Which Scanner Works
on Your Car?

A 4-system scanner reads engine (ECM), transmission (TCM), ABS, and SRS/airbag codes — the four most commonly needed systems for DIY diagnostics. A full-system scanner adds body control module (BCM), HVAC, instrument cluster, parking sensors, seat control, power windows, and every other electronic module in the vehicle. If you only ever need to diagnose why a CEL, ABS light, or airbag light is on, a 4-system scanner covers it. If you work on a wider range of issues or European vehicles with complex module architectures, full-system access matters.

FCA introduced the Secure Gateway Module (SGW) in 2018 on most Jeep, Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler vehicles. It acts as a security gateway that blocks untrusted scanner commands. Scanners without FCA AutoAuth certification can still read basic OBD2 codes, but cannot perform bidirectional tests, active tests, or write any data. To get full access, your scanner must be AutoAuth certified. All ThinkCar scanners in this guide and the Foxwell NT710 (with Dodge/Jeep software) include FCA SGW support. The Launch CRP129X does not.

The NT710 uses a single-brand software model — the hardware supports 50+ brands but comes with software for one manufacturer (your choice at purchase). Additional brands are purchased separately. This approach lets Foxwell pack deep OE-level diagnostic depth into each brand-specific software package, often exceeding what all-brand scanners achieve at similar price points. If you only work on one make — particularly BMW where NT710 ECU coding is well-regarded — this is excellent value. If you work on multiple makes, an all-brand scanner like the ThinkScan 672 or Autel MK808S avoids the additional software costs.

No. The Launch CRP129X is a 4-system scanner with 8 service resets and solid vehicle coverage, but it does not have bidirectional (active test) capability. It can read and clear codes, view live data, and perform service resets — but it cannot command components like fuel injectors, radiator fans, or ABS pumps. If bidirectional control is a requirement, the THINKSCAN 662 at a similar price tier includes it. See our handheld scanner guide for a full comparison.

CAN-FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Data-rate) is the updated communication protocol used on 2020+ GM vehicles and increasingly on other late-model cars. It carries more data at higher speed than the original CAN protocol. Scanners without CAN-FD support may connect to 2020+ Silverado/Sierra, Equinox, and other GM vehicles, but cannot access all modules or retrieve all data. All ThinkCar scanners listed include CAN-FD. The Launch CRP129X does not support CAN-FD.

Yes — reading and clearing OBD2 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) including the check engine light is a standard function on every scanner listed, including the most basic. Clearing the light without repairing the underlying fault will cause it to return. Use our P-code library to look up what the code means, or the AI Diagnostic tool to get a repair path before clearing.