LONDON — Budget diagnostic tools now let drivers diagnose car problems for less than a pub lunch. A Temu Professional OBD2 Scanner, costing around £10.12, took top honors in tests by Auto Express on models including a SEAT Ibiza, Fiat Panda and Volvo XC60.

Most modern cars carry an On Board Diagnostics port under the dashboard. Plug in a compatible reader, and it pulls fault codes that pinpoint issues from faulty sensors to engine misfires. These devices also verify a vehicle’s VIN to detect cloned cars. Advanced models capture live data like engine speed or coolant temperature while driving.

Testers focused on DIY-friendly readers for hobbyists, not garage pros. Devices had to display and clear codes at minimum. The lineup mixed wired scanners with Bluetooth ones paired to apps on an Apple iPhone.

Each tool faced real-world checks. Connection success came first on the SEAT Ibiza hatchback, Fiat Panda city car and Volvo XC60 SUV. Judges then scored ease of use, build quality, extra features and value.

The Temu scanner uses a simple cable connection. Despite the retailer’s reputation for hit-or-miss goods, this one impressed. It linked quickly, showed clear code readouts and reset faults without fuss. At 4.5 stars, testers called it ideal for occasional home mechanics. Buy it direct from temu.com.

OBD ports became standard after 2001 in Europe under Euro 4 emissions rules. Fault codes save trips to dealers, where a scan often costs £50 or more. Bluetooth models appeal to smartphone users. They beam data to free or paid apps that graph sensor readings in real time.

Competition heated up in the tests. Other scanners offered graphs, battery checks or ABS diagnostics. Yet the Temu unit held its own on basics. Reviewers praised its sturdy feel and no-nonsense interface. One tester noted it decoded a simulated misfire code on the Volvo in under 30 seconds.

Prices ranged widely. Some Bluetooth rivals hit £50 or above with app subscriptions. The Temu stood out for delivering core functions at a fraction of the cost. Drawbacks? No fancy extras like live graphing. Still, for spotting why the check engine light blinks, it suffices.

Demand for these tools surges as cars grow complex. Electric vehicles add new codes for batteries and motors. Auto Express plans follow-up tests on EV-compatible readers. Meanwhile, the Temu pick proves you don’t need deep pockets for solid diagnostics.

Safety tip from testers: Always fix faults before driving far. Ignoring codes risks breakdowns or failed MOT tests. Pair the scanner with a Haynes manual for code meanings if apps fall short.