OBD2 Scanners · Rank #5 of 5
Autel AutoLink AL329 — enhanced OBD-II code reader (upgraded AL319)
$34.98★4.7 (555 ratings)Check fit for your model
Best for
One-click I/M readiness check confirms smog-test state before you drive to the station
Not for
Not bidirectional — reads and clears codes but can't actively command components
Key compromise
Engine and emissions systems only; no ABS or airbag (SRS) coverage
Closest cheaper option
This is already the lowest-priced active pick.
Approx. $34.98. Retailer price checked today. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
87
Grade A · ranked #5 in category.
Scored on 6 public criteria, weighted 55% category-specific, 25% owner satisfaction, 20% value.
Scored on 6 public criteria, weighted 55% category-specific, 25% owner satisfaction, 20% value.
Diagnostic Depth
94
App & Fees
79
Ease of Use
85
Build Quality
76
Value
100
Owner Satisfaction
84
OBD2 Scanners · Rank #5 of 5
Autel AutoLink AL329 — enhanced OBD-II code reader (upgraded AL319)
$34.98★4.7 (555 ratings)Check fit for your model
OUR VERDICT
Researched as the honest successor to the discontinued AL319 we used to recommend. Autel's AL329 keeps the one-click I/M readiness check that makes it genuinely useful at emissions time, adds AutoVIN and Mode 6, and graphs live data on any 1996-or-newer OBD-II vehicle. It's a standalone handheld with no app or subscription, rated 4.7/5 by owners. Not bidirectional, so it diagnoses and clears codes rather than commanding components.
WHAT IT GETS RIGHT
One-click I/M readiness check confirms smog-test state before you drive to the station
Standalone handheld — no phone app, subscription or fees
AutoVIN, Mode 6, freeze-frame and graphable live data on a color screen
KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY
Not bidirectional — reads and clears codes but can't actively command components
Engine and emissions systems only; no ABS or airbag (SRS) coverage
Protocols
OBD-II / EOBD (1996+ vehicles)
Connection
Wired handheld, TFT colour screen
Bidirectional
No (read/clear, Mode 6, live data)
App & Fees
None — standalone, no subscription
Approx. $34.98 · Price checked Jul 22, 2026 · As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
But if you’d rather…
…GET THE WINNER · Autel MaxiCOM MK808S — $378.95 · 81
Buy on AmazonThe only genuinely bidirectional tool we evaluated: the MK808S reads every major module (engine, transmission, ABS, TPMS, BCM), runs 3,000+ active component tests and handles 28+ reset services on a dedicated Android tablet. Overkill for a check-engine light, right at home for a serious DIYer or side-shop. Note this is the S revision — the original MK808 is the older, shallower tool and is what most stale round-ups still link.
…SPEND LESS · BlueDriver — $134.95 · 78
Buy on AmazonThe most-reviewed scanner in the category by a wide margin, and the app is why: enhanced ABS/SRS/airbag reads plus vehicle-specific Repair Reports drawn from a database of verified fixes. The dongle needs your phone, so there's no standalone screen.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.