Modern vehicles are complex machines, and when a warning light flashes, a simple code reader often isn’t enough. For tasks like resetting the throttle body after cleaning, calibrating a steering angle sensor after an alignment, or bleeding the ABS module after a brake job, you need a scanner with specialized relearn functions. These capabilities, once exclusive to dealership tools, are now accessible to professional technicians and serious DIYers.
This roundup focuses on diagnostic tools that go beyond basic OBD2 code reading. We’ve tested and evaluated ten scanners renowned for their relearn, reset, and bidirectional control features. Whether you’re servicing a specific brand or need wide-ranging coverage, these tools can help you perform professional-level maintenance and repairs with confidence, saving time and money on shop visits.
Our Top Picks for OBD2 Scanners with Relearn Functions
- LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner CRP123X Elite
- 2025 LAUNCH Creader Elite GM Bi-Directional Scanner
- BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
- Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808BT PRO
- FOXWELL NT630 Plus OBD2 Scanner with ABS and SRS
- Autel MaxiSys MS906MAX 2025
- Innova 5610 OBD2 Bidirectional Scan Tool
- Autel AutoLink AL619 OBD2 Scanner
- Thinkdiag OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Full System
- LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner
LAUNCH OBD2 Scanner CRP123X Elite
The LAUNCH CRP123X Elite is a powerful multi-system scanner that receives regular free updates, including new reset functions. Its 2025 version adds key relearn services like throttle adaptation, steering angle sensor (SAS) calibration, brake pad reset, and ABS bleeding at no extra cost. This makes it a future-proof investment for handling common maintenance procedures on a wide range of vehicles.
It features integrated FCA AutoAuth to work with newer Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models equipped with a security gateway. The tool provides accurate, intuitive diagnostics for the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems, helping you pinpoint issues and turn off warning lights after repairs. Lifetime free WiFi updates ensure it stays compatible with vehicles from 1996 through 2025 models.
2025 LAUNCH Creader Elite GM Bi-Directional Scanner
Designed specifically for General Motors vehicles, the LAUNCH Creader Elite is a dedicated bi-directional scanner. It offers full OE-level resets and relearn functions for Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC models without any subscription fees. This includes active tests, personalization, customization, and even ADAS calibration for camera and radar-based systems.
This tool allows you to send commands to vehicle components to test their operation, a crucial function for verifying repairs. It performs comprehensive diagnostics across all systems, reading and clearing codes, viewing live data, and retrieving ECU information. For anyone who primarily works on GM vehicles, this scanner provides professional-grade functionality in a single package.
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
The BlueDriver scan tool pairs with your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, creating a powerful and portable diagnostic system. It provides enhanced diagnostics to read and clear codes not just for the engine, but for ABS, SRS airbag, and TPMS systems as well. This gives you a clearer picture of your vehicle’s health beyond a basic check engine light code.
A major benefit is its access to unlimited repair reports, which suggest possible causes and fixes for the codes it finds. You can also monitor real-time sensor data through its live data graphing feature. With no subscription fees, it’s a cost-effective way to get professional-level diagnostic information and guidance for vehicles from 1996 onward.
Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808BT PRO
The Autel MK808BT PRO is a significant upgrade, offering over 3000 active bi-directional tests compared to the 50 found in earlier models. This vast library allows you to command and test actuators like fuel pumps, window motors, cooling fans, and injectors directly from the tool, which is essential for pinpointing faulty components.
It supports more than 40 reset and service functions, including brake bleed, injector coding, and EPB service. The device includes a one-year free update subscription and features a long 33-foot Bluetooth working range for convenience around the vehicle. Its balance of high-level bidirectional control and service functions makes it a strong contender for professional technicians.
FOXWELL NT630 Plus OBD2 Scanner with ABS and SRS
Specializing in brake and safety systems, the FOXWELL NT630 Plus is a dedicated ABS and SRS diagnostic tool. It performs full system scans on these critical systems, reading and clearing fault codes, displaying live data from wheel speed sensors, and running bidirectional tests to activate pumps and valves for accurate troubleshooting.
Its standout feature is the ABS bleed function, which can automatically remove air from the ABS hydraulic control module after component replacement. This procedure is vital for restoring a firm brake pedal feel. The tool also handles common resets like steering angle calibration and oil service light reset, making it an excellent choice for focused brake and suspension work.
Autel MaxiSys MS906MAX 2025
The Autel MaxiSys MS906MAX represents the high end of portable professional diagnostics. As the successor to the popular MS906 Pro, it features a faster processor, a larger screen, and an updated Android interface. It provides comprehensive all-system diagnostics with full bi-directional controls for a vast range of vehicle makes and models.
This tool excels at active tests and relearn procedures, allowing you to command components and perform adaptations with OE-level depth. Its wide vehicle coverage from 1996 to the present, combined with powerful hardware, makes it suitable for busy repair shops that need a single, reliable tool to handle complex diagnostics and programming tasks.
Innova 5610 OBD2 Bidirectional Scan Tool
The Innova 5610 brings bidirectional control and special reset functions into a user-friendly package. It can send commands to test vehicle systems, such as cycling the fuel pump or retracting an electronic parking brake, which helps isolate problems during diagnosis. Its special reset function provides guided steps for various relearn procedures.
It offers enhanced data streams to view live data from advanced systems like ABS, SRS, and transmission. Backed by US-based technical support and included updates, the 5610 is designed for DIYers and technicians who want professional test capabilities without an overly complex interface.
Autel AutoLink AL619 OBD2 Scanner
The Autel AL619 is an entry-level scanner that adds ABS and SRS diagnostics to standard OBD2 code reading. It can read and clear codes from these safety systems for many vehicles, primarily from 2004-2014, helping to address brake and airbag warning lights. This makes it a step up from basic code readers.
It includes all 10 OBD2 test modes, live data graphing, and a DTC lookup library. The tool comes with lifetime free updates for its supported functions. For older vehicles where advanced security gateways aren’t a concern, the AL619 provides a budget-friendly path to basic reset and safety system diagnosis.
Thinkdiag OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Full System
The Thinkdiag is a Bluetooth-based scanner that uses a smartphone app to deliver extensive diagnostic and reset capabilities. It supports over 15 advanced reset functions, including oil reset, ABS bleeding, SAS calibration, TPMS reset, and injector coding. This covers a wide array of common maintenance and repair relearn procedures.
It performs full-system diagnostics on most vehicles made after 1996 and includes one year of free software updates for all its features. An interesting capability is “potential feature activation,” which allows matching new components to the ECU or enabling hidden features on certain car brands, adding value for advanced users.
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD2 Scanner
This product listing refers to the broader family of LAUNCH CRP123X scanners. These tools are known for their robust multi-system diagnostic capabilities, which typically include various reset and relearn functions depending on the specific model and software version. They are designed to provide professional-level data for engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems.
When considering a CRP123X model, it’s important to verify the exact reset functions included, such as throttle adaptation, oil reset, or EPB service, as these can vary. These scanners are built to help users diagnose complex issues and perform necessary resets after repairs, offering a solid alternative to more expensive professional tools.
How to Choose the Best OBD2 Scanner with Relearn Functions
After testing a bunch of these tools, I can tell you that not all OBD2 scanners are created equal, especially when you need one that handles relearn procedures. If you’re doing your own brake jobs, replacing batteries, or swapping out throttle bodies on modern cars, the right scanner is a game-changer. Here’s what I look for.
First, you need to confirm the scanner actually performs the specific relearns you require. The term “relearn function” is broad. The most common needs are steering angle sensor (SAS) reset after an alignment, electronic parking brake (EPB) service mode for brake pad changes, and battery management system (BMS) reset for a new car battery. Some scanners also do throttle body adaptation or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) resets. Check the manufacturer’s vehicle coverage list for your specific car’s make, model, and year. A tool that works on a 2020 Ford might not support the same function on a 2020 BMW.
Next, consider the tool’s capability level. Basic code readers just read and clear engine codes. For relearns, you need a professional-level diagnostic scanner with bi-directional controls. This means the tool can send commands to the car’s computer, not just receive data from it. This is non-negotiable for initiating a relearn procedure. The interface should be clear and guide you through the steps, as a wrong move can leave your car in “limp mode” or with warning lights on.
Then there’s the update policy. Cars get more complex every year. A scanner that can’t update its software is a paperweight in a few years. Look for brands that offer regular, affordable (or better yet, free) updates via Wi-Fi or a computer connection. This ensures it will work on your next vehicle and handle new relearn procedures.
Finally, think about the hardware. A large, bright screen is vital for viewing live data and following instructions. The build should feel sturdy, and the connector cable should be robust. For home mechanics, a wireless model that connects to a tablet can be more convenient, but ensure the connection is stable—a dropped signal mid-relearn is a nightmare. Based on my tests for the 10 best OBD2 scanners with relearn functions, balancing these features against your budget is the key to a smart purchase.
FAQ
What exactly is a “relearn” function on an OBD2 scanner?
It’s a specialized procedure where the scanner instructs a car’s computer to recalibrate or adapt to a new part. It’s not just clearing a fault code. For example, after replacing a battery, the scanner tells the engine control module (ECM) to reset its memory for the new battery’s charging profile. After a brake service, it puts the electronic parking brake into maintenance mode so you can retract the pistons. The car’s computer needs to “learn” the new component’s parameters, and these scanners provide the necessary handshake to make it happen.
Can’t I just disconnect the battery to reset these systems?
I wish it were that simple, but on most cars made in the last 10-15 years, the answer is usually no. In many cases, disconnecting the battery can actually make things worse. You might lose radio presets and cause drivability issues, but the core adaptation for the new part often remains stored. The car’s computer requires a specific, software-driven sequence to overwrite the old calibration data. Trying to bypass it can lead to persistent warning lights, poor performance, or even systems like the EPB not working at all.
Are these scanners only for professional mechanics?
Not anymore. While the high-end, all-brand capable ones are pro-grade, there are now many powerful options for skilled DIYers. Manufacturers have created tools with guided, step-by-step instructions for common relearns like battery resets and brake service modes. If you’re comfortable doing intermediate-level repairs like changing your own brake pads or swapping a throttle body, and you own a modern vehicle, investing in one of these scanners is logical. It pays for itself after just one or two uses compared to a shop visit.
How do I know if a specific scanner will work on my car?
This is the most critical step before buying. You must check the official vehicle coverage list from the scanner’s manufacturer. This list details every make, model, year, and specific function (like “EPB Reset” or “SAS Reset”) the tool supports. Don’t rely on generic marketing like “Works on most cars after 1996.” Find your exact car on their list and confirm the relearn function you need is included. My research for the 10 best OBD2 scanners with relearn functions always starts with verifying real, detailed coverage.
What’s the difference between a $100 scanner and a $500 scanner with relearn?
The main differences are brand coverage, depth of functions, and update costs. A $100 tool might do basic EPB resets for Asian brands only. A $500 pro-level scanner will likely offer those functions across Asian, American, and European brands, plus more advanced adaptations like headlight aiming or injector coding. It will also have a faster processor, a better screen, and might include free lifetime updates, whereas the cheaper tool may charge yearly fees. You’re paying for breadth and depth of access.