How to choose a Best Subaru OBD Diagnostic Scanner?

If you're looking for the best obd2 diagnostic scanners that will allow Subaru owners to perform in-depth troubleshooting themselves, look no further.

Let's get to it.
The OBD2 scanners listed here are able to scan the following systems:

• ABS - Anti-lock brake system.
• SRS - Airbag system.
• ECU - Engine Control System.
• TCU - Automatic Transmission Control Unit.

If you are looking for an OBD2 that will allow you to read engine codes and erase the Check Engine Light you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars on a diagnostic scanner. Any generic OBD2 scanner will get the job done.
Let's start taking a look at the scanner that is used at Subaru dealerships. Next we will look at some alternatives and affordable diagnostic scanners for Subaru owners.

VXDIAG VCX PLUS Subaru Select Monitor III SSM3

Subaru dealerships use the Select Monitor III scanner. The scanner will allow you to access all systems on Subaru vehicles.  The Monitor III is without a doubt the best OBD2 scanner for Subaru cars.
The original HDS is expensive ($2,999 ), but the clone VXDIAG Subaru vcx is an affordable professional-level scanner for Subaru at $269.

VXDIAG Subaru is able to perform dealer level diagnostic and programming functions, including:

1. All System Diagnosis. Selecting this item displays on a single screen the fault detect status of all control system control modules for which SSMΙΙΙ diagnosis is supported, and memorized diagnostic codes.

2. Each System Check. Selecting this item makes it possible to select a particular system from among the control systems forwhich SSMΙΙΙ diagnosis is supported, and perform fault diagnosis. This item can be used to view input/output data of the system control modules that perform fault diagnosis, memorized diagnostic codes, and other data on the PC display. This menu item is also used after repair work is complete to delete diagnostic codes, to configure control module settings, etc.

3. Saved Data Display.

4. Immobilizer.

5. Reprogram.

6. Read CF application measurement data.

7. Convert/Save measurement data on driving recorder.

8. Oscilloscope. After attaching the optional pulse/analog cartridge to SDI, connect the pulse/analog box to the SDI and using pulse/analog probe to perform analog sampling. But we do not provide pulse/analog cartridge.
9. Program Subaru smart key

 

 

 

Pros:

• Access to all system
• Have Immo and programming features
• Professional scanner
• Cheap

Cons:

• Need a laptop to work with
• Cannot work on Win10

VXDIAG Subaru related articles:
VXDiag Subaru SSM III Scanner Working Experiences
VXDIAG Subaru SSM3 review on Impreza (with pictures)
VXDIAG Multi Tool Subaru SSM-III Scanner Another Review

iCarsoft Diagnostic Subaru Scanner

iCarsoft Subaru i903  is an advanced OBD2 code reader that will allow you to scan multiple systems on your Subaru such as the ABS, SRS Airbag, Engine and Automatic Transmission. With this scanner, you can read the fault DTCs and clear the fault codes from memory.  The CR Plus is easy to use even if you have never used an OBD II scanner before. With iCarsoft you will also be able to do a few other things such as reset the oil light, reset the brake pad wear warning light and reset the steering angle sensor.

The CR Plus will work on most makes and models in you have different cars in your garage. The i903 will work on Subaru, Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. We think that the i903 offers great value for its cost.

iCarsoft Subaru car list:
Forester (1998-2011)
Impreza (1996-2011)
Legacy (1996-2011)
Outback (1996-2011)
R2 (2003-2011)
Pleo (1998-2010)
Vivio (1996-1998)

Foxwell NT630 Scanner

The Foxwell NT630 is a professional OBD2 scanner that will be able to scan multiple systems on your Subaru such as the engine, airbag, ABS and more. With the NT630 you will be able to activate solenoids to perform testing of different units such as the ABS and EMB. Manually run the ABS motor. You can test the valves and TRACS system. You can also carry a brake bleed test.

We like the NT630 because it is compatible with multiple Asian, Domestic and European vehicles. It is also compatible not only with OBD-II vehicles but also with OBD-1. It will work on many cars, minivans, SUVs and trucks.

Pros:

• Can scan and clear codes related to the Check Engine Light, ECU.
• Read and erase ABS codes.
• Read and clear airbag / SRS codes.
• Can perform several ABS tests.
• Test oxygen sensor.

Launch Creader VII+ Scanner for Subaru

We tested the Launch Creader and found it very easy to use and quick to retrieve the fault codes from the ECU. It is an affordable OBD diagnostic tool, and it has one main advantage over the Foxwell NT630. Besides being able to scan the ECU, ABS and SRS system, it is also able to examine the automatic transmission control unit.

The Launch Creader supports multiple automobile brands as well. It provides a description of the fault problem right on the LCD. Write down the error code and do some research related to that particular fault code.  An inexpensive diagnostic tool that can save you money and headaches if you are trying to reset the service engine or clear the airbag light.

Pros

• Read and clear fault codes related to the engine.
• Read and clear transmission fault codes.
• Read and clear ABS fault codes.
• Read and clear SRS / airbags light and codes.
• Supports 1996 and newer vehicles.
• Can retrieve generic P0000 and manufacturer specific codes P1000 and U000.
• Clear Check Engine Light
• View freeze frame data.
• Check emission readiness status.
• Display live sensor data.

Cons

• Primarily for ABS, Airbag, Engine and Transmission diagnostics.  Support for other systems not always available.