[Tested] 5 Best GM Diagnostic Tools for 2024

Our dedicated testing team has carefully evaluated 12 scanners on 5 GM vehicles to see how well they work and how reliable they are.

After careful evaluation, we picked the top 5 scanners that consistently perform great on GM vehicles.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, our recommendations will help you find the perfect scanner for your GM vehicle.

For more information, check out the table below.

Tester	OBD Advisor’s Testers
Testing date	Oct 31st – Nov 13th, 2023
Number of tested products	12
Number of tested cars	5

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Best GM Scan Tools Comparison Chart

[Note: Swipe left for full table]

Product	Score	Quick review	Check Price
Editor’s Pick Launch X431 (for GM)	9.5	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis + Active tests • 31+ service functions • Best for relearn functions	Amazon
Best Cheap Autel AP200	9.3	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis • 19+ service functions	Amazon
Autel MS309	8.5	[Fit beginners] • Basic diagnosis	Amazon
FOXWELL NT530 (for GM)	9.0	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis • 15+ service functions • Relearn functions covered	Amazon Foxwelldiag >
CGSULIT SC530 (for GM)	9.3	[Fit home mechanics] • Full diagnosis + Active tests • 30+ service functions	Amazon

Click HERE to see full comparison chart (PDF, Free Download)

Best Scan Tools for GM [Tested]

#1. Launch X431 GM

We believe that the Launch X431 scanner is the best tool for GM vehicles based on our testing. One of the main reasons is that this scanner is specifically designed for GM and is compatible with all the GM vehicles we tested. The design of the scanner is impressive, resembling a large cell phone and being sturdy enough for rough handling. However, we don’t think that Launch Creader Elite X431 is user-friendly. It lacks a clear and straightforward menu layout, which we believe is crucial for a scanner intended for home mechanics. 

During our testing, we found that the scanning speed of the Launch X431 is quite good, taking just under a minute to retrieve all the codes. However, the live data function is a bit slow in comparison. Moving on to the bidirectional capabilities, we were highly impressed by the range of tasks it can perform and the quick response of the vehicle to our commands.

Thus, this Launch Creader Elite GM is our top choice when it comes to relearning functions. We know how crucial relearning is for GM owners, and this scanner smoothly and quickly supports functions such as crankshaft relearn, exhaust valve relearn, and throttle body relearn on all the GM vehicles we had in our garage.

Today’s best Launch X431 GM price:

#2. CGSULIT SC530 (for GM)

The CGSULIT SC530 is a diagnostic tool that offers similar functions to the Launch Creader Elite X431 for GM vehicles but at a more affordable price. When choosing between the two, you have the option to either save some money or go with the leading brand reputation of Launch.

In our experience, we found the SC530 to be more user-friendly than the Launch Creader Elite X431. The functions are well-organized and easy to navigate. However, the scanning speed of the SC530 is slightly slower, taking around 70 seconds to scan the entire system, still acceptable. 

We also test the SC530’s relearn functions, they are efficient, with each process taking less than 5 minutes. However, it’s worth noting that on certain vehicles, some relearn functions may not be available. This can be time-consuming as our scanner may display the function, but when selected, it takes time to load and then displays “unavailable”.

On the other hand, the bidirectional control of the CGSULIT SC530 pleasantly surprised us with its wide range of active tests. It can activate and test 26 modules, including the powertrain, transmission, and more. Although the vehicle may take a few seconds to respond to the demand, the SC530’s functionality is commendable, especially considering its affordable price.

Today’s best CGSULIT SC530 price:

#3. Autel MaxiAP AP200

The best budget option for your GM? We highly recommend the Autel MaxiAP AP200. This handy device connects to your phone via Bluetooth and the MaxiAP200 app, which is available for both iOS and Android. However, we have experienced some difficulties with the connection at times, especially with iPhones.

To use the app, you will need to register. The first car model you register (e.g. GM) is free, but if you want to use the scanner for other models, you will need to pay $21.99 per model.

It’s worth noting that the Autel AP200’s scanning and response speed can be slow, taking around 5-10 minutes for diagnostics. However, it is still fine for home diagnostics. What impresses us about this tool is its versatility. It goes beyond just reading codes and can even program keys for certain GM vehicles (about 70% of the ones we tested). Surprisingly, the key programming process is really fast, taking less than 1 minute, much quicker than the diagnostic functions. 

We have also tried some common functions like DPF Regen, Oil Reset, and ABS Bleeding, and they all worked reliably. All in all, Autel MaxiAP AP200 is a safe investment to help you easily tackle various issues and repair tasks

Today’s best Autel MaxiAP AP200 price:

Read more: Autel AP200: Full-System OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter Review

#4. FOXWELL NT530 GM

FOXWELL are always well-known for specific car brand scanner. When it comes to the FOXWELL NT530 scanner, we have noticed that it may not have the most modern design, which might not align with our preferences. However, it’s important to note that FOXWELL NT530 still offers functional and reliable performance.

In terms of functionality, the NT530 scanner is compatible with GM vehicles and provides a wide range of features. With this scanner, we can conduct both basic and advanced diagnostics on various electronic systems within GM vehicles, including the engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, and more. 

Now, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The data loading speed can be a bit slow, and the menus can be tricky to navigate. But in my opinion, those aren’t huge issues compared to everything else this scanner can do. In summary, the FOXWELL NT530 scanner provides diagnostic capabilities for GM vehicles, allowing us to conduct comprehensive diagnostics on various electronic systems.

Today’s best FOXWELL NT530 price:

#5. Autel MS309

As home mechanics, sometimes all you need to do is check emissions monitors or quickly read engine codes. In this case, the Autel MS309 is the perfect choice. It’s a plug-and-go scanner that only takes us about 2 minutes to navigate through the menu. We can easily read and clear codes in under 1 minute, making it a time-saving option for us.

We also use the Autel MS309 to test the I/M Readiness, which tells if the vehicle is ready for the national smog test. This function works smoothly and provides accurate results every time we’ve tested it.

Because the Autel MS309 is a universal scanner that supports various car brands, we were concerned about its compatibility with GM vehicles. However, we’re happy to report that it works flawlessly on most GM vehicles in our garage, so there’s no need to worry at all.

Today’s best Autel MS309 price:

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Best GM Scan Tools Full Comparison Chart

[For mobile users: Rotate your phone and swipe left for full table]

	Launch X431 Check Price	CGSULIT SC530 Check Price	FOXWELL NT530 Check Price	Icarsoft i900 Check Price	Bluedriver Check Price
DIAGNOSTICS
Engine codes	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
All-system codes	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Live data	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Smog tests	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions	31	30+	12+	–	3
Reset functions	✅	✅	✅	–	✅
Battery Registration	✅	✅	✅	–	–
ABS Bleeding	✅	✅	✅	–	–
DPF Regen	✅	✅	✅	–	–
Throttle relearn	✅	✅	✅	–	–
Crank relearn	✅	✅	✅	–	–
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Active tests	✅	✅	–	–	–
Key programming	✅	✅	–	–	–
ECU coding	✅	–	–	–	–
VEHICLE COVERAGE	GM models	GM models	GM models	All car brands	All car brands
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Connection type	Wired	Wired	Wired	Wired	Bluetooth
Screen size	4″	3″	2.8″	2.8″	–
Carrying case	✅	–	✅	✅	–
Touch screen	✅	–	–	–	✅
AFTER- SALES SERVICE
Free update	Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime
Update fee	$0	$0	$0	$0	$0
Warranty	5 years	3 years	1 year	1 year	1 year
Customer support	8.0/10	8.0/10	7.5/10	10/10	9.5/10
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

*Service functions, Advanced functions: Vary on different vehicles.

What’s next?

That’s all for my best GM scanner review. Hope you can find one reliable tool for your GM vehicles after reading this post.

And if you are in need of any information, just comment below. I’ll try my best to answer your question.