An OBDII scan tool is one of those things that can make a real difference to a DIY mechanic or a car owner.
For example, a car owner can use a low-cost OBDII scan tool to find the problem causing it to run badly or an engine light to come on.
A mechanic can use the same tool to diagnose a mechanical problem and repair it.
This has huge benefits for a car owner or a backyard DIY mechanic looking to save money.
A vehicle owner can also research the cost for repairs on a bad part before ever talking to a mechanic.
All of this can be done very cheaply, making them affordable to almost anyone.
How Does a Bluetooth Scan Tool Work?
A wireless scan tool is plugged into the OBDII connector in a car or truck.
OBDII ports are usually located on the driver side under the dashboard on any vehicle 1996 and newer.
The OBDII scan tool transmits a Bluetooth signal to a smartphone or tablet, which communicates with an app.
The app will communicate with the vehicle’s computer and display any codes with the app translating any problem a car may be having.
Most apps have many more options than diagnosing problems. For example, they can also display RPM, speed, oil pressure, and much more.
So which scan tool is the best for an Android smartphone or tablet?
There are many units available, with some of our favorite picks below.
As always, be sure to read the reviews on Amazon or elsewhere to be sure a unit is a good fit for you.
Our Picks for the Best Android Bluetooth OBDII Automotive Scan Tools
- INNOVA 6030P
- Bafx Products BAFX3127
- BlueDriver LSB2
- KONNWEI KW902
- FIXD OBD2
The INNOVA 6030P is an OBDII scan tool with many advanced features such as ABS along with built-in Bluetooth.
Since it has Bluetooth, it is also a wireless unit that works with an app. This makes it a standalone unit or a wireless Bluetooth unit.
INNOVA has an app called Repair-Solutions 2 that is available from Google Play or the App Store.
This makes it a good unit for those who want a standalone unit and a wireless scan tool that can send data to a smartphone.
BAFX Products BAFX3127 is a Bluetooth OBDII scan tool that is a good unit for cars and trucks.
It is low-cost and uses an app that can diagnose problems with vehicles made after 1996.
It does not come with an app, but there are many free and paid apps that can be bought cheaply and used, such as Torque for Android
This is a great option if you are looking for a quick, easy, low-cost solution.
The BlueDriver OBD2 scan tool option is more expensive than the other options but comes with everything needed to get up and running with your smartphone.
It works with Android and iPhone’s.
This is a good solution for the professional or home user. It also comes with a one year warranty.
The KONNWEI KW902 is another low-cost option for an OBDII Bluetooth scan-tool.
It doesn’t come with an app so one of the free scan tool apps or paid ones will need to be obtained.
This is another good option if you are on a budget.
The FIXD OBD2 is a Bluetooth unit that works with iPhone and Android.
Most OBDII dongles are set up to work with Android, with the FIXD OBD2 setup to work with both.
This makes it a good option for a home that uses many different smartphones.
It also has many nice extra features many other scan tools don’t pull up, including ABS, Airbag, TPMS, and Transmission error codes.
Summary
An OBDII scan tool can save you a lot of time and money when used right.
The benefits of using such a tool can be anyone from a professional to a home user.
As with any purchase, be sure to read the reviews on Amazon or elsewhere to make sure it is the right fit for you and your vehicle.
While one person may be comfortable finding their own app and configuring it, another may not.
Whichever unit you purchase, once you have one working, will undoubtedly be highly beneficial.
BAFX Products BAFX3127
With Torque.
I’ve tried many but this one seems to work on any vehicles that I try it on.