9 Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanners / Adapters Review 2020

Are looking for the best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner? If so, then you are on the right page!

A trip to a mechanic can cost about $100 on an average. Your car makes an odd beep, and you quickly rush to a mechanic because you do not have the skills to inspect the car on your own.

Sometimes the problem is minor, and you only end up regretting why you lack the knowledge. But what if we tell you that it is possible to save money and reduce trips to the mechanic without having to learn about cars?

Just pick the best one and put all your worries to rest.

Let’s see Why it is Recommended!

Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner

FIXD™ OBD2 Scanner – Editor’s Pick

Excellent for: iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Android Devices

If you are looking for a Bluetooth code reader that has a professional touch to it. then FIXD™ Bluetooth Professional won’t disappoint you.

Features and Functions

• Live Data:

FIXD™ scanner offers great customization options.

You can view data in the form of graphs, digital display, and gauge. Moreover, you can also customize graph colors for better understanding.

It allows you to choose data sources to display on the dashboard including RPMs, speed, fuel pressure, etc.

• Displays Complete And Accurate Vehicle Info:

FIXD™ scanner displays complete information of your car including vehicle specifications, maintenance schedules, TSBs (technical service bulletins) and recalls.

• Smog Check:

The scanner can let you know if your vehicle is 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.

• Advanced Tests:

It can conduct a variety of advanced tests such as fuel system test, comprehensive components test, airbag, ABS, misfire counts, etc.

• Export Data:

The wireless android/iphone scanner can create a log file and export it to a computer.

• Complete Repair Solution:

FIXD™ scanner offers the same diagnostics that you find in professionals scanning tools.

It has around 30 million fixes in the database. The system is smart and provides you with the best solution.

While it is a great pick, there sadly are a few downsides as well. It doesn’t support camshaft timing and gives no information on transmission temperature.

Compatibility

FIXD™ works with all BMW, Honda, Volkswagen, Chrysler, GM, Ford, and Nissan models sold in North America.

The software is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and is free to download.

Works on major OBDII protocols.

This FIXD™ obd2 adapter appears to be perfect for car owners and DIY enthusiasts.

It offers well-detailed diagnostics and is easy to use.

The device is also smartphone operable and is perfect for people who want a Bluetooth scan tool with advanced features.

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BAFX Products OBD2 Adapter

Excellent for: Android and Windows Devices

BAFX OBD2 Bluetooth Car Code Reader works with both Android and Windows phones. It is easy to use and provides quick results. 

Features and Functions:

• Basic Functions:

• Graphing, Data Logging And Real-time Diagnosis:

Run a diagnosis right there and then and get results. Moreover, BAFX offers data logging and graphs for easy understanding.

• Smog Check:

BAFX also lets you check if your vehicle is ready for a smog test.

Compatibility

Operated using Android and Windows devices, this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter works on all US purchased cars (1996 and newer models).

Additionally, it is also compatible with some vehicles outside of the US. 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

It works with all OBDII protocols including CAN & J1850 protocols.

BAFX is a good choice for DIYers.

It can perform simple diagnostics, read CEL codes, and give a fix for related problems.

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Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Adapter

Excellent for: iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Android Devices

It is a Bluetooth code reader that can monitor both basic and advanced functions with the help of a third party app.

Features and Functions:

This OBD2 Bluetooth diagnostic scanner can perform many basic functions including reset and clear, check engine light trouble codes, etc.

It also displays live sensor readings, and shows live data in the form of graphs to help find quick results.

Other than this, it also produces freeze frame data, customizes dashboard with data, monitors fuel usage, and shows route. Additionally, it can also perform smog checks.

• Low Power Usage:

This scan tool works on Bluetooth 4.0 which is known for consuming very less power.

• Advanced Features But With The Right App:

Different apps bring about different features in this OBD2 scanner.

• The app OBD Auto Doctor lets you check engine lights.
• Car Scanner ELM OBD2 allows you to monitor what your car is doing in real-time. Additionally, it also lets you read OBD fault codes.
• DashCommand lets you read readings, check engine light diagnostics and PIDs for a few manufacturers.
• Dash allows drivers a better experience by offering engine light diagnostics.
• BimmerCode lets you do coding for BMWs.
• TripLog makes it easy to track your vehicle mileage.
• Carista OBD2 offers good customization options.
• OBD Auto Doctor offers CEL diagnostics.
• LeafSpy lets Nissan Leaf owners keep an eye on the battery and other vehicle information.
• Torque Pro (Android) lets one monitor faults, customize data and perform diagnostics and sensor readings.

Advanced features can also be hard to enable due to this.

Plus, it can also add to the expense due to some apps not being available for free.

Compatibility

Works only on iOS and Android platforms (Bluetooth 4.0), supports almost all US cars (1996 and beyond models).

Some international regions/cars it supports include:

• European Union – 2001 and beyond (gas), 2004 and beyond (diesel),
• India – 2010 and beyond,
• Brazil – 2007 and beyond (gas),
• Canada – 1998 and beyond,
• China – 2009 and beyond,
• Australia – 2006 and beyond (gas), 2007 and beyond (diesel),
• Mexico – 2006 and beyond.

It supports five major OBDII protocols.

Veepeak Bluetooth Scan Tools can be a good choice if you want an adapter that offers both basic and advanced features.

It is a bit difficult to operate but covers many functions. This is one of the best Bluetooth obd2 adapters in the market.

It is not suitable for professionals. However, DIYers appear to love it.

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Carista OBD2 Scanner

Excellent for: iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Android Devices

Carista is an OBD2 scanner for iPhone that has can diagnose a range of issues and provide good fixes. It also offers customization options and works on Android devices as well.

Features and Functions

Basic Functions:

CEL code reading, Emissions tests.

Advanced Functions:

This bluetooth obd2 code reader work for ABS, Airbags, Service Reset, EPB, Module Resetting, Launch Control Counter. However, some functions are only supported in those models including Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion and Toyota.

Customize With Carista:

The app lets you do advanced customization.

Compatibility

Supports all Obd2 compliant vehicles that are 1996 or above models.

Carista is ideal for users who have any one of these cars (Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion and Toyota) for Bluetooth diagnostic. It lets you perform many advanced functions in these models using an Obd2 scanner for iPhone. This wireless obd2 scanner can also be good for professionals.

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OBDLink MX OBD-II Scan Tool

Excellent for: Android and Windows Devices

Features and Functions

• Performs Better Than Normal Scan Tools:

Thanks to the overvoltage protection of OBDLINK MX, it doesn’t heat up or catch fire. Moreover, it sleeps when not in use to save battery.

It accelerates apps by 250% and software by 300%, this improves overall speed and graphics of the device.

OBDLINK MX has a 3-year warranty for manufacturing faults and also comes with lifetime free software upgrades.

• Detailed Data And Performance:

The device, when connected with a good app, works 4x faster and shows detailed graphics, accurate results, and top-notch performance.

• Uses Less Power:

You can leave the device plugged without having to worry about energy consumption as it goes to sleep mode when not in use

• Variety Of Basic Functions:

It can diagnose and show ‘check engine light’ warnings while also suggesting reliable fixes.

Other than that, you can see graphs, logs, and even export data to a computer.

• Hack Proof:

128-bit data encryption makes it hack proof.

Compatibility

OBDLINK MX supports Android and Windows devices, including Bluetooth, enabled Windows laptops.

Android phones must have version 2.2 or later and Android tablets must be running version 2.2.3 or newer.

As for vehicles, it supports a large range of 1996+ vehicles including light trucks sold in the US.

Note:

Supports single wire CAN, GMLAN, Ford, and Medium-speed CAN.

It also supports standard OBD protocols.

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.

This one gives quick fixing suggestions and is suitable for DIYers.

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OBDLink LX OBD2 Scanner with Connectivity

Excellent for: Android and Windows Devices

This product is one of the best ODB2 Bluetooth adapters as it is said to be designed with professionals in mind.

Features and functions

• Faster In Speed:

OBDLink Bluetooth scan tool is 3x faster than rival devices. It offers detailed graphs, accurate results, and realistic virtual gauges.

• Consumes Less Power:

OBDLINK scanner is a battery saver. It goes to sleep mode when not in use.

• Basic Functions:

Diagnoses and displays CEL, suggests repairs, shows graphs, keeps logs, and exports data.

• Hack Proof:

The scanner hack proof and comes with reliable security features including 128-bit data encryption.

• Better Than Conventional Scan Tools:

OBDLINK Scanner is fireproof thanks to its overvoltage protection. It automatically sleeps and wakes up to save battery.

The scanner also enhances integrated apps by 250%, software by 300%.

It comes with a 3-year warranty and lifetime free software upgrades.

On the downside, OBDLINK scanner doesn’t support Apple devices.

Compatibility

OBDLink scanner only works with Android and Windows devices and has an extensive range of compatible vehicles.

This is one of the best bluetooth obdii scan tool works on all 1996 and plus models including light trucks sold in the USA.

However, it does not work on hybrid and electric vehicles.

• Android phones: 2.2 and plus versions.
• Android Tablet: 2.2.3 and newer versions.
• Windows devices with Bluetooth.

While it comes with its own app, it is also compatible with third-party apps like DashCommand and Torque.

It supports all five OBD protocols.

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.

Furthermore, it can be a good option if you want to access GM & Ford vehicle networks (MS-CAN & SW-CAN).

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PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Scanner

Excellent for: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android and Windows Devices

PLX 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.

It displays results the moment you plug it in. Plus, the company offers a competitive return policy.

Features and Functions

• Exclusive App:

This device utilizes Kiwi’s exclusive app “Kiwi OBD”, which is easy to use and has some amazing features.

• Size:

This device is among the smallest OBD adapters with only a dimension of 0.68″.

• Faster:

The device is said to be 4 times faster than many other devices in the same price range.

• Basic Features:  

Performance meters, real-time data, data logging, fuel efficiency, and GPS mapping are some of the basic features it offers.

• Uses Low Power:

It only uses 0.2W when active and only 0.05 W when in sleep mode.

Compatibility

Kiwi 3 is Cross Platform Compatible.

It works with all vehicles models of 1996 and above and supports all major OBD protocols including:

• ISO 15765-4 CAN
• SAE J2411-SWCAN
• SAE J1850-VPW
• ISO-9141-2
• SAE J1939 250/500 kps
• ISO 14230-4 Slow/Fast
• SAE J1850-PWM

Kiwi 3 is only for people who want a device that works on all platforms, but without offering advanced features. Kiwi 3 can be the best bluetooth obd2 scan tool for your basic needs.

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Innova 3150f OBD2 Scan Tool with ABS SRS

Features and Functions

• Oil Reset:

Innova provides you with a detailed oil report with timely oil changes notifications.

• Battery Initialization:

Your car’s battery is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. To make sure that your vehicle excels with optimum performance, this scanner offers battery initialization options, too.

• Shows Vehicle Specific Fixes:

Innova is your 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.

• Advanced Features:

Innova offers advanced features as well including reading airbag problems, anti-brake lock system, and a supplemental restraint system.

• Basic Functions:

Just like all scanners, Innova, too, shows CEL faults and their fixes.

The downside of Innova is that you can’t upgrade the firmware directly with a WiFi connection. You must connect the device with a USB to a computer to do it.

Compatibility

Innova 3150f bluetooth car scanner works with any US vehicle that’s 1996 or newer.

It supports almost all known cars including Chrysler, Honda, Chevy, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, Ford, Lexus, BMW, Hyundai, and Kia.

Works on both Android and iOS devices.

People looking to handle both moderate and basic issues in the car can opt for this scanner.

It’s not meant for mechanics but can be useful for the DIY enthusiast.

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The Bottom line

In the end, you should pick a product that offers you what you want, which largely depends on your vehicle and its condition.

However, try to stick to the seven products we covered above as they are among the best ODB2 Bluetooth scanner.

Recommendation For 3 Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scan Tool

Don’t have enough time to read the whole review? 

Don’t worry!!  Below are the 3 out of the 9 best choices that I’ve picked out for you:

Buying guide for the Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner

While we created a list of best options for you, it is still important that you know what makes a scanner the best ODB2 Bluetooth scanner.

To help you in this regard, we have mentioned some of the features to look for when buying an OBD2 Bluetooth scanner:

Compatibility: iOS, Android or Windows?

Pick a scanner that supports your vehicle and your device (Apple, Android, and Windows). This is important because most scanners do not support very old vehicles.

Basic And 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.

Consumes Less Power:

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:

The device should show immediate results so that the problem can be fixed quickly.

Why should get an OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner?

Before moving ahead, let’s understand what OBD2 adapters really are. OBD stands for onboard diagnostics. The term refers to a vehicle’s ability to self-diagnose and report.

An OBD system gives repair technicians and/or vehicle owners access to the vehicle’s subsystems and helps solve problems. They are quite effective and hence are being used everywhere.

If we compare conventional scanners with ODB2 Bluetooth adapters, there’s a vast difference.

They 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.

Lastly, they are portable and do not occupy much space in your car.

You can fit them inside the glovebox and they’ll continue to provide you with car diagnostics and help in keeping it in good shape.

While the benefits of OBD2 Bluetooth scanners are clear, getting one can be a bit difficult mainly due to so many choices. Not all adapters are created equal, which is why you need to be careful when picking one.

To help you in this regard, we did a test drive and tried a variety of OBD2 Bluetooth scanners. We also compared their features, durability, compatibility, and usability to make a list of some of the best OBD2 Bluetooth adapters on the market.

Finally, we zeroed in on seven adapters that truly pack a punch.

FAQs for OBD2 Bluetooth iPhone Scanners

Do the free iPhone apps provide many functionalities?

Yes, they do.

Which versions of iPhone support OBD2 scanners?

All of them. While iPhone 5 and iPhone 6 support many OBD2 apps, newer models require up-to-date apps.

How do you connect your iPhone to the dongle?

By enabling Bluetooth.

Do I need to turn on the internet to use the scanner on an iPhone?

No. You will only need to access the internet when downloading updates or searching codes.

Which is the best iPhone app for an OBD2 scanner?

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.