Connecting your smartphone to your car’s computer system has never been easier, thanks to Bluetooth OBD2 scanners. These handy devices can help you diagnose engine problems, monitor performance, and even clear those pesky check engine lights. But with so many options on the market, finding the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanner in 2022 can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide compares seven top contenders, evaluating their features, pros, and cons to help you make the right choice.
Finding the Right OBD2 Scanner for Your Needs
An OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner plugs into your car’s OBD2 port, usually located under the dashboard, and communicates with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). This allows you to access diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which indicate the source of car problems. Bluetooth OBD2 scanners transmit this data wirelessly to your smartphone or laptop via a dedicated app, providing a user-friendly interface for understanding and resolving issues. OBD2 became standard in the US around 1996, in European gasoline cars from 2001, and diesel cars from 2004.
Our Testing Process: How We Chose the Best
We rigorously tested seven Bluetooth OBD2 scanners, evaluating their ease of use, diagnostic capabilities, app functionality, and overall value. Each scanner was paired with a smartphone or laptop, and we assessed the connection process, data accuracy, and the depth of information provided by the accompanying app. We also considered factors like compatibility with different car makes and models, additional features, and price.
Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners Reviewed
vLinker MC+
Award: Best Overall & Best Value
Pros: Clear connection status display, wide app compatibility.
Cons: Choosing the right third-party app can take time.
The vLinker MC+ from vGate boasts a user-friendly design with indicator lights that clearly display connection status. It supports numerous third-party apps, offering flexibility in choosing the interface that best suits your needs. During testing, it successfully diagnosed a parking sensor fault on an Audi A3 using the Car Scanner app, showcasing its diagnostic prowess. It also provides live data monitoring, fuel consumption calculations, and even acceleration time measurements.
OBDeleven
Award: Editor’s Choice
Pros: Simple and effective fault code scanning.
Cons: Best suited for VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group), BMW, and a few other makes.
OBDeleven is a compact and efficient scanner with a dedicated app tailored for specific car manufacturers. While its free version offers basic fault code scanning and in-depth system scans, accessing advanced features like one-click app modifications requires a Pro subscription or credits. Its compact size can make unplugging challenging, but a keyring attachment or extension cable solves this issue.
TopDon TopScan
Award: Approved
Pros: Excellent dedicated software.
Cons: Incompatible with 32-bit Android phones, requires a paid subscription after one year.
TopDon’s TopScan offers professional-grade diagnostics in a user-friendly package. Its dedicated app provides quick DTC scanning and helpful functions like oil service and battery resets. However, it lacks live data streaming and requires a paid subscription after the first year. Note the incompatibility with 32-bit Android devices.
OBDLink CX
Pros: Free app, compatibility with other apps like BimmerCode.
Cons: Small size can make unplugging difficult.
The OBDLink CX offers a free app with a straightforward interface and useful features like live data dashboards, freeze-frame data, and trip logging. Its small size can make it tricky to remove from the OBD2 port, but an extension cable readily solves this. While it didn’t detect a parking sensor fault in our tests, its overall performance and free app make it a strong contender.
OBDLink MX+
Pros: Free app with enhanced diagnostics.
Cons: Incrementally better than the CX, but significantly more expensive.
As OBDLink’s premium offering, the MX+ provides enhanced diagnostic capabilities, including access to manufacturer-specific codes. Its free app offers a range of features like live data analysis, graphing, mapping, and performance calculations. However, its higher price might not be justifiable for casual users.
UniCarScan UCSI-2100
Pros: Wide selection of free and dedicated apps.
Cons: The vast app selection can be overwhelming for new users.
The UniCarScan UCSI-2100 supports a wide variety of apps for various car makes and models, providing comprehensive diagnostic coverage. Its compatibility with both smartphones and Windows PCs adds to its versatility. However, navigating the extensive app selection might be daunting for beginners.
vLinker FD+
Pros: Wide third-party app support.
Cons: App selection can be overwhelming.
Similar to the vLinker MC+, the FD+ offers broad compatibility with third-party apps. It provides in-depth information on faults and live data, making it a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. However, finding the optimal app might require some experimentation. Its small size can also make it difficult to unplug.
Choosing the Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for You
The best Bluetooth OBD2 scanner depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider factors like car compatibility, desired features, and ease of use when making your decision. For overall value and performance, the vLinker MC+ stands out. If you own a VAG or BMW vehicle, the OBDeleven offers tailored diagnostics. Remember to verify compatibility with your car’s CAN-Bus system if it was manufactured after 2017.
