As a subsidiary of the OBDSpace Technology Company, LTD., Ancel makes aftermarket and OE automotive products.
Keeping prices low and quality consistently high is what Ancel is all about. Ancel is also among the top rated manufacturers of OBDII automotive trouble code readers and scanners used by automotive technicians and DIY mechanics all over the world.
You can also read our complete list of obd2 codes to help you better understand the codes.
Moving on with Ancel, Headquarters are inside the city limits of Shenzhen, PRC, but they have additional facilities and offices in several other countries.
The bulk of assembly and manufacturing takes place in China, and devices are shipped out overseas to customers on almost every continent
Scanner Reviews
Here’s a quick overview of Ancel’s product line, with some notes about what I like and don’t like about some of them. There are plenty of great things we can say about these scan tools, but each has its own drawbacks. Take a look at what I found:
Our Take On Their Units
1. Ancel AD310
What I Like
Nice pocket-sized trouble code reader. The connector cable is decently long, and the backlit screen is easy to read in any lighting conditions. It will even give you a live data stream if you need it, and you can freeze frame readings and store them in the internal memory. The AD310 also powers off your car’s electrical system, so you never need to worry about having some batteries handy or recharging your scanner.
What I Don’t Like
As far as I can tell, this unit can’t be synced up with a computer for software or firmware updates, and it can’t clear “Change Oil” notifications for most onboard computer systems. You can clear check engine lights and reset monitors, but that oil change light can be a deal breaker for some of us. If you’re buying this as a DIY mechanic who is working on the same make, model, and year all the time it’s a great buy. Not my first choice for a pro, though.
2. Ancel AD410
What I Like
For those of you that want more out of your pocket scanner because you run or work in an auto shop, this is probably a much better choice than the AD310. It can be connected to a computer for firmware and software updates to keep your scanner compatible with newer makes and models, and it also links it to the Ancel error code database with repair suggestions that have worked for other reporting technicians. The full color display is also larger and easier to read.
What I Don’t Like
I know it adds to the cost, but I prefer wireless OBDII port connectors when I’m using a scan tool. Sure the range isn’t great, but I’m also not tethered to one spot around the car when reading a live data stream. Additionally, the AD410 can’t reset certain engine codes or service codes on certain makes and models. It won’t come up for the DIY crowd, but if you work a shop or run one this could be a potential deal-breaker.
3. Ancel AD510
What I Like
Runs faster than the AD410 or AD310, and its memory can be updated to handle more service codes. It also stores graphs and can sync them to a computer for printing. Best of all, it can pull up common issues with a vehicle using the VIN search feature.
What I Don’t Like
Still doesn’t offer wireless connectivity, and I prefer the display and controls on the AD410 since they are larger and the display is easier for me to read. Maybe it’s a good fit for you, but I prefer the AD410 for visuals.
4. Ancel AD610
What I Like
The AD610 is the premier pocket-sized OBDII scan tool from Ancel. It literally does everything you would ever need to do with your handheld scan tool: emissions readings, Steering Angle Reset, all kinds of sensor calibration, and suite of diagnostic software for determining what system issues are generating the trouble codes.
What I Don’t Like
Not a lot to dislike about this model. The only changes I’d make is Bluetooth or WiFi and a bigger display, but that kinda defeats the purpose of making it a pocket scanner.
5. ANCEL FX4000
What I Like
There is nothing you cannot do with this OBDII scanner. This is the perfect choice for custom shops and automotive repair stations. You can read, calibrate, adjust, reset, and alter just about anything connected to a vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system. It’s big, it’s bulky, but it’s got free automatic code and diagnostic updates for life. It’s a bit pricey for most DIY mechanics, but shops will find its well worth the investment.
What I Don’t Like
The size is a big prohibitive, and it doesn’t have a wireless OBDII scanner port connector, but it has literally every other feature you could want. Just remember to keep it charged and make sure you don’t knock it off the car while you’re working. It’s tough,but not indestructible.
6. ANCEL FX6000
What I Like
More power, more features and a bigger screen? Where do I sign up? It’s also got airbag reset capabilities and a simulation tool to ensure safe airbag deployment after repair. This is the absolute top of the line from Ancel, and while the price tag matches the features it’s still well worth the investment for shops.
What I Don’t Like
It’s definitely priced above what most DIY car enthusiasts are willing to spend on a scan tool. It’s also big and bulky, and it still doesn’t have a wireless sensor. All things being equal though, it costs significantly less than other models in its class and does significantly more.
7. Ancel VD700
Tailor-made to suit the needs of Audi or Volkswagen Auto Group(VAG) cars, ANCEL VD700 is suitable for mechanics, professionals, and DIYers, alike. ANCEL VD700 has all the required operations that are required to diagnose and troubleshoot a car. All the OBD2 functions are included in ANCEL VD700 scanner such as data stream, read and clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes(DTC), Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, O2 test, on-board monitoring, Vehicle Identification Number(VIN), freeze frame data, etc.
Every vehicle has a unique identity in the form of a code known as VIN number. The scanner ANCEL VD700 can identify your vehicle and display its VIN. Data stream feature(live data) reports on vehicle runs in real-time, offering fast and accurate readings. These readings displayed in ANCEL VD700 can help check the vehicle’s engine condition, highlighting any underlying grievances. ANCEL VD700 can access the majority of the systems including the engine, Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and transmission.
What we love about this scanner is its ability to perform advanced functions such as injector learning, battery registration, oil reset, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) reset, brake pad reset, and throttle position. It also supports special protocols like Keyword Protocol 1281(KWP1281) and KWP2000 Protocol. Another important protocol that is supported by ANCEL VD700 is Unified Diagnostic Services (UDS) Protocol. These protocols are not trouble codes but communications protocols that let the diagnostic systems communicate with the ECUs to diagnose faults and reprogram the ECUs accordingly (if required). All these protocols are of paramount importance for off-board diagnostic activities. Off-board diagnostics refers to the examination of the vehicle parameters with the car in a stationary state.
ANCEL VD700 VAG vehicles OBD2 scanner is one of the best scanners for Audi owners. The updates of ANCEL VD700 are pretty easy to install; also the customer support is of excellent rating. Compared to its low price, it is a very top notch OBD2 scanner, crucial for DIYers.
8. Ancel BM700
Specifically designed to diagnose all BMW Group vehicles(BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce), the ANCEL BM700 supports six OBD2 modes. The modes being reading/erasing, showing error codes and their definitions, turning off the Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL), testing Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system, reading Inspection and Maintenance (I/M), checking battery voltage and retrieving Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) information. This scanner can work on 12V cars and light trucks (non-electric). It provides professional support for chassis control in the cars. A car’s suspension, steering and brake systems are collectively known as the chassis.
The ANCEL BM700 supports special operations of Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), Automatic Stability Control(ASC), Dynamic Stability Control(DSC) etc. ABS prevents a car's wheels from locking up under hard braking, thereby maintaining more control and limiting the chances of a car skidding. ASC prevents loss of traction on the wheels when accelerating out of control. It quickly restores the traction, resulting in stability and control of a car. DSC automatically takes control of the vehicle when skidding is detected. This helps the vehicle maintain stability in conditions of slippery roads or sudden steering to avoid hazards.
ANCEL BM700 supports the basic functions of reading and clearing error/fault codes, turning off fault lights, reading data stream in text and graph, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, smog emission test, Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test, and also retrieves Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) . The EVAP system checks for any fuel vapour leaks by performing either a pressure or vacuum test on the fuel system. Thus, it maintains the integrity of the fuel system. For all non-BMW cars, ANCEL BM700 can only perform one function of reading fault code solely for the engine system.
What we specifically love about ANCEL BM700, other than it being moderately priced is the presence of one-click “READ DTC” to read engine error codes quickly. The scanner automatically records vehicle information after you test the vehicle for the first time, which frees you from entering the data manually the next time. If you love your BMW, this scanner is the right choice for you.
9. Ancel BD310
The ANCEL BD310 scanner is a two-in-one diagnostic device that allows you to see all your vehicles diagnostics not only on the screen of the scanner but also on the screen of your own Android or IOS device. It supports all ten test modes for OBD2 scanning. This scanner can be operated hands free with its support for Bluetooth.
ANCEL BD310 is highly portable. Just plug in the scanner and run all kinds of tests smoothly via Bluetooth. ANCEL BD310 can test trip management, brake performance, acceleration and battery voltage tests. A trip begins when the engine is turned on, the vehicle driven in specific conditions and the engine turned back off . Any fault will turn the Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL), also known as check engine light, on. This is the trip management test.
ANCEL BD310 comes equipped with all the basic functions of reading and clearing fault codes, reading live data stream, freeze frame data, O2 sensor test, Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness. You can look up generic and manufacturer-specific codes in the scanner, which has the most up-to-date database of OBDII Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
With it's sleek design, lightweight, wide range of vehicle support, low price and variety of features; no doubt ANCEL BD310 is one of the top rated scanners from ANCEL. This amazing device works on not only most of the 1996 and newer US built vehicles but also European and Asian made vehicles built after 2001.
10. ANCEL BM500
Specifically targeted for BMW Group vehicles(BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce), the ANCEL BM700 is a compact hand-held scan tool having a user-friendly interface. It has an easy to read scanner that comes with a full-colour screen. It offers the best value for its price. The ANCEL BM500 is a highly useful OBD2 scan tool, with inbuilt functions like reading and erasing trouble codes, viewing freeze frames or live data, checking whether your vehicle is ready for an emission test.
ANCEL BM700 can work as an OBD2 code reader and perform battery check for any 12-volt OBD2-compliant vehicle, both BMW and non-BMW. It can test the battery voltage to help diagnose starting issues. It can read and clear trouble codes from all the on-board systems, including the transmission, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, and even the headlights and audio system. Bi-directional control of the scanner lets you activate specific components in the Anti-lock Braking System(ABS) or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) systems and easily identify the source of trouble codes. Bidirectional control is a term used to describe sending and receiving information between one device and another.
The ANCEL BM500 supports a range of useful maintenance functions. DIY mechanics will absolutely love its features, especially battery registration, oil reset, and electronic parking brake service, that allows one to perform necessary vehicle upkeep at home. Some functions of ANCEL BM500 will work on any vehicle with a 16-pin OBD2 port but the advanced diagnostic functions of the BM500 are supported specifically by the BMW group vehicles.
ANCEL BM500 is a powerful scanning tool that is pure value for money. Other than all the great features, special service reset functions, it comes with free updates for lifetime. All you need is a PC with a Windows operating system to download updates from ANCEL's website.
11. ANCEL AD530
The ANCEL AD530 OBD2 code reader is an advanced code reader tool preferred by a wide range of professionals and car owners alike to read and clear the check engine light. It not only comes with a lifetime of free updates but also has an unique "Help" button to help understand the complex professional vocabulary ensuring a pleasant user experience.
It comes equipped with features such as reading, displaying and erasing Diagnostic Trouble Code(DTC), reading live data stream, viewing freeze frame data, and displaying on-board monitor test results. Along with that it can also perform the crucial O2 Sensor test, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness test and Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test. The scanner can retrieve important vehicle information such as Vehicle Identification Number(VIN), Consumer Information Notice (CIN) and Calibration Verification Number(CVN) with the click of a button.
What we love about this scanner is it can not only read and record but also playback DTCs. The ANCEL AD530 comes with several great functions such as battery voltage test by displaying voltage change in graphs, displaying power-train control module(PCM) live data stream in text and graph, printing DTC reports via PC. This scanner has one of the most updated fault code databases.
If you are looking for a fast-operating, long-lasting, highly reliable and budgeted OBD2 scanner device, the ANCEL AD530 is a perfect pick for you. The ability to read all possible ranges of error codes makes ANCEL AD530 a highly functional diagnostic tool for any car owner. It goes without mentioning that the customer service of ANCEL is one of the best in the industry.
12. ANCEL FD500
Whether you are a vehicle owner or repair shop technician, the ANCEL FD500 is a great choice for a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury car. Categorically manufactured keeping Ford Group of vehicles in mind, the ANCEL FD500 is an all system diagnostic scan tool. This scanner performs the OBD2 services of reading and clearing trouble codes on all available systems, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, data stream and battery voltage 12V test.
ANCEL FD500 is equipped with multiple unique key functions such as Keep Alive Memory (KAM) or Throttle Adaption Reset, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) maintenance mode and battery registration. When the oxygen sensor detects a lean or rich condition of the air entering the combustion chamber, the computer increases or decreases fuel volume as a correction. This is called adaptive strategy and is stored in KAM. These codes can be reset manually in the ANCEL FD500, each time you clean a throttle. EPB is a technology that activates parking brakes by electronic control. If the parking brake fails, it needs to be fixed by brake pad replacement. The ANCEL FD500 can help in this process. Battery registration is the feature where the scanner can help in registering a recently replaced battery which has the same parameters as the original battery.
ANCEL FD500 can access the trouble codes from the four main systems - engine, Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS),Steering and Suspension (SAS) and transmission. In case the SAS Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL) turns on, the scan tool can read and clear the fault codes of the SAS. ANCEL FD500's headlight system diagnostics keeps a check on the condition of the headlights, ensuring worry free drives through dark tunnels or low lights. Other useful diagnostics of ANCEL FD500 are audio system, immobilizer system, Four-wheel Drive (4WD) system, Electronic Fuel Pump control module (EKPS), Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system and window system. While the audio system fixes any issues in your car's audio; immobilizer system prevents thievery of your car by keeping it safe and secure.
What we absolutely love about ANCEL FD500 is the 4WD system which helps in monitoring the condition of the wheels by sending torque to all four wheels to increase traction when needed. This feature is exclusively favourable for people living in remote areas, or working under extreme weather conditions, or for those who enjoy off-road adventures. Along with Ford cars, the ANCEL FD500 can retrieve vehicle information for any car having an OBD2 16 pin socket.
13. ANCEL FD700
Specially designed for diagnosing most of the 12V 16-Pin Ford Series vehicles (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury); the ANCEL FD700 OBD2 scanner is a low budget high quality pick. The ANCEL FD700 supports six important OBD2 modes. The modes being reading/erasing, showing error code definitions, turning off the Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL), testing Enhanced Evaporative (EVAP) system, reading Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) and retrieving Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) information.
ANCEL FD700 can access the trouble codes from all the major systems - Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), Steering and Suspension (SAS) system, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP),Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and transmission. In case the SAS Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL) turns on, the scan tool can read and clear the fault codes of the SAS. ABS prevents a car's wheels from locking up under hard braking, thus maintaining the right amount of control and limiting the chances of skidding. TPMS is to make a driver aware of the state of tire pressure within the tires.
Along with the basic OBD2 operations, ANCEL FD700 comes loaded with special multiple services for Ford Group vehicles such as ABS Service Bleed, battery registration, Electronic Parking Brakes (EPB) Maintenance, SAS Calibration, reset the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve learned values , reset Transmission Control Module(TCM) Keep Alive Memory (KAM), Power-train Control Module(PCM) engine, fuel injection pump learning, transmission learning and TPMS reset.
Priced below 100$, the ANCEL FD700 comes with lifetime free software updates, automatic vehicle model identification and two-color User Interface(UI) themes for any user to choose for. If all of this does not make you grab this amazing gadget, then you seriously need to rethink your love for your car's health.
14. ANCEL FX2000
With car labour and diagnostic fees at all time high, the ANCEL FX2000 OBD2 scan tool comes as a saviour. It is a highly recommended scan tool because of its ergonomic features. Anyone can use this device regardless of their level of expertise. Instead of showcasing data in an overwhelming way, ANCEL FX2000 makes it easy for a layman to get accustomed with diagnosing vehicular issues. Because of this the FX2000 is particularly suited to consumer users.
While most generic scanners allow a user to only read the engine control module, the ANCEL FX2000 enables you to scan multiple control units, such as Anti-lock Braking System(ABS) control units, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) (Airbag) and transmission. The scanner can read and erase fault codes, turn off warning lights, read live Power-train Control Module(PCM) datastream on these four systems. ANCEL FX2000 can perform full OBD2 diagnosis such as read and clear error codes, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) look-up, smog tests including Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, O2 sensor test, read freeze frame data, Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test, retrieves vehicle info. You do not have to worry about your car's optimal health with ANCEL FX2000 onboard.
What is absolutely amazing about the ANCEL FX2000, it not only gives a quick feedback on the DTCs but also provides a visual inspection of anything that has gone wrong. For instance, one can view all the braking components of the ABS. Hence, a user can easily see where the problem is and devise a solution accordingly. The ANCEL FX2000 is powered with advanced datastream graph which can read and display live data stream in one graph for the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS). This is helpful in finding potential problems of the vehicle enabling a user to add four parameters in the graph to show the live data. What's more is that the gadget comes equipped with a handy button specifically for DTC lookup.
Equipped with wide range of vehicle coverage (compatible with over 46 vehicle makers for a complete car diagnosis), an extremely appealing user friendly design (an intuitive interface, large colourful display) and free lifetime updates; the ANCEL FX2000 provides thorough readings for such a competitive low price.
15. ANCEL FX3000
ANCEL FX3000 is a cost-effective and authoritative OBD2 scanner supporting all the ten OBD2 test modes. This powerful scanner provides a wide range of coverage for over 45 vehicle makers. ANCEL FX3000 supports important OBD2 protocols - Keyword protocol 2000(KW2000), Variable Pulse Width protocol (J1850VPW), Pulse Width Modulation protocol (J1850PWM), Controller Area Network protocol(CAN) and International Organization for Standardization 9141 (ISO9141).
ANCEL FX3000 can perform full OBD2 diagnosis such as read and clear error codes, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) look-up, read freeze frame data, display live data stream, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, O2 sensor test, Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test, retrieve vehicle info. All the vehicle diagnostic reports can be recorded, stored and played back.
This powerful scanner is able to diagnose the four major systems of worldwide mainstream vehicle models: engine, transmission, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), and Anti-lock Braking System(ABS).The gadget can retrieve the error information from Automatic Transmission (AT) unit, which is a type of motor vehicle transmission, that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from manually shifting gears. The scanner can perform bi-directional tests to check the operating conditions of ABS, and turn off the warning light. Bidirectional control is a term used to describe sending and receiving information between one device and another.
ANCEL FX3000 also features five special reset capabilities- oil lamp reset, Electric Park Brake(EPB) release, Steering Angle Sensor(SAS) calibration, ABS reset and Battery Monitor System(BMS) reset. This amazing scanner is capable of helping automotive DIYers and professional mechanics diagnose and maintain their vehicles efficiently and profitably. It comes with an added advantage of free lifetime updates.
16. ANCEL FX1000
Compatible with both European On-Board Diagnostics(EOBD) and OBD2 cars, ANCEL FX1000 is an all system dynamic diagnostic tool. It can perform full system basic functions such as read pending or current Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), clear DTC, display graphic live data stream and freeze frame data, O2 sensor test, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, advanced on-board monitoring test and retrieve Vehicle Information (VIN).Freeze frame data takes a snapshot of the engine data at the time of trouble and indicates the status of other sensors or components when the Electronic Control Unit(ECU) recorded the fault code. The O2 sensor test measures the difference between oxygen in the air and oxygen in the exhaust gas and can also determine whether the catalytic converter is working well.
The ANCEL FX1000 scan tool can do the all system diagnosis such as engine, Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), transmission, Steering Angle Sensor(SAS), Supplemental Restraint System(SRS), Electronic Stability Programme(ESP), Tire Pressure Monitoring System(TPMS) , Electronic Parking Brake(EPB), Diesel Particulate Filter(DPF) and turns off malfunction indicator light (MIL). If the SAS Malfunctioning Indicator Light (MIL) turns on, the scan tool can read and clear the fault codes of the SAS. Any kind of problem in the air bag system is indicated by the SRS warning light. ESP diagnosis primarily improves a car's stability when driving on problematic surfaces. This light may turn on when driving in adverse conditions. TPMS indicates the state of tire pressure within the tires.
Along with the above mentioned basic operations, this scanner can also perform advanced operations such as oil service reset, ABS bleeding, TPMS reset, EPB reset, battery replacement, injector replacement, pump replacement, DPF regeneration, throttle position adaption, air suspension height calibration, sensor calibration and so on. Component or system bi-directional tests can be performed with ANCEL FX1000 with ease. Every time a brake system is opened to replace components such as calipers, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, air gets inside. This air has to be removed by bleeding the brakes if you want a firm brake pedal. Air trapped in the calipers or wheel cylinders will make the pedal feel soft and spongy. This is called ABS Service Bleed.
Customers and users across the world have deemed the ANCEL FX1000 as a must have for any car. The ANCEL FX1000 has rave reviews and ratings for its accuracy, operations, features and ease of usage.
17. ANCEL FX9000
ANCEL FX9000 is an advanced professional diagnostic scanner, which can read and erase codes, read Electronic Control Unit (ECU) information, display real-time data in text, graphics, and simulation. ANCEL FX9000 is a smart diagnostic tool that is capable of not only generating a diagnostic report after a full system health scan, but also sending it to a user's email. In case of auto-detect smart scan failure occurs, a manual diagnosis option is also available. Along with supporting all 10 modes of OBD2 test, Ancel FX9000 also supports 15 special reset functions.
Some of the OBD2 tests that can be performed with this scanner include Enhanced Evaporative(EVAP) system test, O2 Sensor, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) readiness, Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) Status, retrieving Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) information, and on-board monitors testing. Frequently used maintenance and reset tests can be done on the ANCEL FX9000, a few of them being- oil reset Service, Electronic Parking Brake(EPB) reset, Steering Angle Sensor(SAS) calibration, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System) reset, injector coding, battery maintenance system, etc.
This charismatic tool supports multiple languages and comes with one click easy update. What we love about this scanner is the diagnostic history and diagnostic feedback features. The diagnostic history function provides a quick access to the tested vehicles and users can choose to view the test report or resume from the last operation, without the necessity of starting from scratch. A user can troubleshoot with the diagnostic feedback feature.
The ANCEL FX9000 supports all system diagnostics- drive system: Power-train Control Module(PCM), chassis system, Body Computer System (BCM) and electrical system. This automatic scanner is ideal for car owners, repair garages enthusiasts, car beauty service shops, car mechanics and DIYers, alike.
