Search for ODB2 adapter and app

[OBB]

Looking for experiences and suggestions for a ODB2 Bluetooth adapter and software app.

Building dashboards for real time diagnostic and alerts when on the trail.

I heard about apps like Torque which suggest to use a ELM327 adapter but that chip company just closed: Elm is closing… – Elm Electronics

 

[OBB]

The ODB2 Bluetooth adapted are in various price classes. Need help to find good combination of ODB2 adapter and app software.

Looking for Android version and my rig is a 2011 Mercedes G55

Here is a more pricy one: OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner for iPhone, Android, and Windows https://a.co/d/0UVOuDn

While this is more affordable:

OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Code Reader for Android Windows, Auto Car Diagnostic Scan Tool Odb2 OBDII Adapter for Check Engine Light for Torque Pro, OBD Fusion, DashCommand, Car Scanner App https://a.co/d/hd8OFs0

Friencity OBD2 Scanner Adapter Bluetooth, Wireless Diagnostic Code Reader OBD II Scan Tool Reset & Clear Check Car Engine Light, Compatible with Android & Windows, Support Torque App, (NOT for iOS) https://a.co/d/gv4wSbJ

 

[bgenlvtex]

I have used "Car Scanner" free app with a $10 OBD2 dongle from Amazon in the past with success.

I don't use either one anymore because both of my vehicles have a security gateway that won't allow a plug in dongle, and both of them also have a Tazer installed that allows me to read and clear codes (among other functions)

Pulling the code and clearing the code are the true function of these devices and there really isn't any need to spend more than minimum money, unless you are buying proper diagnostic equipment which is a completely different animal.

 

[K12]

I have been using the OBDlink MX+ with the Torque app for years with multiple different cars. I would never use a different app or combo, they just work. Custom PIDs on torque are a godsend as well (using diesel and custom pids to know when a regen is happening and all my temps)

 

[Amanda C]

Hi Frank,

How are you doing, good post.

I did extensive research one weekend, probaly watched all the video and decided on the following

OBDLINK® MX+

OBDLink® MX+ - Outstanding Bluetooth-Compatible OBD II Scan Tool

The OBDLink® MX+ is the top-of-the-line OBD II scan tool to use with forscan and comes with bluetooth. Get one here today and gain access to your vehicle!

www.obdlink.com

My reasons were:-

1) Security features it has compared to others
2) BatterySaver™ Technology low power mode
3) Works on all platforms - iOS, Android, and Windows.
4) Automatic sleep & wake-up
5) Plenty of features for overlanding, easy to configure
6) Has ablity to monitor trips and create data points on the route for post adventure analyis if something goes wrong while your climbing up a steep pass you can see how much the engine has to work. I had a problem going over the Crows Nest Pass in 2020 when my engine started having a loud ticking noise - I wish I had the data to show the mechanic, in the end it cleared its self.
7) Used by professionals and Amatures alike

Finally you get what you payfor and I have a cry once buy once attitude

I purchased from - OBDLink MX+ Scan Tool - Petrel Data Systems they ship canada and US

I will be installing it for a forthcoming US trip and will let you know how it works out.

Good luck making your decision and lets us know which one you pick.

Best wishes

Amanda

 

[smritte]

Here is a more pricy one: OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner for iPhone, Android, and Windows https://a.co/d/0UVOuDn

This is the one I use.
Out of all the Bluetooth adapters out there, few work well with Apple which is why I choose this one years ago. For me, the biggest bonus is its refresh rate. When I last checked, no-one was even close to this. If your wanting real time data tracking wireless, this is the best I found. If you only want to see data and clear codes there are cheaper ones out there but, some don't like I-Phones.

For the software, I like what comes with the adapter, OBDLink. I've used Torque and another I cant remember and even though those are good, I like OBDLink for what I do.

 

[Sheedy614]

My buddy runs a company called P3 Gauges. They have a multi-gauge that goes in your air vent, looks OEM, and still allows airflow and vent adjustment. If your vehicle isn’t supported, let me know and I can pass on the word.

P3 Gauges - Custom Integrated Multi-Function Gauges

P3 Gauges - The #1 source for custom integrated multi-function gauges! Connect with your car in an entirely new way! Why settle for just a boost gauge? The P3 Gauge is a swiss army knife of performance data, with design and integration that won't spoil the clean lines of your interior.

www.p3cars.com

 

[reaver]

Iv have a blued river dingle which works very well, but I don't know if it does real-time information. I mainly bought it to read abs codes on my old 04 Colorado.

I also have, and carry with me, an elm adapter, along with torque on my tablet, and all my phones. I've used it more for scanning check engine lights on other people's vehicles than monitoring my own.

There's also scangauge, who've released a new touchscreen device as well.

Some of these work better on certain vehicles than others.

For instance, I was able to monitor my transmission temp on the Colorado via torque and custom PIDs, but can't do that in the frontier. The scangauge CAN monitor Temps trans Temps on the frontier.

Something to think about.