The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool has carved out a significant space in the automotive diagnostic market as a user-friendly, Bluetooth-enabled OBD-II scanner. Unlike basic code readers, BlueDriver aims to offer a more comprehensive diagnostic experience by pairing a compact adapter with a feature-rich mobile app. This review dives deep into the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool, exploring its design, functionality, performance, and overall value to help you determine if it’s the right tool for your car maintenance needs. If you’re in the market for one of the top OBD-II scanners that blends ease of use with in-depth diagnostics, keep reading to see if BlueDriver lives up to the hype.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: A Closer Look at Features and Design
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool distinguishes itself from many OBD-II scanners right from its physical design. While it utilizes a Bluetooth connection and foregoes a dedicated screen, its build is noticeably more substantial than some ultra-compact Bluetooth adapters. Measuring 2.2 x 1.9 x 1.0 inches and weighing 2.4 ounces, it feels robust and durable, suggesting a focus on quality and longevity. The ribbed sides enhance grip, making it easy to handle when connecting or disconnecting from your vehicle’s OBD-II port, often located in dimly lit and awkward positions under the dashboard.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool lights red in recovery mode from a failed firmware update
The device features an LED indicator, which provides visual feedback on its operational status. A blue light signals startup and data transmission, while a blinking red light indicates a connection issue with your phone or tablet. A solid red light, less commonly seen, indicates recovery mode during a firmware update. This thoughtful LED system keeps you informed without being distracting during normal operation.
The true power of the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool lies in its seamless integration with the BlueDriver app, available for both Android and iOS devices. This app transforms your smartphone or tablet into a powerful diagnostic interface. The app is intuitively designed, presenting complex automotive data in an accessible and understandable format. Forget cryptic codes and confusing menus – BlueDriver prioritizes user-friendliness, making it suitable for both seasoned mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
Cell phone app for BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool
The app’s capabilities are extensive, ranging from basic OBD-II functions to more advanced diagnostics. It excels in displaying live data in real-time, presented through customizable digital gauges that mimic the look of traditional car dashboards. This live data functionality is invaluable for monitoring engine performance and diagnosing issues as they occur. Furthermore, the app allows you to export data in a .csv format, enabling further analysis and record-keeping.
Beyond live data, the BlueDriver app offers comprehensive reporting features. It doesn’t just provide fault codes; it goes a step further by suggesting potential causes and fixes for detected problems. It even provides links to relevant parts, streamlining the repair process. This feature is particularly helpful for users who want to understand the issue before consulting a professional mechanic, or for DIYers tackling repairs at home.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool has a functional phone app
The “Smog Check” feature, as BlueDriver terms it, is essentially an I/M readiness test, crucial for ensuring your vehicle will pass emissions inspections. This function checks the status of various emission-related systems, ensuring they are ready for testing. Of course, BlueDriver also performs the fundamental OBD-II function of reading and clearing fault codes, allowing you to address issues and turn off the Check Engine Light when appropriate.
Where the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool truly shines is in its enhanced diagnostics capabilities. It goes beyond basic OBD-II functions to access detailed diagnostic information for systems like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and engine misfires. The depth of data available can vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model year, but BlueDriver generally offers broader coverage than many basic OBD-II scanners.
Performance in Action: Real-World Testing
Putting the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool to the test is a straightforward process. Connecting the adapter to the OBD-II port and pairing it with the BlueDriver app is generally quick and painless. In testing scenarios, the BlueDriver consistently established a connection on the first attempt. The app’s main screen is well-organized, presenting a clear menu of diagnostic options, including Read Codes, Smog Check, and Mode 6 for deeper system analysis. Retrieving the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is also readily accessible, a useful feature for vehicle identification and report generation.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool has a functional phone app
The BlueDriver demonstrated reliable performance across different vehicles during testing. It accurately identified induced faults, such as a disconnected oil-temperature sensor, and successfully cleared the Check Engine Light after the issue was resolved. The live data stream was smooth and responsive, providing real-time insights into vehicle parameters like engine speed and vehicle speed. While it lacks a dedicated trip summary function found in some other scanners, its focus remains firmly on diagnostic capabilities.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool has a functional phone app
Setup and User Experience: Designed for Simplicity
Despite its slightly larger size compared to minimalist Bluetooth adapters, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool remains unobtrusive once installed in the OBD-II port. Its placement under the dash ensures it stays out of the way and doesn’t interfere with driving. The Bluetooth range is commendable, reaching up to 32 feet in tests, providing ample freedom to move around the vehicle while using the app.
The package includes a quick setup guide, primarily a flowchart, which simplifies the initial connection process. While a comprehensive printed manual is not included, BlueDriver provides a wealth of resources on their website. This online resource library contains diagnostic and repair tips, although navigating detailed information on a small phone screen can sometimes be less than ideal. The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is backed by a 1-year warranty, offering peace of mind.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool Review: Final Verdict
The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool stands out as a powerful yet user-friendly diagnostic tool. Its ability to not only read fault codes but also provide insightful analysis and potential fixes elevates it beyond basic code readers. If you prefer using your smartphone for automotive diagnostics and appreciate a well-designed, feature-rich app, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is an excellent choice. It offers a compelling blend of comprehensive diagnostics and ease of use, potentially saving you significant money on car repairs and providing valuable insights into your vehicle’s health. For car owners and DIY mechanics seeking a reliable and informative OBD-II scanner, the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool is definitely worth considering.
