FIXD vs BlueDriver: Which OBD2 Scanner Comes Out on Top?

For car owners and DIY enthusiasts, understanding your vehicle’s health is paramount. Modern cars are complex machines, but thankfully, OBD2 scanners offer a window into their onboard computer systems. These tools can diagnose issues, clear check engine lights, and provide valuable insights into your car’s performance. Among the popular options, FIXD and BlueDriver stand out. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into Fixd Vs Obd2 (specifically BlueDriver as a leading OBD2 scanner) to determine which device offers superior features, performance, and overall value for your needs.

FIXD vs BlueDriver: Head-to-Head Comparison

Choosing between FIXD and BlueDriver can be challenging as both are reputable OBD2 scanners. FIXD, designed in the USA by ASE mechanics and engineers, emphasizes user-friendliness and affordability. It aims to empower everyday drivers with essential diagnostic information. BlueDriver, on the other hand, caters to a broader spectrum of users, including professionals, offering more in-depth diagnostic capabilities.

To help you make an informed decision, let’s examine a detailed comparison table highlighting the key features of FIXD and BlueDriver.

* Product prices and availability are accurate as of post date and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

This table provides a concise overview, but let’s delve deeper into each scanner to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Understanding the FIXD OBD2 Scanner

FIXD presents itself as a user-friendly solution for car diagnostics, blending hardware and software to deliver vehicle insights directly to your smartphone. It’s designed to be a “wireless mechanic,” offering information previously accessible only to professionals.

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The FIXD sensor plugs into your car’s OBD2 port and communicates via Bluetooth with the FIXD app, available for both iOS and Android. A notable advantage of FIXD is its ability to monitor up to five vehicles simultaneously, making it ideal for families or multi-car households. Beyond diagnostics, FIXD also provides maintenance reminders and alerts for potential issues, including severity ratings and repair cost estimates.

Getting Started with FIXD

Using the FIXD scanner is straightforward:

1. Purchase and Plug In: Acquire the FIXD sensor and insert it into your vehicle’s OBD2 port. The sensor draws power from the car and activates when the ignition is on.
2. Download and Account Setup: Install the FIXD app on your smartphone and create an account.
3. Bluetooth Pairing: Enable Bluetooth on your phone. The FIXD app handles pairing automatically; avoid using your phone’s Bluetooth settings to directly connect to the sensor.
4. App Configuration: Within the FIXD app settings, customize preferences, particularly maintenance reminders, to stay informed about your car’s service needs.
5. Sensor Code Input: Select “I have a FIXD sensor” in the app settings and enter the sensor code found on the back of your FIXD device. This links the sensor to your account.

Once paired, the FIXD sensor emits a blue light, indicating a successful connection. The app then scans for the sensor and adds it to your device list. You can personalize the sensor name within the app for easy identification.

Exploring the BlueDriver OBD2 Scanner

BlueDriver is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 scanner aiming to simplify vehicle maintenance and diagnostics. It empowers users to proactively manage their vehicles, reducing reliance on frequent mechanic visits.

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BlueDriver, developed by Lemur Vehicle Monitors, is recognized for its reliability and durability. It boasts a comprehensive database of over 30 million fixes, offering users potential solutions to detected issues. BlueDriver is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, both older and newer models. Like FIXD, it uses a Bluetooth connection to transmit data to a companion app for iOS and Android devices.

Getting Started with BlueDriver

Setting up and using BlueDriver is also a user-friendly process:

1. Purchase and Plug In: Obtain the BlueDriver scanner and plug it into the OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
2. Power Up: Turn on your car’s ignition and wait approximately 10 seconds to allow the BlueDriver device to power on and prepare for pairing.
3. App Download: Download the BlueDriver app from your smartphone’s app store.
4. Scanning for Device: After the warm-up period, use the BlueDriver app to scan for nearby BlueDriver scanners.
5. Pairing and Connection: Select your BlueDriver device within the app to establish a connection. Upon subsequent vehicle starts, the BlueDriver will blink ten times to confirm connection with your smartphone.

FIXD and BlueDriver: Common Ground

Despite their differences, FIXD and BlueDriver share fundamental similarities that make them both valuable OBD2 tools.

User-Friendliness

Both scanners prioritize ease of use. The setup process for both FIXD and BlueDriver is designed to be intuitive, involving simple plug-and-play hardware and user-friendly mobile applications. Even users with limited technical expertise can quickly learn to navigate the apps and interpret the diagnostic information. While BlueDriver offers more advanced features, its interface remains accessible, ensuring that both beginners and experienced users can benefit from its capabilities. The clarity and demonstrative elements within both apps contribute to a positive user experience.

Broad Compatibility

Both FIXD and BlueDriver offer excellent compatibility, working with OBD2-compliant vehicles and supporting both iOS and Android smartphones. This broad compatibility ensures that a wide range of users can utilize these scanners regardless of their phone or car model (within the specified year ranges).

Core Diagnostic Functionalities

Both scanners provide essential OBD2 functionalities, including:

• Check Engine Light (CEL) Monitoring and Reset: Diagnose and clear check engine light warnings.
• Live Data Feed: Access real-time data from vehicle sensors.
• Freeze Frame Data: Capture snapshots of data when fault codes are triggered.
• Engine and Transmission Codes: Read and interpret codes related to engine and transmission issues.

Furthermore, both FIXD and BlueDriver offer insights into the potential consequences of detected problems, helping users understand the urgency and severity of necessary repairs. They present engine status information in a user-understandable format, suitable for both car owners and professional mechanics.

Key Differences: FIXD vs BlueDriver

While sharing similarities, FIXD and BlueDriver diverge in several key aspects, influencing which scanner might be better suited for specific needs.

Size and Design

FIXD stands out for its lightweight and compact design. Its smaller physical footprint can be advantageous for users who prefer a less obtrusive device plugged into their OBD2 port. While this difference in size doesn’t impact core functionality, it can be a factor for users concerned about the scanner’s physical presence in their vehicle.

Feature Set

BlueDriver boasts a more extensive array of diagnostic features compared to FIXD. BlueDriver includes advanced diagnostics for systems like:

• Climate Control
• Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Additionally, BlueDriver generates comprehensive repair reports, offering more in-depth analysis and potential solutions. A particularly valuable feature of BlueDriver is its repair cost estimator, providing users with estimated repair costs before visiting a mechanic. This feature enhances transparency and helps users budget for car repairs.

In contrast, FIXD focuses on car monitoring and includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) feature, which BlueDriver lacks.

Vehicle Support Capacity

A significant differentiator is the number of vehicles supported. FIXD can monitor up to five vehicles with a single device, whereas BlueDriver is limited to a single vehicle per scanner. This multi-vehicle capability makes FIXD a cost-effective solution for families or individuals managing multiple cars.

Price and Value

For budget-conscious buyers, FIXD presents a more affordable entry point into OBD2 scanning. It typically costs about half the price of BlueDriver while still offering a robust set of features for general car diagnostics and maintenance.

While BlueDriver is more expensive, its expanded feature set, particularly the advanced diagnostics and repair cost estimator, justifies the higher price for users who require professional-level diagnostics or work on a variety of vehicles professionally.

FIXD often offers bundle deals and discounts, such as “Buy 1, Get 1 50% OFF” or “Buy 2, Get 1 FREE” promotions. Check for current FIXD deals to maximize savings.

Final Verdict: FIXD or BlueDriver?

For most car owners seeking an affordable, user-friendly, and multi-vehicle OBD2 scanner, FIXD emerges as the stronger choice. Its ease of use, comprehensive features for everyday diagnostics, and ability to monitor multiple vehicles make it an excellent value proposition. FIXD empowers users to stay informed about their vehicle’s health and confidently communicate with mechanics.

However, for professional mechanics, serious DIYers, or users requiring in-depth diagnostics and advanced features, BlueDriver is the superior tool. Its expanded diagnostic capabilities, repair reports, and repair cost estimator justify the higher price for those needing comprehensive vehicle analysis. BlueDriver offers a professional-grade diagnostic experience within a user-friendly Bluetooth scanner.

Ultimately, the best choice between FIXD and BlueDriver depends on your individual needs, budget, and technical expertise. Consider what features are most important for your car maintenance and diagnostic requirements to make the most informed decision.