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 ANCEL HD3400 Plus Full System Heavy Duty Truck Scanner is designed for comprehensive diagnostics and maintenance of heavy-duty trucks, particularly those with Cummins, Detroit, Caterpillar, and Paccar engines. One of its major strengths is its wide compatibility with 98% of trucks, including brands like Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Mack, and others. It supports major communication protocols which make it versatile across various truck models.

This scanner is particularly beneficial for users looking to enhance their truck’s performance, manage DPF regeneration, and avoid costly repairs, potentially saving thousands of dollars over time. It offers free lifetime updates, ensuring that users stay current with the latest software enhancements without additional costs. The quick and accurate scanning feature is another highlight, providing fast and precise diagnostics which is crucial for minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

However, the product has a few limitations. Compatibility can be an issue with trucks using proprietary protocols, such as some models from International, Kenworth, Peterbilt, Volvo, and Mack. Users need to confirm their truck's protocol before purchasing. Additionally, while it has a user-friendly interface, the initial setup and understanding of protocols might require some technical knowledge or assistance from the manufacturer. The scanner might not clear certain fault codes unless the underlying issues are resolved, which could be a point of frustration for some users.