Maintaining your vehicle’s health is crucial, and in today’s automotive landscape, understanding your car’s diagnostics is becoming increasingly accessible. The engine management light (EML) on your dashboard is often the first sign of trouble, but your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) constantly monitors a vast array of systems, logging potential issues long before they become critical. Bluetooth OBD2 scanners offer a user-friendly and affordable way to tap into this wealth of data, empowering you to diagnose problems, understand your car better, and potentially save on costly mechanic visits.
This comprehensive guide dives into the world of Bluetooth OBD2 scanners. We’ve rigorously tested a selection of the Top Rated Bluetooth Obd2 Scanners available on the market to bring you expert reviews and help you choose the best tool for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic or a car owner seeking to understand your vehicle better, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
What is an OBD2 Scanner?
To communicate with your car’s sophisticated ECU and unlock the diagnostic information it holds, you need an OBD2 scanner. OBD2, short for On-Board Diagnostics II, is a standardized system and port that has been a cornerstone of automotive diagnostics for decades. This port, typically located beneath the driver’s side dashboard or in the center console area, provides a universal access point to your vehicle’s computer.
The OBD2 standard became mandatory in the United States around 1996, revolutionizing vehicle diagnostics. Europe followed suit, adopting OBD2 for gasoline cars in 2001 and diesel cars in 2004. This standardization ensures compatibility across a wide range of vehicles, making OBD2 scanners invaluable tools for car owners worldwide.
How We Tested the Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners
Our testing focused on Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 scanners, compact dongles that wirelessly connect to your smartphone or laptop. These devices offer a significant cost advantage over traditional, dedicated scanners with built-in screens, making car diagnostics accessible to a broader audience.
The testing process for these top rated bluetooth obd2 scanners was consistent across all devices. It began with downloading the necessary app – some scanners utilize dedicated apps, while others are compatible with various third-party options. Next, each Bluetooth dongle was plugged into the OBD2 port of our test vehicles. With the ignition turned on, we initiated the connection through the respective apps on both smartphones and laptops. We evaluated the ease of connection, app usability, diagnostic capabilities, and the depth of information provided by each scanner.
With years of experience in automotive diagnostics, our aim was to determine if these budget-friendly Bluetooth scanners could deliver reliable and valuable diagnostic information. The results are in – read on to discover our findings and the best bluetooth OBD2 scanners we recommend.
Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners At A Glance:
vLinker MC+: Best Overall & Best Value Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
Award: Best Overall & Best Value
Pros: User-friendly display for connection status, wide compatibility with third-party apps, excellent diagnostic depth.
Cons: Extensive app selection can be initially overwhelming.
RRP: From $59.99 / £59.95
The vLinker MC+, manufactured by vGate, a reputable Chinese electronics producer, stands out as our top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner for overall performance and exceptional value. Its ease of use is immediately apparent, thanks to a clear LED display on the device itself. These labeled lights provide real-time feedback on connection status and power supply, simplifying the pairing process with your chosen app. A dedicated connect button further streamlines the setup.
The vLinker MC+’s versatility shines through its compatibility with numerous third-party apps, available for Android, iOS, and Windows devices. During testing, we utilized the “Car Scanner” app and were impressed by the depth of diagnostic information available. The vLinker MC+ accurately identified a parking sensor fault on an Audi A3, performed comprehensive system checks, and provided live data monitoring for engine parameters, fuel consumption calculations, and even acceleration timing. For its robust performance, user-friendliness, and competitive price, the vLinker MC+ earns our “Best Overall” and “Best Value” awards, making it a top contender for anyone seeking a top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner.
For a deeper dive, explore our full review of the vLinker MC+ scanner.
OBDeleven: Editor’s Choice for VAG & BMW Vehicles
Award: Editor’s Choice
Pros: Straightforward fault code scanning, user-friendly interface, tailored for VAG, BMW and select brands.
Cons: Limited brand compatibility beyond VAG and BMW, basic free app functionality.
RRP: From $88.34 / £69.95
The OBDeleven distinguishes itself as a highly compact and user-friendly Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, earning our “Editor’s Choice” award, particularly for owners of VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group), BMW, and Rolls-Royce vehicles. Its small size, while generally a benefit, can make it slightly challenging to unplug from the OBD2 port in some cars. However, a keyring attachment is included to aid removal, and a universal extension cable offers a further solution.
The OBDeleven utilizes a dedicated app specifically designed for its target vehicle brands. While it sometimes automatically identified our test vehicles, manual VIN entry was occasionally required. The free, entry-level app focuses on core diagnostics, efficiently scanning for fault codes and, in some instances, performing detailed scans of systems like audio, parking sensors, and airbags. Faults are clearly presented with relevant codes and supplementary information.
While the free app is effective for fault code reading, advanced features such as one-click app functionalities for car settings adjustments and system testing are locked behind a paywall. Users can opt for Pro packages (annual subscription starting from $53.29) or purchase credits (from $2.19) to unlock these enhanced capabilities. Despite the limitations of the free version, the OBDeleven’s two-year warranty and no-nonsense approach to fault code scanning solidify its position as a top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner, especially for its target marques.
Read Rob’s comprehensive review of the OBDeleven here.
TopDon TopScan: Approved for Comprehensive Diagnostics
Award: Approved
Pros: Excellent dedicated software for fault finding, extensive diagnostic functions.
Cons: App incompatibility with 32-bit Android phones, subscription required after the first year.
RRP: $69.99 / £59.49
TopDon, a manufacturer with a strong reputation in professional-grade diagnostic tools, presents the TopScan Bluetooth scanner, aimed at the DIY car enthusiast. The TopScan necessitates a dedicated mobile app, which we encountered compatibility issues with on 32-bit Android phones (64-bit required). This incompatibility was unique to the TopDon app among the scanners tested. For iOS devices (iOS 10 or later), the “TopGuru” app is necessary, a detail not immediately apparent until contacting TopDon’s responsive support centers in both the US and China.
Beyond the initial app hurdle, the TopDon scanner and app pairing is seamless. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) scan effectively identified a parking sensor issue, a fault also detected by only two other scanners in our test (OBDeleven and vLinker MC+). Vehicle identification was unsuccessful in our testing, requiring manual vehicle selection by manufacturer. We appreciated the “Hot Functions” menu, offering convenient resets for oil service and battery replacements. However, the absence of live data streaming, freeze-frame data, or a dashboard view limits real-time engine data monitoring. Furthermore, the app is only free for the first year, with subsequent annual subscriptions costing $49-$99. Despite these drawbacks, the TopDon TopScan’s robust diagnostic capabilities and professional heritage earn it our “Approved” designation as a capable top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner.
Explore Rob’s detailed TopDon scanner review here.
OBDLink CX: Compact and Feature-Rich Entry-Level Scanner
Pros: Free dedicated app, compatible with third-party apps like BimmerCode, compact size.
Cons: Small size can make it difficult to unplug, missed some fault codes in testing.
RRP: From $79.99 / £78
The OBDLink CX is the entry-level Bluetooth scanner from OBDLink, a US-based company known for its OBD2 solutions. Its standout feature is its incredibly small form factor, making it easily storable within a glovebox or center console for on-the-go diagnostics. However, this diminutive size made it challenging to grip and unplug from the OBD2 port. A 20cm extension cable, available from UK supplier Gendan, resolves this minor inconvenience.
The OBDLink CX includes a user-friendly quick start guide with a QR code for downloading the free OBDLink app. App installation and device connection were generally straightforward, although a couple of attempts were needed initially. The app interface is clean and intuitive with a simple menu structure.
While the diagnostics were responsive, the OBDLink CX missed an existing parking sensor fault during our testing. On the positive side, the dashboard feature provides valuable real-time readings for engine RPM, speed, MAF pressure, battery voltage, and fuel level. This data can be combined with freeze-frame information when faults are logged. The app also offers trip logging, fuel consumption and mileage calculations, and live data graphing. While OBDLink offers more advanced scanners, the CX serves as a well-rounded and feature-rich entry point into OBD2 diagnostics, making it a worthy consideration in the realm of top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanners.
OBDLink CX full review available here.
OBDLink MX+: Premium Scanner with Enhanced Diagnostics
Pros: Free app with advanced diagnostics, comprehensive features, reliable performance.
Cons: Higher price point compared to CX, incremental upgrade over CX for most users.
RRP: From $139.95 / £129.95
OBDLink’s top-tier Bluetooth scanner, the MX+, packs a powerful punch with a wealth of free features and enhanced diagnostic capabilities. It commands the highest price in our test group, reflecting its premium positioning. The MX+ app, compatible with smartphones and even Kindle Fire devices, installs quickly, and device pairing is seamless, aided by a button on the scanner itself if needed. A concise user guide further simplifies setup.
The dedicated OBDLink app boasts an intuitive interface with only seven main menu options. The MX+ truly excels in diagnostic depth, particularly with its enhanced diagnostics, successfully identifying the parking sensor fault that eluded some competitors.
Beyond basic diagnostics, the MX+ offers extensive live data analysis tools. The Dashboard provides customizable instrument displays, while the Graph function visualizes data trends. The Map feature enables journey data logging for MPG calculations and parameter tracking, and the Performance function calculates acceleration metrics. The OBDLink MX+ justifies its premium price for users demanding advanced diagnostics and comprehensive features. However, for basic fault reading needs, the more affordable OBDLink CX may suffice, making the MX+ a more niche choice within the top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner category.
Full OBDLink MX+ review available here.
UniCarScan UCSI-2100: Versatile Scanner with Wide App Compatibility
Pros: Extensive selection of dedicated and generic apps, broad vehicle compatibility, compact design.
Cons: App choice can be overwhelming, some app features require in-app purchases.
RRP: From $79.99 / £54
The UniCarScan UCSI-2100, manufactured by WGSoft in Germany, is a compact and highly versatile Bluetooth OBD2 scanner known for its broad compatibility with a vast ecosystem of apps. These apps span across smartphones (iOS and Android) and Windows PCs or laptops. The app selection includes dedicated apps for specific car brands like BMW and Opel, as well as generic OBD2 apps, including WGSoft’s own ScanMaster app.
Connecting the UniCarScan to a phone or laptop via the OBD2 port is rapid. The level of diagnostic detail is app-dependent; ScanMaster, for example, offers nine menu options, though some features are behind in-app purchases. Trouble code retrieval is quick, but the UniCarScan missed the parking sensor fault in our tests. Useful features include freeze-frame data for capturing parameter values at the time of a fault and live data for in-depth engine analysis. The UniCarScan UCSI-2100’s compact size and wide app compatibility make it a practical and affordable solution for both emergency diagnostics and routine vehicle health checks, solidifying its place among top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanners.
Read Rob’s full review of the UniCarScan scanner.
vLinker FD+: Budget-Friendly Scanner with Extensive App Support
Pros: Wide compatibility with third-party apps across Windows, Android, and iOS, affordable price.
Cons: Extensive app selection can require some trial-and-error to find the optimal app.
RRP: From $49.99 / £42
The vLinker FD+, another offering from vGate, is a globally available, budget-conscious Bluetooth scanner. Like the MC+, it features a helpful LED display indicating connection status once plugged into the OBD2 port. Its compact size, while generally convenient, can make removal from the OBD2 socket a bit fiddly.
The sheer number of compatible third-party apps for the vLinker FD+ can be both a strength and a slight drawback. While offering immense flexibility, navigating the app marketplace to find the ideal app may require some experimentation. Pairing with smartphones or Windows laptops is straightforward and reliable. Depending on the chosen app, users can expect detailed fault information and live data streams for comprehensive diagnostics. The vLinker FD+ presents a compelling entry point into the world of car diagnostics and live data retrieval at an attractive price, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking a top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner.
vLinker FD+ full review available here.
How to Choose the Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Your Needs
Selecting the top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner that perfectly aligns with your requirements can seem daunting given the array of options. There’s no single “best” answer, as the ideal scanner depends on your specific needs and priorities. Start by considering your primary use case. If your goal is simply to diagnose and clear the engine management light (EML) when it illuminates, any of the scanners tested will suffice. However, for more in-depth diagnostics, especially for specific car brands, certain scanners offer advantages. For BMW owners, for example, scanners compatible with the BimmerCode app are highly recommended.
Vehicle compatibility is paramount. Modern vehicles (typically 2017 onwards) often utilize CAN-Bus (Controller Area Network) systems for ECU communication, an OBDII protocol that not all scanners inherently support. If you own a newer car, verify CAN-Bus compatibility with the scanner manufacturer or supplier before purchasing. We found manufacturers and suppliers to be readily helpful with compatibility inquiries.
Consider your desired reset functions. While all tested scanners can reset the EML by clearing fault codes, you may require additional reset capabilities, such as resetting the oil service light. These features may be included in premium packages, annual subscriptions, or as optional in-app purchases.
Evaluate the value of extra features like live data, MPG calculations, and dashboard displays. Are these features essential for your diagnostic needs, or are they simply appealing extras? Only you can determine the importance of these functionalities in your decision-making process. By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently select the top rated bluetooth OBD2 scanner that best empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicle.
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