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Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanners

An OBD2 scanner can help you research repair costs or run emissions tests before you take your vehicle to a mechanic or inspection.
Written and Tested By:
Will Moore
Written and Tested By: Will Moore Senior Writer – Motor1 Review Team

Will has written for several major auto sites including Motor1 since 2020, logging hundreds of hours researching and testing products ranging from child car seats to torque wrenches. Will is also Certified by Safe Kids Worldwide as a Child Passenger Safety Technician (#T836339).

Last Updated 01/08/2024

Motor1 Reviews Team Take:

  • The best OBD2 Bluetooth scanners are the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro, Fixd OBD2 Professional, Ancel BD200 Elite, Topdon TopScan, OBDLink MX+, and Panlong Bluetooth OBDII.
  • Most Bluetooth OBD2 scanners cost between $50 and $100. More expensive scanners may feature better apps and advanced functions like live data monitoring. If you only need to pull common engine codes, a $50 Bluetooth scanner is sufficient.
  • With a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, you can read engine codes and monitor live data without being tethered to the driver seat. The BlueDriver even provides repair reports with average prices for suggested repairs.
Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool

An affordable wireless option with advanced abilities.

Easiest to Use
Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool

A layperson’s OBD2 scanner that offers repair advice.

Best Value
Ancel BD200 Elite

An inexpensive OBD2 scanner with advanced data.

Best Resources And Guides
Topdon TopScan

A low-cost Bluetooth scan tool with troubleshooting guides and recall lists.

Best
Advanced Features
OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner

A fast OBD2 scan tool ideal for reading live data.

The best OBD2 Bluetooth scanner should be easy to use and offer various diagnostics tools. At the very least, an OBD2 scanner can check error codes and clear check engine lights. Some scanners offer advanced tools for ABS diagnostics, live data, and more.

Even if you aren’t a professional mechanic, an OBD2 code reader can be a useful tool. Not only can you diagnose and address minor car problems, but you can have a better sense of how much a car repair will cost before you take your vehicle to a mechanic.


Bluetooth OBDII Scanner Reviews

A collection of the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners.

To help you find the best OBD2 Bluetooth scanner for your needs, we recommend a variety of options – from low-cost choices to high-end scanners packed with features. Each of the OBD2 Bluetooth scanners we recommend can be an invaluable diagnostics tool.

What Is The Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner?

According to our research and testing, the best Bluetooth car code readers are the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro, Fixd OBD2 Professional Scan Tool, Ancel BD200 Elite, Topdon TopScan, OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner, and the Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Car Diagnostic Scanner.

Each Bluetooth diagnostic scanner has pros and cons, depending on usability, app experience, available features, and price ranges. Below, our review team provides a detailed review of each of our top-rated Bluetooth OBD2 scanners.

Brand/ModelCostOverall RatingAward
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool$1004.8Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner
Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool$404.5Easiest to Use
Ancel BD200 Elite$364.5Best Value
TOPDON TopScan$804.3Best Resources and Guides
OBDLink MK+ Bluetooth Scanner$1404.3Best Advanced Features
Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner$13.993.8Budget Pick

Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Ratings: Our Testing Process

After looking at factors such as data collection capabilities, customer ratings, and prices, our product testing team ordered the Bluetooth OBD2 scanners that seemed most promising. A team member tested each product on a sedan, taking note of app functionality, ease of use, and accuracy. Each OBD2 Bluetooth scanner was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.

Learn more about how we tested Bluetooth OBD2 scanners here.

1. BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool: Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner

The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool.
  • Cost: Around $100
  • Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5.0 (over 52,000 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Subscription cost: None

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro Review

The BlueDriver has hands-down the best app of the OBD2 Bluetooth scanners we’ve tested. The interface is intuitive – even for the novice. If you simply want to check your engine codes, this tool is a way to easily do so.

You can see how the BlueDriver performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use5.0
App Quality5.0
Data Collection Capabilities4.5
Value4.5
Overall Rating4.8
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool:

Pros Best app of any OBD2 scanner we’ve tested Suggests fixes for certain issues No subscription fees for advanced features
Cons

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro: Our Experience

If you want to do more than check engine codes, the BlueDriver can also do that. It can monitor most vehicle systems, and you won’t need to pay a monthly fee to access the advanced monitoring features as you sometimes must with other scanners. If you’d like to know more about its many features and pricing options, check out our detailed review here.

The BlueDriver also has a Repair Report feature that suggests fixes for certain issues and fixes that technicians certified by the Automotive Center for Service Excellence verify. If you plan to use the BlueDriver mostly to maintain your car, the device is a solid OBD2 choice. Its plug-and-play features make it useful for beginners and experts alike.

This scanner also topped our list of best OBD2 scanners for its utility and versatility.

BlueDriver OBD2

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro: What Customers Are Saying

Many reviewers like the BlueDriver because of the large number of fault codes it can read. It’s compatible across a wide range of brands and models. Numerous users say the BlueDriver works on foreign and luxury vehicles, and beginners and professionals alike appreciate the intuitive interface.

Some users complain about the live monitoring features. Live data only refreshes every five seconds – too slow to effectively monitor some issues. Some more advanced users say that while this is good for a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, hardwired scan tools are more reliable for live monitoring diagnostics.

2. Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool: Easiest To Use

The Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool.
  • Cost: Around $40
  • Amazon review score: 4.1 out of 5.0 (over 23,000 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Subscription cost: $99.99/year

Fixd OBD2 Scanner Review

The Fixd OBD2 scanner is among the easiest-to-use Bluetooth OBD2 scanners that we’ve tested. While the advanced features bear a hefty subscription cost, this is nonetheless a useful scanner even for those who don’t plan to pay for these features due to the quick and accurate code reading features.

The table below shows how the Fixd Bluetooth scanner performed in each of our review categories:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use5.0
App Quality5.0
Data Collection Capabilities3.5
Value4.5
Overall Rating4.5
Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool:

Pros Great, user-friendly app Sets scheduled maintenance reminders
Cons Large subscription fee for advanced features

Fixd OBD2 Scanner: Our Experience

The Fixd app is the easiest to navigate among the Bluetooth scanner apps we tested. The user interface is well-designed and simple to follow. Like many of the low-cost (under $60) OBD2 Bluetooth scanners, the Fixd requires a monthly subscription to access premium features. In this case, those include:

  • Mechanic hotline
  • Confirmed fix and cost estimates
  • Issue forecast
  • Emissions precheck
  • Incident history report

Code reporting time is swift with the Fixd, which makes it a useful OBD2 scanner, even if you don’t plan to pay for the extra features included with the subscription.

FIXD OBD2 scanner

Fixd OBD2 Scanner: What Customers Are Saying

Many positive reviews come from those who don’t know much about engine repairs and appreciate that this device can conduct simple diagnostics. Users who like the Fixd appreciate the easy-to-use interface and say it has helped them better understand their vehicle’s issues.

One feature many appreciate is that the Fixd forecasts potential issues and reminds users of scheduled maintenance visits.

Several negative reviews claim the device often fails to connect to phones. Several commenters also complain the device doesn’t work unless you purchase the Fixd Premium subscription. We connected the device easily and accessed OBD diagnostics info without purchasing a Premium subscription.

3. Ancel BD200 Elite: Best Value

The Ancel BD200 Elite.
  • Cost: Around $35
  • Amazon review score: 4.2 out of 5.0 (over 1,400 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Subscription cost: None

Ancel BD200 Elite Review

Considering the capabilities of the Ancel BD200, this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner offers some of the best value at under $50. This scanner has no subscription cost but is nevertheless capable of O2 testing, DTC retrieval, live data, and O2 sensor testing.

You can see how the Ancel performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use4.0
App Quality4.5
Data Collection Capabilities4.5
Value5.0
Overall Rating4.5
Ancel BD200 Elite: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Ancel BD200 Elite:

Pros Great budget option No subscription cost
Cons Data-filled app may be confusing

Ancel BD200 Elite: Our Experience

Connecting to the Ancel is easy: Simply attach the device to the OBD2 port and connect through the app. Once connected, we found the App interface no problem to navigate. There’s a lot of data through the app, so the average person could find it overwhelming. However, if you only need an OBD2 scanner to perform diagnostics checks, this device will work for you.

Ancel BD200 Elite: What Customers Are Saying

When the app works, users seem to love it – it can quickly and easily provide a wealth of useful information. However, a number of reviewers claim they couldn’t get their phone to connect to the scanner. We had no issues connecting the BD200 and running diagnostics tests.

Some of the negative reviews come from those who say the device stopped working or connecting after a week. Ancel offers 24/7 customer support and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee along with a two-year warranty. If you have issues with the BD200, be sure to contact Ancel customer support.

4. Topdon TopScan: Best Resources And Guides

  • Cost: Around $80
  • Amazon review score: 4.4 out of 5.0 (over 600 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Subscription cost: First year free, $49.99/year afterward 

Topdon TopScan Review

What stands out about the TopScan is the amount of information provided through the companion app. Topdon has attempted to make an OBD2 tool that also serves as a mechanic’s assistant, offering troubleshooting tips and repair suggestions.

The TopScan requires an annual subscription, but the first year is provided for free. If you are curious about the utility of subscription features, the TopScan is a good bet to try these features at a low cost.

You can see how we rated the TopScan car code reader in the table below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use3.5
App Quality4.0
Data Collection Capabilities5.0
Value4.5
Overall Rating4.3

The TopScan requires an annual subscription, but the first year is provided for free. If you are curious about the utility of subscription features, the TopScan is a good bet to try these features at a low cost.

Topdon TopScan: Our Experience

Below are the pros and cons of the Topdon TopScan:

Pros Super informative app Long list of functions
Cons Involved setup process Not simple to use

Topdon TopScan: Our Experience

We were impressed by the TopScan’s range of functions. This scanner is capable of brake resets, DPF regeneration, steering angle reset, engine performance testing, and even key reprogramming.

We had a little bit of trouble using the TopDon compared to the other Bluetooth scanners we tested. It is not that the TopScan is especially difficult to use, but lags behind the competition in this regard. Setup is more involved than other scanners and there is no one-button fault code retrieval option. That said, setup is not overly difficult when the instructions are followed and this OBD2 scanner offers a number of features.

If you’re looking for a simple scan tool, this may not be for you. While the TopScan can perform basic fault code retrieval, this takes more time and button pushing than other scanners. Despite this minor drawback, we like this OBD2 scanner overall.

TopScan OBD2 mobile app

Topdon TopScan: What Customers Are Saying

Many reviewers are impressed by the number of functions the TopScan offers, especially considering its low cost. The TopScan is described as a convenient, compact tool that’s excellent for monitoring vehicle systems.

A few people complain about iOS support on Apple devices. Until recently, the TopScan was not entirely compatible with Apple phones. Topdon has since released a completed iOS app, TopGuru. And while many users appreciate the wide-ranging functions, a few have noted that the app could be more user-friendly. The setup process takes a longer time than other Bluetooth OBD2 scanners and requires searching and downloading vehicle-specific software updates.

The OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner.
  • Cost: Around $140
  • Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5.0 (over 12,000 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android, iOS
  • Subscription cost: None

OBDlink MX+ Review

If you’re looking for a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner able to read most manufacturer-specific codes, consider the OBDLink MX+. Though it has a relatively high upfront cost, there is no annual subscription fee to access advanced diagnostic features.

The table below shows how the OBDLink MX+ performed in our review:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use4.0
App Quality4.0
Data Collection Capabilities5.0
Value4.0
Overall Rating4.3
OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner:

Pros No annual fee Monitors live data well
Cons Some difficulty connecting to phones

OBDlink MX+: Our Experience

The setup instructions for the OBDLink MX+ are straightforward. However, few instructions are available on how to use the device once connected. You can access the OBDLink MX+ using third-party apps, but there’s also an OBDLink app, which our team used.

OBDLink users have access to a lot of data, which can be overwhelming if you don’t know how to make use of all this information. In addition to engine codes, we accessed O2 sensors, freeze frame data, and set up custom reports.

This app can also monitor anti-lock braking (ABS) information, the airbag system, the transmission system, and more, but these features require you to pay extra for a monthly subscription.

This is an overall solid pick if you’re interested in monitoring live engine data. No wireless Bluetooth scanner can monitor information as quickly as a wired setup, but the OBDLink comes close.

OBDLink MX+: What Customers Are Saying

Users like that the tool works with a variety of apps (and not just the proprietary app). Several positive reviews come from mechanics who are impressed with how many tasks this little device can perform.

Some users report difficulty connecting this scanner to their phones, and others claim it has the same functions as much cheaper alternatives. Having tested the cheaper alternatives, we can say this OBD2 Bluetooth scanner has more functionality than the $40 models.

6. Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner: Budget Pick

The Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner.
  • Cost: Around $15
  • Amazon review score: 4.3 out of 5.0 (over 8,200 ratings)
  • Phone compatibility: Android (iOS compatible version available for $25.99)
  • Subscription cost: None

Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Scanner Review

If you’re looking for the cheapest possible option, we recommend the Panlong Bluetooth OBDII scanner. While inexpensive, this tool can quickly and effectively pull OBD2 fault codes. The Panlong model that is under $20 only works with Android devices, however.

Below you can see how we rated the Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)
Ease of Use4.0
App Quality3.0
Data Collection Capabilities3.0
Value5.0
Overall Rating3.8
Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner: Our Experience

Below are the pros and cons of the Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner:

Pros Effective app Very affordable
Cons Cheaper model only works with Android devices Unclear instructions

Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Scanner: Our Experience

The Panlong is as easy to set up as any other Bluetooth OBD2 scanner. However, the instructions are not very clear. For instance, you need to input “1234” as the device code when you connect it to Bluetooth for the first time. However, the instructions don’t mention this.

The big difference between the Panlong and the other scanners we tested is that the Panlong doesn’t have a proprietary app. You can use the device with the Torque app or OBD Car Doctor app. Other apps may work with this device, but these are the two the manufacturer recommends.

We tested the Panlong using the Torque app. As a free app, the user interface isn’t as sleek or intuitive as the apps included with other scanners on this list. However, the full version of the app (Torque Pro) only costs $5 as a one-time payment. While it has some issues, this app is effective for simple code reading.

Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Scanner: What Customers Are Saying

Many customers are happy the device works and costs so little. The most satisfied customers use it to clear codes and claim it saved them hundreds on a repair shop visit.

Some people report trouble connecting to the scanner and are frustrated by the limited functionality. Other users say the device stopped working after a couple of months. Keep in mind this scanner includes a one-year warranty.


Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner Buyers Guide

The right OBD2 Bluetooth scanner for you depends on how you plan to use it. OBD2 scanners provide a broad range of vehicle information. All modern cars have advanced computers that collect data, which can be useful for repair diagnostics if something goes wrong; but not all Bluetooth OBD2 car code readers can read every manufacturer’s error code or interface with the diagnostic language installed in the vehicle software.

Our review team compiled the following guide to help you understand what to look for in the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners and how to use a Bluetooth car code reader.

What To Look For In A Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner

Many OBD2 Bluetooth scanners are nearly identical, with the companion app defining the quality of the product. In addition, compatibility with your car, accessibility, advanced features, your mechanical knowledge, and cost are all factors worth considering.

  • Compatibility: Regardless of which diagnostic scan tool you buy, make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle. Most OBD2 Bluetooth scanners will work with the most popular brands. However, if you have a foreign car, luxury vehicle, or sports car, it may not be compatible with all OBD2 scanners.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: The best OBD2 Bluetooth scanners generally do not charge for advanced features. Every OBD2 Bluetooth scanner can read basic engine codes, but most also offer diagnostics for ABS, airbags, O2 sensors, and more. You can use the advanced features to help you achieve peak performance from your car or diagnose almost every mechanical issue your car is experiencing. You may only need an OBD2 scan tool to read engine codes if you have limited car knowledge. There’s no point in spending extra for features you’ll never use.
  • Accessibility: An OBD2 scanner shouldn’t be a mystery to decipher. The best scanners are usable not only by the professional mechanic. OBD2 scanners with straightforward instructions and intuitive interfaces scored best in this category.
  • Companion App: Every OBD2 Bluetooth scanner operates as a wireless device that connects to a smartphone or tablet. To interface with the scanner, you must launch an application. The more user-friendly the app, the better the automotive scanner. 
  • Data Features: Some scanners can only read check engine lights, while others provide advanced diagnostics for ABS and SRS systems. OBD2 scanners with more features scored best in this category.
  • Price: We all want more bang for our buck. An OBD2 scanner with fewer features may be a better buy for some users if it’s less expensive, especially if you don’t intend to use advanced diagnostics features and only need to clear check engine lights.

How To Connect A Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner

Using a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is simple and straightforward. Follow the simple steps below to set up and use your scanner diagnostic scanner:

  1. Download the app: Before you start using your new OBD2 scanner, you will need to download the appropriate app to your phone. Most scanners’ apps are available to download on iPhone and Android. Check your owner’s manual to ensure you download the correct app.
  2. Plug the OBD2 scanner: into the OBD2 plug of your vehicle. This plug is usually underneath the steering wheel on the gas pedal side. Plugging in the scanner to the vehicle’s OBD2 port allows the car code reader to connect to the car’s ECU.
  3. Turn your car on: Before you can read error codes or run diagnostics, the vehicle needs to be turned on for the scanner to properly communicate with the vehicle’s ECU.
  4. Connect your phone to the scanner: Ensure the Bluetooth on your phone is turned on. Open the mobile app you downloaded in step one and connect to the OBD2 scanner you plugged in in step 2. Now you are ready to scan your car’s ECU and run diagnostics.

Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners: Bottom Line

In this article, along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, we reviewed the top five Bluetooth OBD2 scanners in 2024:

  1. Best Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner: BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool
  2. Easiest to Use: Fixd OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool
  3. Best Value: Ancel BD200 Elite
  4. Best Resources and Guides: Topdon TopScan
  5. Best Advanced Features: OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth Scanner
  6. Budget Pick: Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Car Diagnostic Scanner

Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners: FAQ

Are Bluetooth OBD2 scanners any good?

A Bluetooth OBD2 scanner can perform the same functions as a typical OBD2 scanner. The primary difference is that Bluetooth OBD2 scanners require a smartphone or tablet to run the companion app.

Is the BlueDriver worth it?

We believe the BlueDriver is an excellent OBD2 scanner. Though it costs upward of $100, the BlueDriver is easy to use and offers advanced diagnostics functions and custom monitoring. However, if you only need to check engine codes, you can find cheaper alternatives.

Can BlueDriver read ABS codes?

Yes, the BlueDriver can read ABS codes as well as fault codes for the airbags (SRS) and transmission.

Is a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner better than a standard OBD2 scanner?

A Bluetooth OBD2 scanner has all of the same functions as a standard OBD2 scanner. The main difference is that a Bluetooth scanner must operate through a companion app on your smartphone or tablet. A standard OBD2 scanner may be better at reading live data since a wired connection will always be faster than a wireless Bluetooth connection.

What is the best professional OBD2 scanner?

Our review team’s pick for the best on-board diagnostics scanners is the TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT. It has a wide range of functions, utilizes a Bluetooth OBD car code reader and this WiFi-compatible beast comes with free updates for the lifetime of the device.  

Are all Bluetooth OBD2 scanners the same?

Even though Bluetooth OBD2 scanners all function the same way via a smartphone, mobile app, and port adapter, capabilities vary across devices. The best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners read and reset engine codes, usually without a subscription. 

What is an OBD2 port?

On-board Diagnostics version two (OBD2) are standardized ports designed to interface with the vehicle ECU and are standard in almost all vehicles produced in 1996 or later. OBD2 ports receive data about a car’s performance, including fuel consumption, cylinder performance, intake air temperature, engine speed, and more.

What is a DTC?

DTC stands for Diagnostic Trouble Code. These codes are standardized across multiple make and models. The codes are generated by the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system, which detects malfunctions or problems with specific systems, such as your engine, transmission, or subsystems, such as your ignition and emission sensors.


Full Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Testing Methodology

We tested each of the OBD2 scanners on a 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid. Our testers downloaded the companion app and connected the scanner to the vehicle. We tried out each of the features available. We used apps on an Android phone, though most scanners also have iOS apps.

While testing, we evaluated each Bluetooth OBD2 scanner based on ease of use, app quality, data collection capabilities, and value.

Ease of Use

An OBD2 scanner shouldn’t be a mystery to decipher and the best diagnostic tools are usable not only by the professional mechanic. OBD2 scanners with straightforward instructions and intuitive interfaces scored best in this category.

App Quality

Every OBD2 Bluetooth scanner operates as a wireless device that connects to a smartphone or tablet. To interface with the scanner, you must launch an application. The more user-friendly the app, the better the automotive scanner.

Many OBD2 Bluetooth scanners are nearly identical, with the companion app defining the quality of the product. Scanners with useful functions and well-designed apps that don’t crash scored the highest in this category.

Data Collection Capabilities

Some scanners can only read check engine lights, while others provide advanced diagnostics for ABS and SRS systems. OBD2 scanners with more features scored best in this category.

Value

Our value score is based on the relationship between a device’s scores in other categories and its total cost. An OBD2 scanner with fewer features may be a better buy for some users if it’s less expensive, especially if you don’t intend to use advanced diagnostics features and only need to clear check engine lights.

How We Score Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners

Every Bluetooth OBD2 scanner we test is given a score between 1.0 and 5.0 stars in each category. Here’s what those star ratings mean in concrete terms:

  • 5.0 Stars: A 5.0-star rating means a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is among the best in a category. It can retrieve codes with the push of a button, offers an easy-to-use app that never crashes, or includes many advanced diagnostic features like manufacturer-specific DTCs, emissions testing, and reprogramming features.
  • 4.0 Stars: A 4.0-star rating means a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner performs better-than-average in a category. It retrieves codes quickly with a couple of button pushes, has a user-friendly app, or includes some advanced diagnostic features.
  • 3.0 Stars: A 3.0-star rating indicates what is average or typical for a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, based on our testing experience. It can effectively read most engine fault codes, has a functioning app, or includes live data and emissions testing but few other advanced diagnostic functions.
  • 2.0 Stars: A 2.0-star rating indicates the Bluetooth OBD2 scanner performs poorer than average. It is difficult to use, has a poorly designed app, or provides unreliable DTC retrieval.
  • 1.0 Star: A 1.0-star rating indicates that the Bluetooth OBD2 scanner performs well below expectations in a category. It does not work, has a bug-filled app, or fails to provide even basic engine codes.

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