Read every module. Not just the engine.
17 reviews · 7 categories · Updated Oct 2026
We plug every iCarsoft scanner into real cars and report what it read, reset and coded.
The five we would buy first
| # | Tool | Category | Maker | Price | Score | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | iCarsoft CR Max P Review: A Closer Look at This Bi-Directional Scan Tool with Topology MappingTop pick Best for: Home garages that want bi-directional tests and a module map | Pro Diagnostic Tablets | iCarsoft | n/a | 8.8/10 | Read review |
| 02 |  Best for: Home mechanics and small shops stepping up from a basic scanner | Pro Diagnostic Tablets | iCarsoft | $599.99 | 8.2/10 | Read review |
| 03 |  Best for: DIYers and used-car buyers who need every module readable | DIY Scan Tools | iCarsoft | $329.99 | 7.9/10 | Read review |
| 04 |  Best for: Independent shops that do tires, programming and older cars | Pro Diagnostic Tablets | iCarsoft | $1,199.99 | 7.8/10 | Read review |
| 05 |  Best for: Mercedes, Sprinter and Smart owners doing their own service | German Brand Scanners | iCarsoft | $229.99 | 7.7/10 | Read review |
Buy the tool for the job, not for the screen size.
A code reader tells you why the light is on. A scan tool talks to the other modules. A bi-directional tool can also tell parts to move, which is how you prove a fault before you buy the part.
How we test| Job | Code reader | Scan tool | Bi-directional |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reads and clears engine codes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ABS, SRS, transmission and body modules | No | Yes | Yes |
| Oil, brake, battery and steering resets | No | Yes | Yes |
| Commands parts to move (active tests) | No | No | Yes |
Pick your kind of car, or your kind of job
American and Asian Brand Scanners
Make-specific scanners for Ford, GM and Chrysler owners and for Japanese and Korean makes such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai and Kia.
3 reviewsDIY Scan Tools
Entry and mid-price scanners that read and clear codes, show live data and handle the common service resets a home mechanic needs.
1 reviewEuropean Brand Scanners
Make-specific scanners for Land Rover, Jaguar, Volvo, Opel, Vauxhall and French or Italian makes outside the German groups.
3 reviewsGerman Brand Scanners
Make-specific scanners for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen Group and Porsche owners who want dealer-style depth on one family of cars.
3 reviewsMotorcycle Scanners
Diagnostic tools for motorcycles and scooters, from single-brand readers to multi-brand units built for bike shops.
4 reviewsPro Diagnostic Tablets
Large-screen, full-system bi-directional tablets with ECU coding, topology and deep service functions for independent shops and serious home mechanics.
1 reviewSpecialty Diagnostics
Tools for jobs beyond the passenger car OBD2 port: TPMS programming, heavy-duty trucks, marine engines and oscilloscope testing.
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