Finding a reliable and affordable Bluetooth OBDII scan tool for your Android device in 2017 can be challenging. A simple $13 Bluetooth ELM 327 dongle and a phone app may not suffice for comprehensive diagnostics, especially for tasks beyond basic OBDII data, such as reading oil levels. While these dongles can detect OBDII codes related to malfunctioning oil level sensors, they won’t directly display the oil level. Options like the VeePeak scanners, while useful for OBDII scanning, are explicitly limited to that function.
Deeper Diagnostics Require More Advanced Tools
Accessing non-OBDII systems requires a more sophisticated tool capable of interacting with the vehicle’s proprietary communication protocols. Think of the VIDA/DiCE system used for Volvo vehicles – this level of functionality necessitates a more substantial investment.
A cost-effective entry point for deeper diagnostics is Autel’s DiagLink, priced around $90-$100. The DiagLink’s strength lies in its brand-specific software. However, it only supports ONE car brand out of the box. You choose the brand during initial setup, downloading and installing the corresponding software from Autel. While additional brand software is available for around $10 each, this limitation should be considered if you work with multiple car brands. On the plus side, the DiagLink offers advanced functionalities like resetting oil change lights and controlling electric parking brakes, surpassing the capabilities of similarly priced devices. This makes it an excellent choice for dedicated owners of a single car brand.
Multi-Brand Compatibility: Autel MD806
For broader compatibility, the Autel MD806, priced around $200, offers a compelling solution. Utilizing similar hardware to the DiagLink, the MD806’s software unlocks multi-brand functionality without requiring separate downloads for each. It also includes “lifetime” free software updates, although this realistically refers to the tool’s expected support lifespan, unlikely to extend beyond 15 years.
The MD806 represents excellent value, providing comprehensive diagnostics capabilities suitable for most home mechanics and enthusiasts. It strikes a balance between functionality and price, particularly for frequent users.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tool
Ultimately, the “best” Bluetooth OBDII scan tool depends on individual needs. For basic OBDII diagnostics, a budget-friendly ELM 327 dongle may be sufficient. However, accessing non-OBDII systems and advanced functions requires a dedicated scan tool like the Autel DiagLink or MD806. While the DiagLink excels in single-brand diagnostics, the MD806’s multi-brand support and lifetime updates offer greater versatility for a slightly higher price. Consider your budget, the range of vehicles you work with, and the level of detail required when making your decision.
