If you own a heavy-duty truck then know that an ordinary OBD2 scanner will not work on your vehicle, you’ll need a heavy duty scanner to do the trick. What is the best heavy duty truck diagnostic scanner?
There are a plethora of heavy-duty scanners on the market, each claiming to be the best. This can cause confusion and make it difficult to make the right decision.
To help you in this regard, we have selected the 10 best heavy duty truck diagnostic scanners.
Best heavy-duty truck diagnostic scanners reviews
| Product Name | Product Image | Editor's Picks | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch CReader CR-HD Plus |  | Best Overall | 9.5/10 |
| Nexas NL102 Plus |  | Runner Up | 9.5/10 |
| Launch X431 V+ SmartLink HD |  | Great Pick | 8.5/10 |
| Kzyee KC601 |  | Best Budget Buy | 8.5/10 |
| Autel MaxiSys MS908CV II |  | Very Good (but also pricey!) | 9.5/10 |
Let’s have a look and see why we decided to choose these 5 heavy duty truck scanners.
Launch CReader CR-HD Plus truck code scanner
The Launch CReader CR-HD Plus supports a wide range of heavy-duty vehicles and offers all 10 modes of OBD2.
Features
Common features: This heavy-duty truck diagnostic scanner can read both engine and transmission codes. In addition, you can use it to perform an I/M readiness tests.
Other features include live data, freeze frame data, O2, evap, and on-board monitoring.
OBD2 10 modes: The Launch CReader CR-HD Plus supports all 10 OBD2 modes. Hence, you’ll be able to request data from the powertrain, freeze frame, emission system, O2 monitoring, on-board monitoring, etc.
Moreover, you can also request emission codes, vehicle information, and even reset permanent codes.
Advanced features: This heavy-duty scanner will help perform a number of complex diagnoses. You check the fuel system status, cab climate, brake system, instrument panel, particulate control unit, and manage vehicle settings as well.
Live data: Detecting errors becomes easy when you’re doing it in real-time. This scanner shows real-time data errors on the go in the form of graphs and data streams.
DTC: With this feature, you will have no problem in understanding what a code means.
Vehicle coverage
This heavy duty truck diagnostic scanner supports J1587, J1708, and J1939 truck protocols.
Hence, it covers a wide range of heavy duty trucks ranging from class 4 to class 8 (14,000 pounds to 33,000 pounds).
It also supports 1996 and newer US based cars and light trucks as well.
Lastly, it supports all three connectors including 6PIN, 9PIN, and 16PIN.
Verdict
The Launch CReader CR-HD Plus truck code scanner is for beginners who wish to carry out basic functionalities such as engine light code reading, freeze frame, DTC lookup, etc.
Pros
- Can be updated from the PC.
- Super fast (only takes 5 seconds to connect).
- Supports many languages.
- Weighs only 1.9 pounds.
Cons
- One must register on the website first to download updates.
Nexas NL102 Plus heavy-duty truck code reader
The Nexas NL102 Plus is an amazing heavy duty truck scan tool that can diagnose many systems in the vehicle such as ABS, engine, ESP, brake system, and fuel.
It is quite easy to use and offers some amazing features that will help you keep your truck in good shape.
Features
Basic features: This beauty supports basic functionalities such as reading engine light codes, freeze frame data, DTC lookup, I/M readiness, live data, and O2 sensor test.
ABS: ABS problems shouldn’t be taken lightly because they can turn out to be deadly. The anti-lock braking system prevents the vehicle’s tires from locking, thereby preventing skidding by maintaining traction on the road.
Some of the most common ABS problems are caused by faulty sensors, poor or loose wiring, or a malfunctioned component.
Using this heavy duty truck scanner tool, you can read ABS codes and find out what and where the problem lies. You can then fix the problem yourself or take the vehicle to a mechanic.
Other systems: This scan tool can diagnose other systems including fuel, ESP, EPS, instrument panel, transmission, engine, braking system, and drivetrain.
Battery monitoring: There aren’t many heavy duty truck scanners that will monitor battery status, but the NL102 Plus will let you know when it’s time to charge the battery.
Vehicle coverage
This heavy duty truck code reader will work in heavy duty trucks (J1587, J1959, and 17089 protocols) and OBD2 standard protocols. These include John Deere, Mack, Paccar, Deroi, Caterpillar, Mercedes Benz, Scania, and Volvo.
It also supports a large number of Asian and American cars, minivans, and light-duty vehicles that are built in 1996 or later.
Verdict
The Nexas NL102 Plus heavy-duty truck code reader is for semi-professionals, DIYers, and mechanics who want a blend of both basic and advanced features.
Pros
- Comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Accompanied with both 6 and 9 pin cables.
- Can be updated using the internet.
- Shows vehicle information such as engine RPM, idle hours, etc.
Cons
- Cannot store codes on the scanner itself.
Launch X431 V+ SmartLink HD heavy-duty truck diagnostic tool
This Launch X431 V+ SmartLink HD is a full function heavy duty truck diagnostic tool, working on both heavy-duty and medium-duty trucks, including buses, construction machinery, agricultural machinery, marine vessels and other commercial vehicles. The X431 PRO3S+ heavy duty truck scanner offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and covers a wide range of trucks.
Features
CEL: It can read extensive fault codes and displays them with a detailed report on the screen. It generates a code that specifies what the problem is. Once you fix that problem, you’ll be able to reset the code using the scanner.
DTCs: This feature makes it easier to comprehend a fault code. It shows a detailed explanation of the code in simple English that makes it easy to understand and determine the cause of the problem.
Live data stream: It shows live data on the screen including fuel status, speed, etc.
Special/advanced repair functions: With this diagnostic scanner, you’ll be able to perform a number of special advanced functions including:
- Bi-directional control / Active testing
- ECU coding
- Injector coding
- Transmission calibration
- Clutch learning
- And others…
Vehicle coverage
It supports approximately vehicle 90 brands (US, EU, and Asian). Some of the many brands it supports are Bremach, Cummins, Caterpillar, Fuso, Hino, Iveco, MAN, New Holland, DAF, ERF, JMC, Astra, and many others.
Verdict
The Launch X431 V+ SmartLink HD heavy-duty truck diagnostic tool, offers many repair functions and some rather advanced features which is why it is best suited for more experienced DIYers, enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Pros
- 1-year warranty.
- Free updates for 1 year.
- Wide Bluetooth range.
- Advanced features and functions.
Cons
- May be a bit advanced for beginners.
- Not cheap.
KZYEE KC601 heavy-duty/class 8 truck scan tool
The Kzyee KC601 is one of the best heavy-duty truck scanners on the market as it can diagnose various systems. It will be able to access the engine, transmission, ABS, body, and chassis modules.
The scanner supports a wide range of heavy duty trucks and shows detailed information on the screen when plugged in.
Features
Engine light codes: You can take care of the most common issues in your engine with this scanner. It will read engine light codes and help reset them once the issue is solved.
To make it easier, it supports the DTC lookup feature which explains what a specific code means.
Live data: The Kzyee KC601 shows live data on the screen such as engine temp, fluid pressure, speed, loud, etc.
Transmission codes: Issues in the transmission system can affect the truck’s performance. With this scanner, you’ll be able to find and solve problems in the transmission system.
Anti-lock braking system: This feature is important as it ensures traction and reduces skidding. Problems with this system can increase the risk of severe accidents and injury.
You will be able to identify and solve problems in ABS by using this diagnostic tool.
DPF: It will find problems in the DPF system and keep it in working order.
Cruise control: The scanner can diagnose cruise control and read codes.
Vehicle coverage
It covers J1587/J1708, J1939 protocols only. Hence the trucks supported are:
Sterling, Caterpillar, Freightliner, Cummins, International, Detroit, Kenworth, John Deere, Peterbilt, Mack, Mercedes Benz, and Volvo.
Moreover, it also supports class 8 diesel trucks.
Verdict
The Kzyee KC601 heavy-duty/class 8 truck scan tool is a good pick for semi-professionals and DIYers since it offers a few advanced features such as ABS, DPF, and transmission codes with a number of basic features.
Pros
- Reads codes from the EGR system.
- Can be updated from the internet.
- Comes with a 2- year warranty.
- Is very easy to use.
Cons
- Doesn’t support a few popular brands due to protocol compatibility restrictions.
Autel MaxiSys MS908CV II heavy-duty diagnostic tool
If you’re looking for a heavy duty professional truck diagnostic scanner that offers advanced features, has wireless connectivity, and supports ECU coding then the Autel MS908CV II is your best bet.
Features
The Autel MaxiSys MS908CV II is a professional truck scanner which supports ECU Coding, full bidirectional tests and more than 39 service functions.
Basic features: It can read engine light codes, freeze frame data, etc.
ECU programming: If you’re a technician or a DIYer or enthusiast, you’d know how big of a deal it is to be able to program new components. It helps save money and can also enhance the performance of your vehicle.
The Autel MaxiSys MS908CV II will let you program new components with its ECU programming ability. It comes with a MaxiFlash Elite programming device that aids in programming new parts (J2534 and J2534-2).
Brake bleeding: With this tool, you can perform brake bleeding to get rid of the trapped air in the brake lines.
Oil reset: This advanced scanner can read the oil light and tell you what the problem is and you will be able to get rid of the light after correcting the problem. In most cases, it illuminates when it’s time for an oil change.
EPB: This diagnostic tool can find issues in the electronic parking brake system and help reset it after resolving the issue. It will point our sensor problems, wire damages, malfunctions, etc.
DPF: The diesel particulate filter system is meant to keep the emission system up and running. However, soot build up can intervene with that and affect performance. This scanner will detect problems in the DPF system to ensure your vehicle works well.
IMMO: This feature lets you make a unique key without which the ignition won’t start. It’s an excellent way of restricting unauthorized people from accessing the vehicle.
SAS: It will help reset SAS when you replace the steering or sensor.
BMS: After replacing a battery, you can reset it using this feature.
Vehicle coverage
This heavy duty truck scan tool covers more than 150 brands of commercial vehicles, such as semi trucks, light/heavy duty trucks (from Class 1 to Class 9), buses and agricultural & construction vehicles.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiSys MS908CV II professional heavy-duty diagnostic tool caters mainly to professional mechanics and experienced heavy duty truck owners who want to perform simple to advanced tasks on their own.
Pros
- Can be updated over WiFi.
- Large bluetooth range.
- Advanced functionality including ECU coding and bidirectional control.
- Can perform injector adjustment.
- Supports heavy duty, medium, and light trucks.
Cons
- Very expensive.
Recommendation: Top 3 heavy-duty truck scanners
If we have to pick a winner, we would go for the Launch CReader CR-HD Plus because it supports all 10 OBD2 modes and shows live data. Plus, it even has a reliable library of codes. It’s not super advanced and is easy to use, so shouldn’t scare beginners away, but this is not a professional level scanner if that’s what you’re looking for. It’s definitely more suited to beginners and DIYers.
Our second pick for an intermediate level scanner is the Nexas NL102 Plus Heavy Duty Truck Scanner scanner because it supports ABS codes, engine/transmission/brake/ESP/EPS, and many other systems. Moreover, it also monitors the health status of the truck’s battery.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a semi-professional level scanner with a lot of features, the Launch X431 V+ SmartLink HD is a great choice, but it is not the cheapest scanner on our list as some of those more advanced features do not come cheap.
Bottom line
These are the 5 best heavy duty truck diagnostic scanners on the market. Choose one that’s compatible with your truck so that you can enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.
the nexas nl 102 obd scanner can i use the all heavy duty trucks hyundai hino volvo.scannia toyota,hino,waichai.any disel truks .actually is this multipurpose scannner
Yes, it is. However, you should contact the manufacturer for the vehicle with a function list first because some may not work well on different truck models.
Looking for a scanner that will connect to an 8 pin round port (3, 3, 2 holes). It’s for a 1991 Cummins (International dump truck). I’m trying to find a relatively inexpensive scanner/reader for my husband so he’s not at the mercy of waiting for someone to scan it when there’s an issue).
Hi Shara,
We don’t believe that there is an 8-pin scanner for trucks. What you can perhaps do instead is purchase an adapter to convert 8-pin to 16-pin to pair with either the NEXAS NL102 Plus or LAUNCH CReader HD Plus.
You should also contact the manufacturer to confirm the compatibility.
Best regards