Best OBD2 scanner reader - recommendations?

[Wsspitz]

This is my first 4 Runner and i want to do most of the work myself. What is the best OB2 for DIYers

Sponsored

 

[Jpr18]

I have a very cheap $16 ELM327 OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that I bought in 2013. It works perfectly fine with Carista + my android phone. So, any generic one will work.

 

[Wsspitz]

I have a very cheap $16 ELM327 OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that I bought in 2013. It works perfectly fine with Carista + my android phone. So, any generic one will work.

Thanks.

 

[kzrman]

Please keep in mind that in my experience programs like Carista are a year behind there support of 2025 vehicles including the 4Runner. It usually takes them a year to develop software that will work with the car. In my opinion if older software does in fact work with the newer vehicle that is just by chance.

 

[brumey]

Please keep in mind that in my experience programs like Carista are a year behind there support of 2025 vehicles including the 4Runner. It usually takes them a year to develop software that will work with the car. In my opinion if older software does in fact work with the newer vehicle that is just by chance.

Carista confirmed, twice that the 2025 4Runner is fully supported by its software and hardware. They also confirmed the supported vehicle list was not updated.

I have Carista but have not explored all the features yet.

 

[kzrman]

Carista confirmed, twice that the 2025 4Runner is fully supported by its software and hardware. They also confirmed the supported vehicle list was not updated.

I have Carista but have not explored all the features yet.

I'm glad to hear that the truck is actually supported.

 

[Vincenzo]

I like my ScanGauge

 

[Jims4ranner]

If you just need something basic, a lot of people start with Carista or a cheap ELM327 Bluetooth scanner. They’re affordable and good for clearing codes or doing some light customization. The downside is they can be kind of hit-or-miss with features, especially on newer models, and some apps charge extra for updates or full access. I ran into that a couple of times, so I ended up going with the YOUCANIC scanner. It’s been solid — no subcription fees, free updates, and it works on other brands too, not just Toyota. It’s a little more up front, but way less frustarting in the long run if you want full access without worrying about hidden costs. Congrats again on the 4Runner — awesome choice.

 

[Wsspitz]

If you just need something basic, a lot of people start with Carista or a cheap ELM327 Bluetooth scanner. They’re affordable and good for clearing codes or doing some light customization. The downside is they can be kind of hit-or-miss with features, especially on newer models, and some apps charge extra for updates or full access. I ran into that a couple of times, so I ended up going with the YOUCANIC scanner. It’s been solid — no subcription fees, free updates, and it works on other brands too, not just Toyota. It’s a little more up front, but way less frustarting in the long run if you want full access without worrying about hidden costs. Congrats again on the 4Runner — awesome choice.

Thanks for the info.

 

[mars001]

I have a very cheap $16 ELM327 OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that I bought in 2013. It works perfectly fine with Carista + my android phone. So, any generic one will work.

Me too I have the ELM327 since 2010 or so that I use with Android Torque app on my 2003 4R and it's still working fine.

 

[mars001]

Honest question: what can a YOUCANIC do that a cheap ELM with Carista can't? (Beside the subscription vs no-subscription and cost)

Sponsored