The Innova 1000 is a simple yet effective OBD2 scanner you can plug into your vehicle — as long as it was made after 1996 — and read the diagnostic error codes which are flagging the check engine light.



Your check engine light comes on. You know enough to understand there’s probably something wrong with the engine or core system, but your knowledge stops there. How do you interface with the vehicle, or rather the vehicle’s main computer, and figure out what’s wrong? You could take it to a local mechanic, but unless you know one you can trust that could end up in costly repairs you may not even need. The answer is an OBD2 scanner (OBD-II) which plugs into the standard OBD2 port on your vehicle and reads the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCS).

Every vehicle from 1996 on supports the standard and will spit out DTCs, telling you precisely what’s wrong, but you need a tool to read and understand the codes. To achieve that, you want something like the Innova 1000. It’s a simple yet effective OBD2 scanner that plugs into your vehicle and communicates via Bluetooth with your mobile device — iPhone and Android.

It plugs in, reads the error codes, tells you what’s wrong, and allows you to fix the problem and clear the codes. Of course, you actually have to go fix the problem otherwise the codes — and check engine light — will return with a vengeance. But as you likely know, engine problems could mean anything. This tool gives you a leg up and tells you exactly where to look and where to start.

Why everyone should have an OBD2 scanner like the Innova 1000

When something goes wrong with your vehicle, minor or major — it doesn’t matter — your vehicle actually tells you what’s wrong but in its own language. Usually mechanics and dealership pros use the OBD2 port to read that information when you bring your vehicle in for maintenance and repairs. But you can use an OBD2 scanner to figure it out yourself. That doesn’t necessarily mean you should do the repairs yourself, but at least you’ll know what’s going on. That way when you visit the mechanic they can’t lie to you.

The Innova 1000 can also provide real-time data on engine performance, the ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), as well as the transmission. If you live in a state that conducts them, it can also help you prepare for emissions tests. Plus, with the free companion app called RepairSolutions2, you can receive pro-level guidance, part recommendations, cost estimates and access step-by-step repair guides at no additional cost.

When all is said and done, it’s really about checking and clearing those error codes. Normally, you’d have to visit a mechanic to get that blindingly orange or red check engine light turned off. That’s not the case with one of these. But most importantly, you can figure out precisely what’s wrong so you can fix it or take your vehicle to someone who can.

Who is it for?

Vehicle owners that want to know exactly what’s going on under the hood so they can fix the problem or get professional help. No subscriptions, no extra fees.

Where to buy?

MSRP: $120 | Current Price: $100