There are thousands of choices of OBD-II scanners for beginners in the market. One of these scanners is the INNOVA 3020d ABS OBD2 Scan Tool. This is an in-depth review of this scanner.
But first,
Let’s take a look at the comparison chart below before taking it.
Table of Contents
Innova 3020d vs. Innova 3150f vs. Innova 3100j
 INNOVA 3020D ABS Diagnostic Scan Tool |  INNOVA 3150F ABS/SRS Scan Tool |  INNOVA 3100J ABS/SRS Scan Tool |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  | |
| Price |  |  | |
| Product Dimensions | 8" x 5.1" x 0.9" | 10.2" x 8.2" x 1.5" | 10" x 8" x 1.5" |
| Item Weight | 4.8oz | 1.45lbs | 1.2lbs |
| Pros | Covers OBD2/CAN vehicles, minivans; Capable of Bluetooth connection; Supports ABS and Emission Readiness Advisor. | Covers most OBD2 vehicles (domestic and foreign); Supports ABS and Oil reset functions. | Covers most OBD2 cars, SUVs, light trucks, and hybrids; Supports ABS and Oil reset functions; Supports live data, and freeze frame data. |
| Cons | Erasing the DTCs does not solve the problem that caused the code. | Possible compatible issue. | Not work well with Windows Vista; Lack live data features. |
| Bottom Line | Innova 3020d is perfect for car owners who want to turn off the CEL and do simple tests on their cars. | Innova 3150f suits DIYers and average car owners who prefer bluetooth connection. | Innova 3150f suits DIYers and average car owners who prefer cable connection. |
Innova 3020d Detailed Review
The INNOVA 3020d is an OBD2 scanner that enables car users to check engine problems, road trip readiness, and inspection of used cars. It’s a perfect entry-level tool for beginners and professionals as it has simple navigation buttons that require no experience to operate.
It diagnoses all vehicles supporting OBDII protocol, including cars, SUVs, minivans, and light trucks.
Features and Functionalities
Code Retrieval
Innova 3020d scan tool allows a user to retrieve code based on the DTC definition. All you have to do is connect the cable connector to the car’s data link connector, and the vehicle icon will be displayed on the screen to confirm if the power connection is good.
When you turn on the ignition, Innova 3020d will automatically connect with the vehicle’s computer. If the scanner displays a blank screen, it indicates a problem with the power connection at the DLC. Check and replace the fuse panel if it has been burned out.
After about four seconds, Innova 3020d scan tool will display retrieved diagnostic trouble codes if there is any issue in the vehicle’s computer memory. If an error is displayed on the screen, there is a problem in communication between the scanner and computer memory. Ensure the vehicle supports OBDII protocol and turn off and on the ignition key again.
Innova 3020d
With Innova 3020d, reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes is very easy.
- When the Green LED has displayed, it indicates that the engine system is in good condition and running normally.
- The Yellow LED indicates that either pending code is present or the monitor is still running the diagnosis.
- In case it displays Red LED, it means there is a problem in the vehicle’s system.
Strength:
Innova 3020d automatically links the code reader with the vehicle’s computer memory and retrieves the code quickly. Also, it is easy to read and interpret the display functionalities.
Weakness:
Connecting and disconnecting Innova 3020d while the ignition is on can damage the code reader and the vehicle’s computer memory. Ensure that you turn off the ignition before connecting or disconnecting the scanner.
Read Diagnostic Trouble Codes
The Innova 3020d enables a user to view DTCs, including the anti-braking system (ABS), when connected to a vehicle. To check the codes, press the functionality you want to check on, for instance, the ABS button. After a few seconds, the scanner will retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes and display them.
The DTCs are usually stored in the controller’s memory. This scanner tool will display all the codes, and if the functionality is not supported by your car, it will show an error message.
Strength:
With Innova 3020d, it is easy to read the diagnostic codes; it takes about 4-5 seconds to retrieve the code from the vehicle’s computer memory.
Weakness:
The Anti-Braking system (ABS) is not by all vehicles. Only Ford, Chrysler, and GM vehicles support this function. Always check the official website to know the list of vehicles covered.
Erases DTCs
Innova 3020d has an erased function that enables you to clear the DTCs from your vehicle’s computer and freeze frame data. In case you want to take your car to a repair later, don’t erase these codes. This is because the mechanic might need this information to understand the problem well.
When you erase the DTCs in your vehicle, the I/M readiness program will reset the entire monitor’s status to flashing condition. To set all the monitors back to normal status, perform the OBDII drive cycle.
When making this operation, liaise with the manufacturer’s manual to check how the OBDII test is performed.
Strength:
The procedure of clearing the codes is simple. Note that after erasing, you can retrieve the code by pressing the erase button once again.
Weakness:
Erasing the DTC does not solve the problem that caused the code(s). If the necessary repair is not done, the code will reappear again after some time.
Innova 3020d
Compatibility
Innova 3020d is compatible with wide vehicle coverage.
It works well with cars, light trucks, SUVs, Minivans, and hybrid vehicles manufactured from 1996 onwards.
Note that to be able to perform the test, the vehicle must be OBDII compliant.
Pros
- Covers wide vehicle coverage including SUVs and minivans
- Easy to read and erase DTCs
- Has good display
- Supports special functions such as ABS
- Automatically retrieves codes
Cons
- The ABS function does not support all vehicles
Who Is Innova 3020d Built For?
Innova 3020d is an entry-level diagnostic tool with handy features, a great display, and an affordable price. It is perfect for beginners as no skills are needed for one to perform a test.
It is ideal for checking the car’s status when the engine light blinks on before hitting the road.
Innova 3020d
The Bottom Line
Innova 3020d is an excellent entry-level scan tool that will enable you to read and clear codes in a snap. It automatically refreshes the results every 30 seconds and displays them on a screen.
This scan tool comes with a keypad with four buttons that enables you to simply navigate the functions, including checking the engine and reading the ABS codes.
