You are getting into trouble with the car transmission and want to fix it, right?
I’ve met this problem several times when the transmission light is on, and I know your uncomfortable feeling now.
But, don’t worry too much! Let’s jump to the review of the 10 best OBD2 scanners for transmission that I’ve spent hundreds of hours testing and using. You will find the best tool for yourself!
Top 3 Transmission Code Readers Comparison Chart
Editor's Pick Launch CRP123 |  Launch Creader VII+ |  Autel ML629 |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price range |  | | |
| OBD2 functions | 10/10* | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Transmission codes and light reset | 10/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| ABS codes and light reset | 10/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| SRS codes and light reset | 10/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Vehicle coverage | Cars, SUVs, light trucks, 12V HD trucks from 1996 | Cars, SUVs, light trucks, 12V HD trucks from 1996 | Cars, SUVs, light trucks, 12V HD trucks from 1996 |
*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2
Top 3 Transmission Code Readers Review
Let’s have a closer look at the best transmission code readers in detail.
1. Launch CRP123: OBD2 scan tools with transmission
The Launch CRP123 is designed with quality standards. It offers more features than many OBD2 scanners out there at the same price range.
But if you’re on the lookout for a newbie-friendly simple scanner, then this product is not for you.
The design of the Launch CRP123 is intuitive. It is small, compact, and fits in the pocket perfectly. The transmission scanner is aesthetically appealing with its black and cherry color combinations.
The CRP123 has broad compatibility. You can use the tool with all OBD2 enabled automobiles.
It can present data instantly, and you can also save the data for later use. And the engine scan history can be recovered anytime in the future.
With its 7.8 inches in breadth, 1.7 inches in height, and 1.4 in overall weight, the scan tool is very portable.
This transmission code scanner does not require installation or software to run. Once it is connected with Port and touching the right button on the screen, the engine’s diagnosis begins.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of vehicles
- The scanner doesn’t need additional updates
- Equipped with upgradable software
- Easy to carry
- Easy to use the navigation
Cons
- The tool is quite expensive
- It is designed for professionals
The Launch CRP123 transmission scanner is for DIYers looking for a transmission scan tool that delivers what it says.
Launch CRP123
2. Launch Creader VII+
Launch makes some of the best transmission scanners, and the Launch Creader VII+ is one of them. A full OBD2 diagnostic tool, this scanner covers a wide range of domestic, Asian, and European car brands.
They include tens of car makes such as VW, Acura, Honda, Ford, Benz, BMW, Fiat, Opel, GM, Chrysler, Volvo, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Subaru, and Toyota. For confirmation’s sake, be sure to check Launch’s website whether your car is covered.
In terms of functionality, this transmission diagnostic tool can pull and clear codes from the transmission system. Additionally, it can display live data from the transmission system to help you know whether the car’s speed and load match its transmission’s output.
Built with a full-color screen, the Launch Creader VII+ can identify a vehicle automatically. It features auto VIN, which detects the make and model of your car and shows its VIN, CID, and CVN.
Just in case you’re wondering, this transmission scan tool also gives you access to other systems, including engine, ABS, and SRS.
Pros
- Covers almost all OBD2-compliant vehicles
- Full OBD2 function
- Package includes free software updates for the scanner’s lifetime
- Fairly affordable for a full OBD2 function scan tool
- Small and compact for handheld operation
Cons
- Compatibility issues with some 1996 to 2006 cars
- Construction feels cheap
Launch Creader VII+ is your typical DIY tool meant for enthusiasts who frequently need to diagnose the transmission and other systems.
Launch Creader VII+
3. Autel ML629: OBD2 scanner with transmission codes
Autel’s ML629 Maxi Link is an entry-level transmission diagnostic tool that covers OBD2 compliant vehicles. It works on almost all mainstream cars that were made from 1996 onward. That includes domestic and foreign brands.
With a full-color screen feature, this ergonomic scanner reads and clears trouble codes from the transmission system. It will give a brief description to let you know precisely the issue with your transmission after pulling a code.
In addition to that, the transmission code reader offers live sensor data. As far as transmission goes, you can track both transmission speed and pressure. Besides, it supports the storage and playback of live data. That makes it easy to retrieve the parameters the next time you need them.
Pros
- Works on a wide range of domestic and foreign cars
- Easy to operate thanks to the intuitive interface
- The compact and ergonomic design makes storage and handling a breeze
- Comes with an entry-level price
- Features auto VIN for vehicle identification
Cons
- Functionality issues with 2013 and newer cars
- The update procedure is not so straightforward
The ML629 Maxi Link is perfect for enthusiasts who need to check codes and view live data from the transmission.
Autel ML629
More OBD2 Scanners with Transmission Codes Reading 2022
4. BlueDriver: Bluetooth OBD2 scanner with transmission
The BlueDriver Bluetooth scanner is yet another OBD2 adapter that pairs with mobile devices to perform diagnostics. As you can tell from the name, it uses Bluetooth to connect with smartphones and tablets.
More importantly, this adapter is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Plus, it works on all OBD2-compliant vehicles. That wide compatibility is why some folks out there call it the best transmission scanner.
Needless to say, it does deliver impressively. For starters, it comes with the Bluedriver App, which you get for free after purchasing the adapter. Combined, the two allow you to pull transmission codes from your car. You can view confirmed, pending as well as permanent trouble codes.
The scanner offers code definitions to help you understand what exactly is wrong with your transmission. In case the Check Engine Light is on because of a problem in the transmission system, you can reset it by clearing those codes. Besides that, it allows you to view live data from the transmission.
It’s worth noting that while you can use the BlueDriver scanner to pull engine codes on any OBD2 car, transmission diagnostics is only possible on BMW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota.
Pros
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
- Enhances mobility thanks to wireless connectivity
- Comes with a free OBD2 diagnostic app
- Pairs easily via Bluetooth
- Can be left plugged in the car for real-time data collection
Cons
- Transmission diagnosis doesn’t work on all car brands
- Drains car battery when left plugged in
The BlueDriver transmission code reader is ideal for car owners who want to use their smartphones and tablets to check transmission codes and live data.
5. AUTOPHIX V007
Are you looking for a scan tool that works on a wide range of vehicles? Autophix V007 ends your search.
The device is one of the best transmission code readers available in the market. It is a cost-effective scanner that helps analyze loads of vehicle problems.
This transmission code reader is compatible with the majority of OBD II vehicles.
The tool can check all systems, including transmission, Airbags, Immobilizer, and so on.
It contains a multiannual menu that covers various languages, including English and German.
Autophix Udiag V007 is equipped with an easy to read display which displays vital data stream.
Pros
- Autophix V007 is compact and portable
- It is easy to use
- It’s compatible with a wide range of vehicle models
- The transmission code reader comes at a pocket-friendly price yet contains all the basic features required.
Cons
- Graphics are not visually appealing. Even so, it is worth the price.
If you are looking for a tool to help you do-it-yourself, Autophix V007 is the perfect product that you’ll find. It is compact and lightweight enough to carry anywhere.
Autophix V007
8. FOXWELL NT510 Elite
Foxwell NT510 is a quality transmission scanner. It allows BMW users to perform similar deep engine analyses carried out at BMW dealerships.
The Foxwell NT510 scanner works on most 1996 to newer BMW models.
This transmission scanner is a cost-effective tool that provides advanced features like component actuation. It is also able to read and erase codes as well as reset oil reminders.
The Foxwell NT510 is a handheld gadget that does not require a laptop. And the light indicator turns off once the problem is fixed.
Pros
- Display live sensor data and graphs
- EOBD Compliant
- Multilingual
- Easy to use
Cons
- The software update is only free for the first 18 months
Foxwell NT510 is a good pick for anyone looking for a BMW scanner under 200 USD. It provides features that are often only available at BMW dealerships.
Foxwell NT510
6. Autel Diaglink
It may be a full-system scanner, but the Autel Diaglink is especially outstanding in checking the transmission system. With it, you can read and clear transmission codes. Usually, after clearing trouble codes, the Check Engine Light (CEL) should go off, assuming it was a transmission problem.
Built with a color LCD screen, the Autel Diaglink features a simple and intuitive interface. That is one of the reasons why it’s among the best transmission scanners.
Upon purchase, Autel will give you the software for one vehicle for free. The good news is that you get to choose a car make and model that you want to use this transmission code reader with. By contrast, the bad news is that you will have to pay $10 for every additional car model if you want to increase its vehicle coverage.
As long as we are talking coverage, this transmission diagnostic tool is compatible with almost all mainstream OBD2-compliant cars. As a matter of fact, it supports all ten modes of OBD2. In other words, as long as your vehicle is a 1996 or newer model, it’s almost certain that the scanner will be compatible.
Pros
- Wide vehicle compatibility
- Supports other advanced functions besides transmission diagnostics
- Quite affordable for a scanner with a wide range of functions
- Can help reset the CEL
- Comes with free software for one car make
Cons
- You only get software for one car make. Expanding coverage requires payment.
- Installing software is not simple
Autel’s Diaglink is the best transmission scanner for the DIY mechanic who works on one or a few car brands.
Autel Diaglink
7. FIXD
If you would rather have an adapter than a stand-alone scanner, then the FIXD OBD-II code reader is well worth your consideration. This transmission diagnostic tool is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
It comes with the FIXD app for OBD2 diagnostics. Once the app is installed on your smartphone or tablet, the adapter will be useful to check your transmission system. FIXD OBD-II will pull and erase codes, and by doing so, help you reset the Check Engine Light when it comes on due to transmission-related problems.
One of the reasons why some people consider FIXD to be the best transmission scanner is because of its data display. In addition to code definitions, you can view live data of the transmission system. The data comes in text format as well as PIDs (graphs, gauges, and charts).
Although this tool is designed for all OBD2-compliant vehicles, its transmission diagnostic function is limited to Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota. Meaning you can use it to check the engine of any OBD2 car, but only the five brands are supported when it comes to transmission.
Pros
- Compatible with iOS and Android
- Uses Bluetooth, so you don’t have to deal with wires
- Small and not obstructive when left plugged in the car
- Comes with the FIXD OBD2 app
- Easy to use
- Very affordable
Cons
- Transmission diagnosis works on a few brands of cars
- The product doesn’t have the best customer support
The FIXD transmission code reader is suitable for ordinary car owners who want to leave the device plugged in and collect transmission codes and real-time transmission data.
FIXD OBD-II code reader
9. Autel MD808
If you want to figure out what is wrong with your engine, the Autel MD808 is what you need. It’s undoubtedly one of the best transmission code readers at the moment.
This Autel Scanner can scan and erase unwanted codes. Also, it tests and controls oil reset, BMS, DPF, EPB, and SRS.
Autel MD808 offers diesel particulate filter regeneration, steering angle sensor, battery registration, and oil service rest.
The scanner is a four handheld gadget. And it provides global OBD-II coverage for a wide variety of vehicle brands and models.
Pros
- It is inexpensive.
- Offers all module scan capabilities.
- Fast and easy for newbie and professional mechanics to use.
- Equipped with an intuitive color display.
Cons
- It supports Windows only
- Does not work well on all vehicle models
Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Transmission Scanner is for those on the lookout for affordable option offers. The device offers all the necessary functionalities you would expect from a standard scanner.
MaxiDiag MD808
10. Autel MK808
MaxiCOM MK808 Transmission Scan Tool has all the primary features you would want out of an OBD2 scanner.
Autel MaxiCOM MK808 can be used with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based, and newer vehicles.
The 7″ touchscreen display makes it easy to read what is on it.
MK808 can make full system diagnoses, including ABS, SRS, and Transmission, etc.
It can reset the battery management system and DPF/SAS/BMS/EPB systems, which are used for the safety maintenance of vehicle systems.
The scanner has an in-built WI-FI for software updates. However, a card reader or USB is required for a software update.
Pros
- In-built WI-FI
- Responds quickly to inputs
- The display is clearly visible
- Compatible with all OBDII vehicles
- Portable design
Cons
- You need a card reader or USB for the software update
- Supports only Android devices
The fact that it comes with in-built WI-FI and is compatible with all OBD vehicles makes this tool a great choice.
The Autel MK808 scanner is an excellent choice for mechanics looking for a transmission scanner with great features.
Autel MK808
Conclusion
“Well, What’s on your mind at the end of my post?”
As you see not all transmission coder readers provide the same features and the best one is not the most expensive but the most suitable. I hope you’ve got one for your car. If you’re on the second thoughts, leave a comment and I will help you out.
Read more:
