The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool has carved out a significant space in the realm of automotive diagnostics, offering a blend of in-depth vehicle insights and user-friendly operation. Unlike many basic Bluetooth OBD-II scanners, BlueDriver aims to empower users not just with error codes, but also with actionable repair guidance. Positioned as a step-up from entry-level devices, it begs the question: does the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool live up to the hype and justify its price point in the competitive OBD2 scanner market? This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool to help you decide if it’s the right diagnostic tool for your needs.
What is the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool?
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool, manufactured by Lemur Vehicle Monitors, is a Bluetooth-enabled OBD-II scanner designed for both everyday car owners and professional mechanics. It distinguishes itself from simpler scanners by pairing a robust vehicle diagnostic scan tool with an intuitive mobile app. This combination allows users to not only read and clear engine fault codes but also access advanced diagnostic features like ABS, airbag system scans, and live data monitoring. The BlueDriver system is designed to provide more than just raw data; it aims to offer actionable information, including potential causes of problems and suggested fixes, directly to your smartphone or tablet.
Key Features and Specifications
Before diving deeper, let’s outline the core specifications of the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool to understand its capabilities at a glance:
Specifications:
- Size: 2.2 x 1.9 x 1.0 inches
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Live data: Yes
- Display: None (relies on smartphone/tablet app)
- Number of keys: None (app-controlled)
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Handheld: No (plugs into OBD-II port, controlled by mobile device)
- Warranty: 1 year
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Beyond standard OBD-II functions, it offers enhanced diagnostics for systems like ABS, SRS, and more, depending on vehicle make and model.
- User-Friendly App: The BlueDriver app (available on Android and iOS) provides an intuitive interface for accessing diagnostic data, generating reports, and suggesting fixes.
- Live Data Streaming: Displays real-time vehicle parameters in customizable gauges, allowing for in-depth monitoring of engine performance and sensor data.
- Repair Reports: Offers potential causes and fixes for fault codes, drawing from a vast database to provide helpful repair guidance.
- Smog Check/I/M Readiness Test: Verifies vehicle emissions system readiness for smog testing.
- Mode 6 Data: Accesses advanced diagnostic data for detailed system analysis.
- Vehicle Information (VIN) Retrieval: Automatically decodes the Vehicle Identification Number for vehicle-specific diagnostics.
- Data Export: Allows exporting live data as .csv files for further analysis.
Design and Build Quality
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool presents a practical, if not particularly sleek, design. Its all-black casing with ribbed sides ensures a secure grip, facilitating easy insertion and removal from the OBD-II port, even in tight spaces. While slightly larger and heavier (2.2 x 1.9 x 1.0 inches and 2.4 ounces) than some ultra-compact Bluetooth scanners, its dimensions remain unobtrusive once plugged in. Compared to devices like the Jethax OBD2 scanner, it is indeed bulkier, yet it maintains a smaller profile than more extensive handheld units like the ThinkDiag.
The device incorporates an LED indicator that provides visual feedback on its operational status. A blue light signals startup and data transmission, while a blinking red light indicates connection issues, and a solid red light signifies recovery mode, typically after a firmware update interruption. This simple LED system keeps the user informed without being distracting during normal operation as the light dims after initial connection.
The BlueDriver system’s reliance on a smartphone app is central to its design philosophy. It trades a built-in display for the versatility and larger screen real estate of your mobile device. The free BlueDriver app is well-structured and user-friendly, presenting complex automotive data in an easily digestible format.
The app’s strength lies in its ability to translate raw diagnostic data into actionable insights. The live data feature is particularly noteworthy, mimicking traditional automotive gauges on your phone or tablet screen for intuitive monitoring of vehicle parameters. Furthermore, the app’s reporting capabilities, which include probable causes, suggested repairs, and parts links, are invaluable for both DIY enthusiasts and those seeking to understand issues before consulting a mechanic.
Performance and Functionality
In terms of performance, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool demonstrates reliable and swift connectivity. Pairing with the BlueDriver Android app on a Galaxy S9, the scanner established a connection on the first attempt, immediately presenting the app’s main menu with options like “Read Codes,” “Smog Check,” and “Mode 6.” Accessing the vehicle’s VIN was also instantaneous.
Testing across multiple vehicles confirmed consistent performance. The BlueDriver accurately identified a deliberately introduced fault (a disconnected oil-temperature sensor) and successfully cleared the Check Engine Light after the issue was resolved. The live data streaming function provided real-time readings of parameters like engine and vehicle speed. However, unlike some scanners like the Ancel BD310, a dedicated trip-summary feature is absent.
The “Smog Check” function aligns with the pre-inspection readiness tests found in other OBD-II scanners, ensuring your vehicle is ready for emissions testing. Beyond basic OBD-II functions, the BlueDriver distinguishes itself with its enhanced diagnostic capabilities, delving into systems like ABS and engine misfires. The depth of data accessible, however, remains vehicle-dependent, varying based on manufacturer and model year.
User Experience and Setup
Despite its slightly larger form factor, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool remains discreet and unobtrusive when plugged into the OBD-II port. Its under-dash placement ensures it stays out of the way during normal vehicle operation. The Bluetooth range of approximately 32 feet, as tested with an S9 phone, provides ample freedom to move around the vehicle while using the app, whether you’re under the hood or inside the car.
Setup is straightforward, aided by a concise quick-start booklet included in the package. While a comprehensive instruction manual is not provided in physical form, BlueDriver offers a resourceful website brimming with diagnostic and repair information. While the website content is extensive, navigating it on a smaller phone screen can sometimes be less than ideal. The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is backed by a 1-year warranty, offering peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool:
Pros:
- In-depth Diagnostics: Offers enhanced diagnostics beyond basic OBD-II, including ABS, SRS, and more (vehicle dependent).
- User-Friendly App: Intuitive and well-designed app with clear data presentation, repair reports, and live data gauges.
- Valuable Repair Guidance: Provides potential causes and fixes for fault codes, aiding in DIY repairs and informed mechanic visits.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent and quick connection, accurate fault code reading and clearing.
- Bluetooth Convenience: Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth for ease of use.
Cons:
- Size: Slightly larger than some ultra-compact Bluetooth scanners.
- No Built-in Screen: Relies entirely on a smartphone or tablet for display.
- Website Navigation on Mobile: Extensive online resources can be less user-friendly on smaller mobile screens.
- Price: Positioned at a higher price point than basic OBD-II scanners.
Conclusion: Is the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool Worth It?
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool stands out as a robust and user-friendly OBD2 scanner that delivers on its promise of providing more than just error codes. Its strength lies in the combination of comprehensive diagnostic capabilities and an exceptionally well-designed mobile app. The app’s ability to translate complex data into actionable repair information, along with live data monitoring and enhanced system diagnostics, makes the BlueDriver a valuable tool for car owners and enthusiasts alike.
For those seeking a step up from basic OBD-II scanners and who appreciate the convenience of using their smartphone for vehicle diagnostics, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is a worthwhile investment. While it comes at a higher price compared to entry-level options, the added functionality and user experience justify the cost for users who value in-depth vehicle insights and repair guidance. If you’re looking for a tool that not only tells you what’s wrong but also helps you understand why and how to fix it, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is a compelling choice and earns a strong recommendation in [Bluedriver Obd2 Reviews].
