Abs Scan Tools Reviewed Is This

The ABS light is on, the brakes feel fine, and your basic code reader says there are no codes. That is the moment most owners learn that ABS faults live in a system a generic reader cannot see.

An ABS scan tool reads the anti-lock braking system directly: wheel speed sensors, the ABS module, the pump and the valve block. The right one tells you which corner is at fault before you replace a single part.

We reviewed four tools that genuinely read ABS codes — a four-system handheld, a phone-based reader, a handheld with service functions and a budget ABS reader — and this guide names the one to buy first for your car and your skill level.

Quick picks

Quick compare

How to choose an ABS scan tool

ABS coverage is the first filter

A tool that only reads engine codes cannot see an ABS fault at all. Confirm the tool lists ABS explicitly for your make and model, and treat generic OBD2 coverage as a different thing from ABS coverage.

Subscription cost is a real cost

Several scanners lock live data, code clearing or bidirectional tests behind a yearly fee after the first year. The tools in this guide carry no subscription, which is part of why they are here.

Service functions are a separate purchase

Oil resets, EPB retraction and ABS bleeding are service functions, not code reading. If you need them, buy a tool that lists them by name; a code reader will not grow them later.

Compatibility must be checked by VIN

ABS diagnostics are manufacturer-specific, and coverage varies by year, model and VIN. Send your VIN to the maker or check the knowledge base before ordering, especially on European cars.

Handheld or phone is a habit question

A corded handheld works without a phone and without pairing, which matters beside a dead car. A phone tool gives repair reports and graphing, which matters when you want the fix as well as the code.

Updates keep the tool useful

Lifetime free updates mean the tool keeps covering new model years. A tool with one year of free updates and a paid renewal costs more over three years than the sticker suggests.

ABS scan tools by budget

Types of ABS scan tools

Detailed reviews

The four tools below all read ABS codes, which is the bar for this guide. They differ in how many systems they cover, whether they need a phone, and which service functions they include.

Best Overall: FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner

Best Overall

Why the FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner is our pick

The NT604 Elite is the tool this guide recommends first because it does the one job an ABS buyer actually needs without charging for it twice. It reads fault codes, clears them and shows live data for four systems — engine, transmission, ABS and SRS — across more than 60 vehicle brands, and it does it from a corded handheld with no phone app to fight and no subscription to renew. The listing is clear that it is a code reader, not a service tool, and that honesty is part of the recommendation.

The coverage matters more than the feature list. ABS faults are manufacturer-specific, and a tool that only reads generic engine codes will leave you guessing at the ABS light. The NT604 Elite’s four-system depth means the wheel speed sensor fault, the ABS module code and the SRS code all show up in one session, and the lifetime free firmware updates mean the tool keeps covering new model years without a yearly fee.

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner key specs

• Type: Corded handheld OBD2 scanner
• Systems: Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS
• Vehicle coverage: 60+ brands, American, Asian and European
• Live data: Yes
• AutoVIN: Yes
• Updates: Lifetime free
• Subscription: None
• Service functions: None — no oil reset, EPB or throttle relearn
• Display: Color LCD
• Model number: NT604Elite
• Size: 7.68 x 3.54 x 1.18 inches
• Sold by: OBDZON on Amazon

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner: fits and best for

This pick fits owners who want to diagnose an ABS light and check the other core systems without a subscription. It fits cars and light trucks sold in the US since 1996 and a wide range of imports. Check compatibility with your exact year, make and model before ordering, since ABS coverage varies by vehicle.

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner pros and watch-outs

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner: what owners report

• Reviewers note the NT604 Elite is a solid buy for a corded, no-subscription reader that genuinely covers all four core systems, with lifetime free updates. FOXWELL NT604 Elite review
• Roundups list the NT604 Elite as the best four-system handheld, reading and clearing codes and showing live data from engine, transmission, ABS and SRS. Best OBD2 scanners guide

Owner coverage is consistent on the four-system depth and the absence of a subscription, with the missing service functions being the point every owner mentions next.

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner: who should not buy

Do not buy this pick if you need ABS bleeding, oil resets or any service function — those are not here, and you will need to step up to a tool that lists them.

FOXWELL NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner: pair it with

Pair it with a battery and alternator check after an ABS code appears, since low voltage causes phantom ABS faults. Our guide to Battery Tender Junior vs NOCO Genius1 covers the charger side of that check.

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Run a full system scan first and write down every code before clearing anything. The ABS code and the engine code together often point at one shared cause.

Best for Phone Diagnostics: BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool

Best for Phone Diagnostics

Why the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool is our pick

BlueDriver takes a different route to the same ABS codes. The sensor plugs into the OBD2 port and talks to a free app on your phone, and the app carries the diagnostics: read and clear enhanced codes for ABS, airbag, transmission and more on supported vehicles, plus live data, freeze frame, Mode 6 and a vehicle-specific repair report with code definitions, possible causes and reported fixes. The app is free with no add-ons and no in-app purchases, and the only purchase is the sensor itself.

The catch is the word supported. Enhanced ABS diagnostics are available on GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, 2005 and newer Mercedes, 2008 and newer Mitsubishi, 2011 and newer Hyundai, VW in North America, 2003 and newer Honda in North America, 2005 and newer BMW in North America, and Subaru in the US. If your car is on that list, BlueDriver is the most convenient ABS reader here; if it is not, check the compatibility page before buying.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool key specs

• Type: Bluetooth OBD2 sensor with phone app
• Model: LSB2
• App: BlueDriver, iOS and Android
• Subscription: None; app is free
• Codes: 7000+ engine codes plus enhanced codes
• Systems: Engine, ABS, SRS, TPMS, transmission on supported vehicles
• Live data: Yes, with graphing and export
• Repair reports: Vehicle-specific, emailable as PDF
• Freeze frame: Yes
• Mode 6: Yes
• Smog check: Yes
• Power: Vehicle OBD2 port

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool: fits and best for

This pick fits owners who always have their phone and want the repair report as much as the code. It fits 1996 and newer vehicles for generic codes, with enhanced ABS coverage on the makes listed above. Confirm your make and model on BlueDriver’s compatibility page first.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool pros and watch-outs

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool: what owners report

• Roundups call BlueDriver the best overall OBD2 scanner for most drivers, citing live data, freeze frame, Mode 6 and ABS and airbag codes on supported vehicles with no subscription. Best OBD2 scanners guide
• The listing stresses that the sensor and the free app are designed to work exclusively together, and that the only purchase is the sensor listed. Check Price

Owner coverage is strong on the app and the repair reports, with compatibility being the question every buyer should settle first.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool: who should not buy

Do not buy this pick if your vehicle is outside the enhanced coverage list and you need ABS codes specifically — a generic reader will not see them either.

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool: pair it with

Pair it with a phone mount so the live data is visible while you drive, and with a battery check after any ABS code. Our Best Automotive Multimeters vs Watts guide covers the electrical checks that follow an ABS fault.

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Check the compatibility page with your exact year, make and model before ordering. Enhanced ABS coverage is the whole reason to buy this tool, so confirm it first.

Best Handheld for ABS and SRS: Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner

Best Handheld for ABS and SRS

Why the Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner is our pick

The Innova 5310 sits one step above a pure code reader. It reads ABS and SRS codes, shows live data, tests the battery and alternator, resets the oil light and runs hybrid diagnostics, and it pairs with the RepairSolutions2 app over Bluetooth for real-time fixes and part information. That combination makes it the pick for owners who do their own maintenance as well as their own diagnostics.

The app is the part to understand before buying. The 5310 is a handheld with a screen, but live data and the repair solutions run through the phone app, so the tool works best when the phone is nearby. Compatibility covers 1996 to 2023 vehicles including cars, trucks, SUVs and hybrids, with the usual warning to verify your specific model before ordering.

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner key specs

• Type: Corded handheld with Bluetooth app
• Systems: Engine, ABS, SRS
• Live data: Yes
• Battery test: Yes, battery and alternator
• Oil reset: Yes
• Hybrid diagnostics: Yes
• App: RepairSolutions2, iOS and Android
• Coverage: 1996 to 2023 vehicles, cars, trucks, SUVs and hybrids
• Emissions readiness: Yes, likely to pass check
• Display: Handheld screen
• Updates: Via app
• Warranty: Not published

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner: fits and best for

This pick fits DIY owners who service their own cars and want the oil reset and battery test alongside ABS reading. It fits most 1996 to 2023 vehicles; verify your model in the app or the listing before ordering.

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner pros and watch-outs

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner: what owners report

• Comparisons note the 5310 goes further than the 5210, adding SRS diagnostics and the oil reset, which makes it the pick for owners who want maintenance functions too. Innova 5210 vs 5310 comparison
• Roundups list the 5310 as the best handheld for ABS and SRS, with battery and alternator tests and an oil reset alongside live data. Best OBD2 scanners guide

Owner coverage is consistent on the service functions being the reason to choose the 5310 over a cheaper Innova, with the app being the part that takes a little learning.

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner: who should not buy

Do not buy this pick if you want a tool that works fully without a phone — the best features here run through the app.

Innova 5310 OBD2 Scanner: pair it with

Pair it with an oil change kit so the oil reset has a job to do, and with a battery tester for the charging system. Our Best Automotive Multimeters vs Watts guide covers the meter that backs up the battery test.

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Install the RepairSolutions2 app and pair it before you need it. Setting it up in the driveway beats setting it up beside a car with the ABS light on.

Best Budget ABS Reader: Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner

Best Budget ABS Reader

Why the Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner is our pick

The AL619 is Autel’s budget ABS tool, and it earns the pick by being honest about what it is. It diagnoses ABS and SRS system codes on most 1996 and newer vehicles, runs all 10 modes of OBD2 tests, offers DTC lookup and live data, and carries lifetime free software updates. It is the upgraded version of the AL519 and ML519, and it is the tool to buy when the ABS light is on and the budget is small.

The limit is compatibility. Autel is clear that ABS and SRS diagnosis is not universally compatible with all vehicles, and the listing advises sending your VIN to check before ordering. The tool also works best on vehicles from 2015 and earlier for full OBD2 coverage, so newer-car owners should confirm coverage first. Within those limits, it reads the codes that matter at the lowest outlay here.

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner key specs

• Type: Corded handheld OBD2 scanner
• Model: AL619
• Systems: ABS, SRS, OBD2
• OBD2 modes: All 10 modes
• DTC lookup: Yes
• Live data: Yes, text and graphing
• Freeze frame: Yes
• Vehicle coverage: 80+ US, Asian and European makes
• Updates: Lifetime free; registration on Autel site required
• Compatibility note: ABS and SRS not universal; check VIN first
• Warranty: 1-year brand warranty
• Languages: 13+ languages

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner: fits and best for

This pick fits owners of 1996 to 2015 vehicles who need ABS and SRS codes on a small budget. It fits most major makes; send your VIN to Autel or check the knowledge base before ordering.

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner pros and watch-outs

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner: what owners report

• Roundups list the AL619 as a popular ABS tool that gives engine, SRS airbag and ABS codes, and note it can save a DIY owner a lot of money. Best OBDII scan tools with ABS
• The listing is unusually clear about its limits, warning that ABS and SRS diagnosis is not universally compatible and advising a VIN check first. Check Price

Owner coverage is positive on the value for the money, with compatibility checks being the step every buyer should take first.

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner: who should not buy

Do not buy this pick for a newer vehicle without a VIN check, or if you need service functions — this is a code reader, not a service tool.

Autel AL619 OBD2 Scanner: pair it with

Pair it with a notebook for the codes it finds, and with a multimeter for the wiring checks that follow. Our Best Automotive Multimeters vs Watts guide covers the meter to use.

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Register the tool on Autel’s site and update it before the first use. An out-of-date AL619 can miss codes that the update adds.

Spec comparison

Installation and use basics

Using an ABS scan tool starts with the car parked, the engine off and the parking brake set. Find the OBD2 port, usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side, and plug the tool in. The tool powers up from the car on a corded model, or pairs over Bluetooth on a phone model. Turn the ignition on without starting the engine, let the tool identify the vehicle, and run a full system scan before you clear anything.

Write down every code with its system — ABS, SRS and engine codes together often point at one shared cause, such as low voltage or a failed wheel speed sensor. Clear codes only after the repair, and only after recording them, because a cleared code with no note is a lost clue. For the electrical checks that follow an ABS fault, our guide to Best Automotive Multimeters vs Watts covers the meter to use, and our Best Automotive Borescope for Mechanics guide covers seeing into places your eyes cannot reach.

Safety essentials

Three accessories worth keeping in the kit:

WARN Epic snatch block — A snatch block belongs in the recovery kit you carry alongside your diagnostic tools, for the day a recovery needs a change of direction.

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GearAmerica tree saver strap — A tree saver strap is the right anchor for a recovery, and it keeps the winch line off paint and bark alike.

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AMBULL D-ring shackles — D-ring shackles connect the recovery gear, and rated shackles are the only ones worth carrying.

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Troubleshooting

Who should NOT buy these

Do not buy an ABS tool that only reads engine codes. A generic reader cannot see the ABS system at all, and the ABS light will stay a mystery. Confirm ABS is listed for your make before you pay.

Do not buy a tool with a subscription you did not budget for. Some scanners lock live data and code clearing behind a yearly fee after the first year. The tools in this guide carry no subscription, and that is part of their value.

Do not buy a service tool when you need a code reader. A tool with oil resets and ABS bleeding costs more and does more than most owners need. Match the tool to the job, not to the feature list.

Do not buy without a VIN check on European cars. ABS coverage is thinnest on European makes, and the wrong tool will read engine codes and nothing else. Send the VIN first.

Final verdict

FOXWELL NT604 Elite: the ABS scan tool to buy first — four systems, no subscription, lifetime updates.

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BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro: the phone pick — full diagnostics and repair reports with no subscription, on supported vehicles.

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Innova 5310: the DIY servicing pick — ABS and SRS plus an oil reset and battery tests.

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Autel AL619: the budget pick — real ABS and SRS reading at the lowest outlay here.

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FAQ

Can a basic OBD2 reader see ABS codes?

No. A basic reader covers generic engine and emissions codes only. ABS codes live in the anti-lock braking system, and only a tool that lists ABS coverage for your make can read them.

What is the best ABS scan tool for most owners?

The FOXWELL NT604 Elite is the best first buy for most owners: it reads engine, transmission, ABS and SRS across more than 60 brands, with lifetime free updates and no subscription.

Do I need ABS bleeding to fix an ABS light?

No. Most ABS lights are caused by a failed wheel speed sensor, a wiring fault or low voltage, and none of those need bleeding. ABS bleeding is needed only after opening the hydraulic system, such as replacing the ABS module.

Will these tools work on my car?

All four cover 1996 and newer OBD2 vehicles for generic codes, but ABS coverage varies by make, model and year. Check your VIN against the maker’s coverage list before ordering, especially on European cars.

Is there a subscription for these scan tools?

No. All four tools in this guide work without a subscription. The NT604 Elite and AL619 carry lifetime free updates, and BlueDriver’s app is free with no in-app purchases.

What does the Innova 5310 add over a basic reader?

The 5310 adds SRS diagnostics, battery and alternator tests, an oil reset and hybrid diagnostics, plus the RepairSolutions2 app for verified fixes. It is the pick for owners who service their own cars.

Can I clear an ABS code with these tools?

Yes, all four can clear ABS codes. But clearing a code does not repair the fault — record the code first, repair the cause, and clear it only after the repair.

Why does my ABS light come on with no brake problem?

The ABS light often comes on for a failed wheel speed sensor, a damaged wire, or low battery voltage, while the brakes themselves feel normal. A scan tool will show which corner or system is at fault.

Is the Autel AL619 good enough for ABS work?

Yes, for 1996 to 2015 vehicles on a budget. It reads and clears ABS and SRS codes and runs all 10 OBD2 test modes. Check your VIN first, since ABS coverage is not universal.

Sources

• Best OBD2 scanners — The Motor Guy
• Best OBD2 scanners with ABS — BuyersGuide
• Best OBD2 scanners of 2026 — MotorBiscuit
• Best OBDII scan tools with ABS — Backyard Mechanic
• FOXWELL NT604 Elite review — OBDAdvisor
• Innova 5210 vs 5310 — OBD Solaris
• FOXWELL NT604 Elite listing — Amazon: Check Price
• BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro listing — Amazon: Check Price
• Autel AL619 listing — Amazon: Check Price
• FOXWELL NT604 Elite — Foxwell

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