For car owners and DIY enthusiasts, understanding your vehicle’s health is crucial. OBD2 scanners have become indispensable tools for diagnosing car problems, reading error codes, and even performing basic maintenance. Two popular options in the market are the BlueDriver and FIXD scan tools. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the BlueDriver scan tool and FIXD scan tool to help you decide which one is the right choice for your needs.
Our Verdict: BlueDriver Edges Out FIXD for Comprehensive Diagnostics
While both are capable OBD2 scanners, our preferred choice for most users seeking in-depth diagnostics and professional-level features is the BlueDriver scan tool. Developed in North America, BlueDriver boasts a robust app with extensive vehicle-specific repair reports sourced from certified mechanics. It excels in providing detailed diagnostic information, including access to advanced systems like ABS and airbags, and offers a vast database of over 30 million fixes. However, for users prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and monitoring multiple vehicles, the FIXD scan tool remains a viable option. Designed in the USA, FIXD is user-friendly and provides essential diagnostic data and maintenance reminders, making it suitable for basic car health monitoring.
In-Depth Comparison: FIXD Scan Tool vs. BlueDriver Scan Tool
To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down the key aspects of each scan tool in a detailed comparison table.
| Feature | FIXD Scan Tool | BlueDriver Scan Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Approximate) | $69.99 | $119.95* |
| Where to Buy | Buy Now | Buy Now |
| Vehicle Compatibility | 1996 & Newer (Gasoline), 2006 & Newer (Diesel) | 1996 & Newer (US & Canada Cars & Light Trucks) |
| Verification | ASE Certified Mechanics | ASE Certified Mechanics |
| Language Support | English, Dutch, German, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Polish, Italian | English |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| OS Compatibility | iOS 12.4+, Android 5.0+ | iOS 10.2+, Android 6.0+ |
| OBD2 Port Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Skill Level | DIYer, Enthusiast | Professional, DIYer |
| Check Engine Light Reset | Yes | Yes |
| Smog Check Readiness | Yes (Premium Version) | Yes |
| Diagnostic Reports | Yes | Yes |
| Live Data | Yes | Yes |
| Car Monitoring | Yes | No |
| Freeze Frame Data | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicles Supported | Up to 5 | 1 |
| Engine & Trans Codes | Yes | Yes |
| TPMS Support | Yes | No |
| ABS & Airbag Codes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Shipping (USA) | $5 or Free | Free Express Shipping ($10 Value) |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days | 180 Days |
| Learn More | FIXD Review | N/A |
*Product prices and availability are accurate as of post date and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Diving Deeper into the FIXD Scan Tool
The FIXD scan tool is designed to be a user-friendly entry point into vehicle diagnostics. It’s marketed as a modern, wireless solution to understanding your car’s inner workings without needing a mechanic for every minor issue.
Read Full Review
FIXD operates as a combination of a hardware sensor that plugs into your car’s OBD2 port and a companion smartphone app. This pairing allows you to access a wealth of information about your vehicle’s health directly on your phone. The FIXD scan tool aims to empower everyday car owners with the kind of diagnostic data that was once only accessible to professional mechanics, potentially saving money on unnecessary trips to the repair shop. The device is branded as the “FIXD OBD2 Professional Bluetooth Scan Tool,” emphasizing its ease of use and wireless connectivity. A standout feature is its ability to monitor up to five vehicles simultaneously, making it ideal for families or households with multiple cars. Furthermore, FIXD proactively sends maintenance reminders and alerts for potential issues, providing helpful context and even repair cost estimates.
Getting Started with the FIXD Scanner
Using the FIXD scan tool is straightforward:
- Purchase and Plug-in: Acquire the FIXD sensor and insert it into your vehicle’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. The sensor draws power from the car, so it only functions when the ignition is on.
- Download and Register: Install the FIXD app on your smartphone (compatible with both iOS and Android) and create a user account.
- Bluetooth Pairing: Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone. The FIXD app handles the pairing process automatically; do not attempt to pair through your phone’s Bluetooth settings directly.
- App Setup: Within the FIXD app settings, configure your preferences, including setting maintenance reminders.
- Sensor Code Entry: Select “I have a FIXD sensor” and input the sensor code found on the back of your FIXD device. This step links your specific sensor to your smartphone. A flashing blue light on the sensor indicates successful pairing and data transmission readiness.
Once connected, the FIXD app will automatically scan for your device and add it to your sensor list. You can customize the sensor name within the app for easy identification. From then on, every time you use your car, FIXD will be actively monitoring and sending diagnostic information to your smartphone.
Exploring the BlueDriver Scan Tool
BlueDriver is another prominent Bluetooth OBDII scan tool designed for vehicle diagnostics and maintenance. It positions itself as a tool for both car owners and professional technicians, offering a blend of user-friendliness and advanced capabilities.
BlueDriver, a product of Lemur Vehicle Monitors founded by CEO Maurice Tuff, is built around providing comprehensive vehicle insights wirelessly. It aims to put detailed diagnostic information at your fingertips, helping you proactively maintain your vehicle and understand potential issues before they escalate. BlueDriver is particularly recognized for its extensive database of over 30 million fixes and its ability to read and clear codes on a wide range of vehicle makes and models, both older and newer. Similar to FIXD, BlueDriver consists of a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 sensor and a companion app for iOS and Android. Connecting these components allows for seamless transmission of vehicle data to your smartphone for easy monitoring and analysis.
Setting Up the BlueDriver Scanner
The process of using the BlueDriver scan tool is also designed to be user-friendly:
- Purchase and Connect: Acquire the BlueDriver Pro scan tool and plug it into your car’s OBD2 port.
- Power Up: Start your vehicle and let it run for about 10 seconds to ensure the BlueDriver device powers up correctly.
- Download the App: Download the BlueDriver app from your smartphone’s app store.
- Scan for Device: Within the app, initiate a scan for nearby BlueDriver devices after the car has been running for the initial 10 seconds.
Once the app discovers and pairs with your BlueDriver scanner, it will be added to your list of connected devices. Subsequently, each time you start your car, the BlueDriver device will blink ten times, indicating a successful connection with your smartphone and readiness to transmit diagnostic data.
Common Ground: Similarities Between FIXD and BlueDriver
Despite their differences, FIXD and BlueDriver share several key similarities that make them both attractive options in the OBD2 scanner market.
Ease of Use
Both the FIXD scan tool and the BlueDriver scan tool are designed with user-friendliness in mind. The setup process for both devices is straightforward: plug in the hardware, install the app, and pair via Bluetooth. The apps themselves feature intuitive interfaces that make navigating diagnostic data and reports relatively simple, even for users who are not automotive experts. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned DIYer, both scanners offer a user experience that doesn’t require specialized technical knowledge to access and understand basic vehicle diagnostics. While BlueDriver is often favored by professionals and experienced DIYers due to its advanced features, its core functionality remains accessible to users of all skill levels. Both FIXD and BlueDriver prioritize clear, understandable presentation of vehicle data, using demonstrative highlights and plain language to convey information.
Broad Compatibility
Both scanners offer excellent compatibility in terms of smartphone operating systems and vehicle OBD2 compliance. Both FIXD and BlueDriver apps are compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones, covering the vast majority of smartphone users. Furthermore, both devices are designed to work with OBD2-compliant vehicles, which includes most cars and light trucks manufactured in or after 1996 in the United States and Canada. Connectivity for both scanners is achieved through Bluetooth, ensuring a wireless connection to your smartphone for convenient data access and real-time monitoring.
Core Diagnostic Functionalities
Functionally, both BlueDriver and FIXD provide users with essential OBD2 scanner capabilities, including:
- Check Engine Light (CEL) Monitoring and Reset: Both can read and clear check engine light codes.
- Live Data Streaming: Both provide real-time data feeds from vehicle sensors, allowing you to monitor engine performance as it happens.
- Freeze Frame Data: Both capture “freeze frame” data, which records sensor readings at the moment a fault code is triggered, aiding in problem diagnosis.
- Engine and Transmission Codes: Both can read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the engine and transmission systems.
Additionally, both scanners offer descriptions of detected issues and potential consequences, helping users understand the severity and nature of problems identified in their vehicles. This information is presented in a user-friendly format within their respective apps, aiming to bridge the gap between raw diagnostic data and actionable insights for car owners.
Key Differences: FIXD vs. BlueDriver
While sharing similarities, FIXD and BlueDriver diverge in several significant aspects that cater to different user priorities and needs.
Size and Ergonomics
For users who prioritize a compact and unobtrusive OBD2 scanner, the FIXD scan tool holds an advantage due to its smaller, more lightweight design. Its dimensions make it less noticeable when plugged into the OBD2 port, which can be a consideration for users who prefer to leave the scanner connected continuously for ongoing vehicle monitoring. While FIXD might offer fewer advanced diagnostic features compared to BlueDriver, its design emphasizes ease of use and physical convenience, especially for beginners who might be less concerned with in-depth diagnostics and more interested in basic vehicle health monitoring.
Feature Set and Diagnostic Depth
BlueDriver distinguishes itself by offering a more comprehensive suite of diagnostic features, catering to users who need deeper insights into their vehicle’s systems. BlueDriver provides enhanced diagnostic capabilities that extend beyond basic OBD2 functions, including access to systems like:
- Climate Control Systems
- Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbags
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
In addition to broader system coverage, BlueDriver excels in generating detailed repair reports. These reports often include probable causes for fault codes, common fixes, and even step-by-step repair procedures sourced from a vast database of verified fixes. Another valuable feature unique to BlueDriver is its built-in price estimator, which provides estimated repair costs based on the diagnosed issue and your vehicle’s make and model. This feature helps users prepare financially for repairs and provides a benchmark for evaluating repair quotes from mechanics.
In contrast, while FIXD provides essential diagnostic information, it focuses more on vehicle monitoring and preventative maintenance. Unique features of the FIXD scan tool include:
- Car Monitoring: FIXD offers continuous vehicle monitoring, providing alerts for potential issues and tracking vehicle health over time.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Support: FIXD can monitor TPMS data, providing insights into tire pressure and potential tire-related issues (Note: TPMS functionality may depend on vehicle compatibility).
Number of Vehicles Supported
A significant differentiator between the two scanners is the number of vehicles each can simultaneously monitor. FIXD supports up to five vehicles with a single account and sensor, making it an economical choice for multi-car households or small businesses managing a fleet of vehicles. In contrast, BlueDriver is designed to monitor only one vehicle per sensor. For users needing to track multiple vehicles, FIXD offers a more cost-effective and convenient solution, as purchasing multiple BlueDriver scanners for each vehicle would be significantly more expensive.
Price and Affordability
Price is a key consideration for many buyers, and FIXD holds a clear advantage in terms of affordability. The FIXD scan tool is typically priced significantly lower than the BlueDriver scan tool, often costing about half as much. This lower price point makes FIXD an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers and those new to OBD2 scanners who want to try out the technology without a large upfront investment. While BlueDriver offers more advanced features, the higher price may be a barrier for some users, especially those who only need basic diagnostic capabilities. FIXD frequently offers bundle deals and discounts, further enhancing its value proposition. For example, at the time of writing, FIXD is offering “Buy 1, Get 1 50% OFF” and “Buy 2, Get 1 FREE” promotions. Check current FIXD deals here.
Final Verdict: Choosing Between the BlueDriver and FIXD Scan Tools
In conclusion, both the FIXD scan tool and the BlueDriver scan tool are valuable tools for vehicle diagnostics, but they cater to slightly different user profiles. If you are seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use OBD2 scanner for basic vehicle health monitoring and want to track multiple vehicles, the FIXD scan tool is a solid choice. Its compact design, user-friendly app, and multi-vehicle support make it a practical option for everyday car owners and families.
However, if you are a serious DIYer, car enthusiast, or professional technician looking for in-depth diagnostics, comprehensive system coverage, and advanced features like repair reports and price estimations, the BlueDriver scan tool is the superior option. While it comes at a higher price, BlueDriver’s advanced capabilities and extensive database justify the investment for users who demand more than basic OBD2 functionality. BlueDriver provides a professional-grade diagnostic experience in a user-friendly package, empowering users with detailed insights and actionable information to tackle vehicle repairs and maintenance with confidence. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and desired level of diagnostic capability.
