10 Best Ford Scan Tools 2025 in the United States

The Ancel AD310 OBD II Scanner is a popular choice for those looking to diagnose check engine lights and read error codes for vehicles from 1996 onwards. One of its key strengths is its compatibility with multiple OBDII protocols which makes it suitable for a wide range of cars, including both domestic and foreign models. Its ease of use is another highlight; you don’t need to be a mechanic to operate it effectively—just plug it into your car's OBDII port and you’re good to go. The scanner provides quick and accurate results, allowing users to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, view live data, and check vehicle information without needing a power source beyond the car itself.

In terms of design, the AD310 is sturdy and compact, with a 2.5-foot cable that ensures durability while in use. It’s lightweight, making it portable and easy to store, which is great for DIY car enthusiasts or those who want a handy tool for home use. The display is large and clear, making it easy to read results on the go.

There are a few limitations to consider. While it excels at reading engine codes, it may not offer the full range of advanced diagnostic features found in pricier models, such as ABS or airbag system diagnostics. Additionally, the data storage is somewhat limited, as it does not save historical data for extensive analysis, which could be a drawback for more serious users. Lastly, while the user interface is straightforward, it might be too basic for those looking for more sophisticated functionalities.

The TOPDON ArtiDiag Pro is a versatile and powerful scan tool well-suited for car owners and home technicians who want to diagnose and maintain their vehicles, including many Ford models. It supports over 100 brands and covers 2023-2024 models, ensuring broad compatibility. Its standout feature is advanced ECU coding, allowing you to unlock hidden functions and customize settings for brands like VW and Benz, though some coding features are limited for certain makes.

The tool’s bidirectional control lets you test specific vehicle parts like lights and locks to quickly find issues, which saves diagnostic time. It offers 35+ service functions such as oil resets, brake system management, and steering angle calibration, which help handle about 90% of common repair and maintenance tasks. The 7-inch high-resolution screen and multilingual interface make it user-friendly, though it might feel a bit technical if you’ve never used a scan tool before.

It stores data internally with a decent 32GB memory, and updates are free for two years but require a paid subscription afterward. A minor drawback is the removal of certain vehicle adapters, like for Chrysler, so checking compatibility before buying is important. Customer support is responsive and available by phone, which adds peace of mind. This makes the TOPDON ArtiDiag Pro a great choice for users wanting a comprehensive diagnostic tool that covers many systems and services, especially if you don’t mind investing time learning its capabilities and budgeting for future updates.

The FOXWELL NT301 is a straightforward OBD2 scanner designed primarily for reading and clearing engine codes on vehicles made from 1996 onward. It supports a wide range of car models and OBDII protocols, making it a good fit for most gasoline and light diesel vehicles. This scanner features an easy-to-navigate 2.8-inch color screen that displays live sensor data in graphs, helping users quickly spot potential issues. Its plug-and-play design means no built-in battery or complicated setup is required, drawing power directly from the vehicle’s diagnostic port.

Functionality-wise, the NT301 covers essential engine diagnostics including checking readiness for emissions tests and providing detailed fault code explanations to help non-experts understand problems. However, it does not support more advanced features like ABS or airbag system diagnostics, making it less suitable for users needing comprehensive car system checks. It also lacks battery testing and special manufacturer-specific functions.

Regarding connectivity and updates, the device can connect to Windows PCs for software updates but does not support Mac or mobile systems, which might limit some users. Data storage is basic with logging capabilities for live data streams, but no cloud or wireless options are available. The inclusion of a built-in speaker and LED indicators enhances usability by clearly signaling vehicle readiness status. This makes the FOXWELL NT301 an ideal choice for home mechanics or everyday drivers seeking a reliable, user-friendly tool to diagnose engine-related issues and clear check engine lights. Though it is not a professional-grade scanner due to its limitations in advanced diagnostics and update flexibility, it offers good value for its price and ease of use.