Best Innova Scanner Reviews 2024 [With Comparison Chart]

Innova offers some of the most reliable and trusted obd2 scanners on the market. But since there are several diagnostic code readers to choose from, we’ve written this best Innova scanner review to make your work easier. From entry-level scanners to advanced automotive diagnostic tools, we’ve ensured to include different scanners ideal for different users.

Also, we included a buying guide at the end of this review to help you make an informed choice. For those new to OBD scan tools, OBD means “onboard diagnostics.” And it is a system that vehicles utilize to diagnose, detect, and report issues to the user. In short, it helps to keep the car in check and update the user on an impending problem that needs to be addressed.

Best Innova Scanners Comparison Chart

IMAGES	INNOVA OBD2 Models	Technical Details
Our Top Pick Check Price	Innova 3150RS OBD2 Car Code Reader Read Review	Features includes ABS, SRS, Service Light Reset, and Live Data Shows real-time and freeze frame data Medium price
Value For Money Check Price	INNOVA 3040RS Affordable OBD2 Vehicles Code Reader Read Review	The device comes with ABS, Battery Testing, and Live Data showing features Best affordable scan device for beginners Low price
Most Advanced Professional Choice Check Price	Innova 3160g Pro OBD2 Scanner with Live data, ABS, SRS, Battery Reset, etc. Read Review	Features both LED Lighted Connector and wireless Bluetooth connectivity An advanced Tech device for the professionals High price

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Most Popular 8 Best Innova Scanner Reviews

Owner: Innova Electronic Corporation
CEO: Ieon C. Chen
Product Development Supervisor: Keith Andreasen
Brand Origin: USA
Address: 17352 Von Karman Avenue, Irvine, California 92614, USA
Manufacturing products: over 15 years
Made in: America
Developed by: Certified ASE Master Technicians
Energy efficiency: up to 25%
Fax: 714-432-3979
Phone: 800-544-4124
Technical Support: https://www.innova.com/pages/email

Here are our top 8 Innova scan tools:

Innova 3160 Diagnostic Scan Tool

The Innova 3160 diagnostic scan tool is a perfect scanner for car enthusiasts and mechanics. It can diagnose and reset check engine lights on most 1996 and newer vehicles. This includes cars, light trucks, SUVs/hybrids, or domestic and foreign minivans. The code reader is simple to use, with code definitions with a multilingual menu in English, French, and Spanish.

Related: Innova 31603 Reviews: Car Scan and ABS/SRS Scan Tool

The all-in-one patented color screen makes interpreting results easy as it is big and bright. So, you will easily diagnose ABS codes, retrieve OEM-enhanced codes, and transmit DTCs. Other functions include drive cycle verification and emissions readiness check. If you are looking for the most-selling and best Innova scanner, then you should consider buying this scan tool.

Technical specifications of the Innova 3160 Scan tool:

Features	Innova 3160
Works:	ALL 1996 and newer vehicles
Display:	DTC definitions on unit screen
Check Engine Light:	Yes, Easily determines the cause
Read and erase ABS & SRS trouble codes on most OBD2 Domestic:	Yes
Perform vehicle network scan:	Yes
Stream, view, and record ABS/SRS/Powertrain live data:	Yes
Enabled Bluetooth provides access to Repair Solutions Pro:	Yes
Online OBD2 Fix community online:	Yes
Prints data:	Yes
Batteries:	3 AA batteries required (included)
Get transmission codes:	Yes
Update option:	Yes (Via the internet)
Price:	Check Today’s Price

Additionally, the scan tool is convenient to use as it comes with a battery back, just in case your vehicle runs out of power. The code reader is also updated via USB with standard windows PC. However, the scanner is quite expensive when compared to other basic code readers.

Pros:

• It has a user-friendly interface
• It enabled you to print and retrieve data
• Simple to navigate
• Large color screen for a straightforward interpretation of outcomes
• It is updatable via USB
• Compatible with most 1996 and newer vehicles
• Has code definitions with a multilingual menu
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• The tool has compatibility problems, more so with foreign vehicles
• It is lightly expensive

Innova 3150f Color Screen with Bluetooth Code Reader

The second best Innova scanner on the list is the Innova 3150f scanner. This is a compact and sturdy unit with a user-friendly interface. The device is simple to use as it features a large LED color screen with a multilingual menu. On top of that, it comes with built-in Bluetooth. This enables the streaming of data to your phone or tablet.

Related: Best OBDii Bluetooth Scanner Reviews

The compact and lightweight scanner performs several functions, such as reading and erasing error codes, checking emissions readiness status, battery reset, service light reset, retrieving check engine light codes, and oil light reset. It also works on most 1996 and newer OBD 2 cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrids. The unit will never leave you guessing with battery backup, even if your car battery gets drained.

Technical Specifications of the Innova 3150f code reader:

Features	Innova 3150f
Display:	3.5″ LCD Screen
Freeze Frame:	Yes
ABS, SRS Codes:	Yes
Check Engine Light:	Yes
Service Light Reset:	Yes
Live Data Graphing:	Yes
Oil Light Reset:	Yes
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
LED Lighted Connector:	Yes
Batteries:	3 AA batteries are required. (included)
Update Option:	Free updates
Price:	Check Today’s Price

This is an ideal tool for both DIYers and professional mechanics. Besides, the manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight construction for ease of use and storage
• It reads and clears ABS and SRS codes
• Compatible with most 1996 and newer cars, light trucks, SUVs, or hybrid
• Performs battery reset
• LED lighted connectors make connection easy even in low light conditions
• Can reset oil light after an oil change
• Provides live data
• Features a multilingual menu that enables you to select English, French, or Spanish
• It has free lifetime updates
• Large color screen for quick reading of codes

Cons:

• It doesn’t interpret codes correctly, so you may have to depend on online sources
• It has compatibility problems with foreign vehicles

Innova 3100 Diagnostic Scan Tool OBD2 Scanner

The Innova 3100 code reader is the best Innova scan tool for newbies and DIY enthusiasts. It retails at an exceptional price but offers lots of basic and a few advanced functions. It can read and erase ABS light error codes, reset the oil light, check emission readiness, check engine light, freeze frame, and EVAP codes. However, you cannot use it to reset the battery.

With its intuitive interface, you will find that reading codes are fast and straightforward. Simply press a push-button, and you’re good to go. Besides, the code reader can be used on a broad range of vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. This includes both domestic and foreign cars.

Technical specifications of the Innova 3100 OBD2 Scanner:

Features	Innova 3100j (Upgrade Version)
Works:	All 1996 and newer vehicles
Live data:	Yes
ABS/SRS Codes:	Yes
Check Engine Light:	Yes
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
Views freeze frame data:	Yes
Oil Light Reset:	Yes
EVAP Codes:	Yes
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
Batteries:	3 AA batteries are required. (included)
Software Updates:	Free updates
Warranty:	Limited 1 Year Warranty
Price:	Check Today’s Price

A unique feature of the Innova 3100 scan tool is that it automatically refreshes data every 30 seconds when connected. As a result, verifying repair completion is made easy. Additionally, it has a battery backup for off-car review and analysis.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight tool
• Straightforward to use
• Convenient to use with the multilingual menu
• Simple to navigate by pressing the push button
• Read and erase ABS light trouble codes
• Broad compatibility with most 1996 and newer vehicles
• Automatically refreshes data every 30 seconds when connected to the vehicle
• Great customer support
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• The guide is not clear; thus, it may be quite challenging to use by a newbie
• Users have complained about compatibility issues with foreign vehicles

Innova 3140g Color Screen with Bluetooth Scan Tool

Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a car enthusiast, the Innova 3140g scanner will still be an ideal tool for you. This is because it is simple to use but comes with advanced features. The unit has a large 3.5-inch color screen for quick reading and interpreting of codes. It is also compact and lightweight for comfortable handling during use. If you need the best Innova scanner that works both obd1 and obd2 vehicles, then buy this.

Related: Innova 31703, 31403 & 31003 Review

Moreover, the scanner is ideal for mechanics who handle old and new car models. Thanks for its ability to diagnose both OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles. So, it will diagnose some cars manufactured from 1982 to 1995 1996 and newer. This includes both domestic and foreign vehicles.

Related: Bluedriver OBD2 Reviews: Professional Bluetooth Scanner

The scanner can check engine light, read and clear ABS and SRS, reset oil light, and view, and playback live data, among other functions. The good news is that you will not be limited even in the dark as it features an LED lighted connector, which makes the connection of the tool in the dark easy.

Technical Features of the Innova 3140g Scan Tool:

Features	Innova 3140g
Works:	All 1996 and newer OBD2 (DLC) cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrid
Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD1, OBD2 Trouble Codes:	Yes
Freeze Frame:	Yes
ABS, SRS Codes:	Yes
View Live Data:	Yes
LED Lighted Connector:	Yes
Read and Record Live data:	Yes
Batteries:	3 AA batteries are required. (included)
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
Live Data Graphing:	Yes
Battery Backup:	Yes
Update Option:	Free updates
Price:	Check Today’s Price

Pros:

• The sizeable colored display makes reading results simple
• Offers accurate data with live data streaming and graphing
• The Bluetooth connection makes the transfer of data fast and straightforward
• Extremely easy to use with the hotkeys
• Service light reset
• Compatible with most OBD1 and OBD2 vehicles
• Free internet updates
• Excellent customer support in English and Spanish

Cons:

• The unit uses a lot of power that may end up draining the battery
• Several users have complained about compatibility problems with foreign vehicles

Innova 3040g Diagnostic Tool with Live Data

The Innova 3040g diagnostic code reader is a powerful entry-level scanner, suitable for performing a wide range of functions. Aside from reading the check engine light, it also erases error codes. Moreover, it can view OBDII live data, freeze frame data, reset the oil light, check emission readiness, and check EVAP codes. If you need the best Innova scanner at an affordable price, then buy this.

Even though the tool is a basic scanner, it works on a broad range of cars, trucks, minivans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. However, foreign car owners say that it is not able to diagnose some faults accurately.

Technical Features of the Innova 3140g Scan Tool:

Features	Innova 3040g
Works:	All 1996 and newer OBD2 (DLC) cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrid
Read and clear Check Engine lights:	Yes
Reset Oil Light:	Yes
Read and erase ABS & SRS trouble codes:	Yes
Reset Battery Maintenance Light & Initialization:	Yes
Freeze Frame:	Yes
Live Data Graphing:	Yes
Read and Record Live data:	Yes
Batteries:	3 AA batteries are required. (included)
Update Option:	Free updates
Price:	Check Today’s Price

The Innova 3040g is affordable and straightforward to use. The long cable ensures that you don’t have to struggle when diagnosing your car. You can also update the tool through an internet USB to have the latest software.

If you’ve been looking for an affordable and reliable scan tool from Innova, then this is an excellent unit for you.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight for ease of use
• LED screen for quick reading/erasing of fault codes
• Long cable for comfortable use
• Well-labeled buttons for ease of use
• Multilingual menu
• Internet USB updateable
• Works on most 1996 and newer vehicles
• Views live data as well as freeze frame data

Cons:

• It is limited in features; thus, not ideal for professional use
• It cannot check SRS codes

Best Innova scanner 3150e Code Reader Tool with ABS and SRS

The Innova 3150e diagnostic code reader tool with ABS and SRS is best suited for professional mechanics and technicians. But since it is easy to use, DIYers, as well as car enthusiasts, can operate it. This tool can identify the cause of the check engine light, read and erase ABS/SRS codes, reset the battery, reset the oil light, freeze frame data, and emissions readiness. With such functions, this is a versatile tool that will help you solve a lot of error codes.

Although the Innova 3150e is an OBD2 code reader, you can update it to diagnose OBD1 vehicles as well. The tool is compatible with OBDII vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. However, many foreign vehicle owners have aired their displeasure about this unit not being fully compatible. Apart from this, this is a reliable and accurate tool that you should have in your garage.

Technical specifications of the Innova 3150e Scan Tool:

Features	Innova 3150e
Works:	ALL 1996 and 1996 and newer vehicles
Display:	LED display for quick state emissions readiness check
ABS/SRS:	Yes
Quick auto scanning:	Yes
Check engine light warnings:	Yes
Displays Freeze Frame Data:	Yes
C.A.N.(Controller Area Network):	Yes
Update option:	Yes
Price:	Check Today’s Price

Pros:

• Performs several functions
• Intuitive user interface
• Properly labeled hotkeys for ease of use
• Large screen for quick reading of codes
• Outstanding customer support in English and Spanish
• It can be upgraded to diagnose OBD1 vehicles
• Battery backup
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• The user guide is not clear, and so are the code definitions
• Not compatible with most foreign vehicles

Innova 3120 Diagnostic Scan Tool for OBD1 & OBD2 Vehicles

If you’re looking for the best mid-range Innova scanners, then this is one of them. The Innova 3120 scan tool offers accurate and reliable outcomes. It features a compact design and a large LED color screen. You can easily interpret the results as it offers a multilingual menu. So, you are free to change to a language that you understand best between Spanish and French, with English being the default language.

The Innova 3120 code reader reads/erases error codes, retrieves OEM-enhanced and transmission trouble codes, resets oil light, and much more. Besides, it has a battery backup, just in case your car runs out of power. The unit automatically refreshes every 30 seconds when it is connected to your vehicle. It is compatible with most OBD2 cars, trucks, minivans, SUVs, or hybrids that were manufactured in 1996 and newer. Additionally, it can diagnose some OBD1 vehicles.

Technical specifications of the Innova 3120 Diagnostic Scan Tool:

Features	Innova 3120
Works:	ALL 1996 and newer vehicles
ABS Codes:	Yes
Read & Erase Check Engine Light OBD1, OBD2 Trouble Codes	Yes
Freeze Frame:	Yes
DTC Severity:	Yes
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
OBD1, OBD2 Support Vehicles:	OBD1 (1981 to 1995), OBD2 (1996 and newer)
Software Update:	Yes (Via the internet)
Live Data:	Yes
Repair Solutions:	Yes
Battery Backup:	Yes
Warranty:	One-year warranty
Price:	Check Today’s Price

Pros:

• Retrieves OEM Enhanced and transmission diagnostic codes
• Automatically refreshes after every 30 seconds when the car is running
• Multilingual menu for ease of use
• Easy to read and interpret results with the large color screen
• Diagnoses both OBD2 and OBD1 vehicles
• Features a carry bag for secure storage of the tool
• Internet USB updateable
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• Some users have complained about compatibility issues

Innova 3030 Diagnostic Scan Tool Reader with ABS

If you’re a newbie or car enthusiast who wants a basic scanner that you can rely on, then try out the Innova 3030 code reader. As compact and sleek as this unit looks, it still performs a broader range of services. In addition, the code reader is easy to use with a large and bright color screen. You can update this scanner if new software is made available, Innova. It is the cheapest but best Innova scanner on the market.

The Innova 3030 code reader is compatible with most 1996 and latest cars, light trucks, minivans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles – domestic and foreign. Similar to the other Innova automotive scanners that we’ve discussed, this one refreshes data every 30 seconds when connected to a car.

Technical specifications of the Innova 3030 Scanner:

Features	Innova 3030
Works:	All 1996 or newer car
Check Engine Light:	Yes
Freeze Frame Data:	Yes
Emissions Readiness:	Yes
Read & Erase ABS Light:	Yes
DTC Severity:	Yes
All-in-One Patented Screen:	Yes
Steering Angle Reset:	No
Software Update:	Yes
Price:	Check Today’s Price

Pros:

• Extremely simple to use
• It is updateable
• Multilingual menu
• Provides advanced functions such as CEL reset and emission readiness check
• A large LED color screen
• Compatible with many vehicles manufactured from 1996 or the latest

Cons:

• Not ideal for professional use as it mostly comes with necessary features
• It cannot diagnose vital systems such as ABS, SRS, and transmission
• Not fully compatible with some foreign vehicles

What to consider when picking a diagnostic scanner

1. Brand

One of the most important factors to consider when looking for a scanner is the band. Buying from a trusted brand is vital, as not all brands offer quality products. Also, some brands don’t provide accurate tools, which may give you the wrong information in the end. Innova is one of the leading and most trusted scan tool brands on the market.

2. Type of scanner

The second thing to look at is the type of scanner. Know what scanner your car needs. Cars manufactured between 1982 and 1995 are usually diagnosed using OBD1 scan tools, while those produced from 1996 and newer often use OBD2 scan tools. Some scan tools can perform both OBD1 and OBD2 services.

Apart from the two types of code readers, there are also entry-level scanners, mid-range scan tools, and advanced diagnostic scanners.

3. Compatibility

Another vital factor is the compatibility of diagnostic scanners. Ensure that the scan tool you’re buying is compatible with your vehicle. Some scan tool users complain about scanners failing to work on their cars. So, before you buy one, find out if the tool you intend to purchase is compatible with your vehicle model, make, and year.

4. Functionality

Before you jump on any scan tool, you should first ask yourself what you want to cover with the device. Many scan tools on the market perform different functions. Entry-level scanners perform a few tasks when compared to mid-range or advanced scanners. Therefore, you need to identify a scan tool that performs the tasks that you want. If you’re a mechanic who deals with lots of vehicles, then having an advanced scanner that can deliver a broad range of services is crucial.

5. Ease of use

Apart from picking a quality and trustworthy scanner, you need a scan tool that you can use with much ease. Some devices are complicated and can only be easily interpreted by professional mechanics or individuals with experience of using code readers. Pick a scanner that has a large screen, bright buttons, and, if possible, a multilingual menu.

6. Display

Different scan tools feature different types of screens. As stated above, you should pick a code reader that is easy to use and interpret. As a result, you should consider choosing a diagnostic code reader with a color screen. Moreover, an excellent tool should support live data streaming and graphing.

7. Portability

How portable is the tool you intend to buy? Can you easily keep it in your backpack or car compartment? Is it heavy or light? Always check the size and weight of the scan tool before purchasing it. You don’t want a massive unit that weighs you down as you work on different vehicles.

8. Price

Are you a beginner, DIYer, car enthusiast, professional mechanic, or owns a car repair shop? Different people will need different scanners, depending on their experience and requirements. Entry-level scanners, which are ideal for beginners and DIYers, are cheaper than advanced scanners, which are frequently used by professional mechanics and technicians.

Don’t buy a scan tool for the sake, but consider the functions that you want to use it for. There is no need for you to purchase an advanced scanner for your car. An essential code reader should be okay as long as it is compatible and performs most of the basic functions.

9. Warranty

Always consider a warranty when investing in such an expensive tool. Not all brands offer a warranty, but it is vital. Innova is one of those brands that provide a guarantee to buyers of their products. A warranty helps to secure your investment, just in case the scanner arrives with a defect in material or workmanship.

Summary

Innova is one of the most reliable scan tool brands on the market, and it provides scanners for different people. Simply select the best Innova scan tool that matches both your needs and budget. If you’re a DIY or car enthusiast, you can pick from the various entry-level code readers at affordable prices. And if you’re a professional, you can choose from one of the advanced Innova diagnostic scanners.

The best part is that Innova scanners are reliable, durable, and accurate. On top of that, the manufacturer provides a warranty on each of its products. So, you can be confident that you’re making a wise investment that will last.

FAQ

What problems can my scan tool detect?

The onboard diagnostics (OBD) scan tools are made to work with some unique features that are intended to provide the car user the opportunity to understand the issue in your vehicle. And in this case, it is the malfunction indicator light. The indicator is a type of light set on the OBD diagnostic scanner to flicker every time the car emission scan system identifies that there is a fault in any of the vehicle systems. Depending on what the issue is, the check engine light function indicates different problems with the car, some of which may be small and others huge.

How do I know that my car is compatible with the Innova scan tool that I am about to purchase?

This is a good question. Some people buy scan tools even without finding out if it is compatible with their vehicles or not. To know if your car is compatible with the Innova scan tool, visit Innova’s website and do a quick search. Then, check whether your vehicle is included among those covered by the scan tool.

How do I tell you that my scan tool is functioning correctly?

The functioning of any OBD scanner relies on the condition of the vehicle. When the tool is plugged into the OBD port, a simple tap of the scan tool is enough to propel the data code reading to start. So, when you turn on the ignition, the “check engine” light should flash instantly and turn off as you drive if it is okay. But if your car has a problem, it will continue to blink or stay on as your drive.

Where can I locate the OBD port in my vehicle?

The OBD port is typically located under the dashboard, below the steering wheel in many vehicles. Nevertheless, some cars have it under the gearbox, hardly above the pedals or in the passenger compartment. So, it depends on your car.