That check engine light in your Subaru – it’s enough to ruin any drive, especially when you’d rather be out exploring than stuck figuring out car troubles. Instead of immediately heading to the dealership and facing potentially costly diagnostic fees, a Subaru Obd2 Reader empowers you to understand what’s going on under the hood yourself.
Since 1996, all vehicles in the U.S., including your Subaru, have been equipped with the On-Board Diagnostic II (OBD2) system. This system is essentially your car’s internal communication network, monitoring everything from engine temperature to sensor readings. An OBD2 scanner is your key to tapping into this network, translating the complex data into understandable diagnostic information.
The right Subaru OBD2 reader can pull standardized Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) – the very codes that trigger your check engine light. Better scanners go even further, accessing manufacturer-specific codes for a more detailed picture of your Subaru’s health. While professional-grade scanners offer the most comprehensive data, there are excellent, affordable options for the DIY Subaru owner. Based on recommendations from the SubaruOutback.org community, we’ve compiled a list of top OBD2 readers to help you take control of your Subaru diagnostics.
1. OBDLink MX+: The SubaruOutback.org Community Favorite
OBDLink is a well-respected name in scan tools, and the MX+ stands out as a top pick, particularly favored by the Subaru community. Its rapid Bluetooth connectivity allows for smooth, real-time data streaming from your Subaru’s engine computer directly to your smartphone or tablet. Unlike many budget Bluetooth scanners limited to Android, the OBDLink MX+ supports both iOS (Apple) and Android, along with Windows, offering broad compatibility.
Using the free OBDLink app, you can access both basic and Subaru-specific diagnostic codes, gaining a comprehensive understanding of any issues. The MX+ is compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring it will work with your Subaru Outback and other models. Its robust build and a three-year warranty provide peace of mind, and its safe design allows it to remain plugged into your Subaru without battery drain.
2. ScanGauge II: OBD2 Diagnostics and Real-Time Gauges for Your Subaru
The ScanGauge II offers a unique dual functionality, serving as both a Subaru OBD2 reader and an auxiliary gauge display for your dashboard. Compatible with all 1996 and newer OBD2 vehicles, it reads and clears both active and pending trouble codes, providing essential diagnostic capabilities. However, what sets the ScanGauge II apart is its ability to display a multitude of real-time vehicle parameters on its compact screen.
Beyond basic RPM and speed readouts, the backlit display can show intake air temperature, fuel pressure, ignition timing, coolant temperature, and much more. For Subaru owners focused on fuel efficiency, it can display instantaneous and average fuel consumption, even calculating cost per mile. Furthermore, vehicle-specific gauges, including a boost gauge for turbocharged Subarus, are available, making the ScanGauge II a versatile tool for both diagnostics and performance monitoring.
3. Innova 5610: Advanced Diagnostics and Bi-Directional Control for Subaru Experts
The Innova 5610 covers the essential OBD2 functions, reading both generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes for your Subaru. Its large, color display enhances readability of data and trouble codes, and it offers graphing capabilities to visually track your Subaru’s sensor data. It scans a wide range of Subaru modules, including tire pressure monitoring systems, offering comprehensive system checks.
What elevates the Innova 5610 beyond basic scanners is its bi-directional control feature. This advanced functionality allows you to send commands to vehicle modules and sensors, similar to professional dealer tools. For example, you can temporarily disable a module for testing purposes or command an EGR valve to open and close to verify its operation. While these features cater to more experienced DIYers, they provide invaluable diagnostic capabilities for tackling complex Subaru issues.
4. BlueDriver Pro: Smartphone-Based Subaru Diagnostics with Repair Insights
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended Subaru OBD2 reader, leveraging the power of your smartphone for vehicle diagnostics. It reads and clears standard OBD2 trouble codes and provides freeze frame data, capturing the conditions when a code was triggered. Live data streaming allows you to monitor sensor readings in real-time, aiding in pinpointing intermittent issues.
A particularly useful feature of the BlueDriver Pro is its smog check readiness test. Resetting codes can make your Subaru fail emissions testing until internal tests are complete. BlueDriver Pro indicates when your vehicle is ready, saving you potential headaches at the inspection station. Furthermore, it generates repair reports for specific trouble codes, offering likely causes, owner-reported fixes, and other helpful information to guide your Subaru repairs.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329: User-Friendly and Affordable Subaru OBD2 Tool
Autel is renowned for professional-grade diagnostic systems favored by mechanics, but they also offer accessible options for DIYers. The AutoLink AL329 is a standalone Subaru OBD2 reader, ideal for those who prefer a dedicated tool without the need for smartphones or apps. Its color screen provides clear and easy-to-read diagnostics information.
The AL329 retrieves both generic and manufacturer-specific codes, checks emissions readiness, and displays freeze frame data, covering essential diagnostic tasks. While it lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end scanners, the Autel AutoLink AL329 provides a reliable and user-friendly solution for diagnosing common Subaru issues at a very affordable price point. It’s a great entry-level tool to help you keep your Subaru running smoothly.
Having a Subaru OBD2 reader is an invaluable tool for any Subaru owner. It empowers you to understand and address check engine light issues efficiently, potentially saving you time and money on unnecessary dealership visits. Whether you choose a basic code reader or a more advanced scanner with features like live data and bi-directional control, investing in an OBD2 tool is a smart move for maintaining your Subaru and keeping it adventure-ready.
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