Do you know that you can run a quick check on your vehicle even on the go? Well, KOBRA KB30 is an essential code reader that can effectively check your car.
The code reader will help you to know if your vehicle has a fault or not.
Before you buy it, take a look at the comparison chart below.
Table of Contents
KOBRA KB30 vs. Autel MS300 vs. BAFX Comparison Chart
 Kobra KB30 |  Autel MaxiScan MS300 |  BAFX |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  | |
| Price |  | | |
| Product Dimensions | 7.5" x 5.1" x 1.1" | 6.3" x 2" x 9.1" | 2.8" x 1.5" x 1" |
| Item Weight | 6.4oz | 8.8oz | 2.88oz |
| Pros | Can reset CEL; Reads the DTCs; Reliable diagnosis. | Offers 7000 DTCs with descriptions; Displays DTC definitions on screen; Includes a Standard 16-pin OBD-II connector; Retrieves VIN on 2002 and newer vehicles supporting Mode 9; Supports the CAN and all OBD-II protocols; Can Work with most OBD-II vehicles. | Offers various diagnostic functions; Work smoothly with third-party apps; Optimized for vehicles in the United States only. |
| Cons | Cannot erase codes. | Possibility of Compatibility issues. (Check carefully before buying.) | Not support iOS devices. |
| Bottom Line | KOBRA KB30 is for those who just want to read the DTCs. | Autel MS300 is a handy code reader for beginners. | Bafx products is suitable for beginners and average car owners. |
KOBRA KB30 Overview
Once the underlying issue has been resolved, you can use KOBRA KB30 to clear the Check Engine Light.
You will also notice that it is small in size, perfectly fitting into your hand, enhancing portability.
One thing that makes this code reader a top choice is that it is incredibly cost-effective.
Get more honest and reliable diagnostic functions of KOBRA KB30 from this in-depth review based on first-hand experience.
Detailed Review of KOBRA KB30
1. Clear The Check Engine Light
Strength:
If you do not have a diagnostic tool, you know how annoying and confusing Check Engine Light is.
Check engine light can leave you guessing what could be the impending problem.
You are always unsure whether you will safely get to your next destination, or you may get stuck far away from home.
But KOBRA KB30 eliminates these uncertainties as you can instantly know the status of your car.
Based on the retrieved codes, you will know if you can resolve the underlying issue or need advanced help.
Moreover, you will significantly reduce the number of trips you make to a mechanic shop, eventually saving a lot of time.
Bonus: Autel AutoLink AL319: OBD2 & CAN Automotive Code Reader / Scanner Review
Weakness:
The code reader fails to establish connections in some models, such as the 2007 Chrysler model.
Instead, it displays a link error on the screen. Besides, the code reader is unstable while retrieving codes leading to inaccurate readings.
2. Read and clear basic codes
Strength:
Whenever there is a problem with your car, a code is generated and stored in the onboard computer. To retrieve the stored diagnostic trouble code, you need a code reader. KOBRA KB30 will quickly connect to your onboard computer to retrieve the stored code.
This code reader can read and clear basic codes from the engine and emission system. For instance, if you have a loose gas cap or a leak within the emission system, KOBRA KB30 will read and clear corresponding DTCs.
It can also detect broken circuits or a blown-up fuse that are causing the Check Engine Light to come on.
You will notice that this code reader uses the universal 16 pin connector to link to a port located on the side of the steering wheel.
This code reader is incredibly fast. It means that you will not waste time waiting for the code reader to connect to your car. This code reader can retrieve a diagnostic code in less than 20 seconds.
KOBRA KB30 has a unique advantage that most code readers lack. It has a booklet that defines all the diagnostic trouble codes. When you retrieve a code that you are not familiar with, you can always refer to the codebook. It means that you will not have to go online looking for the definition of the retrieved DTCs.
When you retrieve a code that you are not familiar with, you can always refer to the codebook. It means that you will not have to go online looking for the definition of the retrieved DTCs.
Weakness:
When you retrieve a code that you are not familiar with, you can always refer to the codebook. It means that you will not have to go online looking for the definition of the retrieved DTCs.
3. It is a plug-and-play code reader
KOBRA KB30 is a plug-and-play code reader that is easy to use. You will notice that KOBRA KB30 has no built-in battery.
Strength:
It uses your car’s battery to power up and scans your vehicle, which comes with an advantage as you will not have to wait for the battery to charge to perform a scan.
All you need to do is plug the 16-pin OBD2 cord into a universal port. You need to turn on the ignition for the code reader to illuminate.
After that, you have to press the Enter key’ to allow the unit to read the protocol. Use the scroll button to navigate from one feature to the next.
After identifying the feature that you want to scan, you can press the enter’ button to begin a scan.
The code reader will either display a diagnostic trouble code or no code’ sign if your car is in good condition.
Weakness:
KOBRA KB30 has a short cord that compromises your comfort when diagnosing your car.
You will not sit or lean back in the driver’s seat and comfortably perform a scan.
This code reader is made from cheap plastic, therefore, compromising its durability.
Compatibility
- KOBRA KB30 is compatible with all the 1996 OBD2/EOBD vehicles.
- These vehicles can either be from US, Asian, or European vehicles.
- You will also notice that it is compatible with ISO, PWM, VPW, CAN as well as KWP 2000 protocols.
Pros
- This code reader is really easy to use
- Comes with 1-year money back guarantee
- It is small and truly portable
- Plug-and-play hence no wasting time while waiting for the battery to charge
- It is really cheap
- This code reader can clear the check engine light
- It has an efficient customer support
- Has a wide compatibility
Cons
- It is not updatable hence can retrieve unrecognized codes
- It does not support advanced functions
- You will notice that is made from cheap plastic hence not durable
- It has a small screen making it hard to read DTCs
- Fails to recognize the 2007 Chrysler model.
- The code reader is unstable and not accurate.
Who Is It Built For?
If you are an average car owner looking to clear check engine light, KOBRA KB30 is the right tool for you.
You will notice that the code reader can only perform basic functions.
Besides, it is effortless and quick to use when it comes to retrieving codes.
As a result, KOBRA KB30 is an ideal code reader for a quick basic scan of your vehicle.
Check Price at AmazonThe Bottom Line
KOBRA KB30 offers the best option to cut down maintenance costs on your vehicle. It allows you to solve basic maintenance and repair issues without taking your car to a mechanic.
You will be able to turn off the check engine light so quickly. Besides, it comes with a book that defines DTCs.
One other outstanding thing is that KOBRA KB30 is really cheap.
It is a code reader that you can comfortably recommend to anyone who wants to perform basic diagnostic functions.
