When it comes to buying any type of product, from food to electronics and everything in between, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to get. There are so many options and features to consider. However, following some key guidelines can help simplify the buying process and ensure you select the best fix finder scanner for your needs and budget. In this comprehensive buying guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when buying any product so you can feel confident you are making the right purchase decision.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY - Recommended by YouTube star Scotty Kilmer on his channel. Works on most vehicles sold in the U.S. with a model year of 1996 or newer; Supports all OBDII protocols: KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN (Controller Area Network); Displays in English, German, French, Spanish, Finnish, Dutch, Russian and Portuguese; Requires no battery or charger as the unit is powered directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in the vehicle.
- CRITICAL FUNCTIONALITY - Quickly reads and clears stored emissions-related codes, pending codes, and displays code definitions. Turns off the MIL (check engine light), helps reset the monitor before you take the car to smog, and lets you know what's going on before you take the car in for repairs.
- ENHANCED OBDII DIAGNOSTICS - Supports O2 sensor and EVAP (evaporative control) system test. The AD410 code scanner can be used to initiate a leak test of a vehicle's EVAP system by monitoring the integrity of the fuel tank system. The O2 sensor test is used to monitor and adjust the air/fuel mixture, which can identify and correct problems related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions.
- QVGA DISPLAY & NEW UI - The AD410 code reader is a greatly improved upgrade from simpler diagnostic tools. It features a 2. 4" TFT true color display (262K) LCD for clear viewing of test results. With the clear design UI, users can easily access setup, OBDII diagnostics, I/M readiness and DTC search and check. No need to read the manual to know what to do, even for a beginner.
- DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS & UPDATE - The Review & Print option allows you to save or print diagnostic reports as needed. The ANCEL brand offers lifetime free software updates for this unit to fix the latest bugs or add new parameters. Simply download the software from the ANCEL website and then follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on, quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information. Instead of taking car to mechanic shop, you can use it to check the trouble code and show code definition by yourself.
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed device with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly.
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble codes in seconds. If you want to find out the cause of the check engine light, this device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle.
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. This is not the case with the AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car.
- Multi-Functions - Practical Multi-Functions OBD2 code reader features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, view freeze frame, I/M ready, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed.
- Wide Capability - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian.
- LCD Display - Designed with a clear display LCD screen (128 x 64 pixels) - white backlight and contrast adjustment. No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector.
- Compact Design - Car diagnostic scanner is equipped with a 2.5 feet long cable and made of a very thick flexible insulator.There are 6 buttons on OBD2 Scanner:scroll up/down,enter/exit and buttons that quick query VIN vehicle number& the DTC fault code.
- ABS / Airbag codes NOT Supported - It is able to read and clear check engine information which is part of OBDII system, but it cannot work with non-OBDII systems, including ABS / Airbag / Oil Service Light, etc.
- 🥇【2024 Upgraded 2 in 1 OBD2 Scanner Battery Tester,Most Comprehensive Vehicle Doctor】Most OBD2 scanners on the market only have OBD2 functionality.The AD410 Pro+ OBD2 scanner is an upgraded version of the AD310 and AD410,which is not only a basic vehicle code reader but also a professional 6V/12V battery tester. It can test lead-acid batteries with a CCA range of 100 to 2000,perform battery testing, charging testing,and starting testing.Making it an extremely cost-effective diagnostic tool.
- 🔋【Add 6V/12V Battery Tester】The AD410 Pro+ is also a professional battery tester,not a simple battery test function,can analyze battery health for you in all aspects.Battery test will determine whether or not battery is in excellent operating order. Cranking test will determine whether or not the electrical system has sufficient power to start the engine.Check to see that the charging current,rectifier diode,generator are all functioning normally. Making sure your summer road trips won't end.
- ✅【The Full OBD2 Functionality Code Reader】Have you been can't figure out what's wrong with your car? Are you worried about being overcharged by a repair shop without knowing the problem? Don't worry! The car code reader can easily access the car's engine to read and clear codes,freeze frames,data streams,DTC LOOKUP,O2 sensor test,onboard monitor test,EVAP test,component test,data recording data printing and vehicle information. In just 30 seconds,you can master the condition of your car!
- 🚗【More Professional OBD2 Scanner Battery Tester】In fact, many 2-in-1 Car Diagnostic Scanner products on the market can only perform battery test, but cannot perform Cranking System Test or Charging System Test. The AD410 PRO+ is more professional battery tester and 10 full OBD2 Functions. And You don't need to buy an extra battery tester. This will save you 50% of money and space. And you can test the batteries of various vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, trucks, SUVs, boats, ext.
- 📈【Full Display Of Real-Time Vehicle Data】Compared to other cheap code readers,our code readers & scan tools can display real-time vehicle sensor data in both text and graphical formats,allowing you to visualize them more intuitively,such as calculating load values,engine coolant temperature,engine speed,vehicle speed,air flow sensors and more.In addition,you can view freeze frame data and compare it with real-time data and fault codes to better understand what is happening with your vehicle.
- 📱【One-click I/M Readiness & DTC Lookup】We have set up a I/M key on the keyboard,which allows you to quickly obtain readiness status and trouble codes to check if your vehicle can pass the test.Our built-in DTC library provides detailed definitions for over 10W+ codes to help you understand specific engine issues. Additionally,the ANCEL AD410 PRO+ car scanner not only supports code definition and lookup,but also features help for trouble codes to provide some guidance for your maintenance needs.
- 👍【Best Choice】The scan tool features a 2.8-inch TFT color screen and a 2.5-foot cable for easier operation.The high-quality copper clamps are polarity-reversal resistant and spark-resistant. And equipped with the latest industrial chip (speed is 6 times faster than other obd coders).The fast and precise results of this 2-in-1 car code reader & battery tester ideal for auto shops and DIY users to check the battery to decide if your car battery needs replacing and check for engine problems.
- 🎁【Extensive Compatibility & Lifetime Free Updates】This scanning tool is available for most vehicles sold in the US model year 1996 or newer,As well as EU-based vehicles in 2003 and Asia-based or newer vehicles in 2008. The 10 built-in languages make it even more practical.Free lifetime upgrades with Windows 7/8/10,To keep you informed of the latest diagnostic developments. This obd2 scanner diagnostic tool provides 8 year warranty,60 days free return and exchange,24 hours after-sales service.
- EASY-TO-USE OBD2 APP & CAR CODE READER - The FIXD car scanner and OBD app instantly translates 7000+ engine fault codes into plain English on your phone. Wireless Bluetooth connection. Set up in minutes. No car knowledge needed.
- FIND OUT WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOUR CAR - Even beginners can use the FIXD OBD2 scanner and app to find out what the check engine light means, how serious it is, and possible fixes before going to the repair shop. You can even clear the check engine light, saving time and money.
- SAVE MONEY & AVOID RIP-OFFS - Walk into the repair shop confident with the accurate info you need to save on car repair. The FIXD car scanner and OBD2 app provides helpful how-to guides and video tutorials so you can save with DIY repairs.
- FIXD WORKS WITH YOUR CAR - FIXD OBD2 reader is compatible with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer and all diesel vehicles 2008 or newer. Perfect diagnostic scan tool for Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, BMW, Porsche, Subaru, Nissan, Cadillac, Volkswagen, Lexus, and more. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, & Android.
- KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME FOR YOUR NEXT OIL CHANGE - FIXD is the only car code scanner that also tracks maintenance and wear items and automatically notifies you when your car is due for service.
- PROTECT THE WHOLE FAMILY - Connect one or more FIXD OBD code readers to your vehicles to monitor the whole fleet from one account. See battery voltage, get notified about car problems, schedule service appointments, & more from your iPhone or Android device.
- VIEW LIVE CAR DATA - Monitor the health of your vehicle in real time. See O2 sensor voltage, vehicle speed, fuel trims, & more on your phone, for a fraction of the cost of an expensive OBD scanner.
- UPGRADE YOUR SENSOR - FIXD Premium members can also talk to a certified mechanic about car care questions and DIY repairs, get guaranteed cost estimates for repairs, & much more. This subscription is optional and not required to use the OBD2 scanner or free app.
- 👍【Professional Level Diagnosis】- As a professional car scanner, the MP69035 has all the OBD2 functions you need, which includes Read & Clear codes, Turn off engine light or MIL, View live data stream, Read I/M Readiness, View freeze frame, Retrieve vehicle‘s VIN data, Test Battery Voltage, O2 sensor test, Onboard monitoring mode check and more to explore.
- 📋【More than 35,901 DTC Lookup】- Compared with the classic models which usually only have 3,000-10,000 DTCs, the MP69035 car code reader has a big improvement which includes built-in more than 35,901 DTCs. With the totally updated operation system, the obd scanner has better compatibiity. It can read more hidden codes and manufacturer controlled codes with ease.
- ✅【Extensive Vehicle Compatibility】- The MP69035 obd scanner can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2003 EU-based and 2008 Asian-based cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Not compatible with new energy vehicles or hybrid vehicles. Check compatibility with your vehicle model before purchasing.
- 📈【Full Display Of Real-Time Vehicle Data】Compared to other cheap code readers,our code readers & scan tools can display real-time vehicle sensor data in both text and graphical formats, allowing you to visualize them more intuitively, such as calculating load values, engine coolant temperature, engine speed, vehicle speed, air flow sensors and more. In addition, you can view freeze frame data and compare it with real-time data and fault codes to better understand what is happening with your vehicle.
- 👆【One-click I/M Readiness & DTC】We have set up a I/M key and a DTC key on the keyboard, which allows you to quickly obtain readiness status and trouble codes to check if your vehicle can pass the smog test or any engine fault codes.
- 🎁【User-Friendly】- The scan tool features a 2.8-inch TFT color screen for easier operation and a protective rubber housing. It is also equipped with the latest industrial chip which makes its speed is 6 times faster than other obd coders. The fast and accurate results make it the ideal car obd diagnostic tool for auto shops and DIY users. The 10 built-in languages make it even more practical.
- 🔂【Lifetime Update & Print】- It's a wise choice for the MP69035 obd scanner with the lifetime update feature. Just need a type-c cable (not included in the package), you can easily download the latest Update & Print software directly from MOTOPOWER website to update your device and print the testing datas with Windows 7/8/10. No additional charges. As the manufacturer, we will be responsible for the lifetime software update in order to keep our devices always with the up-to-date functions and improvements. This obd2 scanner diagnostic tool provides 3 year warranty, 60 days free return and exchange, 24 hours after-sales service.
- [Vehicle CEL Doctor] The NT301 obd2 scanner enables you to read DTCs, access to e-missions readiness status, turn off CEL(check engine light) or MIL, reset monitor, read live data and retrieve VIN of your vehicle.
- [Accuracy & Streams] Live data graphing and logging. Accurately read error codes for most Worldwide cars, SUVs, light trucks and 12V diesels equipped with Obd2. Graphing live vehicle sensors data allows you to focus on any suspicious data and trend.
- [Worthy to Own] Recommended by most professional mechanics on Youtube. Codes analysis and Printer compatible. Unique PATENTED design, 2.8" color screen, F-ree Lifetime Update and 1-year seller assurance with EXCLUSIVE tech and service team.
- [S-mog Check Helper] Read/Erase and I/M readiness hotkeys make it easy to use the car computer reader right out of the package. Red-Yellow-Green Leds and build-in speaker indicate the readiness status for confident e-missions test.
- [Home Necessity] Open to global customers. No battery required, NT301 obd scanner is charged directly from the 16pin DLC in your vehicle. It is recommended as a necessity in your toolbox and great choice for Home and Autoshop Mechanics.
- 🎄【Easy to Use--Work out of box】+【FOXWELL 2024 New Version】 FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2024 new version from FOXWELL, which is designed for those car owners who want to figure out the cause issue before fixing the car problem via scanning the most common systems like abs srs engine and transmission.The NT604 Elite diagnostic tool comes with latest software, which can be used out of box. No need to waste time to download the software first.
- 🎅【Affordable】+【Reliable Car Health Monitor】 Will you be confused what happen when the warning light of abs/srs/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this foxwell scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. It will t-urn off the warning light car after the problem is fixed.👉TIPS: Airbag crash/collision data can NOT be cleared even you replace the new airbag.
- 🎄【5 in 1 Diagnostic Scanner】Compared with those auto scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also it can be an abs/srs scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it.
- 🎅【Fantastic AUTOVIN】+【No extra software fee】Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite abs srs scanner supports 60+ car makes from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee.
- 🎄【Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag】+ 【Lifetime update】Almost all same price-level obd scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold on the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
- Vehicle CEL Doctor: The W4 obd2 scanner allows you to read fault diagnostic codes, access electronic readiness status, turn off the CEL (Check Engine Light) or MIL, reset monitors, read real-time data, and retrieve the vehicle's VIN.
- Multi-functionality: The practical obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with a built-in OBD2 DTC database to help you identify reasons for the engine light, read and clear codes, test car voltage, query fault code information, view freeze frame data, check I/M readiness, access data stream and playback functions, view real-time curves, read vehicle information, obtain speed data, calculate load value, and monitor engine coolant level.
- Plug and play: Simply locate the OBD port below your steering wheel to easily connect to our obd2 scanner for a fast and stable connection that won't disconnect. The user interface is user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to use. You can conveniently use this car code reader at home, in the garage, at car rental companies, auto repair shops, or on the road. This car scanner is also an excellent gift for those who need to diagnose vehicle issues.
- Your car assistant: The W4 code readers & scan tools is the ideal choice for self-maintenance and household use, saving on maintenance costs and monitoring vehicle health. It can assist in repairs, test drives, pre-diagnosing engine light issues, and checking performance data. Both DIY mechanics and professionals in the automotive industry can utilize this code reader effectively. With support for 9 protocols, this car diagnostic scanner is compatible with most American cars from 1996, EU cars from 2000, Asian cars, as well as newer OBD II and CAN domestic or imported vehicles.
- Premium Materials and Color Screen: This device revolutionizes the traditional concept of scanner for car by featuring a stylish 2.8-inch IPS color display screen, offering a comfortable handheld experience. Additionally, it is constructed with the latest PV material, ensuring durability with resistance to high temperatures and impact.
- Perfect Design: The car scanner diagnostic for all cars is equipped with a 2.5-foot long cable made of highly durable flexible insulation material. The AMTIFO W4 obd2 scanner features 4 buttons: up/down scrolling, enter/exit, and three warning lights (green light: vehicle detection support; yellow light: indicates vehicle malfunction; red light: product powered normally), allowing for quick status comprehension.
- Warranty and Service: Benefit from a two-year warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are unsatisfied with the code reader, please contact AMTIFO's 24-hour customer service team for easy returns and refunds. Save your money and time.
- ✔Full OBDII Modes Scanner for Car: As professional car scanner, ZM201 has all the OBD2 functions you need.🔎Read & clear codes, 💡turn off engine light or MIL, ❄view freeze frame, 📋read I/M readiness, 🚕retrieve vehicle VIN, 🔋battery voltage test, 📈live data stream (with graphing display), ✅built-in 35901 DTCs, O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and perform component testing etc.
- ✔Enhanced OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool: Live data and DTC replay combined with printing function, you can connect it to a computer for fault data printing, prevent auto repair shops from charging randomly, save money and time. ZM201 obd scanner also comes with free-lifetime software updates, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements.
- ✔35,901 DTC Lookup: ZM201 car code reader built-in 35,901 DTCs, the old model obd2 usually only have 3,000-10,000. So the ZM201 car scanner has a huge advantage, which means that this obd2 scanner can better help diagnose and solve your vehicle faults. This is a great option if you want to replace or upgrade an existing car scanner.
- ✔Compatible with 98% Vehicles: ZM201 OBD2 scanner for car is compatible with most cars after 1996(USA)/2002(EU)/2008(Asia). If your car has an OBD2 port (16Pin), and the production time meets the above timeline, then your vehicle is compatible. But it is not compatible with new energy vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and models that do not comply with the OBD2 protocol.
- ✔Convenient Shortcut Functions: The addition of shortcut keys enhances the user experience. Pressing F1 enables you to quickly retrieve trouble codes, while F2 provides instant access to I/M readiness information. We've also introduced left and right navigation buttons (the previous model had only up and down buttons), making operation even more convenient.
- ✔User-Friendly Design: The scanner boasts a 2.8-inch color screen that allows you to choose between dark and light modes and adjust the brightness according to your preference. Audible beep notifications (which can be disabled) accompany key presses, providing an intuitive user experience. The vehicle status indicator light turns red when a fault is detected, yellow when there's an incompatibility/connection failure, and green when the car is successfully connected.
- ✔Customer-Oriented Services: Each package includes canvas storage bag for your storage, and Type-C cable to connect to your computer. And we offer 60-day return policy and 3-year replacement service, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind. If you have used this product and returned it, please mark it as unsellable so that the used product will not be resold to other customers, it is much appreciated.
Define Your Needs
The first step before buying any fix finder scanner is to clearly define what you need it for and which features are most important to you. Ask yourself some key questions:
-
What do you plan to primarily use the fix finder scanner for? What will be its main function or purpose?
-
Are there specific features that are absolutely necessary? Make a list of your must-haves.
-
Are there certain extra capabilities that would be nice to have but are not dealbreakers? These are lower priorities.
-
Do you have any size, space, or mobility restrictions? This may eliminate some options.
-
What is your budget? Having a spending limit in mind will help narrow down the choices.
Thoroughly researching your needs will allow you to determine the best type of fix finder scanner and its key components so you can focus your search process.
Research Your Options
Once you know what you are looking for in a fix finder scanner, the next step is to research the different specific models and brands available within your parameters. Here are some tips for researching effectively:
-
Search online to come up with a list of the top reviewed and rated fix finder scanner options within your budget. Look at product review sites and forums for recommendations.
-
Narrow down the list by comparing specs and components side by side to weed out models that don’t fit your required criteria.
-
Check out manufacturer and brand websites to learn about product lines and see what they each offer. Look for the pros and cons.
-
Read through customer reviews on retailer websites like Amazon to get real world feedback on how certain fix finder scanner perform. Look for patterns in reviews.
-
Ask friends, family members, coworkers, or neighbors what fix finder scanner they use and if they recommend any specific models. Word of mouth can be very helpful.
-
Visit local stores that carry these types of products so you can ask questions and get hands-on experience testing them out. Employee expertise can provide useful insight.
Doing thorough research on all the various fix finder scanner choices will ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the landscape before purchasing.
Compare Prices
Once you’ve researched all the top fix finder scanner contenders, it’s time to compare prices across different retailers to find the best deal. Here are some tips for getting the lowest price:
-
Use price comparison sites like Google Shopping to quickly see which retailers offer the lowest price for a specific model. This saves you from having to check individually.
-
Check manufacturer websites for direct prices without any middleman markup. They may offer special discounts.
-
Look for coupons, promo codes, price matching guarantees, and other ways to save when buying from major retailers. Check sites like RetailMeNot for available deals.
-
Sign up for email lists and alerts from brands and stores to receive notifications about upcoming sales and savings opportunities. Great for timing a purchase.
-
Consider buying refurbished or open box items which can be significantly cheaper but still work great. Just make sure there is a decent warranty.
-
Shop during major sale holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday when retailers offer deep discounts on all products. Set a reminder so you don’t miss out.
-
Buy last year’s model – many fix finder scanner don’t change much year-to-year so you can save money by buying the previous model still in stock.
Finding the lowest price takes some work but can end up saving you a lot on your ideal fix finder scanner.
Choose a Reputable Retailer
Once you’ve selected the specific make and model to buy, it’s important to purchase it from a retailer you can trust. Here are some factors to ensure a reputable buying experience:
-
Make sure they are an authorized dealer for the brand so you get the full manufacturer warranty and can be sure you are not getting a counterfeit item.
-
Look for secure payment processing and protection of your personal/financial data. Only buy from sites that are encrypted for security.
-
Select retailers with liberal return policies in case you need to send the fix finder scanner back for any reason. You want to be able to get a refund.
-
Check policies on price matching, free shipping, and free returns. Perks like this make a retailer more competitive.
-
Look at reviews of the seller online to make sure there are not rampant complaints about fraudulent activity, terrible customer service, or extremely long shipping times.
-
Consider buying directly from a physical store you can visit so you have an easier time exchanging or returning a purchase if necessary. Bonus if they offer setup help.
Choosing a trustworthy retailer gives you peace of mind you are getting a genuine product that is backed by the manufacturer and your purchase experience will be hassle-free.
Understand the Return Policy
Before hitting that buy button, be sure to understand the return policy of both the retailer and manufacturer so there are no surprises later if you need to send your fix finder scanner back. Key things to look for:
-
How many days do you have to return the item once received? 30 days is common but some retailers offer extended holiday returns.
-
Can you return just for any reason for a full refund? Or only specifically for defects/damage? Restocking fees?
-
Who pays return shipping costs? Ideally the retailer offers free returns but sometimes you must pay to ship back.
-
Are refunds provided as credits/gift cards or back to your original payment method? Credits aren’t ideal if buying from a retailer you won’t use again.
-
Are there restocking fees for any reason? These can often be 15% or more of the purchase price so be aware.
-
Does the manufacturer warranty provide for exchanges/repairs/replacements instead of returns? Understand the process.
Knowing the return policy gives you better buyer protection, especially for a bigger purchase. You can buy with confidence knowing you can get a refund if needed.
Read Consumer Reviews
Before deciding on a specific fix finder scanner, it is extremely wise to read through consumer reviews from various sources to learn about real-world use. This helps identify any potential problems or flaws not apparent just by looking at specs and features. Places to look for reviews:
-
Retailer websites like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, etc. Read the most critical reviews focusing on product weaknesses.
-
Independent online review sites like Consumer Reports for objective expert assessments.
-
YouTube for video reviews that give a visual demonstration of the fix finder scanner in action.
-
Reddit threads where consumers candidly discuss pros and cons after extended use.
-
Forum posts at niche communities related to the product type to see what enthusiasts say.
-
Blog posts detailing long term testing over months or years of ownership.
-
Editorial reviews from trusted publications related to the industry.
Pay special attention to any consistent complaints or issues that come up after normal use. This could indicate inherent design flaws or manufacturing defects. Watch for concerning trends.
Reading authentic consumer reviews better informs your buying decision and prepares you for potential aspects of the product to watch out for once purchased.
Consider Extended Warranties
For more expensive and complex products, purchasing an extended warranty beyond the standard manufacturer warranty can give you greater peace of mind. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on an extended warranty:
-
Cost – is the price of the extended coverage reasonable compared to the benefit you would receive? Is it a good value or not worth the cost?
-
Length – does the extended warranty period align with the expected lifespan of the product? Enough to protect you?
-
What’s covered – does it cover repairs, replacements, or only certain components? Are shipping costs included?
-
Limitations – are there caps on number of claims, repair costs, geographic restrictions? Read the fine print.
-
Reputation – is the retailer/insurer reputable? Do they have a track record of honoring claims? Good customer service?
-
Cancellation policy – can you get a refund if cancelling the extended warranty? Factor this into the cost.
-
Comparison shop – check prices from different sellers as coverage and prices can vary widely.
For expensive electronics like TVs or laptops, the extra protection is likely worthwhile for 2-3 years of coverage. For lower cost items, self-insuring by saving your own repair fund may be better.
Follow Any Set-Up Instructions
One of the most important steps after you buy a new fix finder scanner is to properly set it up by following all manufacturer instructions. Here are some key tips:
-
Carefully unpack the item without damaging the packaging until you confirm it works properly. Keep all included parts/accessories together.
-
Review the entire printed or online instruction manual so you understand each setup step.
-
Assemble or position the item as described following all safety precautions.
-
Install any required software and configure settings appropriately for your usage needs. Update to latest firmware/OS.
-
Charge battery fully if applicable and perform any required initial calibration or preparation.
-
Test that all features and controls are fully functional per the descriptions in the instructions. Better to find any defects now.
-
Know what to do if issues arise during setup. Many devices have built-in troubleshooting guides.
-
Keep the packaging and all materials at least until you have verified proper operation in case return/exchange is required.
Following the manufacturer recommended setup protocol ensures your fix finder scanner will be ready to use as intended so you get the best experience right from the start.
Enjoy Your Purchase
Once you’ve researched, made your purchase from a trusted retailer, and set up your new fix finder scanner, the fun part begins – putting your new item to use! Here are some final tips for enjoyment:
-
Fully explore all the features and capabilities of your new acquisition. Learn how to get the most out of it.
-
Try out all accessories and optional components to optimize the functionality.
-
Keep the instruction manual and warranty information handy just in case an issue arises.
-
Sign up for any available manufacturer forums or communities to get insider tips from other owners.
-
Leave a positive review of your purchase online to help guide other buyers.
-
Care for your new possession properly with cleaning, maintenance, and storage to extend its lifespan.
Following this comprehensive buying guide will help you make a learned purchasing decision on any type of fix finder scanner so you end up with the optimal model your needs without any regrets. Do your research, find the best price, buy from a reputable source, and then enjoy getting the most out of your new purchase!