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, Mazda, 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, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercury or frequently find yourself working on the brands, my advice is “Get a scan tool that specific made for it”.
In this post, I will show you the:
- best Ford OBD1 scanners;
- best Ford OBD2 scanners;
- best Ford truck scan tools;
- best Ford OBD2 software; and
- best Ford factory scan tool software for dealers.
Let’s go!!
Table of Contents
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 makes 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 - Editor's Pick |  OBDLink MX+ |  Launch CRP909E | |
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price range | $95-$105 | $95-$105 | $470-$480 |
| OBD2 diagnostics | 10/10* | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Advanced system diagnostics | 10/10 | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Advanced service functions | 8/10 | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Coding/ Programming | 3/10 | 3/10 | 6/10 |
| Vehicle Covered (cars, SUVs, 12V light trucks) | 6/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Best Ford OBD2 scanners: AUTOPHIX 7150 Vs. OBDLink MX+ Vs. Launch CRP909E
OBD2 diagnostics
The AUTOPHIX 7150, OBDLINK MX+, and the LAUNCH CRP909E all run complete OBD2 system diagnostics. As a result, they can display error codes encountered in the assessment and do decent jobs.
But the AUTOPHIX 7150 is slower than the others, probably because of its relatively slow processor.
The only challenge the OBDLINK MX+ faces is its connection time. Because the OBDLINK MX+ doesn’t have a display grid of its own, this car scanner needs to connect to your smartphone or PC. How fast the results from the diagnosis will load depends on your device’s speed.
Furthermore, the LAUNCH CRP909E stands out among these two. Because of its speedier processing capacity, the LAUNCH CRP909E is the favorite in this category. It takes only a few seconds to load and display results from the tests.
However, I recommend AUTOPHIX 7150 for OBD2 functions. This is the most affordable choice in the list. Beside, it offers many more diagnostic functions as mentioned below.
Advanced system diagnostics
The AUTOPHIX 7150 and the LAUNCH CRP909E run all essential diagnostic functions on your Ford vehicle. But the OBDLink MX+’s performance is limited by the number of results that can be displayed via the third-party application it is connected to.
Nevertheless, with the right software in a third-party app, such as Torque Pro, the OBDLink MX+ can run all diagnostics. The scanner typically runs ABS, SRS, Fuel Economy, Transmission, and Air conditioning system checks, among others displayed on most vehicle analysis apps.
Although the OBDLink MX+ comes close to being top, the LAUNCH CRP909E is the best among the three. It assures you of full diagnostics results and can be updated to meet the standards of new models without being limited to any shortcomings of a third-party application.
But again, Launch CRP909E looks pricey if all you need is system diagnostics and OBD2 functions.
I would recommend OBDLink MX+ for its mobility and wonderful speed.
Advanced service functions
While they can perform reset functions, the three OBD2 scan tools on this list have different capabilities. The AUTOPHIX 7150 boasts of making oil lamp reset, Fuel Injection reset, and others after the issues have been rectified. However, it is easier to do these resets with the LAUNCH CRP909E since the tool works on a better digital platform.
The OBDLink MX+ does show a lot of promise as its connection with your vehicle is better than the two and can transmit signals faster. This pairs best with the Torque Pro app for your Ford vehicle.
The LAUNCH CRP909E offers more reset functions than the two other scan tools in this comparison. This car scan tool can perform Brake pad reset, TPMS reset, battery matching, DPF regeneration, steering angle reset, Anti-Theft matching, AFS headlamp reset, sunroof reset, etc.
These features make it the top choice with regards to resetting functions among the three. It worths it.
Coding/Programming
The AUTOPHIX 7150 has a few coding and programming functions. The car diagnostic tool is capable of programming new injector codes and matching the throttle position. Injector codes are data codes on new fuel cylinder pumps which you replace old ones with. They allow your vehicle’s engine control module to correct the pulse duration applied to each individual fuel injector to maintain optimum performance.
The OBDLINK MX+ depends on the third-party app’s software it is connected with to perform these functions. As for programming, combining the OBDLINK MX+ with Torque Pro will enable you to only program new injector codes. Although this is the only programming feature it can do, most other OBD2 apps do not have this feature.
Nevertheless, the LAUNCH CRP909E takes the definitive victory here. This car scanner can code new fuel injector numbers and match the throttle position, making Anti-theft matching and IMMO key programming on your vehicle.
Vehicle coverage
Furthermore, the three OBD2 scanners work on Ford vehicles as aforementioned. They are compatible with the SAE J1850 VPW and PWM and Ford MS-CAN protocols. These three— the SAE J1850 VPW, SAE J1850 PWM, and MS-CAN — are the custom OBD2 protocols of most Ford Vehicles.
Nevertheless, the scan tools differ here because they each have different individual vehicle compatibility. For example, apart from Ford, the AUTOPHIX 7150 supports only Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
And the OBDLINK MX+ selects a few other brands. Meanwhile, the LAUNCH CRP909E is the victor here as it is compatible with most, if not all, OBD2 non-electric vehicle protocols produced from 1996 to date.
Weaknesses
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.
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.
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.
Bonus 1: OBDLink CX Vs. OBDLink MX+ Vs. BlueDriver: Which most home mechanics are using in their garage?
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 3145 - Editor's Pick |  Foxwell NT510 Elite |  Actron CP9690 Elite | |
| Customer Rating |  | | |
| Price range | $35-$45 | $175-$185 | $205-$215 |
| Read & clear OBD1 codes | 10/10* | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| OBD2 functions | n/a | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Advanced service functions | n/a | 8/10 | n/a |
| Vehicle Coverage | 6/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| OBD1 cable included | Direct plugin | No (buy separately) | Yes (Ford MCU/EEC-IV) |
| Protocols | OBD1 | OBD1, OBD2 | OBD1, OBD2 |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Best Ford OBD1 code readers: Foxwell NT510 Elite Vs. Innova 3145 Vs. Actron CP9690
Read and clear OBD1 codes
The three scanners can read OBD1 trouble codes on Ford cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Although the Innova 3145 takes more time than the others to read the DTCs, it still does a decent job obtaining them. However, this OBD1 code reader cannot clear the codes on your Ford.
Therefore, the Actron CP9690 Elite and the FOXWELL NT510 Elite are tough contenders for those who want to read and clear OBD1 codes.
The FOXWELL NT510 Elite can do a better job clearing codes because of its better programming and quick performance.
However, if you need to pull the OBD1 codes and find out what’s wrong with your old Ford, Innova 3145 is the best choice of price.
OBD2 functions
The Actron CP9690 Elite can request specific primary OBD2 data such as stored trouble codes and on-board system tests.
Meanwhile, the Innova 3145 is not capable of performing any OBD2 functions being non-OBD2-compliant.
Thus, the FOXWELL NT510 Elite takes the lead here as it can run all OBD2 diagnostics, including basic and sophisticated ones like requesting oxygen sensor test results, requesting control of on-board systems, and requesting vehicle information. The device can also check for EVAP codes, faults in transmission, ignition, etc.
Advanced service functions
The Innova 3145 does not have any reset functions as its programming limits it to only obtaining OBD1 error codes.
The Actron CP9690 Elite can make basic resets such as oil service light resets, but it cannot perform many advanced diagnostics functions.
The FOXWELL NT510 Elite, however, is capable of so many reset functions, including ABS light reset, SAS calibration, Oil service reset, TBS reset, DPF regeneration, Gearbox reset, and others. These reset functions make it head the other three scan tools in this category.
OBD1 Cable
As for OBD1 connectivity, the FOXWELL NT510 Elite falls short of expectations here as it doesn’t come with any OBD1 cable; you’ll have to get one separately.
While I would recommend the Innova 3145 because you can plug it in directly, the device limits your mobility and could be pretty uncomfortable for you to use.
The Actron CP9690 Elite has a Ford MCU/EEC-IV cable that you can connect and use more comfortably. Thus, the scan tool heads this category.
Bonus: What’s the difference between OBD1 and OBD2?
Vehicle coverage
The Innova 3145 doesn’t really have an advantage over the others as it can only scan Ford and Lincoln OBD1 vehicles.
While the Actron CP9690 Elite boasts of being compatible with both OBD1 and OBD2 Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota vehicles dated 1984-2015, it has limited support for international versions.
The FOXWELL NT510 Elite is the clear champion here if you’re looking towards using the device on your Ford vehicle as it supports OBD1 and OBD2 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury made to date.
Weaknesses
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.
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.
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.
Bonus: Actron CP9690 Trilingual Professional-Grade OBD2 / OBD1 Scanner Review
Top 3 Ford 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
 Ancel FD500 - Editor's Pick | Launch CRP909E |  Autel Maxisys MS908CV | |
| Customer Rating |  | |  |
| Price range | $90-$100 | $470-$480 | $2815-$2825 |
| OBD2 diagnostics | 10/10* | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Advanced system diagnostics | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Advanced service functions | 5/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Coding/ Programming | n/a | 6/10 | 10/10 |
| Vehicle Covered | 7/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Best Ford truck scanners: Launch CRP909E Vs. ANCEL FD500 Vs. Autel MS908CV
OBD2 diagnostics
All three scanners here are capable of making full OBD2 diagnostics on your light truck, heavy-duty 12V trucks, and even 24V heavy trucks. These OBD2 functions include reading and erasing trouble codes, battery voltage checks, requesting Ford-specific vehicle information, engine checks, etc.
You’ll prefer to make OBD2 diagnostics with the LAUNCH CRP909E because of its Android interface. The LAUNCH CRP909E is a good option here as it runs on Android 7.0 and has a better user interface than the others.
But, the diagnostics the scan tool runs are the same as the others, and just like the Autel MS908V, it’s an expensive but excellent choice.
Nevertheless, the ANCEL FD500 offers all OBD2 diagnostics at a lower price.
Advanced system diagnostics
The LAUNCH CRP909E, ANCEL FD500, and Autel MS908V can run full system diagnostics on your trucks. Some of these diagnostics include testing the chassis system, the vehicle’s central body system, and the electrical system. These system checks mean that you can detect faults in areas like the fuel pump, brakes, power control unit, etc.
And while they all display full results, the Autel MS908V and the LAUNCH CRP909E are better options here because of their touchscreens. The Autel MS908V would dominate here because the device works better on Ford trucks, but it’s a costly option.
I’d personally recommend the LAUNCH CRP909E for interested DIYers who want to perform more service functions. But If you have a tight budget and you’re just looking for a device that can run system diagnostics, the ANCEL FD500 is a good option for you.
Advanced service functions
The ANCEL FD500 is capable of making four essential maintenance and reset functions which include throttle position reset, Oil service light reset, EPB maintenance mode, Ford battery registration. But when you compare the ANCEL FD500 with the more advanced software the other two have, it seems relatively deficient.
The LAUNCH CRP909E and the Autel MS908CV perform more resets. They can make advanced maintenance and reset functions such as brake pad reset, TPMS reset, battery matching, DPF regeneration, steering angle reset, fuel pressure adaptation reset, throttle position reset, injection quantity adjustment, etc.
Although the Autel MS908CV has more advanced service functions, the LAUNCH CRP909E takes the lead here. The scan tool offers 16 special reset functions under $500 — less than half of the Autel MS908CV’s cost!
Bonus 3: Launch CRP909 Vs. CRP909E Vs. CRP909X: Never take it before reading this comparison
Coding/Programming
The ANCEL FD500 is a pretty decent scan tool. But the tool does not have any essential programming function, which is a very significant liability.
The LAUNCH CRP909E is capable of coding new injector codes and IMMO key programming. However, the Autel MS908CV tops all three. Not only can this device perform injector coding and key programming, but it also does ECU Coding and J2534 ECU programming.
The Autel MS908V offers much more advanced service functions. The device is an excellent option if you’re a professional Ford truck technician.
Vehicle coverage
The three scanners also vary in terms of the vehicles they are compatible with. The ANCEL FD500 is limited to Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury non-electric SUVs, Ford F-series, and cars from 1996.
The LAUNCH CRP909E is compatible with an even more comprehensive range as the device works on most Gas/diesel cars, SUVs, Ford F-series, and minivans made from 1996 to date.
The Autel MS908V leads the two others here, being compatible with small cars, SUVs, F-series, semi-trucks, commercial trucks, agriculture trucks, construction trucks, and long heavy trailers.
Weaknesses
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.
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.
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.
Bonus: Best heavy duty truck scan tools review 2021
Best Ford scan tool PC-based software for personal use
PC-based diagnostics software can be linked to OBD2 adapters and run diagnostics or module programming on your vehicle. These OBD2 adapters usually either connect to your PC via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or with a cable.
I will be comparing the top three software that works on PCs for your Ford vehicle below.
Keep reading to find out which one suits your needs more.
Top 3 choices of PC-based software for Ford comparison chart
| FORScan | Focccus | ELMconfig | |
| OBD2 Functions | 10/10* | n/a | n/a |
| System diagnostics | 10/10 | n/a | n/a |
| Advanced service Functions | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Vehicle coverage | 7/10 | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Protocol compatibility | FORD MS-CAN FORD SCPFORD 9141FORD UBP | FORD MS-CAN | Ford HS-CAN and MS-CAN |
| Supported adapter | - OBDLink EX, - OBDLink MX+, and - Most other ELM327 adapter | - OBDLink EX, - FORScan ELM327 OBD2 USB Adapter, - OHP ELMconfigFORScan OBD2 Adapter | - OBDLink EX, - FORScan ELM327 OBD2 USB Adapter, - OHP ELMconfigFORScan OBD2 Adapter |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Best PC-based software for Ford: FORScan Vs. Focccus Vs. ELMconfig
OBD2 Functions
Foccus and ELMconfig are INcapable of running OBD2 diagnostics, which is a significant liability. The FORScan software easily tops the other two here as it does all OBD2 functions on your Ford vehicle. These include reading and erasing trouble codes, checking the I/M readiness of your car, requesting manufacturer-specific information of your vehicle, etc.
Advanced system diagnostics
FORScan still dominates in this category as it is capable of making full system diagnostics. The software can check for faults in your vehicle’s power control unit, brakes, exhaust systems, etc. Focccus and ELMconfig are not capable of doing any of these as they are basic module programming applications.
OBDLink EX
Price range: $45-$55
OBDLink MX+
Price range: $95-$105
Advanced service functions
The FORScan can make typical resets on your vehicle as long as a compatible adapter is plugged into your car. FORScan can perform ABS light reset, SAS calibration, SRS light reset, Air temperature reset, and battery matching. The others cannot do any of these, so the FORScan comes at the top again.
However, both the Focccus and ELMconfig are capable of module programming. This means that they can connect to your vehicle’s Electronic Control Module, ECM.
With Focccus and ELMconfig, you can do certain things like activate your windshield wipers, unlock your doors, open your vehicle’s windows, etc.
ELM327 OBD2 Scanner for Focccus
Price range: $15-$25
OHP USB Adapter for ELMconfig
Price range: $23-$33
Protocol compatibility
While Foccus and ELMconfig can only work with Ford MS-CAN and HS CAN occasionally, the FORScan software can do much better. The software runs on Ford UBP, Ford 9141, Ford SCP, and Ford MS-CAN protocols.
Supported adapter
All three are compatible with OBD2 adapters. However, ELMconfig and Focccus work with a few select adapters like OHP USB adapter. While the FORScan software works best when linked to the OBDLink MX+ and OBDLink EX.
OBDLink EX for FORScan
Price range: $45-$55
OBDLink MX+ for FORScan
Price range: $95-$105
OHP USB FORScan Adapter for ELMconfig Focccus
Price range: $23-$33
Vehicle coverage
The three support Ford as a brand but to varying degrees. The ELMconfig works on Focus II, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo IV, S-Max, and Galaxy types. Notably, the Foccus software works only on Ford Focus III.
However, the FORScan application works on most Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury OBD2 compatible vehicles made from 1996 to 2019.
Weaknesses
You need a USB 3.0 cord to use FORScan, as it is highly selective. Sometimes, it is difficult to establish communication, and some users complain about downloading issues. FORScan also requires that you are tech-savvy to a particular extent to get it working.
Focccus have lesser features and functionality than other PC-based software for personal use.
ELMconfig is not ideal for people that are not computer savvy. Therefore, if you intend to use it with your laptop, you must be very good at operating computers. The user manual is complex to a large extent.
Software download
FORScan: http://forscan.org/download.html
ELMconfig: http://civil.iffc.ru/ELMConfig/
Focccus: http://ford.xtlt.ru/FoCCCus/
Read more: Best FORScan OBD2 ELM327 adapters review 2021
[for dealership only] Ford factory scan tool software
Most Ford scan tools used by Ford technicians come with either of the three software designed by Ford for diagnostics on their vehicles. They are the Ford Integrated Diagnostic Software (Ford IDS), Ford J2534 Diagnostics Software (FJDS), and Ford Diagnostics and Repair Software (FDRS). Although not all scan tools are equipped with this software, they enable Ford scan tools to run diagnostics and resets on your vehicle. Below, I’ll be reviewing and comparing them. Make sure to keep reading to find out which one your dream scan tool has.
Top 3 Ford factory scan tool software packages comparison chart
| Ford IDS | FJDS | FDRS | |
| Vehicle diagnostics | 10/10* | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| System diagnostics | 10/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Module Programming | 10/10 | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| Vehicle coverage | 10/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| VCI compatibility | - VCM II, - VCMM, and - VMM | - VCMII, - J2534 | - VCM II, - VCMM, and - J2534 |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Best Ford factory scan tool software: Ford IDS Vs. FDRS Vs. FJDS
OBD2 Diagnostics
Ford IDS, FDRS, and FJDS software can run complete vehicle diagnostics. They receive regular software updates and licensing that enables them to do so.
The Ford IDS system comes top here for vehicle diagnostics because it runs diagnostics on all vehicles manufactured from 1996 to date.
System diagnostics
All three software are capable of making full system diagnostics. They are capable of running tests on your car’s electrical system, engines, and body system to know if there are any issues.
They can detect faults in your vehicle’s exhaust, throttle, brakes, transmission, oil tank, fuel injection pressure, etc.
Nevertheless, Ford IDS tops the other three here as it works on most vehicles made from 1996.
VCI interface compatibility
All three software have VCMII compatibility in common. However, they differ in the degree of Vehicle Communications Interfaces they support.
The FJDS is compatible with VCMII and J2534. The FDRS works with VCM II, VCMM, and J2534. In terms of VCI compatibility, the Ford IDS tops the others.
The software supports only VCM, VCM II, VCMM, and VMM. The Ford IDS’s only shortcoming is its incompatibility with the J2534 interface.
VCM-II Cable for Fors IDS and FDRS
Price range: $24-$44
Module Programming
The Ford IDS and FJDS can integrate with and control the ECMs of most Ford models from 1996 to date.
Meanwhile, the FDRS is only compatible with ECMs of select 2018 and newer models.
The FJDS takes the advantage here, being compatible with J2534 interfaces and still works on older models.
Vehicle coverage
The FDRS works only on Ford vehicles manufactured from 2018 to date because of its futuristic design.
The FJDS and Ford IDS work on all Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles manufactured from 1996 till date.
The FJDS comes as the best here because it provides complete dealership-level diagnostic software for all 2018 to present Ford and Lincoln vehicles.
Weaknesses
Ford IDS is relatively difficult to use, especially on Windows 10. And only those with the knowledge can get beyond the connection stage. Also, it doesn’t work with outdated vehicles and cannot function without subscribing to Ford, which is relatively high for low-income earners.
FDRS can only work on new Ford models manufactured from 2018 till date.
FJDS is relatively expensive to use, given the associated subscription after the first year of purchase. This scan tool can only program ECU for BMW and Mercedes. This implies that despite the capabilities it possesses, it does not work on all vehicles. Also, the language change is not supported at all times due to technical issues encountered.
Download
Ford IDS and FDRS: https://www.fordtechservice.dealerconnection.com/vdirs/wds/diagnosticsites/vcmdvd/mcs/idssoftware.asp
How to install Ford IDS:
How to install FJDS:
Final verdict
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
Price range: $95-$105
Best OBD1 Code Reader – Innova 3145
Price range: $30-$40
Best Ford truck scan tool – Launch CRP909E
Price range: $470-$480
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 are:
OBDLink
OBDLink focus on OBD2 Bluetooth scanners and USB adapter. Scan tools of OBDLink are famous of reliability and durability. They do well all what they are made to do and known to do. The two best products of OBDLink for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury are OBDLink MX+ and OBDLink LX. My recommendation is OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for iOS, Android, and Windows.
OHP
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
Price range: $23-$33
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 2020 and 2021.
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 their diagnostic database, ensuring a higher accuracy level for users. INNOVA is strong at both OBD1 and OBD2 scanner. Their best pick of OBD1 code reader for Ford is the INNOVA 3145.
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.
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 a 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, Mercury, and Mazda 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.
