Are you looking forward to having the Best Heavy Duty Truck Code Reader / Scan Tool? Then you’ve landed on the right page.
Finding the best scanner for your heavy-duty truck could be hectic, especially if you are a beginner.
If all you need is an effective truck diagnostic tool, then you need to spend a good amount of time digging deep. This is because there are a lot of truck scanners available. If you are not keen enough, you might end up buying one only to your disappointment.
Table of Contents
- 1 Heavy Duty Truck Scanner: Editor’s Top 3 Picks Comparison Table
- 2 Best Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tools Review
- 2.1 1LAUNCH CReader HD Plus OBD2 Scanner for Diesel Trucks
- 2.2 2NEXAS NL102 Plus Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tool
- 2.3 3 Kzyee KC601 HOBD Heavy Duty Scan Tool for J1587, J1708 & J1939
- 2.4 4 Autel ML529HD Heavy Truck Scan Tool for J1939 & J1708
- 2.5 5 Launch X431 V plus HD Diesel Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tool
- 2.6 6Autel Maxisys MS908CV Professional Diesel Truck Diagnostic Scanner
- 2.7 7JPRO Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Scan Tool
- 2.8 8 ANCEL HD510 Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Scan Tool
- 2.9 9OTC 3418 Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Scanner
- 3 The Bottom Line
Heavy Duty Truck Scanner: Editor’s Top 3 Picks Comparison Table
I’ve picked out the top 3 best choices for you right in the comparison chart below.
| Editor's Pick | Best Affordable | Also Great | |
 Launch Creader HD Plus |  NEXAS NL102 |  Kzyee KC601 HOBD | |
| Customer Rating: |  3.8 / 5 |  3.4 / 5 |  3.9 / 5 |
| Price range |  | |  |
| Item Weight | 1.9 pounds | 1.8 pounds | 2.4 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 10.2 x 7.2 x 2.5 inches | 10 x 7.2 x 3 inches | 10.5 x 7.5 x 3.4 inches |
| Supported Protocols | J1939, J1708, and J1587 | J1939, J1708, and J1587 | J1939, J1708, and J1587 |
| Class | 4 to 8 | 4 to 8 | 8 |
| Supported Vehicles | HDOBD, OBDII: Heavy Duty Truck, Light Trucks (12v), Cars | HDOBD, OBDII: Heavy Duty Truck, Light Trucks (12v), Mini vans, Cars | HDOBD: Heavy Duty Trucks |
| Read or Rlear Engine Codes | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Transmission | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ABS | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fuel System Diagnostics | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Instrument Panel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ESP, EPS, SAS | -- | ✔ | -- |
| Battery Power Monitor | -- | ✔ | -- |
| Cab Climate and Particulate Control Unit | ✔ | -- | -- |
| Body Controller | -- | -- | ✔ |
| OBDII Test | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Check Price |
Best Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tools Review
1LAUNCH CReader HD Plus OBD2 Scanner for Diesel Trucks
3.9 / 5If you are looking for an entry level OBD2 heavy duty truck scan tool, Launch CReader HD Plus is what you need.
This scanner helps you identify faults on your truck and switch the check engine light off among other functionalities.
Designed with 4.7 x 0.8 x 3 inches in measurement and a weight of 7 ounces, Launch Creader HD Plus is quite portable, which means carrying it around not an issue and which enables you to diagnose your car whenever you need to.
Features and Functions
Launch Creader HD Plus is perfect for heavy-duty trucks. It works on J1939, J1708 and J1587. It also works with class 54 and class 8heavy duty trucks.
This diesel scan tool is fast and accurate. It saves you from having to wait due to slow engine connection plus it reads and clears errors with great accuracy.
It also comes with lifetime internet updates which are free and supports various languages including Deutsch, English, French, and Spanish.
The live data streaming and monitoring of data that this scanner offers can help to enable real-time detection of errors.
———
Pros
- Live data streaming.
- Lifetime free updates.
- Easy to use.
- Supports various languages.
Cons
- The truck scanner might not support other codes.
Who Is It Built For?
The Launch Creader HD Plus is suitable for use by beginners. It is easy to understand and it is built with the most basic functionalities that any heavy duty truck scanner should have.
Don’t be stressed by complicated scan tools when you can make use of the straightforward LAUNCH CReader HD Plus.
A short video about Launch CReader HD Plus Diesel Scan Tool:
2NEXAS NL102 Plus Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tool
3.8 / 5Why Taking NEXAS NL102 Plus?
If you are looking for a heavy duty scan tool with a superior quality, look no further than Nexas NL 102 Plus.
NEXAS NL102 is designed to work with great efficiency and it comes with some of the best features that you can find in a diesel scan tool.
How is the health status of your battery? If you have experienced trouble before, trying to identify the status of your battery, you wouldn’t have to worry anymore.
This truck scanner checks your battery and lets you know its performance status – Is that not good?
Don’t get charged to obtain a software update. Apart from coming with a 2-year warranty, updating its software online is totally free. Never worry about customer service because the company provides 24 hours support.
Some Features and Functions of NEXAS NL102 Plus are:
- Reads and erases error codes and shows their definition – This helps you to identify the problem.
- Live data display – It displays graphics data.
- Battery status check – It monitors the health status of your battery.
- Easy to use – Its interface is user- Friendly plus updating its software is totally free.
- Multi-language – It is coded to work with most commonly spoken languages.
———
Pros
- Easy to use interface.
- Free software update.
- Superior quality.
- Works with many languages.
- Has a battery health check feature.
Cons
- Does not support heavy-duty trucks which do not comply with the standard protocols J1708, J1939 and J1578.
Who Is It Built For?
The NEXAS NL102 is easy to use and works perfectly for beginners with heavy duty trucks. If you are new to using scan tools then this is the best diesel scan tool that you should probably start with.
3 Kzyee KC601 HOBD Heavy Duty Scan Tool for J1587, J1708 & J1939
4.1 / 5Why Taking Kzyee KC601 Plus?
If you are looking for a top-notch heavy duty truck scan tool that offers plenty of features then Kzyee KC601 can be a good choice. This scan tool is capable of diagnosing the engine, body, chassis, transmission, and ABS.
You can see detailed vehicle information using this scanner and figure out the problem easily.
Apart from that, it has good vehicle coverage as well.
Some Features and Functions of Kzyee KC601 are:
Read/Clear Engine Codes: The scanner can read and clear engine codes with the tap of a button.
You will have no problem in understanding the problem as it has a detailed DTC library that shows code explanations in plain English.
———
Apart from reading and clearing codes, you can also see live data making it easier to solve problems.
Transmission: Poor acceleration, gear issues may be related to transmission. This scanner can identify problems in the transmission system by reading the ECU information.
ABS: Brake problems can be deadly. They might be due to a variety of reasons including a broken sensor, poor wiring, or a malfunctioned ABS system.
Kzyee KC601 can read ABS light and ABS codes and help point out the problem. You can use it to solve the issue and ensure safety.
EGR System: With this feature, you can improve the efficiency of combustion by reading codes from the EGR system and air-injection.
DPF: The presence of soot in the exhaust can affect performance and cause emission-related issues. This scanner can help you remove soot from the exhaust.
Cruise Control: The tool can help you control the vehicle’s throttle system allowing you to stay in control. It’s important for your safety.
Vehicle Coverage: Kzyee KC601 is a popular heavy-duty truck scan tool that covers many truck brands including Caterpillar, Detroit, Cummins, Mercedes Benz, Peterbilt, John Deere, VOLVO, Freightliner, Sterling, Kenworth, International, Mack, and many other class 8 diesel trucks.
Note: It only supports J158, J1708, and J1939 protocols.
———
Pros
- Shows fuel used, engine revolutions, idle hours and other useful information.
- Comes with both 6 and 9 pin cables.
- 2-year warranty.
- Reads and clears instrument cluster codes.
- Can be updated through the internet.
Cons
- Only supports J1587/J1708 J1939 protocols.
Who Is It Built For?
Kzyee KC601 HOBD Heavy Duty Scan Tool with Live Data for J1587/J1708 J1939 Class 8 Diesel Trucks is ideal for DIYers and mechanics who want to see detailed information and use advanced features such as DPF, ABS, transmission, and chassis.
4 Autel ML529HD Heavy Truck Scan Tool for J1939 & J1708
5 / 5Why Taking Aytel ML529HD?
Autel ML529HD makes it possible to find and solve a variety of issues. It offers 10 OBD II modes and enhanced mode 6 as well. Plus, you also get to enjoy most of the basic features including freeze frame, I/M readiness, CEL, etc.
———
Some Features and Functions of Autel ML529HD are:
Live Data: This scanner can diagnose the truck’s performance while it’s running and displays data on the screen right there and then. You can view the PID values of your vehicle’s module to gauge performance.
Freeze Frame: This feature helps solve the problem by keeping a screenshot of the error in the system.
MIL/CEL Codes: With this scanner, you can find out why the engine light is on. It will read the code and offer a simple DTC explanation.
———
I/M Readiness: This feature helps you check the emission system of your truck and determine if your vehicle is emission ready or not.
Enhanced Mode 6: This mode is available for a few brands only including GM, Chrysler, and Ford.
It lets you read the onboard diagnostic monitor ID and enhanced reading codes.
Vehicle Coverage: The scanner supports both diesel and gas vehicles (J1939 and J1708) that are OBD2 supported.
It covers heavy-duty trucks, light trucks, and commercial vehicles built in 1996 or later.
Pros
- Shows data in a graphical form.
- 1-year warranty.
- You can print data by connecting it to a computer.
- Can be updated through the internet (free lifetime software updates).
- Supports auto-VIN.
- Reads enhanced codes in the powertrain system for a few brands.
Cons
- Doesn’t support ABS/SRS.
- Only supports J1939 and J1708 protocols.
Who Is It Built For?
Autel ML529HD Heavy Truck Scan Tool for J1939 And J1708 supports 10 modes and comes with lifetime updates, making it a good pick for heavy-duty truck owners.
5 Launch X431 V plus HD Diesel Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tool
4.2 / 5Why Taking Launch X431 V plus HD?
If all you are looking for in a heavy-duty truck scan tool is a great degree of convenience, then having Launch X431 V plus HD might just be the beginning of happy days with your car.
Why do I say so?
The truck diagnostic scanner is not only powerful, but it also performs quick autoscanning, has a touchscreen interface and performs various vehicle diagnosis.
Using it is also quite simple, which is largely due to its user-friendly android 5.1 interface.
The heavy duty truck scanner is also built with one key update. As a result, you only need to click one key update to download the latest software version.
This scan tool comes with a Bluetooth OBD2 connector module, which enables it to communicate through a wireless connection with your vehicle.
Features and Functions
Smart design: It comes with a shockproof case which makes it suitable for use in any industrial environment.
A great degree of convenience: The fact that this diesel scan tool uses Bluetooth for connections means that handling it is quite easy.
Advanced technology: Launch X431 V+ HD is designed with the latest technology with Android 5.1.
Pros
- Wireless Bluetooth diagnostic system.
- Wide vehicle coverage.
- Multilanguage.
- Industrial shockproof.
- Full comprehensive diagnosis.
Cons
- However, it might not have the best quality control.
Who Is It Built For?
Launch X431 V+ HD is also the perfect pick for professional mechanics. This is because this Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Tool has a wide vehicle coverage and it is packed with lots of features. Beginners might find it hard using even half of its features.
6Autel Maxisys MS908CV Professional Diesel Truck Diagnostic Scanner
4.5 / 5Why Taking Autel Maxisys MS908CV?
This heavy-duty truck diagnostic scanner is a reliable device that works efficiently in diagnosing exceeding 60 light duty, medium duty and also heavy-duty trucks.
Its performance is enhanced by its high-end features which makes it among the best truck diagnostic tools to have.
Autel MS908CV comes with a one year warranty plus a year of free software updates. The updates are constant and they provide you with the additions to their vehicle coverage.
Some Functional Features of MS908CV
Powerful diagnosis and analysis: It is able to work on large diesel vehicles since it contains a pack of heavy-duty vehicle connectors.
Advanced programming system: This enables good performance and provision of outstanding services such as Bluetooth communication between the maxiSYS MS908CV tablet and the vehicle.
Special functionality: Autel MS908CV offers complete repairs including adaptations, maintenance resets, and injector quality adjustment among others.
Wide compatibility: This professional automotive diagnostic tool works well with a good number of diesel vehicles ranging from Asian, European to more than 80 made in US vehicles.
———
Pros
- Wide vehicle coverage.
- Advanced programming.
- Powerful diagnosis system.
- Special features.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Does not support iOS. Hence, people with iPhones and iPad are left out.
Who Is It Built For?
Autel Maxisys MS908CV is definitely built for professional mechanics who want to do everything on heavy-duty trucks including Key coding, Key Programming, and even J-2534 ECU programming.
If you have never used a heavy-duty truck scan tool before, then the chances of experiencing difficulties while using Autel MS908CV are high.
Autel Maxisys MS 908 CV might require some prior knowledge of how scanners work hence suitable for professionals ONLY.
A short video about Autel Maxisys MS 908 CV Heavy Duty:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMXRBwYQCRE
7JPRO Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Scan Tool
5 / 5Why Taking JPRO Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Software?
If you are looking for a cutting-edge heavy-duty truck diagnostic tool that works perfectly across all makes and models, then you definitely need to have the JPRO professional Diagnostic device.
This bidirectional scan tool comes with a set of useful accessories which include USB cable, HB OBD 2 cable, 6-pin heavy duty cable and 9-pin heavy duty cable which allows you to connect with most ports on various devices.
Additionally, this diesel scanner shows over 44,000 error codes for both medium duty and heavy duty with detailed description which makes handling them quite easy.
Some Features and Functions of JPRO Professional are:
Works with all models and all makes – This means that regardless of your type of vehicle, it will always work.
Shows fault codes exceeding 44, 000 together with detailed descriptions which makes tackling the problem simply.
Quick diagnosis – It is designed to scan the whole vehicle in a single pass and display on one screen.
Built with bi-directional functionality – This enables it to scan, repair and reset codes.
———
Pros
- It is powerful.
- Bi-directional functionality.
- Easy to use.
- Wide vehicle coverage.
Cons
- It does not have a wireless connection feature.
Who Is It Built For?
JPRO Professional is the best heavy duty truck diagnostic software for professional truck mechanics.
A short video about JPRO Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Software:
8 ANCEL HD510 Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Scan Tool
Note: We’re sorry that the ANCEL HD510 is currently unavailable.
Why Taking ANCEL HD510 Truck Code Reader?
Talk of a scan tool with great versatility and you are definitely talking about ANCEL HD510. This scanner can work perfectly with a variety of vehicles ranging from cars, light to heavy-duty trucks.
Its truck voltage display enables you to identify the battery status of your truck before starting the repair.
The ANCEL HD510 truck code reader is also packed with top-notch features such as reading and erasing generic codes, displays code definitions, shows vehicle information and live data which are quite vital for any scan tool.
Updating its software is pretty much easy since you only need to connect the truck scanner to the internet using a cable connected to the PC.
Features and Functions
Multi-language support:Shows code definitions: This saves you the time of having to search the internet the meaning of error codes.
Wide compatibility: ANCEL HD510 supports many vehicles and trucks ensuring that many people are not left out of enjoying its services.
———
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Supports various languages.
- Wide vehicle compatibility.
- Displays code definitions.
Cons
- This diesel code reader does not support wireless connections.
Who Is It Built For?
ANCEL HD510 is the best heavy-duty truck code reader for both beginners and enthusiasts in diagnosing trucks and cars. This is due to its simplicity and good performance in technical functionalities.
9OTC 3418 Professional Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic Scanner
Note: We’re sorry that the OTC 3418 is currently unavailable.
Why Taking OTC 3418 Heay Duty Truck Diagnostic Scanner?
Designed with some of the best and powerful features, OTC 3418 heavy-duty truck scanner might be incomparable with other scanning devices available.
It is the perfect tool for technicians who need a scanner which reads and clears fault codes quickly.
This truck scanner has wide compatibility with the ability to read and clear diagnostic codes in heavy duty and light mid and industrial vehicles.
Something also interesting about this scan tool is that it is battery-powered and uses a cable for updating its software. Hence, using it any time you need is made possible.
Some Features and Functions of OTC 3418 are:
Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes – With its quick performance, it is suitable for use by diesel truck technicians.
Displays code definitions – This saves you the time of having to search on the internet for their meaning.
Wide vehicle coverage – It works well with a wide range of vehicles.
It is battery powered – Hence no need to be troubled with charging this device when you need to use it.
———
Pros
- Good performance speed.
- Displays code definition.
- Wide compatibility.
- Good quality.
- Comes with a three-year warranty.
Cons
- It could be too expensive for some users.
Who Is It Built For?
The OTC3418 heavy duty truck diagnostic tool is suitable for technicians in need of a quicker way of diagnosing diesel trucks issues.
A short video about OTC 3418 Heavy Duty Truck Diagnostic scanner:
The Bottom Line
Despite how hard it could be choosing the best Heavy Duty Truck Scan Tool, you are in a better position equipped with this information.
If you take into consideration every detail when buying a diesel scan tool, you would probably have the best scanner to help you solve issues with your vehicle.
Read more: Best OBD2 Scanners Definite Buying Guide and Review 2019
Hello, I like this scanner
All scanner have many advantages.
Which do you consider to buy?
hi tim, where can i get a training on how to be use these product?Autel Maxisys MS908CV Professional Diesel Truck Diagnostic Scanner., am a business owner of heavy equipments like isuzu dumptrucks, komatsu 380-6 payloader, zx 225 backhoe, am from the philippines,thanks in advance
Please contact your local auto repair training schools.
Hi please could you advice me on the best diagnostic tool for my daf fleet of cf and lf able to perform adjustments calibrate and testing for all components on these model trucks
Hi Douglas,
I would recommend Autel Maxisys MS908CV Professional Diesel Truck Diagnostic Scanner.
Thanks for the detailed article on truck scan tools. I’m always looking for better equipment and really liked your recommendation for a JPRO professional Diagnostic device, that allows variable port connections. I’ll have to keep these scanners in mind as I look around to replace and improve truck parts.
Thanks. Any questions are welcome.
My boyfriend has a 97 F350 and he is a diesel mechanic. Which scanner do you recommend?
Hey Tara,
Can you tell what’s wrong with the 97 F350 and what does he want to do with his 97 F350? To turn off the Check Engine Light or to do a deep diagnosis of the systems like ABS, SRS, SAS, EPB, etc?
The more information you give, the better the recommendation I can give. How much can he invest for the scanner?
Best,
Try a DIY, 10Kw 24volt d/c 120/220 VAC inverter, A 24 VDC Battery Bank, A 24 VDC 10KW Military Surplus Altinator, A 16HP water cooled Honda Power source, Makes A great auxzillary Power Source.
Semi truck was starting here and there. So took it to the shop and problem was detected because the truck was working. Got home and truck is back doing the same thing after I drove it for a hour. It will not start. The wires were checked by me of course since the truck can’t be moved. I was told it may be a electrical problem. What do you suggest?
Why don’t you buy one of the truck scan tools and have it diagnosed https://www.obdadvisor.com/heavy-duty-truck-scan-tool/#Heavy_Duty_Truck_Scanner_Editor8217s_Top_3_Picks_Comparison_Table
I highly recommend Kzyee KC601.
Forgot to mention it has a built Cummins engine
What scanner do you recommend for diagnostic test and also a good price for off road construction heavy equip like John Deere, caterpillar etc ?? Thanks
Kzyee KC601 is highly recommended for heavy trucks with protocols J1708 and J1939 like John Deere and Caterpillar.
Check it out here: https://www.obdadvisor.com/heavy-duty-truck-scan-tool/#3_Kzyee_KC601_HOBD_Heavy_Duty_Scan_Tool_for_J1587_J1708_J1939nbsp
What scanner do you recommend for isuzu and mitsubishi light duty trucks??
I highly recommend Autel ML529HD https://www.obdadvisor.com/heavy-duty-truck-scan-tool/#4_Autel_ML529HD_Heavy_Truck_Scan_Tool_for_J1939_J1708