How to Rent an OBD2 Scanner: Options and AutoZone Availability
The Short Answer
Yes, you can usually borrow an OBD2 scanner rather than buy one, and AutoZone is one of the common places to do it. An OBD2 scanner is a handheld tool that plugs into your vehicle's onboard diagnostics port and reads the trouble codes stored by the engine computer, such as the codes behind a lit check engine light. AutoZone's Loan-A-Tool program typically works as a deposit-based loan rather than a paid rental. You pay a refundable deposit at the counter, take the tool home, and get the deposit back when you return it in good condition within the store's return window.
Several conditions change this answer. Which scanners a store has on hand, the deposit amount, and the return window vary by location and can change over time. Current figures were not available for this guide, so confirm them with your local store before you go. Many AutoZone stores also offer a free in-store code read, which may make borrowing unnecessary if you only need to know which code is stored.
Will an OBD2 Scanner Work on Your Vehicle?
In the United States, OBD2 has been required on gasoline cars and light trucks starting with the 1996 model year, so most vehicles from that year onward have a compatible port. It is usually located under the dashboard on the driver's side. Older vehicles, vehicles from other markets, and some heavy-duty or specialty vehicles may use different systems or connectors. If you are unsure, check your owner's manual or confirm compatibility with the store before borrowing a tool.
Basic loaner scanners usually read generic powertrain codes, which begin with the letter P. They may not access manufacturer-specific codes or systems such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), airbags (SRS) or transmission modules. If your warning light is for one of those systems rather than the check engine light, ask whether the store has a more capable tool. A shop may be the better option.
Comparing Your Options
Borrowing is only one route. The best choice depends on whether you need just the code, need to watch live data, expect to scan repeatedly, or need deeper diagnosis. The comparison below describes each option in general terms. No current pricing was supplied, so costs are described by type rather than amount.
Option | Upfront cost | What you get | Main limitation; AutoZone Loan-A-Tool scanner | Refundable deposit | Use the tool at home, on your own schedule, with time to recheck after repairs | Selection varies by store; you must return it on time to recover the deposit; Free in-store code read | Typically none | Stored codes read by store staff, often with a printed summary | Done on the spot; no take-home tool and usually limited to basic codes; Loaner programs at other parts retailers | Usually a refundable deposit | Similar to AutoZone's program where offered | Availability and terms vary by chain and location; Buying a basic code reader or Bluetooth adapter | Purchase price | Permanent access for repeated checks | You pay even if you only need it once; Professional diagnosis at a repair shop | Diagnostic fee | Technician interpretation, manufacturer-level tools and testing beyond reading codes | Highest cost; requires an appointment
If you need a one-time code check, the free in-store read is usually the simplest starting point. If you want to clear a code after a repair, check whether it returns, or work on the car outside store hours, borrowing a scanner gives you more flexibility at no net cost once the deposit is refunded. If you maintain your own vehicles regularly, owning an inexpensive reader may be more convenient than repeated trips to the store. For ABS, airbag or intermittent drivability problems, or when the code points to several possible causes, a qualified technician is the more reliable choice.
How to Borrow and Use a Scanner from AutoZone
Before you go: note your vehicle's year, make, model and engine, and which warning light is on. Call or visit your local store to confirm a scanner is available and ask about the current deposit and return window. At the counter, request the OBD2 scanner through the Loan-A-Tool program and pay the deposit. Keep your receipt, because you will need it to recover the deposit. At the vehicle, park on level ground, set the parking brake, and keep the engine off while you locate the OBD2 port. Plug the scanner firmly into the port, then turn the ignition to the on position, or start the engine if the tool's instructions say to. Never run the engine in an enclosed space such as a closed garage. Follow the scanner's on-screen prompts to read stored and pending codes. Write down every code before doing anything else. Look up what each code means. A code points to the system or circuit that reported a fault, not necessarily to the failed part, so further diagnosis may still be needed. Turn the ignition off before unplugging the scanner. Return the tool with all its parts and the receipt within the return window to get your deposit back.
Be cautious about clearing codes. Erasing them turns off the warning light but does not fix the underlying fault, and the light will return if the problem persists. Clearing codes also resets the vehicle's readiness monitors. Those are self-tests the emissions system must complete before many inspection programs will pass the vehicle. If an emissions inspection is coming up, drive the vehicle long enough for the monitors to complete first.
Stop and seek qualified service if the check engine light is flashing. A flashing light commonly indicates a severe misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. You should also seek service if the vehicle shows signs of overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, or if the codes involve airbag systems, which should not be worked on without proper training and procedures.
What This Guide Could Not Confirm
Current deposit amounts, return periods, the specific scanner models stocked, and whether a particular store offers free code reads were not available for this guide. Those details vary by location and may be affected by local rules, so confirm them with your nearest store before relying on any of them.