Is an OBD2 scanner a good tool to have?

Do you think that buying a OBD2 scanner is a good idea to check for faults on a car and if so which ones would you recommend?

Asked on 26 January 2026 by DAVID JOHNSON

Answered by David Ross
A diagnostic tool is a useful item to have in your garage, but it is important to consider what you need it to do. There are several very cheap scanners that can do basic fault reading, but if you need something more sophisticated then it's possible to spend a great deal of money. You can read our guide to ten of the best diagnostic tools here - kit.honestjohn.co.uk/top-tens/top-10-diagnostic-sc.../
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