Motorists across the UK are rushing to snap up a heavily discounted piece of tech that promises to demystify car troubles and save them significant money. A smart OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner, which typically connects to a smartphone app, has seen its price slashed by a claimed 90%, now costing just £9.99 on Amazon. The deal, highlighted on 2nd December 2025, offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive garage diagnostic checks.
What This Scanner Does for Drivers
For many, the appearance of a warning light on the dashboard is a source of immediate anxiety, often followed by a costly trip to a mechanic. Main dealerships can charge over £100 simply to read the fault codes stored in a car's Engine Control Unit (ECU), with independent garages asking around £40. This compact device aims to put that power directly into the driver's hands.
By plugging the scanner into the car's standard OBD port, usually found under the dashboard, users can connect via Bluetooth to a dedicated app. The app then reads the specific fault codes, providing clear explanations through a built-in "warning light encyclopaedia". Crucially, it also allows users to clear non-critical codes, which can sometimes be triggered by a temporary glitch or a dirty sensor.
Key Features of the Bargain Gadget
While basic code readers have become cheap, smart scanners with advanced app integration have remained relatively pricey. This particular model stands out for several reasons at its new £9.99 price point. It utilises the latest Bluetooth 5.4 technology for a stable connection and is powered by an advanced processor for quick data reading.
Perhaps its most appealing feature is the complete absence of ongoing costs. The manufacturer promises lifetime access to the diagnostic database with no subscription fees, a significant saving compared to some rival products. The device can also provide real-time data on vehicle performance while driving, offering insights beyond simple fault code reading.
A Word of Caution on the Discount
It is worth noting that while the listing promotes a 90% discount from a supposed RRP of £99.99, price tracking checks have found no record of the device actually being sold at that higher price. Nevertheless, industry experts and motoring publications agree that £9.99 represents a genuine bargain for a fully-featured smart scanner with these capabilities.
Empowering Drivers and Saving Money
The ultimate value of such a tool is empowerment and potential cost savings. For minor issues, clearing a code may resolve a warning light without any further action. If the problem is persistent and the code returns, the driver at least has a specific fault code to relay to a mechanic, potentially making diagnostics quicker and cheaper.
As highlighted by motoring journalist Gareth Butterfield, having this device in the glovebox means that if the dreaded check engine light ever illuminates, a driver can gain an immediate understanding of the potential issue. For less than a tenner, it provides peace of mind and could prevent an unnecessary and expensive garage visit for a simple fault.
