An OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter allow you to run diagnoses without the limitations of cables. You can even leave the device plugged in at all times and it will give you real-time notifications of faults as soon as it detects them.
But with all the models in the market today, which one ranks as the best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner?
Contents
- 1 Best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapters Review
- 1.1 1PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iPhone & Android
- 1.2 2Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter
- 1.3 3FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter / Active Car Health Monitor – 2nd Generation
- 1.4 4Wsiiroon Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner
- 1.5 5Innova 3150F Code Reader for OBD2 Vehicles
- 1.6 6ScanTool 426101 OBDLink MX Bluetooth
- 1.7 7BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBD2 Scan Tool
- 2 Best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapters: Editor’s Top 3 Picks Comparison Chart
- 3 Recommendation
- 4 The Bottom Line
Best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapters Review
1PLX Devices Kiwi 3 OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iPhone & Android
4.3 / 5The Kiwi 3 Bluetooth scanner is fast, boasts wide coverage and has very impressive diagnostic capabilities. Combine those factors and you will see why it easily ranks as the best Bluetooth obd2 scanner.
Features
- The OBD2 port is usually found just under the driver’s compartment.
- This scanner’s app (Kiwi OBD app) works with iOS, Android and Windows devices that are Bluetooth enabled
- Fully compatible with most third-party apps used for diagnostics. They include Torque, OBD Fusion, DashCommand and Carister among others.
- You can use the Kiwi 3 adapter and app to diagnose any OBD2 compliant consumer vehicle (cars and trucks). These are vehicles made from 1996 to date.
- The Kiwi 3 has so much to offer in terms of diagnostic capabilities. First, performs efficiency tests, including fuel and driving behavior efficiency
- It reads and clears engine faults that trigger the service light.
- Provides real-time reading of gauges, video track overlay and GPS tracking.
———
Pros
- Very fast in diagnosis.
- Consumes little power and can be left unplugged without draining car battery
- Small and compact.
- Supports cars and trucks.
- Simple to use, once plugged it will pair with a device and start diagnosis.
Cons
- The app is only free to try.
Who should Buy It?
This scanner is for beginner and intermediate vehicle owners. Compared to other Bluetooth scanners, it has a wider market because it supports iOS, Android and Windows devices.
2Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter
4.1 / 5Of all the Bluetooth scanners on this list, the Carista OBD2 Adapter is perhaps the most unique. From its construction to its functionality, it’s a little different. But in a good way.
Instead of just diagnosing faults and resetting the service indicator, it also allows you to customize the car.
Features
- The adapter sends diagnostic info back and forth with the Carista App via Bluetooth. The app installs on both iOS and Android devices
- Also compatible with third-party diagnostic apps like DashCommand and TrackAddict.
- Works on selected Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion, Subaru, Toyota, and VW cars. It is an OBD2 Bluetooth scanner, so the car should be a 1996 or newer model.
- The free version of Carista App reads and clears engine and transmission codes for compatible vehicles. You can use it to pinpoint faults related to the check engine light and turn it off.
- Unlock ABS and airbag diagnoses, engine and transmission as well as reset the oil service indicator.
You should know that Carista offer two versions of the app. The default one is free while the Pro version is for pay. You’ll need the Pro app to unlock most of the best features.
———
Pros
- Supports diagnosis, customization and car service.
- Very affordable, especially with the features it brings.
- Lightweight and portable weighs only 1.6 ounces.
- Easy to pair with any mobile device, Android or iOS.
- Can be used by professionals and ordinary car owners.
Cons
- Best features require premium subscription
- Paid version becomes a bit too costly compared to similar products.
Who should Buy It?
The Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter is versatile enough for ordinary car owners and technicians alike. If you’re a car owner it will help you troubleshoot the check engine light. On the other hand resetting functions may be more important to professional and DIY technicians.
Check Price at Amazon
3FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter / Active Car Health Monitor – 2nd Generation
4.3 / 5The
The app installs on a mobile device (tablet or smartphone). Once it creates a connection with the sensor it will start scanning your car for faults. Pretty simple and straightforward, isn’t it? Well, that’s why it earns a spot here as one of the best Bluetooth obd2 scanners.
Features
- The FIXD App installs on iOS and Android mobile devices. After installation, it will communicate with the sensor via Bluetooth.
- Works on OBD2 vehicles
- Diagnoses Check Engine Light
- FIXD will alert you when the next scheduled maintenance is due. Additionally, the scanner will estimate how much that maintenance work will cost.
- Continuous vehicle monitoring
Note that you can install the sensors in multiple cars and monitor all of them with just one app. That’s one of the conveniences that puts this tool among the best bluetooth obd2 scanners.
———
Pros
- The compact design of 2.08 ounces and 4.8 x 2.5 x 4.2 inches.
- Very easy to use, doesn’t require professional knowledge.
- Versatile in compatibility. Works with Android as well as iOS devices.
- Performs instant engine scans as well as continuous vehicle monitoring.
- Works on ALL OBD2 compliant vehicles.
Cons
- Only supports Check Engine Light Diagnosis. Doesn’t scan other systems like ABS, TPMS and airbag.
- A sensor is not compatible with electric and diesel cars.
- The app is not compatible with Windows devices.
Who Should Buy It?
This OBD2 scan tool is great for ordinary car owners. Obviously, if you have a car you need real time notifications about detected problems and performance issues. The FIXD sensor does exactly that.
Read more: FIXD vs Bluedriver: Review and Comparison
4Wsiiroon Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner
4.2 / 5This offering from Wsiiroon makes the list of the best Bluetooth obd2 scanners for many reasons. First off, it’s a plug-and-play device. Once you plug it in your car’s OBD2 port it will be good to go.
Secondly, it works with the most popular and reliable diagnostic applications. For example, you can use it alongside DashCommand and Torque.
Thirdly, in terms of usability, it is pretty simple and straightforward. All you need to do is pair it with your Android device (smartphone or tablet) or Windows PC and you’ll get access to your car’s engine system. As long as you know how to use a smartphone you will find your way around this Wsiiroon OBD2 Bluetooth scanner.
Features
- Works with Android and Windows, you can use it with a mobile device (smartphone or tablet) as well as a Windows PC.
- The device works on all OBD2 vehicles manufactured in 1996 or a later year.
- It supports all OBD2 protocols.
- The Wsiiroon Bluetooth 3.0 OBD2 Scanner also reports various performance parameters (value of oxygen sensor, fuel consumption, vehicle speed, momentum, oil pressure, engine load, etc)
However, it may not work on electric cars, hybrids, vans, and trucks.
———
Pros
- Compact and portable. Measures 1.9 x 0.9 x 1.3 inches and weighs 2.08 ounces
- Doesn’t drain the car’s battery.
- Supports all OBD2 protocols.
- Displays graphics of various performance parameters in real time.
- Provides downloadable diagnostic data for storage and future analysis or printing.
Cons
- Not compatible with iOS and other Apple devices.
- Doesn’t support the diagnosis of systems other than the Check Engine Light. For example, you can’t check SRS or ABS.
Who Should Buy It?
The simplicity in both design and functionality makes this scanner ideal for beginners and ordinary car owners. Once you’ve paired it with a PC or Android device everything else will be straightforward.
Check Price at Amazon
5Innova 3150F Code Reader for OBD2 Vehicles
4.3 / 5Features
- This scanner works on all OBD2 compliant vehicles; i.e. 1996 and newer makes. That includes hybrids, SUVs and light trucks made in the USA, Asia and Europe.
- Besides basic reading and clearing engine codes, it can perform comprehensive diagnoses for other onboard systems, including oil light reset, ABS, SRS, battery light reset and battery initialization.
- These are troubleshooting platforms that provide onscreen and web-based (respectively) repair tips and solutions.
- At only 10.2 x 8.2 x 1.5 inches and a weight of 1.35 pounds, this device is very portable.
———
Pros
- Comes with free lifetime updates
- Innova offers arguably the best customer support
- Reads and clears codes beyond the Check Engine Light.
- Made for portability and easy storage.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Limited functionality. The scanner doesn’t cover typical professional tasks like relearns/programming.
- Doesn’t support live data graphing.
Who Should Buy It?
If you are a DIY technician then this Bluetooth code reader is perfect for you. Its advanced features will give you access to a car’s most important systems, including the engine, SRS, battery and ABS. Plus it is fast, so you can trust that it will save you a lot of diagnostic time.
6ScanTool 426101 OBDLink MX Bluetooth
4.1 / 5The adapter works with computer software or smartphone app to give you unparalleled access to your car’s onboard systems. And, it is pocket-sized just like a mobile device. So you don’t have to worry about carrying heavy devices or dealing with interruptive OBD cables.
Features
- OBDLink MX works with Windows and Android operating systems.
- Covers all OBD2 vehicles manufactured from 1996 to date. It is, however, not compatible with hybrid and electric cars.
- It supports all OBD2 protocols as well as SW-CAN and MS-CAN (for GM and Ford respectively)
- Measures 1.8 x 0.9 x 2 inches and weighs just 1.12 ounces.
If the vehicle is a GM you may be able to control ignition, doors and windows remotely. But again you will have to pair the scanner’s app with a third party app that supports those functions.
———
Pros
- Built with BatterySaver technology that doesn’t drain car battery even when the device is left unplugged.
- Supports almost all third-party apps used in diagnosis.
- Uses multi-layered encryption for enhanced security.
- Smartphone app and PC software are offered for free.
- Comes with a 3-year warranty.
Cons
- Only works with Android and Windows devices. Not compatible with Apple devices.
- Supports basic OBD functions for turning off Check Engine Light.
- Doesn’t cover enhanced diagnostic tasks like ABS and airbag systems
Who Should Buy It?
The ScanTool 426101 OBDLink MX boasts a wide coverage and sophisticated technology that can give ordinary car owners and beginners access to the basic OBD2 protocols. You can use it to turn off the Check Engine Light any time it comes on.
That said, this device is a bit lacking in functionality for professionals. Auto technicians need a scan tool that supports advanced diagnostics, not just the basic stuff.
7BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBD2 Scan Tool
4.4 / 5The BlueDriver Bluetooth scanner is an American-made scan tool meant for professional-level diagnostics. This handheld device is pretty simple to use. All you need to do is pair it with your mobile device (smartphone or tablet) and you’ll be able to run several diagnostic tests on any compatible vehicle.
To make your work easier, the BlueDriver Sensor retrieves suggestions and tips from a pool of over 30 million verified fixes. That’s part of the reason why it’s one of the best Bluetooth obd2 scanners.
Features
- The BlueDriver Bluetooth pairs with mobile devices. Its sensor works with a dedicated app called the BlueDriver App.
- The BlueDriver sensor is compatible with all OBD2 vehicles; both domestic and foreign.
- Read and clear confirmed, pending and permanent OBD2 engine codes
- The scanner does enhanced diagnostics for certain makes, including Ford, GM, Toyota, Chrysler, Nissan, BMW, Honda and VW.
- Supports live data, freeze frame, smog check, code definitions as well as possible causes of faults.
- It provides an accurate report of the last time the vehicle’s codes were erased.
———
Pros
- Supports full OBD2 functions and works on all OBD2 compliant vehicles.
- Provides repair tips and suggested fixes.
- Handheld, compact and portable.
- Works with both Android and iOS devices.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Primarily a diagnostic tool that doesn’t support advanced functions like relearns.
- Enhanced diagnostics (like airbag, ABS and transmission) is limited to particular car brands.
Who Should Buy It?
The BlueDriver sensor is developed by professionals for professional use. Its extensive vehicle compatibility and wide array of functions makes it perfect for auto technicians and shop owners.
Best OBD2 Bluetooth Adapters: Editor’s Top 3 Picks Comparison Chart
 PLX Kiwi 3 |  Wsiiroon Bluetooth 3.0 |  OBDLink MX | |
| Customer Rating |  4 / 5 |  3.7 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 |
| Price |  | | |
| Weight | 1.12 ounces | 0.64 ounces | 1.12 ounces |
| Dimensions | 2 x 0.7 x 1.3 inches | 1.9 x 0.9 x 1.3 inches | 1.8 x 0.9 x 2 inches |
| Supports OBD2 protocols | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Read/Reset codes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BatterySaver Tech | N/A | N/A | Yes |
| OS Compatibility | iOS, Android and Windows | Android and Windows | Android and Windows |
| Bottom Line | It is ideal for beginner and intermediate vehicle owners. | It is suitable for for beginners and ordinary car owners | It is a great pick for ordinary car owners and beginners. |
Recommendation
For intermediate vehicle owners and heavy-duty vehicles
4.3 / 5While all the devices are ideal for the ordinary car owner, some are more suited for particular situations. For instance, if you drive a truck or constantly deal with them you may want to consider the Kiwi 3. It is one of the few Bluetooth scan tools that work on heavy-duty vehicles.
For beginners and ordinary car owners
The Wsiiroon Bluetooth 3.0 makes more sense if you are on a shoestring budget. It goes for just over 20 US dollars, which is more than affordable.
For professional-level diagnostics
4.1 / 5In case you are more interested in wide functionality perhaps the ScanTool 426101 OBDLink MX will serve you best. Apart from supporting full OBD2 Bluetooth diagnosis of the engine, it also works with virtually every app that diagnoses other systems. If you have this scanner you can troubleshoot ABS, airbag and so much more.
The Bottom Line
Regardless of your budget and needs, there’s a Bluetooth scanner that you can buy. The convenience they offer in terms of mobility is& unmatched.
And you don’t even need to unplug it. You can leave it plugged in and get real-time notifications and diagnosis reports on your mobile device. That’s a great way to keep your car in good health at all times.