The on-board diagnostic system is very helpful for most car owners as it lets them find faults in the car. However, this can turn out to be a bit troublesome if you own an older car – manufactured before 1996.
Vehicles built before 1996 are OBD1 compliant and are not supported by modern OBD2 scan tools. You will need an OBD1 code reader to diagnose such vehicles.
OBD1 code readers might not offer complex functionalities but can perform basic tasks. A good OBD1 scan tool can check engine codes and read DTCs.
However, finding a suitable OBD1 scanner for an affordable price can be a bit difficult as there are not many available on the market any more. Most of the professional level OBD2 scanners nowadays are able to read OBD1 systems when used with the appropriate OBD1-to-OBD2 adapter, but these are generally very expensive tools that are out of reach for most DIYers.
To help you out, we have selected the 3 most affordable OBD1 code readers.
Best OBD1 code readers reviews
| Product Name | Product Image | Editor's Picks | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Innova 3145 Ford OBD1 Code Reader |  | Best Overall | 9.5/10 |
| Innova 3123 GM OBD1 Code Reader |  | Runner Up | 9.5/10 |
| Innova 3170RS OBD1 and OBD2 Scanner |  | Great Pick | 9/10 |
Why did we choose these 3 OBD1 scanners to make this table? Let’s have a look:
Innova 3145 Ford OBD1 code reader
This Innova 3145 Ford OBD1 scanner supports a wide range of old Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln vehicles. It can read engine light codes and is capable of storing codes.
Features
Run and display: This OBD1 code reader can read transmission and engine codes like a pro. That’s not all, it can run self tests to help you gauge performance.
EGR: Code 33 is a common error code that occurs in many old Ford models. It indicates a faulty EGR sensor or valve. Fortunately, the Innova 3145 OBD1 scanner can read this code.
Guidebook: The Innova 3145 scan tool comes with an instruction manual book that explains what the numeric codes mean. It’s quite similar to an OBD2 DTC library showing the meaning of the fault codes but also contains additional details on how to use the device.
Self memory: This OBD1 code reader can store codes so that you are able to share the problem with a mechanic.
Vehicle coverage
The Innova 3145 OBD1 code reader covers most Ford models manufactured between 1982 and 1995. Light to medium duty Ford trucks are also supported.
Vehicles including Mercury and Lincoln are also covered by the scanner.
Verdict
The Innova 3145 Ford OBD1 code reader can be an excellent pick for Ford owners. It can help solve all engine problems and is easy to use.
Pros
- Helps turn off MIL.
- Compact size.
- Can diagnose cylinder related issues.
- Runs self tests and shows car performance.
Cons
- The cord is quite short (extensions available)
Innova 3123 GM OBD1 code reader
If you are in search of a reliable General Motors (GM) OBD1 scanner, then the Innova 3123 GM OBD1 code reader is a great choice. This OBD1 code reader is capable of reading ECM and ABS codes, engine light codes, and comes with a instruction guidebook to look up code explanations.
Features
Engine codes: It will read CEL and help you reset it once the problem is fixed.
Guidebook Instruction Manual: the Innova 3123 GM OBD1 code reader comes with a helpful instruction manual that contains explanations of the various codes. Hence, you won’t have to Google for solutions and the manual even includes some codes that you won’t find anywhere online anyway – very very helpful indeed!
ABS codes: With this OBD1 scanner, you can read ABS codes and find related faults. It will tell you if the problem is in one of the sensors or wires.
Vehicle coverage
The Innova 3123 GM OBD1 code reader is specifically designed for and supports most older GM vehicles and trucks manufactured between 1982 and 1995.
Verdict
The Innova 3123 GM OBD1 code reader is a great option for users who own GM vehicles. Even professionals who deal with GM vehicles can give it a try as the instruction manual containing explanations on the OBD1 codes is worth the price on its own!
Pros
- Suitable for beginners thanks to the simple to understand interface.
- The guidebook / manual is easy to use and is worth its weight in gold – even contains explanations for codes that I can’t find anywhere online.
- Pocket friendly size and very lightweight.
- It can read the engine temperature and ECM codes as well.
Cons
- The metal prongs are of quite poor quality.
Innova 3170RS OBD1 and OBD2 Scanner
The Innova 3170RS is a high quality OBD1 and OBD2 scanner. It can find basic problems in your car and save you a trip to the mechanic. Plus, it supports both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles with the relevant adapters, which makes it a very competent 2-in-1 tool.
Features
The Innova 3170RS is a very powerful tool in terms of its OBD2 functions which include a number of impressive features including having full access to all modules including the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS modules. It can also read and clear all other ECU modules and their trouble codes.
The Innova 3170RS can also perform advanced brake caliper service functions for modern OBD2 vehicles, as well as read and diagnose tire pressure data (TPMS), EPB retract, ABS bleeding, oil light reset and live data, to name a few.
In terms of OBD1 features, the functionality is obviously more limited as OBD1 does not allow for advanced functionality like with OBD2, but this scan tool can perform OBD1 functions such as reading and diagnosing OBD1 fault codes from the most popular Ford, GM, Chrysler, Honda and Toyota vehicles.
If you’re looking for a single device to be able to perform advanced diagnostic functions on your modern vehicle (OBD2 compliant) and perhaps you also have an older classic vehicle in your garage too (OBD1 compliant), this is just the tool for you!
Vehicle coverage
The Innova 3170RS is compatible with the following vehicles:
- OBD2: All OBD2 compliant cars and light trucks manufactured from 1996 onwards.
- OBD1: Popular Ford, GM, Chrysler, Honda and Toyota vehicles manufactured between 1981 and 1995 – please note that you will require the relevant OBD1 adapter in order for the scanner to work with the specific manufacturer you require – this device comes included with the OBD1 adapters for both Ford and GM vehicles.
Verdict
The Innova 3170RS OBD1 and OBD2 scan tool is a high quality scan tool for DIYers with both an older and more modern vehicle in their garage and professional mechanics who work on both older and more modern vehicles. This scan tool will work on both as it is both OBD1 and OBD2 compatible.
Pros
- Both OBD1 and OBD2 compliant – 2-in-1 tool.
- Contains a number of advanced OBD2 features.
- Also OBD1 compatible for Ford, GM, Chrysler, Honda and Toyota vehicles.
- Includes OBD1 adapters for Ford and GM OBD1 vehicles.
Cons
- OBD1 adapters for Chrysler, Honda and Toyota sold separately.
- Quite expensive (but to be expected considering its functionality for both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles).
Recommendation: Top 3 OBD1 scanners
If you want to buy the best OBD1 code reader for a reasonable price, we’d suggest any of the 3 above. They can read trouble codes and perform many other features in OBD1 vehicles.
Bottom line
These were some of the best OBD1 code readers you can get for your OBD1 compliant vehicle today. Make sure to pick one that has the features you want.