I am looking for recommendations on a scan/diagnostic tool to diagnose a CEL on somewhat of a budget. I've looked at the threads on this and am looking for recent recommendations. The way I see it, there are (3) main options.

1. Cheap wifi/bluetooth plug in + phone app. Please recommend an IPHONE/IOS app you like.


2. Expensive wireless/bluetooth plug. What's the advantage here over option (1). Seems like they can pull more data/second. Any other advantages?


3. Oldschool handheld unit. I personally don't think it's a bad thing to not have to rely on your phone.



I'm guessing it probably doesn't make too much difference which option I go with but any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 

This is kinda the standard from what I've gathered. It works nicely, they update it regularly, bluetooth is easy to connect, allegedly they allow you to download some OEM options from certain manufacturers. It works for both my S2k and 4Runner reliably. Maybe there are cheaper options that work as well.

 

I have the Blue Driver it works really well. Its all there at your finger tips.
Also has live data, it will show speed, RPMs, intake temp, coolant temp.

 

I've been using a cheap ($8) bluetooth OBD2 adapter for 5 years for both diagnostics and track data. It was made by Kobra but I'm not sure it is still available.

I use it with the Torque app (full version) and with RaceChrono Pro and it works great with both. I also recommend getting an extension cable to both protect the port and to make it much easier to access.

I don't know what advantages you get from one that costs over $100, especially for diagnostics. Maybe someone can enlighten me.

 

What year is your car? It says it supports 2003 and later here

 

I'm wondering the same thing about the more expensive options. Happy to pay more if it's worth it though

 

I have a 04, mine is several years old, i think i updated it once. Works good with an Android

 

Mine has live data and Smog check. I can also store data that has been checked. It will show the last mileage when you last ran a diagnostic.
Reads codes and shows them.

 

Ok. I get all those things from the Torque Pro app.

Is there anything that the more expensive adapters do better than a $10 bluetooth OBD2 plus the $5 Torque app?

I guess some people have had difficulty getting cheap OBD2 adapters to connect. Fortunately I have not had that issue.

 

Not really, when i bought mine i didn't look at others.
It just seemed like something handy to have