The Best All-Around Diagnostic Tool for the DIYer

Written By Jesse Temares

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android - No Subscription Fee - OBD2 Car Scanner and Code Reader - Diagnose Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag & 7000+ Issues on Vehicles 1996+

The Verdict: 4.5 / 5 Stars

"The Best All-Around Diagnostic Tool for the DIYer"

The Highlights

  • Pro-Level Diagnostics for a DIY Price: Unlike cheap scanners that only read "Check Engine" lights (CEL), BlueDriver can access "Enhanced" systems like ABS, Airbags (SRS), Transmission, and TPMS for most major vehicle brands (Ford, GM, Toyota, Chrysler, etc.).

  • The "Repair Reports" Feature: This is BlueDriver’s killer app. Instead of just giving you a vague code like P0420, it provides a "Verified Fix" report. It scans a database of millions of actual repairs to tell you exactly what part is most likely broken and how to fix it.

  • No Subscription Fees: Many competitors (like Carly or Hum) charge a monthly or yearly fee to keep using the app. With BlueDriver, you buy the hardware once, and the app and all updates are free forever.

  • Live Data & Data Logging: You can watch your engine’s performance in real-time (fuel trims, coolant temp, etc.) while driving and even export the data to a spreadsheet (CSV) for later analysis.

The Downsides

  • No Bi-Directional Control: You cannot use this tool to "talk back" to the car—for example, you can’t force a DPF regen, cycle an ABS pump, or program a new key. For that, you’d need a much more expensive tablet-style scanner.

  • Limited Support for European/Exotic Cars: While it works for basic engine codes on almost any car since 1996, its "Enhanced" diagnostics (ABS/Airbags) are much better on domestic and Asian brands than on BMW, Mercedes, or Volkswagen.

  • Bluetooth Latency: Because it relies on Bluetooth to your phone, there can be a slight delay (1–2 seconds) in live data compared to a wired scanner.

Who is this for?

  • The DIY Mechanic: If you change your own oil and want to avoid the $150 "diagnostic fee" at the dealership, this pays for itself the first time you use it.

  • Used Car Buyers: It's small enough to keep in your pocket. Plug it in during a test drive to see if the seller recently cleared any "hidden" codes.

  • The "Not-So-Handy" Owner: Even if you don't fix cars, the Repair Report helps you walk into a mechanic shop knowing exactly what's wrong so you don't get overcharged.

Final Thought

If you want a reliable, easy-to-use tool that tells you why the light is on and how to fix it—without a monthly bill—the BlueDriver is the gold standard. If you need to do advanced coding or programming, you’ll need to look at higher-end Autel or Launch units.

Jesse Temares