When my little daughter pointed at the brightly colored orange OBD II code reader on Amazon as I casually browsed through, looking for the next mechanic find to make my auto DIY side career easier, I immediately knew that this Foxwell NT201 review would happen sooner, rather than later.
The ‘issue’ is this: though very young, my daughter has an eye for details and things that stand out. So, when she asked me to stop scrolling and pointed to the shiny, orange OBD II code reader, I had no option but to stop and listen to her.
It turns out that, despite the collection of OBD II code readers I already have, the NT201 soon shipped and was on its way to our address.
She asked me a million times when ‘her scanner’ would be arriving.
I answered as truthfully as I could, but as anyone who has little kids knows, the questions were becoming too incessant so I simply started mixing facts with fiction.
How I managed to contain her during the waiting period remains a mystery, even to me. However, the great day finally arrived and it was unboxing time – what she loves most about the auto DIY ‘thing’ that her daddy does.
Before the unboxing and first impressions proper, here’s what the Foxwell NT201 code reader looks like, on Amazon.
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Article Outline
Foxwell NT201 Review: First Impression and What’s in the Box
When I finally unboxed the package, father and daughter met different realities: while my daughter grabbed the code reader and jumped up excitedly, I silently wondered what I had ended up with.
The code reader was a bright orange – one of the colors I detest, with passion (somehow, I missed this on the Amazon product page).
The unit was small and not exactly designed the way I love my scanners and code readers. It had rounded edges instead of the square, sturdy edges I’ve come to love and appreciate.
Then, again, the unit had keys that were flushed into its design – another design language I passionately detest. I love my keys standing out and contrasting with the body of the device so that I actively ‘feel’ what I’m pressing, not looking like I’m using some kind of updated feature phone with touch display.
As I pondered the fate of the 201 quietly while eager not to spoil my daughter’s fun and joy, my wife came in and taking a look at the code reader, declared: ‘finally, a code reader I’ll use!’
I looked at both ladies and smiled – for the first time. If they both agreed with it, then, there must be something they saw that I missed.
Quietly, I opened the recyclable pack the unit came in and fumbled with the two things in the box: a quick start guide and an update cable.
Removing the owner’s manual, I began the process of reading what I would ordinarily have ignored.
Functions & Abilities
The functions and abilities of an OBD II code reader are dear to me whenever I take a look at code readers. This gives me instant perspective on what to expect in the coming days with the machine.
For the NT201, here are its functions and abilities:
1. Basic Code Reading & DTC Erasure
The first thing to note with this Foxwell is its ability to offer basic code reading and DTC erasures like every other code reader in the market today.
When plugged into the OBD II port of a vehicle, the 201 easily draws the stored codes from where they’re either open for further research (via the DTC Lookup) or deletion – if you’ve fixed what caused them in the first place.
This function is the most basic required of any code reader and the 201 delivers on it, without complaints.
2. Ability to Display Live Data
Basic code reading and the ability to erase is what it is: basic. The ‘meat’ of any basic code reader and whether it’s worth even considering (in the first place) remains the ability of the code reader to display live data – which is one step ahead of what the basic code reading and DTC erasure ensures.
Live data, most of the time, is where vehicle issues (especially those that won’t easily display on the scanner or get picked up on the code reader) are found. Sometimes too, live data is what actually helps narrow down broad issues as picked by a code reader.
The Foxwell NT201 has its live data projection system that though basic, does the job. However, the manner it can be made to perform this function is where everything changes, in my experience.
Live data can be got immediately – when diagnosing or when a DTC happens. Like the traditional freeze frame function, when this option is selected, the vehicle speed, coolant temperature, MAF values, fuel trims etc are recorded in the system for review – which is a step over and beyond what the traditional freeze frame function affords.
Data recording with swag, you’d be correct to call that.
3. Basic DTC Lookup
Another feature of the NT201 that is worth noting specially is its DTC library or lookup – a ‘library of explanations’ that interprets any ‘jargon’ the code reader may have brought up – especially a code you’re not familiar with.
Basic as this function may be, many code readers do not have the ability and reading what they have offered is usually a matter of using Google or any other software – which isn’t exactly satisfying.
However, while here, it’s good to remind you that the DTC library is basic and nothing elaborate like what the Foxwell NT301 offers.
You get the standard definition of what the code is but will need to figure out the details yourself – unlike the NT301 from Foxwell that defines the codes for you in the most classic of manners, pointing out the code, what it means and importantly, steps to take in resolving it; steps invaluable to the auto DIY mechanic.
These are the basic functions and abilities the unit comes powered with. However, there’s more – especially worthy of mention in this Foxwell NT201 review.
Other Notable Functions & Features
To truly understand the Foxwell NT201 and importantly, make an informed buying decision, you need to first of all understand all that the code reader has to offer – and this is where this review now comes in.
Besides the above mentioned, here are other notable functions and features worth taking note of when contemplating buying the unit.
1. Smart Status Lights
Like most Foxwell scanners and code readers, the NT201 is designed with smart status lights that let you know what you’re up to almost immediately the code reader is hooked to a vehicle.
The three status lights, red, orange and green indicate a present DTC, a pending DTC or a DTC free reality, respectively.
If you’re busy and don’t have time to keep poring over codes and results, the green light clears the way for you, the orange indicates that there’s ‘something lurking in the shadows’ while the red expressly lets you know that something is wrong with the vehicle.
Simple as this is, it still brings out the joy in me and certainly, save me a lot of time, especially when I’m doing routine vehicle scanning and not because I have a CEL illuminated.
It will be the same for you, I’m certain.
2. O2 Sensor Test
The upstream O2 sensor on the bank of a vehicle’s engine, whether bank one or two, is primarily responsible for feeding the ECU the oxygen data on that bank and hence, making sure that overall, fuel efficiency is at an all time high – based on the driving conditions at the time.
Unfortunately, since these sensors are underneath the vehicle and operate under very tasking conditions, they eventually pack up and need to be replaced, usually, without the express knowledge of the vehicle owner.
The NT201 from Foxwell has a feature to test this and overall, makes certain that you not only have great fuel efficiency but also, do not constitute pollution to the earth via emitting more exhaust gases than you’re supposed to.
It’s a sweet little feature to have and makes a ton of sense.
Foxwell NT201 Vehicle Compatibility
The Foxwell NT201 being a basic code reader is largely compatible with most modern vehicles manufactured after 1996, deploying the OBD II protocol of vehicle diagnostics.
This means, if you’re driving a traditional/common make and model, then, there’s a great chance that the code reader will work flawlessly on your vehicle.
The only vehicle types that this code reader wasn’t tested on are racing cars and exotic vehicles.
If you’re in doubt as to suitability of the unit for the purpose you intend to buy and use it for, the best option is to contact Foxwell directly and they’ll be glad to help.
Limitations
A good review should indicate, clearly, what something is, bringing forth its good, bad and possibly, ugly sides.
This Foxwell NT201 review, being one of the most detailed and honest reviews you’ll find online follows exactly this template and leaves no stone unturned to give you exactly what the code reader is.
Here’s what I noticed:
1. The Code Reader Is Slow
When you’re stranded and need to know what’s wrong with your vehicle, the last thing you’re willing to tolerate is a slow code reader.
Unfortunately, the Foxwell NT201 isn’t particularly fast – and is likely to try your patience from loading its several modules in the slowest manner possible to actually getting to scanning the vehicle and relaying back the information to you.
If you opt for the unit, be sure that you’re a very patient person and can wait – even under pressure (without cussing, preferably).
2. No AutoVIN Function
The autoVIN function pulls out the VIN from vehicles a code reader is hooked to and does an amazing job doing this, almost automatically.
The grand essence of this is to verify that the VIN on the body of the scanned vehicle matches what the machine brings forth.
For a used vehicle, this is something that remains sacrosanct (as it helps with possible alterations and fraud on the part of the seller).
Unfortunately, the Foxwell NT201 being reviewed here doesn’t have this feature.
3. Engine Module Scans Only
There are different modules that make up the entire story when scanning vehicles with an OBD II code reader: airbags, tranny, anti-theft systems etc.
The more modules a scanner or code reader is able to access, the more comprehensive its reports are going to be.
Unfortunately the NT201 from the stables of Foxwell can only access the engine module – and nothing beyond that point.
If you need to have another module scanned (transmission, for example) or need deeper diagnostics (bi-directional tests, for example), you’d be limited to what the codes from the engine say – and trapped there.
4. Very Basic DTC Library: Google Needed
There are dozens and dozens of DTC codes – both generic and manufacturer specific.
To understand what your vehicle is saying (by means of the DTC codes it offers), OBD II code reader manufacturers usually provide a library that explains what these codes are, usually, in a layman friendly way.
For some makes/models of OBD II code readers/scanners, this is broken down into digestible bits that make the whole process easy for the regular vehicle owner/DIY mechanic.
For the Foxwell NT201 code reader, the DTC library isn’t only basic, it remains one of the poorest I’ve seen in recent times.
The code library just slams the codes in your face and ultimately, leaves you to your fate: there’s no explanation what it means and worse, how to go about resolving the issue.
If you’re not familiar with the codes, your best bet would be to fire up Google or if you have a dedicated app for such purpose, to use it.
Video Review of the Foxwell NT201
Alternatives to Consider
The challenges of the Foxwell NT201 are many and numerous: however, there are great alternatives that offer better value for around the same price point.
First, there’s the TopDon’s TopScan, a small BlueTooth powered OBD II scanner that scans all of a vehicle’s systems/modules, works in a bi-directional manner, has FCA Gateway Access, is powered by many common reset options and importantly, easily fits into the pocket as if it’s nothing.
What’s more? It retails at a super friendly price and offers all these functions in the comfort of a smartphone, connected via BlueTooth.
Check out TopScan from TopDon iif you’re truly interested in owning a code reader/scanner that will offer you all you need to know/do as a vehicle owner or DIY mechanic.
While you contemplate your choices, it’s a great idea to also take a look at my detailed TopDon TopScan OBD II Scanner Review to help you smartly decide.
Secondly, the Foxwell NT301 is another great alternative to consider. The Foxwell NT301 is a well made code reader that is targeted towards the vehicle owner who occasionally doesn’t mind fixing things on their car and getting things done, even if only the basics.
What makes the Foxwell NT301 code reader a smart alternative and ultimately, better than the Foxwell NT201 is that the code reader has an elaborate DTC library that makes the use of Google unnecessary when trying to figure out what a DTC could mean.
The unit is sturdy – and is properly designed. For the price it is offered (and for what it does), it’s an overall better unit when compared to the NT201.
While you contemplate taking a detailed look at the Foxwell NT301 on Amazon, here’s its review I wrote a while back. It covers everything you need to make up your mind.
Finally, if you’re a ‘casual’ vehicle owner and won’t be bothered about auto DIY but occasionally, love to scan your vehicle directly, especially when you see a check engine light displayed on your cluster, the Ancel AD410 is one of the best code readers you’ll ever own.
Built like a tank and designed to last through an apocalypse, I have been using one for ages now and the unit, despite not taking any special care of it, still looks and feels brand new, without as much as a scratch on it.
You shouldn’t take my word for it though: check out the unit on Amazon yourself and make up your mind, directly.
However, if you’ll love to read my thoughts on the unit as a user of about seven years now, here’s my review of the Ancel AD410 code reader: honest, brutal and super detailed as usual.
So, with the alternatives done with, should you consider the Foxwell NT201?
Should You Buy the Foxwell NT201?
No—and the reasons are clearly stated above. In my opinion, the cons of this code reader far outweigh the benefits it offers (in my Foxwell NT201 vs NT301 article, I also showed how its close cousin, the Foxwell NT301 is vastly superior).
Instead, consider any of the three (3) alternatives below:
That said, this code reader remains my daughter and wife’s favorite for reasons I’m still trying to figure out.
If you’re a lady (and have come to the same conclusion as my wife and daughter), then, it’s beautiful: here’s the direct link to buy the Foxwell NT201 code reader on Amazon.
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Throttle Lan
DIY Mechanic and Freelance Automotive Writer