For diesel vehicle owners, having a reliable OBDII scan tool is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity. These tools allow you to understand your vehicle’s health, diagnose issues, and even monitor performance in real-time. Among the various options available, the BAFX Products Bluetooth OBD2 Reader and the OBDLink MX+ stand out as popular choices. This article provides a detailed comparison to help you decide which tool is best suited for your needs.
Both the BAFX and OBDLink MX+ are Bluetooth-enabled OBDII scanners designed to work with your smartphone or tablet, offering a wireless solution to vehicle diagnostics. They are particularly useful for diesel engines, including the Ford 6.0 and 7.3 Powerstroke, enabling you to read crucial data and fault codes. While both serve the fundamental purpose of OBDII scanning, they cater to different user needs and budgets.
BAFX Products® – Wireless Bluetooth OBD2 Reader / Scanner
The BAFX Products OBD2 Reader is often praised for its affordability and reliability as a basic diagnostic tool. It’s designed for users who need a straightforward way to read and clear engine codes, and monitor basic vehicle parameters.
Pros:
- Budget-Friendly: The BAFX adapter is one of the most affordable Bluetooth OBDII scanners on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Easy to Use: Simple plug-and-play operation. Connects easily to Android devices via Bluetooth.
- Reliable Basic Functionality: Effectively reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and provides live data.
- Warranty: Backed by a 2-year warranty from BAFX Products®.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features: Compared to higher-end tools, it lacks advanced features such as enhanced diagnostics, advanced coding, or support for specific software like FORScan’s full capabilities on PC.
- Primarily Android Focused: While it can work with some iOS apps, it’s primarily optimized for Android devices.
- Slower Data Transfer: May have slower data transfer speeds compared to more advanced adapters, which could be noticeable when monitoring many parameters in real-time.
OBDLink® MX+ Bluetooth OBDII Scan Tool
www.obdlink.com
The OBDLink MX+ is positioned as a top-tier Bluetooth OBDII scan tool, offering a wider range of features, faster performance, and broader software compatibility, including enhanced support for FORScan and other professional-grade applications.
Pros:
- Advanced Features: Supports advanced diagnostics, OEM-specific data, and some advanced coding functions depending on the software used.
- Faster Speed and Performance: Offers faster data transfer speeds, crucial for real-time monitoring of numerous parameters and smoother data logging.
- Wider Software Compatibility: Excellent compatibility with FORScan (including PC version for advanced tests like “click test”), Torque Pro, and other popular OBDII apps on both Android and iOS.
- Enhanced Security: Features hacker-proof security, protecting your vehicle’s network from unauthorized access.
- Compact Design: Smaller and more discreet than some other adapters.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Significantly more expensive than the BAFX adapter, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious users.
- Potentially Overkill for Basic Needs: If you only need basic code reading and clearing, the advanced features might be unnecessary.
Key Comparison Points
| Feature | BAFX Products OBD2 Reader | OBDLink MX+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Advanced Features | Basic | Advanced |
| Speed | Standard | Faster |
| Software Compatibility | Good (Android focus) | Excellent (Android/iOS/PC) |
| FORScan Support | Basic | Enhanced (PC support) |
| User-Friendliness | Very Easy | Easy |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 3 Years (OBDLink) |
Which OBDII Scan Tool is Right for You?
- Choose BAFX Products OBD2 Reader if: You are looking for an affordable, reliable tool for basic diagnostics on your diesel vehicle. If your primary need is to read and clear codes, and monitor basic engine parameters on an Android device, the BAFX is an excellent value.
- Choose OBDLink MX+ if: You require advanced diagnostic capabilities, faster data speeds, and broader software compatibility, especially if you plan to use FORScan on a PC for in-depth diagnostics and tests on Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles. If you value performance, security, and future-proofing, the OBDLink MX+ is a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Both the BAFX Products OBD2 Reader and the OBDLink MX+ are valuable tools for diesel vehicle owners. The best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical requirements. For simple, cost-effective diagnostics, the BAFX is a strong contender. For users demanding advanced features, faster performance, and broader software options, the OBDLink MX+ offers a superior, albeit more expensive, solution. Consider your diagnostic needs and budget to make the best decision for maintaining your diesel vehicle.
