Diesel Laptops delivers smallest fault-code scanner worldwide

The company's diagnostic hardware and software helps truckers and shops quickly diagnose and fix issues

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:21pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly detailed, glowing 3D macro illustration of a compact, Bluetooth-connected truck diagnostic device, with neon cyan and magenta lights illuminating its intricate internal components, conceptually representing the advanced technology that enables truckers to diagnose and repair issues on their own.A compact, high-tech diagnostic tool empowers truckers to quickly identify and fix issues, reducing downtime and repair costs.Irmo Today

Diesel Laptops, a South Carolina-based provider of diagnostic tools for the trucking industry, has developed what may be the smallest fault-code scanner in the world. The company's "Diesel Decoder" device pairs with a smartphone app to help truckers and maintenance shops quickly diagnose and address issues, including the ability to force a regen, get equipment out of derate, and adjust speed settings.

Why it matters

As owner-operators and small fleets look to save time and money on repairs, tools like Diesel Laptops' Diesel Decoder provide a way for them to diagnose issues themselves and get their trucks back on the road faster. This aligns with the company's mission to democratize truck and equipment diagnosis and repair.

The details

Diesel Laptops was founded in 2015 by Tyler Robertson, an engineer who initially sold diagnostic tools out of the trunk of his car. The company's Diesel Decoder device retails for $350 and allows users to read fault codes, get insights on how to fix problems, and access maintenance functions like regen and derate adjustments. Recent updates to the Diesel Decoder's accompanying smartphone app have added new functionality to help truckers quickly address issues and get back on the road.

  • Diesel Laptops officially got off the ground in 2015.
  • The Diesel Decoder device has been around for a couple of years, with recent updates adding new functionality.

The players

Tyler Robertson

The founder of Diesel Laptops, an engineer who initially sold diagnostic tools out of the trunk of his car before officially launching the company in 2015.

Diesel Laptops

A South Carolina-based provider of diagnostic hardware and software tools for the trucking industry, founded by Tyler Robertson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Owner-operators want tools, small fleets want tools, to be able to do these things. And it's not that they're necessarily trying to save money, usually, but they want to save time.”

— Tyler Robertson, Founder of Diesel Laptops

What’s next

Diesel Laptops recently became the latest member of the Howes Hall of Fame, where the Howes Products company pays tribute to individuals and organizations making a difference in the trucking and farming industries.

The takeaway

Diesel Laptops' focus on providing affordable, easy-to-use diagnostic tools for truckers and maintenance shops aligns with the growing demand from owner-operators and small fleets for solutions that can help them quickly identify and address issues, saving time and money on repairs.