If you’re in the market for a new OBD2 scanner, one with Bluetooth functionality should be at the top of your list. A wireless OBD2 scanner is easy to use, convenient, and connects directly to your cell phone.
Getting a high-quality OBD-II Scanner can put all your worries to rest. In this article, you will get to know about all these adapters in detail so that you can pick one that’s best for you.
Contents
- 1 Why Get a Wireless OBD2 Scanner (Bluetooth-operated)?
- 2 My Top 8 Best OBD2 Scanners with Bluetooth Connectivity
- 2.1 1. FIXD™ OBD2 Scanner (My Top Pick)
- 2.2 2. BAFX Products OBD2 Adapter
- 2.3 3. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Adapter
- 2.4 4. Carista OBD2 Scanner
- 2.5 5. OBDLink MX OBD-II Scan Tool
- 2.6 6. OBDLink LX OBD2 Scanner with Bluetooth Connectivity
- 2.7 7. PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Scanner
- 2.8 8. Innova 3150f OBD2 Scan Tool with ABS SRS
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions
- 4 Finding Reliable Information on OBD2 Scanners with OBD Station
- 5 Related Reading:
Why Get a Wireless OBD2 Scanner (Bluetooth-operated)?
An OBD (on-board diagnostics) system gives repair technicians and/or vehicle owners access to the vehicle’s subsystems to diagnose issues. Bluetooth scanners are a type of car diagnostic tool that provide live data and the transmission is much faster as well.
OBD2 scanners can read several thousands of codes and provide tips on how to solve problems. They can also be updated with new firmware, which allows them to handle even more problems.
How I Ranked My Top Wireless OBD2 Diagnostic Tools
Every Bluetooth scan tool we evaluate is tested using the same criteria to ensure we provide the most useful, most accurate information possible. I tested the scanners using the following criteria:
- Compatibility: iOS, Android, or Windows?: I prioritize scanners with a wide range of compatibility, so your life stays easy whether you have Apple or Android devices.
- Basic vs Advanced Features: If you know mechanics then go for a scanner that can do much more than just display basic features. Look for one that offers advanced features such as airbag issues, engine oil data, battery initializing capability, etc. Plus, the fixes suggested should be reliable and detailed.
- Efficiency: I made sure to look for products that consume less power– and even better if they can go in sleep mode when not in use.
- Free Updates: New problems arise with new car models. This is why you need an adapter that can be easily updated.
- Live Data: All of my top tools show immediate results so that the problem can be fixed quickly.
My Top 8 Best OBD2 Scanners with Bluetooth Connectivity
While there are a lot of OBD2 car diagnostic scanners on the market that operate with a Bluetooth connection, it is important to find one that works well for your price range and needs.
My top 8 OBD2 Bluetooth scanners are:
- FIXD™ OBD2 Scanner (My Top Pick)
- BAFX Products OBD2 Adapter
- Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Adapter
- Carista OBD2 Scanner
- OBDLink MX OBD-II Scan Tool
- OBDLink LX OBD2 Scanner with Bluetooth Connectivity
- PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Scanner
- Innova 3150f OBD2 Scan Tool with ABS SRS
1. FIXD™ OBD2 Scanner (My Top Pick)
4.4 / 5If you are looking for a Bluetooth code reader that has a professional touch to it then FIXD™ Bluetooth Professional won’t disappoint you. FIXD™ scanner offers the same diagnostics that you find in professional scanning tools. It has around 30 million fixes in the database. The system is smart and provides you with the best solution.
It is compatible with iOS (iPhone and iPad) and Android, but will not work with Windows. The FIXD™App and FIXD™ Sensor work exclusively with each other to ensure quality.
My Feelings After Using This Product
After the testing I’ve done, I can honestly say that this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is the one I’m most happy with when it comes to its functionality. I could view data in the form of graphs, digital displays, and gauges. Moreover, I was also able to customize graph colors for better understanding.
The scanner displays complete information about my car including vehicle specifications, maintenance schedules, TSBs (technical service bulletins), and recalls. It also conducted a variety of advanced tests such as fuel system test, comprehensive components test, airbag, ABS, misfire counts, etc.
One of the things I loved about this scanner is that it would let me know if my vehicle was ready for a local smog test or not. This is very important since failing a Local Smog Check Program can get you in real trouble.
What’s more, this wireless Android/iPhone OBD scanner can create a log file and export it to a computer, which I also found a very handy feature.
Common Problems With This Product
While the FIXD™ OBD2 Scanner can keep up with some of the professional models on the market, it does have some drawbacks I have noticed when testing the product.
Unlike most professional OBD2 scanners, the FIXD™ model does not support camshaft timing. This means that you’re missing out on valuable information about your engine and ignition.
What’s more, I also found that this diagnostic scanner does not read transmission temperature, meaning that there are a few issues that you cannot catch with it.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Live data | Doesn’t support camshaft timing |
| Displays complete and accurate vehicle info | Doesn’t read transmission temperature |
| Smog check | |
| Advanced tests | |
| Export data | |
| Complete repair solution |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | FIXD |
| Dimensions | 1.5 x 0.5 x 1.75 inches |
| Weight | 0.96 ounces |
| Operating system | Android, iOS |
My Rating
FIXD™ is an expert problem-solving scanner, authorized for Apple and Android devices. In this device features of a sophisticated scanner are coupled with the marvelous technology in your smartphone, giving you a unique tool to count on.
My rating: 4.4 / 5
2. BAFX Products OBD2 Adapter
4.4 / 5BAFX OBD2 Bluetooth Car Code Reader works with both Android and Windows phones. It is easy to use and provides quick results. BAF can read & clear your Check Engine Light (CEL) & check your vehicle monitors.
My Feelings After Using This Product
I’m overall very satisfied with the quality of this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner. It provided me with some basic features such as the ability to check engine light code, air-fuel ratio, coolant temp, fuel pressure, DPF temp, and a variety of other basic functions.
I was able to run a diagnosis right there and then and get results. Moreover, BAFX offered me data logging and graphs for easy understanding. It also let me check when my vehicle was ready for a smog test.
I’m also impressed with the fact that while this model is compatible with vehicles in the US, like most OBD2 scanners, it also works with certain vehicles outside of the United States. These include:
- Israel – All vehicles, 2003 & Newer
- Brazil – All vehicles, 2008 & Newer
- Canada – All vehicles, 1998 & Newer
- Japan – All vehicles, 2010 & Newer
- Mexico – All vehicles, 2006 & Newer
- Australia – All vehicles, 2006 & Newer
- India – All vehicles, 2013 & Newer
- EU (Petrol) – All vehicles, 2001 & Newer
- EU (Diesel) – All vehicles, 2004 & Newer
Common Problems With This Product
While this scanner has a long list of benefits, it also has its drawbacks. Compared to some of the other more advanced OBD2 adapters on the market, I found that this one does not have any advanced features. While it can perform the basic functions, other OBD2 scanners will have more features.
Another thing that in my opinion is also problematic is that the BAFX Products OBD2 Adapter may have some connectivity issues after a few years. This could impact your ability to read diagnostic trouble codes on your vehicle. It also is not covered by a warranty.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Graphing | Connectivity issues after a few years |
| Data logging | No advanced functions |
| Real-time diagnosis | |
| Smog check | |
| Great compatibility |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | BAFX Products |
| Dimensions | 2.75 x 1.5 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 2.88 ounces |
| Operating system | Android and Windows |
My Rating
Many similar OBD2 tools CLAIM to work on all vehicles but have problems with the J1850 & CAN protocols, however, the BAFX Products OBD reader actually DOES work on all vehicles & ALL OBD2 protocols!
My Rating: 4.4 / 5
3. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Adapter
3.8 / 5The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Adapter is a great option for both professionals and home mechanics. This product can operate with both iOS and Android software. It is a Bluetooth code reader that can monitor advanced functions with the help of a third-party app.
My Feelings After Using This Product
In my opinion, this scanner by Veepeak is one of the best Bluetooth OBD tools available on the market. Some of its strong points that really speak to me are its relatively low price ($30-$40) compared to other OBD2 products, as well as low power usage. This diagnostic scan tool works on Bluetooth 4.0 which is known for consuming very less power.
What’s more, the Veepeak OBD2 scanner has some excellent features which made my tests enjoyable and very efficient. The app OBD Auto Doctor allowed me to check engine lights, while the car scanner ELM OBD2 enabled me to monitor what my car was doing in real time. In addition, I could read OBD fault codes, which was also very helpful.
With this Bluetooth scanner, I was able to check engine light diagnostics and PIDs, track my vehicle mileage, as well as monitor faults, customize data, and perform diagnostics and sensor readings.
The tool also offers fantastic optimization options which was a huge advantage for me.
Common Problems With This Device
One of the drawbacks I found when testing the product was that the scanner does not have a universal app to access all of the features. There may be additional costs associated with various apps in addition to the initial cost of the scanner.
What’s more, this OBD2 scanner can have some compatibility issues when dealing with advanced features. Because of these inconsistencies, this may be a better choice for a home mechanic, in my opinion.
Another thing I spotted about this product is that it happens to function slowly when using third-party apps to access certain features. While the basic functions are performed at regular speed, the advanced ones may be slower.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Low power usage | No universal app |
| Low price point | Compatibility issues when dealing with advanced features |
| Advanced features with the right app | Slow when performing advanced features |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Veepeak |
| Dimensions | 1.61 x 1.97 x 0.87 inches |
| Weight | 2.12 ounces |
| Operating software | Android and iOS |
My Rating
This Veepeak OBDCheck BLE directly plugs into your vehicle and connects to an OBD II App on your iOS or Android device via Bluetooth. Whenever you have a check engine light on or want to see how your car is performing, the OBDCheck BLE will be a very useful gadget for you.
My Rating: 3.8 / 5
4. Carista OBD2 Scanner
The Carista OBD2 Scanner is an affordable Bluetooth option for both professionals and DIY home mechanics.
Carista is ideal for users who have any one of these cars (Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion, and Toyota) for Bluetooth diagnosis. It lets you perform many advanced functions in these models using an OBD2 scanner for iPhone.
My Feelings After Using This Product
I am very pleased with the overall quality of this Carista OBD2 scanner. During the tests I have done, I was able to access a wide suite of basic OBD2 scanner functions including CEL engine code reading and emissions tests. It also worked really well for ABS, Airbags, Service Reset, EPB, Module Resetting, and Launch Control Counter.
Even with a lower price tag, this scanner allowed me to connect to both iOS and Android operating systems, while easily reading error codes, and providing freeze-frame data snapshots.
What’s more, the Carista app fulfilled all my needs when it comes to advanced customization features and I think it’s one of the tool’s strongest points.
Common Problems With This Product
One drawback I have found about this product is that while this tool works well for some car manufacturers, it won’t work very well for some of the most popular including Ford, Chevrolet, GM, Honda, and more.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Wide range of basic functions | Not compatible with some popular car brands |
| Advanced functions | |
| Customization options with the Carista app | |
| Wide range of compatibility |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Carista |
| Dimensions | 10 x 7 x 4 cm |
| Weight | 0.8 ounce |
| Operating software | Android and iOS |
My Rating
Carista is ideal for users who have any one of these cars (Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion and Toyota) for Bluetooth diagnosis. It lets you perform many advanced functions in these models using an Obd2 scanner for iPhone.
My rating: 4.2 / 5
5. OBDLink MX OBD-II Scan Tool
4.2 / 5The OBDLink MX OBD-II Scan Tool is a great option for professionals or advanced home mechanics. It has a higher price tag than some of the other comparable products. However, it comes with a range of handy features.
My Feeling After Using This Product
This Bluetooth OBD2 scanner has many fantastic properties which made me put it on the list of the best wireless diagnostic tools. During the testing, the device worked 4x faster and showed detailed graphics, accurate results, and top-notch performance when connected to a good app.
I really liked the tool’s increased performance compared to other scan devices. Thanks to the overvoltage protection of OBDLINK MX, it didn’t heat up too much. Moreover, it slept when not in use to save battery, which I found a very useful feature. I was also impressed with the fact that it accelerated apps by 250% and software by 300%, and improved the overall speed and graphics of the device.
On top of that, the tool could diagnose and show ‘check engine light’ warnings while also suggesting reliable fixes. I could also see graphs, logs, and even export data to a computer.
Common Problems With This Device
Some of the issues I’ve experienced with this device include, for example, connectivity issues which luckily can be covered with a 3-year warranty available with this tool.
Other problems I have encountered were difficulty with monitoring multiple error codes, as well as no extended support for Ford and GM which is associated with additional fees.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Increase performance | Doesn’t support Apple devices |
| 3-year warranty | Monitoring multiple PIDs can be difficult |
| Detailed data and performance | Common connectivity issues |
| Variety of basic functions | No extended support for Ford and GM without paying more |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | OBDLink |
| Dimensions | 2.01 x 0.91 x 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 3 ounces |
| Operating software | Android and Windows |
My Rating
The OBDLink MX Bluetooth OBD-II adapter provides access to SW-CAN & MS-CAN networks in addition to all legislated OBD-II protocols. It is a great option for both professionals and home mechanics alike.
Those who want an OBD2 Bluetooth scanner that offers top-notch performance, and is faster to respond to faulty messages should go for this OBDLink adapter.
My Rating: 4.2 / 5
6. OBDLink LX OBD2 Scanner with Bluetooth Connectivity
4.1 / 5This product is one of the best ODB2 Bluetooth adapters as it is said to be designed with professionals in mind. It offers a mix of basic and advanced features and is quite easy to use.
OBDLink LX Bluetooth can transform your Windows PC, laptop, or phone into a super-fast, accurate automotive diagnostic device.
My Feelings After Using This Product
This diagnostic device has become one of my favorite tools due to the variety of excellent features it offers. First of all, the OBDLink Bluetooth scan tool is 3x faster than rival devices, which I found particularly impressive. It also offers detailed graphs, accurate results, and realistic virtual gauges.
Another great advantage of the scanner is that it is a battery saver. It goes to sleep mode when not in use. Additionally, I’m really satisfied with its hack-proof abilities that offer reliable security features, including 128-bit data encryption.
On top of that, the OBDLink scanner is fireproof thanks to its over-voltage protection. It automatically sleeps and wakes up to save the battery. The scanner also enhances integrated apps by 250%, and software by 300%, which is another big plus for me.
Common Problems With This Product
One of the issues I’ve experienced during the tests I’ve done is that this OBD2 scanner model has trouble monitoring multiple PIDs. Unfortunately, I was only able to monitor one PID at a time.
Besides, I also found some connectivity issues, especially due to regular updates. This can be frustrating for you, especially if this is your only OBD2 scanner.
The speed rate of the tool is also a little slow. In my opinion, this model could be more efficient.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Faster in speed | Can’t monitor multiple PIDs |
| Consumes less power | Connectivity issues |
| Hack proof | Slow PID read rate |
| Better than conventional scan tools | Doesn’t support Apple devices |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | OBDLink |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 0.91 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 1.1 ounces |
| Operating Software | Android and Windows |
My Rating
OBDLink LX is an easy-to-use, inexpensive, hacker-proof, lightning-fast Bluetooth OBD-II adapter that can turn your Android or Windows smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC into a sophisticated diagnostic scan tool, trip computer, and real-time performance monitor.Vehicle owners who want an OBDii Bluetooth Scan Tool which is easy and fast to use should go for this one. It’s a perfect fit for both DIYers and professionals.
My Rating: 4.1 / 5
7. PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Scanner
4.1 / 5PLX Kiwi 3 is a compact and user-friendly OBD2 car code reader due to it being a plug-and-play device. This beauty has also won several awards for being one of the best Bluetooth scanners out there.
PLX Devices Kiwi 3 works well with Android, iOS (iPhone/iPad), and Windows mobile.
My Feelings After Using the Device
During my tests, Kiwi 3 provided me with all the necessary and useful features I would expect from a high-quality diagnostic device. The device is said to be 4 times faster than many other devices in the same price range, which is a particularly good thing for me. What’s more, it only uses 0.2 W when active and only 0.05 W when in sleep mode.
This tool is also among the smallest OBD adapters with only a dimension of 0.68″, which in my opinion makes it very handy.
On top of that, it utilizes Kiwi’s exclusive app “Kiwi OBD”, which is easy to use and has some amazing features that I liked using.
Common Problems With This Device
Though this model offers a full range of basic functions, I found that it cannot monitor any advanced functions like some scanners.
What’s more, though Kiwi offers a free version of their app, I had to purchase the advanced version to access some of the features of this model.
This model also has frequent complaints about connectivity issues. This is important to keep in mind if you need to use this tool frequently.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Exclusive app | Only monitors basic functions |
| Uses low power | Kiwi app may need to be purchased |
| Portable size | Connection keeps on breaking |
| Faster than other scan tools |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | PLX Devices |
| Dimensions | 2 x 0.68 x 1.3 inches |
| Weight | 0.634 ounces |
| Operating systems | Windows, Android, iOS |
My Rating
Kiwi 3 is a plug-and-play automotive tool that connects to the onboard diagnostic port (OBDII / CAN), retrieves information from your car’s computer, and wirelessly transmits it to your smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or PC.Kiwi 3 is only for people who want a device that works on all platforms, but without offering advanced features. This is one of the best Bluetooth OBD2 scan tools for your basic needs.
My Rating: 4.1 / 5
8. Innova 3150f OBD2 Scan Tool with ABS SRS
4.2 / 5The Innova 3150f OBD2 code reader is the ideal tool for professionals and DIYers alike. Aside from the basic functions of an OBD2 scanner, this model also offers some great advanced features.
My Feelings After Using This Product
I am overall very satisfied with how well this tool functions. It was my one-stop shop because it reads your car’s data and then suggests the most suitable repair fixes. Suggestions include estimated repair costs, information on parts, how-to videos, etc.
Innova has all the features I find valuable in diagnostic tools, including reading airbag problems, an anti-brake lock system, and a supplemental restraint system. What I particularly liked about this device is that it provided me with a detailed oil report with timely oil change notifications.
What’s more, as the car’s battery is one of the most important parts of a vehicle, this tool offers battery initialization options to make sure that my vehicle excelled with optimum performance.
Common Problems With This Device
Unfortunately, this model does not come with a set of instructions on how to use it. While the interface was meant to be intuitive, you may run into a learning curve with this tool.
Another thing I found problematic was that this software will only work when connected to WiFi. That means I couldn’t use it away from my garage very often.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Shows vehicle’s specific fixes | No instructions |
| Advanced features | The software only works online |
| Oil reset | Updating the software requires connecting the device to a computer |
| Battery initialization | Sometimes no code details are provided |
Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Innova |
| Dimensions | 10.25 x 8.25 x 1.5 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 ounces |
| Operating systems | Apple and Android |
My Rating
The 3150 code reader is the ideal tool for professionals and DIYers alike looking to retrieve Check Engine Light codes, while having advanced features such as ABS, SRS, Oil Light Reset, Battery Initialization, and Battery Light Reset.
People looking to handle both moderate and basic issues in the car can opt for this scanner. While it’s not meant for professional mechanics, it can be useful for the DIY enthusiast.
My Rating: 4.2 / 5
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both Android phones (Windows) and iPhones (ios) can transform into OBD2 scanners using OBD2 Bluetooth applications.
No. You will only need to access the internet when downloading updates or searching codes.
The FIXD™ app is quite amazing and works well on almost all iPhones. However, this also depends on what functions you need and what app your scanner supports.
Finding Reliable Information on OBD2 Scanners with OBD Station
The auto industry is always evolving. New updates, products, and tools are constantly coming out, and it is incredibly important to stay up-to-date as a mechanic. Luckily, OBD Station is the best place for both DIY and professional mechanics to get up-to-date information on the auto industry. OBD Station provides reliable product reviews, and quick tutorials to fix your car at home. Get the top product reviews at OBD Station, and check out our blog for more updates and tutorials.