9 Best Ford OBD2/OBD1 Scan Tools for 2023 [Review & Comparison]

Looking to buy an OBD1 or OBD2 scanner for your Ford? I’ve got you covered.

Today, I am going to reveal the powerful scan tools for those that are driving Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury cars, SUVs, light trucks, heavy-duty trucks, and F-service trucks (both OBD1 and OBD2). (I’ve never shared this before!)

In fact, Ford-specific scanners generally perform better than the universal ones, simply because they are made specifically for a particular car brand. For that reason, they are tailored to work almost flawlessly when running diagnostics on those vehicles.

If you are an owner of a Ford, Lincoln, Mercury or frequently find yourself working on the brands, my advice is “Get a scan tool that is specifically made for it”.

In this post, I will show you the:

Let’s go!!

Here's where brings information about the Best Ford OBD2/OBD1 scan tools and software
Read this article to learn more about the best OBD1/OBD2 scan tools for Ford.

Best Ford Scan Tools Comparison Chart (Editor’s Picks)

ModelRecommended forRatingAction
(Editor's Pick)
autophix 7150

AUTOPHIX 7150
Ford OBD2 cars/
light trucks
4.8/5Check Price

Read review
(Editor's Pick)
obdlink mx+

OBDLink MX+
Ford OBD2 cars/
light trucks
4.7/5Check Price

Read review
(Editor's Pick)
Launch CRP909E

Launch CRP909E
Ford diesel trucks4.6/5Check Price

Read review
(Editor's Pick)
Autel Maxisys Elite

ANCEL FD500
Ford diesel trucks4.5/5Check Price

Read review
INNOVA 3145

INNOVA 3145
Ford OBD1 cars4.6/5Check Price

Read review
foxwell nt510 elite

FOXWELL NT510 Elite
Ford OBD2/OBD1 cars4.5/5Check Price

Read review

Top 3 Ford OBD2 Scanners

Most OBD2 scanners can only analyze the engine status for Ford Vehicle models whose version dates from 1996 and onwards.

These OBD2 gasoline and fuel-dependent models include Ford Aerostar, C-max, Connect, Cougar, E150, E350, Escort, Expedition, Explorer, F150, F250, Fiesta, Focus, Galaxy, Ka, Kuga, Maverick, Mondeo, Mustang, Puma, Ranger, S-max, Scorpio, Taurus, Transit, Turner, Windstar, and newer non-electric models.

Top 3 Ford OBD2 scanner comparison chart

autophix 7150
Autophix 7150 - Editor's Pick
Check Price
“obdlink
OBDLink MX+
Check Price
“launch
Launch CRP909E
Check Price
Customer Rating
4.4
4.7
4.3
Price range$95-$105$95-$105$470-$480
OBD2 diagnostics10/10*10/1010/10
Advanced system diagnostics10/108/1010/10
Advanced service functions 8/106/1010/10
Coding/
Programming
3/103/106/10
Vehicle Covered
(cars, SUVs, 12V light trucks)
6/107/108/10

*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2

Now, let’s take an overview of the 3 choices:

#1. Autophix 7150

autophix logo
  • Scanner type: Full-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Ford Lincoln Mercury Car/Light Truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Corded
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $150

4.5

Accuracy

4.6

DPF function

4.7

Oil reset

4.7

Cable length

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Gain insight before taking your car to the mechanic
Try and fix it yourself
Read trouble codes of all systems
Reset the Oil Light
Perform advanced service functions

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Perform bidirectional controls (active tests)

Pros

  • Life-time free software upgrade
  • Accurate diagnosis
  • Great oil reset service
  • Great DPF function
  • Detailed user manual

Cons

  • Short cable
  • Broken English in instructions
A detailed tutorial on how to use Autophix 7150 scanner.

The Autophix 7150 is an ideal scan tool that helps you save money and time through an easy diagnosis of your car from anywhere. It can read and clear error codes, thereby saving you thousands of dollars in maintenance costs.  

The scan tool comes with many features, which include Battery registration, oil light service reset, ABS Service Bleed, Reset PCM KAM, Clear crash data memory, SAS calibration, Fuel Injector Correction Factors, and DPF Parameter Reset. Others are Transmission Tables Reset, EGR Adaptive Tables clearance, etc.  

The 2.6 TFT 262K true color LCD display screen makes it easy for the tool to show test results and with the smooth silicone keypad, you can check each menu option to understand the results and figure out how to solve identified problems.  

One of the weaknesses of AUTOPHIX-7150 is the inability of the scanner to do a forced DPF regeneration in static or dynamic mode. Also, the automotive scanner tool only supports updates on Windows; you cannot update it on MAC operating systems. Lastly, AUTOPHIX-7150 does not support activating the ABS pump.

autophix 7150
Autophix 7150 Ford OBD2 Scanner
4.4
The AUTOPHIX 7150 is an excellent option for vehicle owners and mechanics who want to run some typical service functions. This car scanner is relatively cheap, but its low price sacrifices a few features found on the others in this review.

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obdlink logo
  • Scanner type: Four-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Newbies, Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Mazda Car/Light truck
  • Connection type:
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $200

4.6

Responsive live data

4.8

Easy to use

4.7

Read codes

4.9

Bluetooth connectivity

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Gain insight before taking your car to the mechanic
Try and fix it yourself
Read the Engine, ABS, Airbag, and Transmission codes
Test used cars/light trucks of multiple brands before buying
Reset the TPMS Light

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Read trouble codes of all systems

Pros

  • Fast live data 
  • Read engine, transmission, ABS, and airbag codes 
  • Support Ford MS-CAN
  • Sleep mode
  • Hacker proof
  • Frequent updates
  • Good customer support

Cons

  • Random connection troubles

OBDLINK MX+ is an affordable, easy-to-use, and complete OBD2 Bluetooth scan tool that is super effective. It is gaining a whole lot of momentum because it is reliable, faster, and offers better performance compared to older devices. It easily connects your vehicle to an Android device, iPhone, or PC, providing a free audit of OBD2 software and a scanning tool together. 

Importantly, it provides fantastic performance, top-notch security, amazing third-party support, and free firmware and software updates forever.

This Ford scan tool is the master when it comes to compatibility. Presently, it is compatible with every 1996 and newer car sold in the US except the electric and hybrid cars. 

You can easily connect with additional models of cars, read and clear codes in all OBD-compatible cars. Also, the free OBDLink app provides exciting capabilities that make it easy to check, graph, log, and send engine data.  

The OBDLink MX+ uses BT version v3.0 + EDR + iAP2, but it does not support pull SRS or ABS code for some automobile models. Apart from requiring a reset every time you want to connect via BT, the reset button looks fragile and could break easily if not handled with care when in use.

obdlink mx+
OBDLink MX+ Ford OBD2 Scanner
4.7
If you’re looking forward to doing some basic diagnostics functions on your vehicle with your smartphone, the OBDLINK MX+ is just for you. In addition, it is reasonably priced and compatible with several vehicle diagnostics apps available on your mobile app store.

RELATED POST:


#3. LAUNCH CRP909E

launch logo
  • Scanner type: Full-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Car/Light truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Corded
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $500

4.5

Accuracy

4.6

Battery life

4.7

Service functions

4.7

Updates

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Try and fix it yourself
Read trouble codes of all systems
Perform advanced service functions

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Perform bidirectional controls (active tests)

Pros

  • Quick and accurate diagnosis
  • 26 service functions
  • Responsive touchscreen 
  • Great customer service
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Many updates required before use
  • Yearly subscription after 2 years
Watch this 8-minute video to know whether LAUNCH CRP909E’s worth trying or not.

The LAUNCH CRP909E is an essential and complete diagnostic scan tool that optimizes the efficiency of diagnosing, scanning, and repairing your car. Apart from the ability to perform full OBD2 functions in at least 54 car brands, it can run full system diagnostics and come with 15 other special functions. It provides accurate and detailed results for technicians and mechanics to help them easily identify how to fix vehicles.   

The LAUNCH CRP009E can also read vehicle information to decide the tested control unit, read and delete DTCs, and access live data for deep actions.

With only a single click, the tool enables you to do several things like Auto-scan the VIN and Update to the latest software and hardware.

The scanner is ideally designed for mechanics and courageous DIYers who don’t want to wait for technicians before checking, fixing, and using their vehicles. 

LAUNCH CRP909E requires payment of about $75 for updates annually after the first year. The scanner does not support a CKP relearn on some models. Also, the LAUNCH CRP909E scanner does not support ECU coding/programming. This scanner requires installing many updates before use—so it is impossible to use them immediately after purchase.

launch crp909e
Launch CRP909E Ford OBD2 Scanner
4.3
The LAUNCH CRP909E is the perfect option for experienced DIYers who do regular service functions and program new codes on their vehicles. Although this is relatively pricey, with all the advanced Android-based features and 6000mAh battery, it is worth every penny.

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Top 3 Ford Diesel Truck Scan Tools

Ford truck scan tools are designed to run diagnostics and programming functions on your gas/diesel light trucks and heavy-duty trucks (beside cars and SUVs).

The models they are compatible with include the F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550/F-4000, F-650/750, and a few others manufactured from 1996 to date.

Top 3 Ford Truck Scan Tools Comparison Chart

Below come the comparison chart of the 3 best scanners for Ford trucks.

“ancel
Ancel FD500 - Editor's Pick
Check Price
“launch
Launch CRP909E
Check Price
“auto
Autel Maxisys MS908CV
Check Price
Customer Rating
4.2
4.3
4.9
Price range$90-$100$470-$480$2815-$2825
OBD2 diagnostics10/10*10/1010/10
Advanced system diagnostics10/1010/1010/10
Advanced service functions5/107/109/10
Coding/
Programming
n/a6/1010/10
Vehicle Covered7/108/109/10

*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2

Here is an overview of the 3 scan tools:

#1. ANCEL FD500

  • Scanner type: Full-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury vehicles
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Cored
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $100

4.5

Easy to use

4.8

Value for money

4.6

Read codes

4.8

User manual

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Gain insight before taking your car to the mechanic
Try and fix it yourself
Perform advanced service functions
Read trouble codes of all systems
Prepare for a smog check

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Perform bi-directional controls (active tests)

Pros

  • 4+ reset functions (lifetime free)
  • Super easy to use
  • Battery voltage monitoring
  • Accurate results
  • Can read trouble codes of all systems

Cons

  • Confusing user manual with small font size
  • No hard protective case
Check this video to learn about ANCEL FD500’s performance.

ANCEL FD500 is a unique scan tool specially designed for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles for optimal scanning results. 

It came about because many people were requesting a smooth DIY scan tool that can work extensively and fix underlying issues. 

The scan tool can work wonders for Ford vehicles and can perform all system diagnostic tests. 

It also has numerous OBD2 functions and can help with I/M readiness, data stream, evaporative system test, and vehicle information. 

The ANCEL FD500 can scan and reset systems of ABS, SRS, EPB, Oil Light, Throttle, BMS, BAT, ETC, PCM, and others. 

It is an ideal tool for technicians and DIYers. The scanner provides free lifetime updates to repair the latest error or add new things to make sure your OBD2 scanner always has the latest fault code database.

ANCEL FD500 requires technical know-how to an extent before it can be used for reading codes. Instructions are also challenging to understand, particularly for people who are not used to using them. Also, the scanning tool does not come with a protective case to prevent it from breaking.

ancel fd500
Ancel FD500 Ford Truck Scanner
4.2
The ANCEL FD500 is an OBD2 diagnostics tool you can use to analyze your Ford cars, SUVs, or F-series trucks swiftly. At a reasonable price, you get all system diagnostic functions and primary reset functions from this machine.

RELATED POST:


#2. LAUNCH CRP909E

launch logo
  • Scanner type: Full-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Car/Light truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Corded
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $500

4.5

Accuracy

4.6

Battery life

4.7

Service functions

4.7

Updates

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Try and fix it yourself
Read trouble codes of all systems
Perform advanced service functions

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Perform bidirectional controls (active tests)

Pros

  • Quick and accurate diagnosis
  • 26 service functions
  • Responsive touchscreen 
  • Great customer service
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • Many updates required before use
  • Yearly subscription after 2 years

The LAUNCH CRP909E is fabulous for DIYers and technicians who want to have a holistic scan and have accurate results. It has numerous features like full system diagnostics and is compatible with more than 54 vehicles. It is one of the best OBD2 scanners around with respect to price and performance.  

As a result of its diversity, it can work with multiple languages ranging from English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Chinese Traditional, and others. 

If you are looking to cut down on maintenance cost, the CRP909E offer a Free 1-year update for the software. 

Launch CRP909E requires payment of about $75 for updates annually after the first year. The scanner does not support a CKP relearn on some models. Also, the LAUNCH CRP909E scanner does not support ECU coding/programming. The scanner requires installing many updates before use, so it is impossible to use them immediately after purchase.

launch crp909e
Launch CRP909E Ford Truck Scanner
4.3
The LAUNCH CRP909E offers several advanced reset functions and diagnostics for your cars, SUVs, and F-series trucks as long as they are 12V. This device runs OBD2 diagnostics perfectly, is reasonably priced, and is an excellent option for you as a DIYer.

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# 3. Autel MS908CV

autel logo
  • Scanner type: Scan tool with ECU programming
  • Fit For: Car/Light truck mechanics, Heavy-duty truck mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Car/Light truck/Heavy-duty truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: & USB 
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $3,000

4.5

Bi-directional controls

4.6

Service functions

4.8

ECU programming

4.8

Setup speed

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Try and fix it yourself
Read trouble codes of all systems
Perform bi-directional controls (active tests)
Program a car key
Perform advanced service functions
Code and program a car’s ECU

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Work with OBD1 cars/light trucks/heavy-duty trucks

Pros

  • Great bi-directional controls
  • Professional ECU coding & programming
  • Comprehensive coverage
  • 25 service functions and 23 adaption Functions

Cons

  • Takes long to set up
  • Pricey
Watch this 10-minute video to know whether Autel MaxiSYS MS908CV’s worth the investment.

The AUTEL MS908CV has been designed to provide comprehensive vehicle diagnostic functions for truck technicians.  

A notable improvement on this scan tool is the addition of the superior A9 quad-core processor that provides a 50 percent speed increase compared to other products.  The 9.7 LCD digital screen with a high-resolution touch screen makes it easy to operate and get results.  

This professional heavy-duty truck scan tool comes with the industry’s foremost multi-tasking Android operating system and the complete OE-level vehicle coverage that Autel is widely acclaimed for.

Autel MS908CV does not come with a manual to guide its usage. As a result, it may not be easy to use for novice or mid-level users. The software update is relatively expensive.

auto ms908cv
Autel Maxisys MS908CV
4.9
The Autel MS908CV is an excellent scan tool that runs diagnostics on most OBD2 vehicles, including F-series or 24V commercial trucks available. If you’re willing to buy an expensive tool that will serve you for long as a professional mechanic, this device’s just for you.

RELATED POST:


Top 3 Ford OBD1 scanners

There are several Ford vehicles that OBD1 scan tools can run diagnostics on. Most, if not all, were produced before 1996 when OBD2 protocols replaced the OBD1. 

Some of the Ford OBD1 vehicle models that these OBD1 code readers are compatible with include Orion, Probe, Pronto, Laser, Sierra, Telstar, Taurus, Tempo, Aspire, Maverick, Freda, and some other makes.

Top 3 Ford OBD1 scanners comparison chart

“innova
Innova 3145 - Editor's Pick
Check Price
“foxwell
Foxwell NT510 Elite
Check Price
“actron
Actron CP9690 Elite
Check Price
Customer Rating
4.5
4.3
4.5
Price range$35-$45$175-$185$205-$215
Read & clear OBD1 codes10/10*10/1010/10
OBD2 functionsn/a10/105/10
Advanced service functionsn/a8/10n/a
Vehicle Coverage6/108/107/10
OBD1 cable includedDirect pluginNo 
(buy separately)
Yes 
(Ford MCU/EEC-IV)
ProtocolsOBD1OBD1, OBD2OBD1, OBD2

*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2

  • Scanner type: Code Reader
  • Fit For: Newbies
  • Vehicle type: Ford Car/Light truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Direct (no screen)
  • Work on: OBD1 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $50

4.5

Accuracy

4.7

Easy to use

4.7

Price

4.6

Cable length

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Gain insight before taking your car to the mechanic
Try and fix it yourself
Read the Engine codes

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Read the ABS, Airbag, and Transmission codes

Pros

  • Clear instruction
  • Fast and accurate code readings
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Short cable
  • Loose prongs
Does INNOVA 3145 work well on OBD1-compatible Ford vehicles? Watch this video to know the answer.

INNOVA 3145 is an ideal scan tool for old Ford cars made before 1996 even though it is quite dynamic and it can work for some car makes and models.

The INNOVA 3145 is easy to use and almost anyone can operate it without issue. As a result of this, it is an exciting tool for everyone who wants to read and clear codes on their vehicles and save money in the process.

Innova 3145 OBD1 code reader comes with a big digital display screen that is simple to use and helps car owners understand the test results.  

Innova 3145 requires an additional extension cable to enable you to watch the code from inside the vehicle, which implies that it cannot check anything directly without support. This Ford code reader is not built for reading mechanical issues like ignition timing or oil pressure. Also, the barbs on the terminal blades are too tiny to stamp into them.

innova 3145
Innova 3145 Ford Digital OBD1 Code Reader
4.5
The Innova 3145 is a basic, inexpensive OBD1 scanner that you can use to read basic error codes on your Ford vehicle.

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#2. FOXWELL NT510 Elite

foxwell logo
  • Scanner type: Bi-directional scan tool
  • Fit For: Experienced enthusiasts, Car/Light truck mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Mazda Car/Light truck
  • Connection type: Corded
  • Work on: OBD2 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $200

4.5

Ease of use

4.6

Special functions

4.7

Accuracy

4.7

Scanning speed

3.9

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Gain insight before taking your car to the mechanic
Try and fix it yourself
Test used cars/light trucks of multiple brands before buying
Read the Engine, ABS, Airbag, and Transmission codes
Prepare for a smog check
Reset the Oil Light, TPMS light

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Read trouble codes of all systems

Pros

  • Accurate code readings
  • Well-designed
  • Special functions for Ford
  • Full system diagnosis for Ford

Cons

  • Long scanning process
  • Support Ford vehicles only

FOXWELL NT510 Elite is an easy and unique scanning tool that enables you to access and diagnose your vehicle in no time with spectacular load time and accurate results. 

Apart from having code and real-time data as basic functions, it also offers advanced functions such as adaptation, coding, and programming. 

You can choose from different arrays of scanning options, and it also has superior pairing tech for garages, small maintenance and offers technicians the opportunity to provide OE-grade diagnostics for all systems.  

The scan tool is specially made to transmit live data for your daily needs. Simply plug your OBD II scanner and you can start the transmission. 

Also, the FOXWELL NT510 Elite allows you to carry out other popular functions like oil service light reset, throttle body adjustment, DPF regeneration, and a lot more for less.

Upgrading your FOXWELL NT510 Elite scanner requires payment after 18 months of use, which many users find disappointing despite the effectiveness of the BMW diagnostic tool.

This Ford diagnostic tool doesn’t code batteries after or during the registration of a replacement battery.

foxwell nt510 elite
Foxwell NT510 Elite Ford OBD1 Scanner
4.3
The FOXWELL NT510 Elite is an excellent option when looking for a scan tool that runs OBD1 and OBD2 diagnostics. Compatible with Ford vehicles with the protocols as mentioned above till date, the FOXWELL NT510 Elite has many reset functions and performs full system diagnostics on your car at an affordable price.

#3. ACTRON CP9690 Elite

  • Scanner type: Four-system scan tool
  • Fit For: Home mechanics
  • Vehicle type: Car/Light truck
    (Gasoline/Diesel)
  • Connection type: Corded
  • Work on: OBD2 & OBD1 Vehicles
  • Price range: Under $300

4.4

Versatility

4.7

Value for money

4.4

Read codes

4.8

Vehicle coverage

3.8

Buy this scan tool if you want to …

Try and fix it yourself
Read the Engine, ABS, Airbag, and Transmission codes
Reset the Oil Light
Read the Battery Light

DON’T buy it if you want to …

Read trouble codes of all systems

Pros

  • Work on OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
  • Verified fixes with CodeConnect
  • Read engine, transmission, ABS and airbag codes
  • Includes OBD1 cables
  • Reset Oil light and battery light
  • Battery / Alternator / Charging System Check

Cons

  • Poor customer support 
  • No printed manual included
  • Limited vehicle coverage
Check this honest and transparent review of ACTRON CP9690 Elite from How to Automotive.

The ACTRON CP9690 Elite is easy to use. It is tailored towards providing a quality scan tool. It was built with strong and quality materials that can control shock and work extensively for a long time.  

Part of its features includes reading manufacturer-specific DTCs, mapping engine data, recording, and playback of vehicle details. 

Action CP9690 Elite can fix any kind of data encoding, including resetting the check engine light.  

The scan tool is simple to operate because it can work with different languages. Apart from this, it has one of the advanced features of a scanner. It is a dream tool for car owners and DIYers that want to save time and money.

Actron CP9690 Elite doesn’t work on a car like a diesel LandCruiser. It is also relatively expensive compared to other scanners and works well in the United States.

actron cp9690
Actron CP9690 Elite Ford OBD1 Scanner
4.5
The Actron CP9690 Elite is a vehicle scan tool that comes with OBD1 and limited OBD2 compatibility. This tool comes in handy when checking for basic error codes and making simple resets on your vehicle.

Final Recommendation

When it comes to Ford OBD2 scan tools, the Autophix 7150 is the best option for you as the device runs all OBD2 diagnostics needed by a DIYer. 

For OBD1 codes, you may want something basic, the Innova 3145 is a good choice then.

But if you’re looking for something that offers real value and functionality, the FOXWELL NT510 Elite becomes the perfect option.

The Autel MS908CV offers everything you need to have when working with any trucks, including trailers.

But you should buy the device if you are a professional truck technician.

The LAUNCH CRP909E nearly matches its effectiveness at a lesser price and offers many advanced service functions.

These features make the LAUNCH CRP909E an excellent option for gas/diesel trucks.

Best OBD2 Scanner – Autophix 7150

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Rating

Best OBD1 Code Reader – Innova 3145

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Rating

Best Ford truck scan tool – Launch CRP909E

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Rating

The OBD2 and advanced service functions FORScan performs make it a formidable PC-based diagnostics software for you to use. Offering optimal functionality at a fair price, this scan tool is perfect for every dedicated DIYer.

Ford has fantastic factory scan tool software ranging from the Ford IDS to the promising futuristic FDRS. Although the rest work well with newer models, the Ford IDS works with most vehicles. Ford IDS is highly functional and the most versatile and best option in this category. 

Hopefully, with these comparisons and reviews, I have been able to bring out which vehicle utilities are best for your Ford vehicle. Do well to make your selection based on your taste and, obviously, this review.

5 steps to choose the right Ford scan tool

Step 1: What Are The Top Brands?

Buying a scan tool from a trusted brand is the best way to know you’ll get a reliable, accurate reading. Devices made by top-tier brands will also be backed by better customer service and support. Among the top brands for Ford diagnostic tools OBDLink, OHP, Autophix, and INNOVA.

OBDLink

OBDLink MX+
OBDLink MX+ OBDII Scanner
4.7
It’s compatible with a wide range of devices and diagnostic software, letting you tailor its functions to match your vehicle’s needs.

OHP

OHP ELM327 is suitable Ford scan tool for who is an ordinary car owner and DIYers
OHP ELMconfig FORScan USB Adapter can work on Windows laptop/PC only.

The affordable cost of OHP diagnostic adapters is the first thing you’ll notice. OHP adapters are designed to work with popular software like FORScan (made specifically for Ford vehicles). This lets you get in-depth, professional-level diagnostics at DIY-er prices. My recommendation is the OHP FORScan OBD2 USB Adapter (for Windows ONLY).

OHP ELMconfig FORScan USB Adapter

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Rating

Autophix

This global manufacturer of OBD2 and DIY repair equipment is one of the top names on the market. Autophix has an exceptional quality control team, producing durable and reliable tools at all price levels. Their support for customers is also well-regarded. Autophix has a line of products for famous car brands such as Ford, BMW, Audi/VW, etc. Autophix 7510 is the most wanted OBD2 scanner for Ford in 2021 and 2022.

autophix 7150
Autophix 7150 Ford OBD2 Scanner
4.4
The AUTOPHIX 7150 is an excellent option for vehicle owners and mechanics who want to run some typical service functions. This car scanner is relatively cheap, but its low price sacrifices a few features found on the others in this review.

INNOVA

This US-based company is a leader in the automotive aftermarket industry. Their advanced testing and innovative designs are their main claim to fame. Innova uses a network of certified repair technicians to develop its diagnostic database, ensuring a higher accuracy level for users. INNOVA is strong at both OBD1 and OBD2 scanners. Their best pick of OBD1 code readers for Ford is the INNOVA 3145.

Innova 3145
Innova 3145 Ford Digital OBD1 Code Reader
4.5
This unit will serve you best if you have a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury car or truck made within the years recommended.

Step 2: What type of scan tool is suitable for you?

There are OBD1 code readers for those made before 1996 and OBD2 scanner for the newer by year. Do you remember the year of your car? By functionality, Ford scanning tools can be divided into three groups: (1) basic code readers, (2) enhanced OBD2 scanners, and (3) advanced professional diagnostic tools. Because of price gaps, the benefits you will get from the devices are different. A basic code reader like INNOVA 3145 can only read codes of the engine system, while an enhanced OBD2 scanner such as the OHP FORScan USB adapter can diagnose non-OBD2 systems like ABS, airbag, and transmission beside the engine system. Professional automotive diagnostic tools offer more functions and services and usually for experienced DIY people or mechanics. The more you pay, the more you get.

Step 3: Compatibility/vehicle coverage

An automotive scanner for Ford is built to work with vehicles from the manufacturer. That said, not every Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury uses the same processes. While all Ford scanning tools will provide basic diagnostics on all vehicles, more advanced features may not be widely supported. The first division is between OBD1 and OBD2. Before 1996, cars used the OBD1 diagnostic system. This simple system uses a different style of plug. Some OBD2 scanners will read OBD1 information, but you’ll need an adapter to connect it to an older vehicle.

It’s a good idea to check the compatibility of any scan tool you’re looking at, even one that’s made for Ford. You can often find lists of compatible vehicles broken down by make and model year on the scan tool company’s website. To verify a particular function’s compatibility, contacting the company’s customer service is your best bet.

Step 4: Pricing

The pricing of car scanning tools is mostly dependent on which features they offer. Devices made for a specific manufacturer, like automotive scanners for Ford, typically cost less for the features provided than those with wider compatibility. This can make them an excellent value, especially for DIYers. For a beginner, a Ford scanner in the range of $20-$100 should give you what you need. These tools can read OBD2 codes and may offer diagnostics of other central systems. Beginners won’t miss the lack of advanced repair functions since they probably wouldn’t be comfortable making those repairs at home anyway.

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More advanced DIYers and professional mechanics will want to look for more fully functional diagnostic tools. The good news is, these don’t have to cost thousands of dollars. Something in the budget of $100-$500 should meet your needs.

Step 5: Software

Adapters like those made by OHP require compatible diagnostic software before you can use them. You can find a range of different diagnostic software options out there. The best ones to use with Ford are:

  • FORScan. FORScan is compatible with Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. As for adapters, it will work with any that are compatible with ELM327 or J2534. It can run service features and advanced diagnostics, as well as reading sensor data and OBD2 codes. While FORScan is a paid software, the free FORScan Lite version is free and has all the functions a beginning DIYer needs.
  • ELMconfig. This free software is primarily used for adaptations, activations, and configuration of modules. Since it doesn’t read or clear codes, it’s not sufficient for diagnostics on its own. The compatibility is somewhat limited, as well. However, it can be an excellent addition to something like FORScan to expand its functionality.
  • FoCCCus. Another free program, FoCCCus has similar functionality to ELMconfig. The main difference is that it’s designed for use with the Ford Focus, which is not supported by ELMconfig.

Read more:

The 9 Best OBD2 Scanners for 2022 Review

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