There are times when it makes more sense to buy an OBD2 Bluetooth adapter than a stand-alone scanner. For example, if you want a tiny dongle that you can always leave plugged in the car, then an adapter is more fitting.
The good news is that you’re spoilt for choice as far as Bluetooth adapters. The bad news is that you may feel overwhelmed by your extensive options. That’s why we put together this list of the 10 best OBD2 Bluetooth adapters for 2021
Before that review you’re probably wondering, which is the best OBD2 Bluetooth adapter? The three that stand out the most are BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro, Bafx Wireless Bluetooth OBD2 & Veepeak OBDCheck BLE. And this is how they stack up against each other:
Contents
- 1 Best Bluetooth Adapter Review
- 1.1 1. BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
- 1.2 2. BAFX Products – Wireless Bluetooth OBD2
- 1.3 3. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
- 1.4 4. FIXD OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool
- 1.5 5. OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
- 1.6 6. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ Bluetooth 4.0
- 1.7 7. Vgate ICar Pro Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE)
- 1.8 8. OBDLink LX Bluetooth Scan Tool
- 1.9 9. Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter And App
- 2 The Final Thoughts
Best Bluetooth Adapter Review
| Editor's Picks | Products | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | BlueDriver | 9.5/10 |
| Runner Up | BAFX Products | 9.5/10 |
| Best Budget Buy | Veepeak OBDCheck BLE | 8.5/10 |
| Best Value | FIXD | 8.5/10 |
| Also Great | OBDLink MX+ | 7.5/10 |
1. BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
Product Link
BlueDriver is probably the one brand that comes to mind when people think of OBD2 Bluetooth adapters. Rightfully so because the BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro adapter packs some impressive oomph. Below are its main features:
Trouble Codes
With access to all available systems, this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter can read and erase diagnostic codes in the engine, ABS, transmission, airbag TPMS, EVAP, TPS, O2 and all other systems. For that reason, it can turn off the Check Engine Light (CEL) and all other warning lights.
Besides, each code comes with a description, possible causes and suggested fixes. Such detailed reports make it one of the best for DIY and shade tree mechanics. Also included in the collectible data is vehicle info (make, model, maintenance schedules TSB etc.)
Live & Freeze Frame Data
Freeze frame data is recorded when a code is registered. It helps you pinpoint possible causes of trouble codes. And yes, the BlueDriver OBD2 Bluetooth adapter does provide the data.
Live data, on the other hand, shows the health and performance of various sensors, switches and circuits. It makes it easy to identify a faulty component when a trouble code isn’t providing enough info. Again, the BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro pulls live data.
I/M Readiness
In addition to retrieving EVAP and O2 system codes, this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter performs smog checks. It will tell you if the car is ready for an emission test.
Mode 6 Data
Once in a while, vehicles get problems that don’t throw a code or show up in live & freeze frame data. These are often known as Mode 6 or “Test results for continuously and non-continuously monitored systems.” Examples include misfire counts and on-board monitoring.
This data basically indicates problems that haven’t affected monitors yet, but will in due time. Catching them sooner will make your repair work swift, timely and more affordable. And you guessed it right, the BlueDriver adapter will help you pull Mode 6 data.
Pros
- Probes deep for codes and live data
- Comes with free BlueDriver diagnostic app
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
- Excellent value for money
- Offers full system diagnosis
- Doesn’t drain battery when left plugged in the car
Cons
- Not compatible with third party diagnostic apps
- Doesn’t support special functions like bi-directional diagnostics
Final Verdict
If you can only buy one DIY OBD2 Bluetooth adapter, then go for BlueDriver. The accuracy of codes and amount of live/freeze frame data is unmatched.
2. BAFX Products – Wireless Bluetooth OBD2
This OBD2 Bluetooth adapter is perfect for you if you’re looking for an entry-level code reader. It’s unbelievably affordable and works with all third party diagnostic apps. Here’s what you can do with it:
Read And Erase Codes
The BAFX Products Wireless Bluetooth Car Scanner will retrieve and clear DTCs from the engine. It’s compatible with all OBD2-compliant cars and light trucks. That, therefore, means that you can use it to turn off the Check Engine Light (CEL) in any car.
On the downside, it doesn’t give you access to other systems apart from the engine. Consequently, you can’t use the OBD2 Bluetooth adapter to diagnose the ABS, SRS, transmission, oil, TPMS or any other system really.
Freeze Frame Data
The scanner will record freeze frame data for each registered code. Depending on the app you’re using, you may also get code definitions and suggested fixes.
Unfortunately, most repair suggestions are limited to premium apps. So you may need to spend a little more money to get a reliable Android or Windows-based OBD2 app.
Live Data Streams
Want to read live data from monitors? You can do so with the BAFX Products adapter. It will tell you which sensors are healthy and which ones aren’t.
I/M Readiness
You can perform smog checks with this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter. While it won’t tell you if you have passed or failed emissions, it will tell you if on-board emission systems are ready for the test.
Pros
- Extremely affordable code reader
- Compatible with all OBD2-compliant cars and light trucks
- Supports J1850 and CAN
- Comes with 2-year warranty
- Compatible with all third party diagnostic apps
Cons
- Can only diagnose the engine, no other system
- Only compatible with Android and Windows devices
- Doesn’t support any special functions
Final Verdict
The BAFX Products Bluetooth OBD2 adapter is ideal if you want a simple code reader for check engine light codes. Pair it with the best diagnostic app for the best results. And keep in mind that it’s only compatible with Android and Windows devices.
3. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
For its price, the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE dongle is an absolute steal. That’s especially since you can do as much as coding in some car models like BMW. Check out the standout features of this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes
At the very least, you can read and clear engine DTCs with the Veepeak OBDCheck adapter. In other words, you can use this scan tool to turn off the check engine light. And it’s compatible with all OBD2 cars (1996 and newer).
Freeze Frame Data
Each code will come with its freeze frame data. The data is recorded at the exact time when the code is registered.
Live Data
In addition to DTCs and freeze frame, the Veepeak Bluetooth adapter provides live sensor data. You can monitor sensors from various systems to know whether or not they are performing as they should.
Third Party Apps
The best part about this OBD2 scan tool is that it’s compatible with all third party apps. Whether it’s Torque Pro, Carista, DashCommand, OBDFusion or any other app, the adapter will work with it.
The range of functions you’ll get will largely depend on your app of choice. For example, if you use GaragePro you’ll have access to all on-board systems, including engine, ABS, SRS, transmission etc.
Similarly, if you use BimmerCode you can do some coding on a BMW car. That’s to say, make sure you pair the adapter with the best OBD2 app that you can get. And check that the app provides all the functions you need for your car.
Pros
- Fully compatible with iOS and Android phones/tablets
- Supports all third party apps
- Works on all 1996 and newer cars and light trucks
- Small and lightweight. Can stay plugged in the car and it won’t drain battery
- No Bluetooth pairing needed when using with iPhone/iPad
- Supports live data graphing and customizing PIDs on dashboard
- Can access all systems and do some coding when used with the right app
Cons
- Functionality is largely dependent on the app you use
- Very limited special functions
Final Verdict
If you like using Torque Pro, DashCommand and other “high-end” diagnostic apps, then you have to try this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter. You’ll unlock a ton of diagnostic functions when you pair it with a great app.
4. FIXD OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool
When used together, the FIXD adapter and FIXD app deliver some of the most powerful features of any OBD2 Bluetooth adapter.
Check Engine Light Diagnosis
First off, FIXD can diagnose the engine system. That involves checking and erasing engine codes. If the issue triggering the code is fixed, the car’s OBD will turn off the check engine light.
System Diagnosis
In addition to the engine, this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter can diagnose the transmission, airbag, TPMS and ABS. That’s pretty much what any DIY mechanic or enthusiast might need for an almost full vehicle scan. Note that this feature is only available on Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Nissan and Toyota.
Data
This is where the FIXD Bluetooth scan tool excels. For starters, it can pull stored, pending and permanent codes. Each code comes with a description and suggested fix.
Secondly, the scanner retrieves freeze frame as well as live sensor data. In the case of the latter, you can view the data as PIDs, gauges or charts.
Thirdly, FIXD can pull service intervals for your car. And if that’s not enough, it can display a historical record of all repairs on the car.
Add-On Features
For an optional annual subscription, you can get access to FIXED Premium and Identifix. They both allow you to freely interact with FIXD mechanics who will provide you with guidelines for diagnosing your car and performing DIY fixes.
Pros
- Very impressive data display
- Compatible with all OBD2-compliant vehicles
- Works on iOS and Android devices
- Comes with the FIXD app
- Comprehensive diagnostic information with explanations for each piece of data
Cons
- Not compatible with Windows
- System diagnostics (transmission, airbag, TPMS and ABS) only works on selected cars
- FIXD app requires purchasing
Final Verdict
The biggest complaint with FIXD is that it comes with many in-app purchases. Actually, the app itself is not free, you’ll have to fork out some money. Once you get passed that, you’ll have yourself a very decent OBD2 Bluetooth adapter.
5. OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
OBDLink MX+ is the perfect tool for Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan and Toyota car owners. While it can connect with every OBD2 car, it’s only in the listed models that you can perform enhanced diagnostics.
That includes MS-CAN for Ford and GM-LAN for GM vehicles. Here’s more:
Check Engine Light Diagnosis
If the car is a 1996 or newer model, then the OBDLink MX+ will diagnose the check engine light. Once you fix the issue, you can hook the scanner up to the car again and clear the light.
Full System Scan
This is the one thing that makes the MX+ arguably the best OBD2 Bluetooth adapter. It will scan, pull codes and erase codes in every available system in your car, provided the car is a Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan or Toyota. That includes the engine, ABS, SRS, transmission, TPMS, TPS, etc.
Live And Freeze Frame Data
Alongside codes, you also get freeze frame info and live data from sensors. Depending on the app you’re using, you can view live data as PIDs, gauges or charts. Which brings us to another important point – the OBDLink MX+ is compatible with all third party apps.
I/M Readiness
Use the adapter to check whether your car is ready for a smog check.
Pros
- Supports both GM-LAN and Ford’s MS-CAN
- Works on iOS, Android and Windows devices
- Built with hacker-proof security
- Features OBDLink’s battery-saver technology that prevents adapter from draining car battery
- Compatible with all OBD2 vehicles and offers enhanced diagnostics in some models
- Comes with 3-year warranty
- All software updates are free
Cons
- Limited functionality on most vehicle models
- Doesn’t support any special functions
Final Verdict
OBDLink is the closest brand to BlueDriver. The only difference is that this particular OBD2 Bluetooth adapter gives you OEM-level access to a select car brands. They include Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan and Toyota. If you drive any of those, then you’ll love this little wireless scan tool.
6. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ Bluetooth 4.0
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ is just slightly better than the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE (check #3 above). While both are largely dependent on third party apps, the BLE+ version does add smog check to its basic functionality.
Trouble Codes
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ can read and erase engine trouble codes. And that means you can use it to scan the engine system and turn off the check engine light.
Data & Information
Every time you pull trouble codes you also get freeze frame data for the code. If that’s not enough to diagnose the problem, you can use this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter to view live sensor data.
Besides, it can retrieve vehicle information. That includes VIN, CVN and calibration IDs.
I/M Readiness
Do you need to check if your car is ready for a smog check? The Veepeak BLE+ can do that.
Third Party Apps
Just like the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE, the BLE+ version comes into its own when used with a powerful third party app. First off, it’s compatible with all the good apps, including Torque Pro, Carista, DashCommand and OBDFusion.
You can do a lot with a premium app. For example, OBD Fusion gives you access to all the available systems in a car. In addition to the engine, it allows you to diagnose the ABS, SRS, transmission, EVAP, TPMS etc.
BimmerCode will let you do basic coding on a BMW car while LeafSpy allows you to run diagnostics on hybrids and electric cars. That’s to say, if you have this adapter, the biggest decision you’ll have to make is choosing an OBD app. Choose one that packs the best features and is compatible with your vehicle.
Pros
- Compatible with iOS and Android phones/tablets
- Supports third party apps
- Compatible with all OBD2 vehicles
- Customizable dashboard
- Does not drain car battery
- No Bluetooth pairing needed when using with iPhone/iPad
Cons
- Functionality is largely dependent on the app you use
- Very limited special functions
Final Verdict
Do you already have a premium OBD2 app? If yes, then you can get the best from this adapter. It’s not the best when paired with those free apps because they limit its functionality.
7. Vgate ICar Pro Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE)
The vgate iCar Pro (BLE version) is another affordable, entry-level OBD2 Bluetooth adapter for car owners. It has three LEDs for handy telltales. The red LED comes on when the device receives power from the car’s OBD.
Blue lights up once a connection with the car’s OBD is established and the green LED indicates a scan in progress. Speaking of scan, here’s what the vgate iCar Pro BLE can do:
Codes
It works with third party apps, therefore the number of systems from which you can pull codes depends on your app. However, at the very least you can view and erase engine codes. Consequently, the adapter can reset the check engine light.
Note that you can do basic coding on BMWs with this scan tool if you use BimmerCode.
Freeze frame
With each code you’ll get freeze frame data to pinpoint possible causes of the code. It may also help with repairs.
Live Data
Alongside codes and freeze frame, the OBD2 Bluetooth adapter delivers live sensor data. You need it to monitor various engine parameters as well as the health of sensors and monitors.
I/M Readiness
Use the vgate iCar Pro to check whether your car is ready for emission tests.
Pros
- 2-year warranty
- Covers all OBD2 vehicles
- Extremely affordable
- Easy to setup and use with any OBD app
- Compatible with third party OBD2 apps
- Can code with BimmerCode
- Compatible with iOS and Android
Cons
- Only supports basic diagnostics
- Connection issues with some iOS devices
Final Verdict
The issue with iOS devices is that vgate Pro doesn’t display the name of IOS-VLINK. This tends to cause connectivity issues with some users. However, you only need to configure the device’s name in the app you’re using and it will connect automatically.
Once that’s done, this little device will work like a charm. It’s especially great for live data and check engine light diagnostics.
8. OBDLink LX Bluetooth Scan Tool
The fact that there are three OBDLink scan tools on this list is testament to the brand’s superiority in OBD2 Bluetooth adapters. And this particular unit is just as reliable as the MX+ and MX. The biggest difference is that it doesn’t support GM-LAN, Ford’s MS-CAN or enhanced diagnostics.
OS Compatibility
This OBD2 dongle works with Android and Windows devices. The package includes a free OBDLink app for smartphones and OBDWiz software for PC.
Check Engine Light
You can use this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter to scan the engine for fault codes, clear them and reset the check engine light. The fact that it doesn’t support enhanced diagnostics means that the OBDLink LX can’t diagnose any other systems. Therefore, you can’t use it for the ABS, SRS, transmission or any other system.
Live Data
While it won’t pull freeze frame data, the LX will display live sensor data. Your options include gauges, graphs (PIDs) and charts.
Smog Check
Finally, you can check the I/M readiness of your car.
Pros
- Compatible with all OBD2 vehicles
- Uses OBDLink hacker-proof security
- Comes with free OBDLink app
- Works with third party apps
- Has battery-saver technology
- 3-year warranty
- All software updates are free
Cons
- Very basic. Can only diagnose the engine
- Not compatible with Apple products
- Slower than the MX & MX+ at relaying PIDs
Final Verdict
The OBDLink LX is for car owners who want to diagnose the check engine light and view live data. It doesn’t have advanced or special functions, which can be a good thing if you want a simple, straightforward OBD2 Bluetooth adapter.
9. Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter And App
The Carista Bluetooth adapter is just as popular as the Carista OBD2 app. When used together, they offer dealer-level diagnostics for Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion, Toyota and VW.
Codes And Data
The Carista OBD2 Bluetooth adapter can read and clear engine codes on any OBD2-compliant vehicle. It follows that the scan tool can reset the check engine light in any compatible vehicle.
Things get better for Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion, Toyota and VW car owner. In those car brands, this small adapter supports enhanced diagnostics. You can check the engine, ABS, airbag, transmission, throttle, TPMS, TPS, and all available systems.
Better yet, the adapter pulls manufacturer-specific codes and clears them. To top it all off, it can display live sensor data and vehicle information.
I/M Readiness
Alongside trouble codes, the Carista sensor checks if your car is ready for an emission test. This function is popularly known as a smog test.
Service Functions
While you can do a smog check on any car, this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter only supports service functions in specific makes. You can do oil service resets, EPB reset and launch control counter in Audi and VW.
At the same time, the adapter allows comprehensive scan of TPMS, ABS, VSC and TRAC inspection in Toyota, Lexus and Scion.
Bi-Directional Controls
Carista is one of the few OBD2 Bluetooth adapters that support bi-directional functions. Specifically, you can slide the windows, turn the lights on/off and control some instruments in the same way the ECU would.
Pros
- Compatible with Android and iOS devices
- Works with third party OBD2 apps
- Good range of advanced features
- Carista app has customizable dashboards
- Tiny dongle, which makes it easy to conceal
Cons
- Carista app is only free for one month
- Incompatible with wide range of cars
- Subscriptions can get expensive over time
Final Verdict
The biggest issue with Carista is car compatibility. If your car is not an Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mini, Scion, Toyota or VW, there’s every possibility that this adapter won’t work. Kindly confirm compatibility with Carista before purchasing.
Otherwise it’s a decent little scanner for the check engine light, system diagnostics, service functions and a few bi-directional controls. Keep in mind that the Carista app is a premium OBD2 app (only free for 1 month).
The Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best OBD2 Bluetooth adapter should be one that’s compatible with your car. It should also pack most of the features that you’re looking for. For example, if you want a device that can code your BMW then Veepeak adapters are more than capable.
And if you just want a basic code reader, it makes more sense to look at BAFX Products. OBDLink adapters, especially the MX and MX+, are great for Ford and GM. That’s because they support GM-LAN and MS-CAN.
Keep such criteria in mind and you’ll get your hands on a great adapter. And remember to pair it with an equally excellent app. There are tons of OBD2 apps at your disposal.
Read more: 10 Best Professional Automotive Diagnostic Scanners Review And Buying Guide On 2021
