As a Powerstroke owner, getting to know your engine’s vitals is crucial. When I first got my 6.0 Powerstroke, I immediately wanted to dive into diagnostics and engine parameter monitoring. Like many, I started with FORScan due to its strong reputation and comprehensive capabilities. In my workshop, using FORScan on a computer is fantastic. I used a reliable USB adapter for this setup:
The USB connection was straightforward and dependable for in-depth diagnostics. However, the need for constant computer access isn’t always convenient, especially when you’re on the move or want quick checks.
That’s where the desire for a portable OBD2 app comes in. While a permanent in-dash Mini ITX PC with gauges is on my future project list, for now, a smartphone-based solution offers immediate convenience. This led me to explore wireless OBD2 options. I picked up a WiFi version to avoid potential iOS compatibility issues often encountered with Bluetooth OBD2 readers:
Using my iPhone 6+, I’ve been testing various OBD2 apps to find the best balance of features, user-friendliness, and reliability for Powerstroke engines. It’s important to note that apps requiring proprietary hardware, like DashBoss or BlueDriver, are outside the scope of my current evaluation, as I’m focusing on software compatible with standard OBD2 adapters.
For anyone considering a similar setup with an iPhone or iPad, be cautious with Bluetooth OBD2 readers. Many Bluetooth OBD2 adapters are not fully compatible with iOS devices. WiFi OBD2 readers generally offer better compatibility with iOS, but it’s always wise to double-check compatibility specifications before purchasing any adapter for use with your Apple devices.
Customer Service Highlight
An important aspect worth mentioning is the exceptional customer support from the company I purchased the OBD adapters from. They were incredibly responsive to my questions and even proactively sent me the WiFi version of their adapter to test, seeking my feedback on its performance and iOS compatibility. This level of customer engagement is reassuring and indicates a company that stands behind its products and values customer input, rather than just making a quick sale.
