the official store, the Ford software is listed for $80. However, if you purchase the FOXWELL NT710 scanner, you will receive the Ford software for free.

This scanner is capable of diagnosing various issues on your Ford vehicles, including pulling all the OBD2 codes and Ford-specific codes in under a minute. We also liked the 5.5-inch screen, which provides a clear view of live data. We particularly like how fast the FOXWELL NT710 responds, as there is minimal “Loading” time while navigating between menus.

During our testing, we found that the Ford software for this scanner lacks some advanced features, we see that the Ford software offers advanced functions mostly on the Throttle Position Sensor. We have contacted the manufacturer regarding this issue, and they have reassured us that they are actively working on fully updating the Ford software this year.

 If you’re on a budget and only need a scanner for diagnostic tasks, there are more affordable options like the ANCEL FD500 and AUTOPHIX 7150. However, if you prioritize stylish looks and a large screen, and don’t mind waiting for the software update from FOXWELL, the NT710 could be a worthwhile investment. We’ll update our opinion once we receive the updated version.

Today’s best FOXWELL NT710 price:

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Best Scan Tools for Ford Full Comparison Chart:

[For mobile users: Rotate your phone and swipe left for full table]

	AUTOPHIX 7150 Check Price	ANCEL FD500 Check Price	OBDLink EX Check Price	OBDLink MX+ Check Price	FOXWELL NT710 Check Price
DIAGNOSTICS
Engine codes	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
All-system codes	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Ford-specific codes	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Live data	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
OTHER FUNCTIONS
Smog tests	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Oil reset	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Battery Registration	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
ABS Bleeding	✅	–	✅	✅	✅
DPF Regen	✅	–	✅	✅	✅
Key programming	–	–	✅	–	–
ECU coding	–	–	✅	–	–
VEHICLE COVERAGE	Ford/ Mercury/ Lincoln	Ford/ Mercury/ Lincoln	All car brands	All car brands	All car brands
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Connection type	Wired	Wired	Adapter	Wired	Wired
Screen size	2.6″	2.4″	–	–	5.5″
Carrying case	✅	✅	–	✅	–
Touch screen	–	–	–	✅	✅
AFTER- SALES SERVICE
Free update	Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime	3 years	Lifetime
Update fee	$0	$0	$0	$99	$0
Warranty	8 years	1 year	3 years	2 years	3 years
Customer support	7.5/10	7.5/10	9.5/10	10/10	8.5/10
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

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What’s Next?

That’s it for my opinion on the best Ford scanners. As you can see, I didn’t claim any winner in this post. Every scanner has its pros and cons. It’s up to your needs to choose the best one.

Now, I’d love to hear from you:

What’s your best Ford scanner among these 5 options?

Is there any other name in your mind when it comes to the best Ford scanning tool?

Comment below.