The OBDLink MX Bluetooth adapter is your gateway to in-depth vehicle diagnostics, transforming your smartphone, tablet, or laptop into a professional-grade scan tool and real-time performance monitor. Although the original OBDLink MX Bluetooth is no longer in production and has been superseded by the advanced OBDLink MX+, this article still serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the features and capabilities that made the MX series a popular choice for automotive enthusiasts and professionals alike.
This user-friendly and robust Bluetooth OBD2 adapter is designed for ease of use and secure connectivity. It’s perfect for anyone from car enthusiasts wanting to monitor their vehicle’s health to professional mechanics needing a reliable diagnostic tool. Let’s delve into what made the OBDLink MX Bluetooth a standout device in the world of OBD2 scanners.
Key Features and Benefits of OBDLink MX Bluetooth
OBDLink MX Bluetooth packed a powerful set of features, setting it apart from many OBD2 adapters on the market. Here’s a closer look at its key advantages:
Unmatched Vehicle Compatibility
One of the primary strengths of the OBDLink MX Bluetooth was its exceptional vehicle coverage. Its proprietary connection algorithm allowed it to connect to a wider range of OBD-II compliant vehicles compared to many competing scan tools. This broad compatibility extended beyond standard OBD-II protocols to include advanced networks found in Ford and GM vehicles, specifically MS-CAN and SW-CAN.
This meant that whether you owned an American, European, or Asian vehicle from 1996 onwards, or even newer non-U.S. vehicles adhering to OBD-II standards, the OBDLink MX Bluetooth was likely to be compatible. For users unsure about their vehicle’s OBD-II compliance, OBDLink provided resources to verify compatibility.
Lightning-Fast Performance
Speed is crucial when it comes to real-time vehicle monitoring and diagnostics. The OBDLink MX Bluetooth was engineered to be the world’s fastest Bluetooth OBD adapter, boasting speeds up to 300% faster than competitors. This rapid data transfer rate ensured smooth, responsive gauges and graphs within diagnostic apps, providing users with accurate and immediate insights into their vehicle’s performance.
Compact and Discreet Design
The physical design of the OBDLink MX Bluetooth was also thoughtfully considered. Its small form factor, measuring just under 2 inches in length, meant it wouldn’t intrude into the driver’s legroom when plugged into the OBD2 port. This discreet design allowed users to leave the adapter plugged in continuously without causing inconvenience.
Hacker-Proof Security
In an increasingly connected world, security is paramount. OBDLink MX Bluetooth prioritized secure communication with its unique, hacker-proof design. Unlike many OBD2 adapters that broadcast their presence and use simple PIN codes, the MX Bluetooth required physical access to a ‘Connect’ button on the device to initiate Bluetooth pairing. This innovative security scheme effectively eliminated the risk of unauthorized access, providing users with peace of mind.
Read and Clear “Check Engine Light”
A common frustration for vehicle owners is the dreaded “Check Engine Light.” OBDLink MX Bluetooth empowered users to take control by enabling them to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) themselves. By accessing these codes, users could gain valuable information about the potential issues triggering the light, allowing for more informed repair decisions and potentially saving money on unnecessary trips to the mechanic.
BatterySaver™ Technology for Continuous Use
Leaving OBD2 adapters plugged in can sometimes lead to battery drain. OBDLink MX Bluetooth addressed this concern with its advanced BatterySaver™ Technology. This feature allowed users to plug in the adapter and leave it connected without fear of draining the vehicle’s battery. The system employed fully automatic sleep and wake-up functions, eliminating the need for manual switches or button presses, making it incredibly convenient for continuous monitoring.
Expand Your Vehicle’s Dashboard
With OBDLink MX Bluetooth and compatible apps, users could expand their vehicle’s dashboard beyond the factory gauges. The adapter allowed for the display of a wide range of auxiliary real-time parameters directly on a mobile device. This capability enabled users to monitor crucial data such as engine temperature, boost pressure, fuel trims, and much more, providing a comprehensive view of their vehicle’s operating status.
Free Software and Broad App Compatibility
OBDLink MX Bluetooth was bundled with valuable software, including the OBDLink app for Android and OBDWiz diagnostic software for Windows, both available free of charge with purchase. Furthermore, the adapter was backward compatible with the ELM327 command set, making it compatible with a vast ecosystem of third-party apps like Torque and DashCommand. This broad software compatibility extended across various platforms (Android, Windows, Symbian) and device categories (smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop PCs), offering users exceptional flexibility.
Free Firmware and Software Updates
To ensure longevity and continued performance, OBDLink provided free updates for both the firmware of the MX Bluetooth adapter and its accompanying software. These updates delivered new features, improvements, and kept the adapter up-to-date with the latest advancements in vehicle diagnostics.
Peace of Mind Warranty and Guarantee
OBDLink stood behind the quality of the MX Bluetooth with a 3-year warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee. This commitment provided customers with peace of mind, knowing they were investing in a reliable and well-supported product.
OBDLink MX Bluetooth: Technical Specifications
| INTERFACE | Bluetooth |
|---|---|
| DEVICE WEIGHT | 3 oz (85.1 g) |
| DIMENSIONS | 1.97 x 1.77 x 0.91 in (50 x 45 x 23 mm) |
| SUPPORTS ALL OBD-II PROTOCOLS | Yes |
| SUPPORTS SINGLE-WIRE CAN (GMLAN) | Yes |
| SUPPORTS FORD MEDIUM-SPEED CAN (MS-CAN) | Yes |
| BLUETOOTH SPECIFICATIONS | – Innovative ‘Connect’ button – requires physical access to enable Bluetooth pairing – Secure 128-bit data encryption – Class 2 Bluetooth v3.0 transmission (max range: ~ 262 ft) |
| OPERATING CURRENT | 62 mA |
| BATTERYSAVER™ MODE | 2 mA |
| OPERATING VOLTAGE | 8-18V DC |
| OPERATING TEMPERATURE | -4º to 131º F (-20º to 55º C) |
| OPERATING HUMIDITY | 10 to 85% (non-condensing) |
| MAXIMUM PARAMETER ID (PID) RATE | ~100 PIDs/second for PC & Android |
| PACKAGE CONTENTS | – OBDLink MX Bluetooth adapter – Quick Start Guide – License key for OBDWiz software |
OBDLink Feature Comparison: MX+ Takes the Lead
While the OBDLink MX Bluetooth was a top-tier OBD2 adapter, the OBDLink MX+ has since superseded it, offering even more advanced capabilities. Here’s a comparison highlighting the advancements in the MX+ model:
| Feature | MX+ | MX Bluetooth | LX Bluetooth | EX USB | SX USB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free OEM Add-Ons | ✔ | ||||
| Supports all OBD-II protocols | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Supports Single-Wire CAN (GMLAN) | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Ford Medium-Speed CAN (MS-CAN) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Bluetooth c3.0 Interface | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| USB Interface | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| BatterySaver sleep mode | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Works with Android devices | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Works with Apple (iOS) devices | ✔ | ||||
| Works with Windows devices | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Free OBDLink mobile app | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Free OBDwiz PC software | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Hacker-proof security | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 3-year manufacturer warranty | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
As you can see, the OBDLink MX+ builds upon the foundation of the MX Bluetooth, adding features like free OEM add-ons and compatibility with iOS devices. For users seeking the most advanced OBD2 adapter in the OBDLink lineup, the MX+ is the current top choice.
Supported OBD-II Protocols
OBDLink MX Bluetooth supported all legislated OBD-II protocols and additional advanced protocols:
Legislated OBD-II protocols:
- ISO15765-4 (CAN)
- ISO14230-4 (Keyword Protocol 2000)
- ISO9141-2 (Asian, European, Chrysler vehicles)
- J1850 VPW (GM vehicles)
- J1850 PWM (Ford vehicles)
Advanced Protocols:
- Single-Wire CAN (SW-CAN)
- Medium-Speed CAN (MS-CAN)
Device Compatibility
OBDLink MX Bluetooth offered broad device compatibility:
Android:
- Smartphones (Android 2.2 and newer)
- Tablets (Android 2.3.3 and newer)
Windows:
- Bluetooth-enabled PCs, Laptops, Netbooks (Windows XP SP2 and newer)
- Phone (Windows Phone 8 and newer)
- Tablets (Windows 8 and newer)
Symbian
Note: OBDLink MX Bluetooth was not compatible with Apple/iOS devices. This is a key difference compared to the newer OBDLink MX+ which does support iOS.
Conclusion: OBDLink MX Bluetooth – A Legacy of Excellence
While the OBDLink MX Bluetooth is no longer in production, it remains a significant product in the history of OBD2 adapters. Its blend of comprehensive vehicle compatibility, rapid performance, robust security, and user-friendly features made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and professionals. For those seeking the latest advancements and broader device compatibility, the OBDLink MX+ represents the next evolution in this product line, carrying forward the legacy of excellence established by the OBDLink MX Bluetooth. Explore the OBDLink MX+ today for the ultimate OBD2 diagnostic experience.
