The dreaded check engine light – every Subaru owner knows that sinking feeling when it illuminates on the dashboard. Instead of immediately heading to the mechanic and facing potentially hefty diagnostic fees, you can take control and understand what’s happening under the hood of your Subaru Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, or WRX with a Subaru Obd2 Bluetooth scanner.
For Subaru enthusiasts, understanding your vehicle’s health is part of the ownership experience. Since 1996, all cars in the U.S., including Subarus, have been equipped with the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system. This system constantly monitors various parameters of your vehicle, from engine performance to emissions, and reports any issues through standardized Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). A Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for Subaru acts as your personal translator, accessing this hidden network and giving you insights into your car’s condition right on your smartphone or tablet.
Why choose a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for your Subaru? Convenience and cost savings are key. Instead of scheduling an appointment and paying dealership labor costs just to learn the error code, a Bluetooth scanner allows you to quickly diagnose the problem yourself, often from the comfort of your garage. These scanners wirelessly connect to your phone via Bluetooth, providing real-time data and trouble codes through user-friendly apps.
Choosing the right Subaru OBD2 Bluetooth scanner can seem daunting, but we’ve compiled a list based on recommendations from the Subaru community to help you make an informed decision. These scanners not only read and clear basic trouble codes but also offer advanced features that can be invaluable for Subaru owners.
1. OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter
The OBDLink MX+ is a top pick among Subaru owners for its exceptional Bluetooth performance and broad compatibility. This Bluetooth OBD2 scanner boasts a fast Bluetooth connection, crucial for receiving accurate, real-time live data from your Subaru’s engine and computer systems. Unlike some budget scanners that are limited to Android, the OBDLink MX+ works seamlessly with iOS, Android, and Windows devices, offering versatility for iPhone, iPad, and Android users alike. OBDLink provides a free companion app and is compatible with a wide range of third-party OBD2 apps, further expanding its functionality. Beyond standard OBDII codes, it delves into manufacturer-specific codes for Subaru, providing deeper diagnostic insights. Its robust build and a 3-year warranty offer peace of mind, and its low power consumption means it’s safe to leave plugged into your Subaru without draining the battery.
2. ScanGauge II – OBD2 Scanner and Digital Gauges
While the ScanGauge II isn’t a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, it deserves a mention for Subaru owners seeking a comprehensive, always-on vehicle monitor. It plugs directly into your Subaru’s OBD2 port and functions as both a diagnostic tool and an auxiliary gauge display. It reads and clears trouble codes, including pending codes, and provides real-time data. However, its standout feature is the customizable digital gauge display. You can monitor a variety of parameters like RPM, speed, intake air temperature, fuel pressure, and even fuel economy metrics. For Subaru enthusiasts who enjoy tracking vehicle performance or want to keep a close eye on engine vitals, the ScanGauge II offers a wealth of information conveniently displayed on a small screen mounted in your car. While it lacks Bluetooth connectivity, its real-time display and gauge functions provide constant feedback while driving your Subaru.
3. Innova 5610 OBD2 Scanner – Advanced Diagnostics for Subaru
The Innova 5610 steps up the diagnostic capabilities, offering features that bridge the gap between basic code readers and professional-grade tools. While not explicitly a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner in its primary function, it represents the level of diagnostic depth available in higher-end scanners. It reads both generic and manufacturer-specific codes for Subaru vehicles and displays data clearly on a large color screen. Beyond basic diagnostics, the Innova 5610 boasts bidirectional control. This advanced feature allows you to send commands to your Subaru’s modules and sensors – like activating an EGR valve or disabling a sensor for testing – functions typically found in professional workshop scanners. For the serious DIY Subaru mechanic who wants in-depth diagnostics without relying solely on a Bluetooth OBD2 connection to a phone, the Innova 5610 provides significant diagnostic power in a handheld device.
4. BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scan Tool for Subaru
The BlueDriver Pro is a highly recommended Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool specifically praised for its user-friendliness and comprehensive app. This scanner focuses on providing a seamless wireless diagnostic experience for Subaru owners. It reads and clears all standard OBDII codes and goes further by providing freeze frame data, capturing the vehicle’s parameters when a trouble code was triggered. Live data streaming allows you to monitor sensor readings in real-time, aiding in pinpointing intermittent issues. A standout feature is the smog check readiness test, ensuring your Subaru is ready for emissions testing. Furthermore, the BlueDriver app offers repair reports tailored to specific trouble codes. These reports provide likely causes, owner-reported fixes, and valuable information to guide your Subaru repairs, making it an exceptionally helpful Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for DIYers.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329 OBD2 Scanner – User-Friendly and Reliable
Autel is known for professional-grade diagnostic tools used by mechanics, and the AutoLink AL329 offers a taste of that professional quality in a DIY-friendly package. While not a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, it provides a reliable and straightforward handheld solution. For Subaru owners who prefer a dedicated tool without the need for phone apps or wireless connections, the AL329 is an excellent choice. It features a color screen for easy readability and retrieves generic and manufacturer-specific codes, displays emissions status, and freeze frame data. While it lacks advanced features like bidirectional control or Bluetooth, the Autel AutoLink AL329 excels at providing the essential diagnostic functions needed to understand and address check engine light issues on your Subaru, all at an accessible price point.
Investing in a Subaru OBD2 Bluetooth scanner is a smart move for any Subaru owner. Whether you choose a Bluetooth-enabled device for wireless convenience or a standalone scanner for simplicity, having the ability to diagnose your check engine light empowers you to save money, understand your vehicle better, and tackle minor repairs yourself. Consider your needs and choose the OBD2 scanner that best fits your Subaru and your DIY skill level to keep your Subaru running smoothly for all your adventures.
