Code reader suggestions

Looking to get a code reader to help keep an eye on things, and clear codes if they are irrelevant. My wife has a 2021 4Runner, is there one that can I can use on both?
I dont have any knowledge as far as a code reader goes, so simplicity is a factor too....

 

I have the Foxwell NT510, works for everything I need and intuitive to use.

 

I got this one:

LAUNCH Creader V+ OBD2 Scanner Check Engine Fault Code Reader with Full OBD2 Function Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996 [Upgrade Version]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZYTDKP3?_encoding=UTF8

It currently has a 40% off coupon, and that's a steal for a good product.
I keep mine in my glove box for convenience - it is that small.

 

Dagobert,
Are those Vehicle Manufacturer specific, I see 510 for BMW, and another for Honda Acura..

 

Do you have an android phone? If so, I use a cheap eBay Bluetooth scanner. I think I paid like 3 bucks for it maybe 4 or 5 years ago, so prices may vary. But you can run Torque on your phone (if you have an android) and connect via Bluetooth. It does WAY more than just read and clear codes as well. If you have an iPhone, you can still use the Bluetooth dongle, you'll just have to find a compatible app in the apple app store that works with them...sorry, I can't help much in that department though. I do know it can be done, just don't know which apps work(you might have to spend money with trial and error on some different apps, which I would never do...but still, it's an option)

This is an example, but for some reason, mine was significantly cheaper than the listings I can find. But still, 7 bucks? that's still cheap as hell!

https://www.ebay.com/itm/164666822394

 

I use an Innova. One that has both ABS and SRS readability. It is universal on all vehicles

 

any OBDII scanner should work on ANY vehicle sold in the US since 1996 (some earlier, like the tacoma came out in the middle of 95 as OBDII). It's a government-regulated standard...

 

Yep Android all the way, thanks

 

I spent ~$200 on an Innova that does ABS & SRS and it has totally paid for itself multiple times.

 

I purchased NT301 from https://www.foxwelldiag.com/nt301. With the NT301, I got all the OBD2 data I need and know about all the check engine lights!

 

like others have suggested, an obd2 dongle and a phone or laptop etc is most flexible.
you can find either bluetooth, wifi or wired USB versions on ebay...very cheap. (i prefer wifi)
then there are free apps for both iphone and android but they tend to be limited.
for just a few bucks you can buy an app. toyota uses a pretty common protocol so you don't have to worry, they will all support it.
make sure the app you choose supports the bluetooth/wifi/wired type of dongle.

these dongles are very cheap because they are chinese knockoffs of original dongles...but that was many years ago...and it is common
to use the cheapies...they work just fine.

you'll be able to data log and see beautiful realtime graphs and displays with most apps.
and of course read codes and clear them etc.
i believe torque and fusion are the most popular apps for their respective phone platforms.

probably the best place to start would be to look up one of the apps and see what they can do
and then decide on a compatible dongle.

just an all in one reader does not come close to the functionality and economy of a dongle/app.
the apps are easy to use too...very user friendly. mount your phone on dash and display all kinds of stuff and impress your friends for just a few bucks. (more like <$20 total)

edit: if you want to dig into ABS etc then you will likely have to look carefully at functionality but it does not
sound like you are interested in such and it will cost $$$. i have never had to use that depth of functionality.
I once diagnosed (after poor running and thrown codes) a sticking injector (not on a toyota) just using data displays of a dongle/app. required some reading to understand it all
but the codes and accompanying realtime data were there. I recall using mostly short/long term bank fuel trims, O2 sensor and MAF data among others.
Recreationally i liked watching various temp, pressure, voltage sensors but my fav was gear number on AT.
just fyi concerning my experience with this stuff. hope it helps.

Edit2: if you do go the dongle route, consider an OBD2 extension cable with a switch in it. the port is hot when key in and it is nice not to have to plug the dongle in and out.
be sure to remove dongle at vehicle check stations and repair/dealer shops. they will all want access to the obd2 port.

 

You can get one branded for a certain manufacturer that’ll do more with that make. But the scan function works with anything. Reads codes. Tells you anything you want to know about the engine. Timing, psi, sensor readings.