The BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool is a powerful and user-friendly device that empowers you to understand your vehicle’s health right from your smartphone or tablet. Connecting your BlueDriver sensor is a straightforward process, allowing you to quickly access detailed vehicle diagnostics, read and clear trouble codes, and gain valuable insights into your car’s performance. This guide will walk you through each step to effortlessly connect your BlueDriver OBD2 tool, ensuring you can start diagnosing your vehicle in no time.
Installing the BlueDriver App on Your Device
Before you can connect your BlueDriver sensor to your vehicle, you’ll need to install the BlueDriver app on your smartphone or tablet. The app is your interface for interacting with the sensor and accessing all its features. Here’s how to install it:
- Access Your App Store: Depending on your device, open either the “Play Store” app (for Android devices) or the “App Store” app (for iPhones and iPads). You can typically find these icons on your home screen.
- Search for “BlueDriver”: In the search bar at the top of the app store, type “BlueDriver” and tap the search button.
- Locate the BlueDriver App: Look for the official BlueDriver app, usually listed as simply “BlueDriver” and developed by Lemur Monitors. It often features a blue icon.
- Install the App: Tap the “Install” button (on Android) or “Get” button (on iOS) next to the BlueDriver app. The app will begin downloading and installing on your device. Wait for the installation process to complete.
Once the app is installed, you’re ready to move on to pairing your BlueDriver sensor with your device. There are two primary methods for pairing: in-app pairing and manual pairing via your device’s Bluetooth settings.
Pairing Your BlueDriver OBD2 Sensor: Option 1 – In-App Pairing
In-app pairing is generally the simpler and recommended method for most users, especially if you are setting up your BlueDriver for the first time. This method streamlines the connection process directly through the BlueDriver application.
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Turn On Your Vehicle’s Ignition: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position. This powers up your vehicle’s electronic systems, including the OBD2 port. Do not start the engine.
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Plug in Your BlueDriver Sensor: Locate the OBD2 port in your vehicle. It’s typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Plug your BlueDriver sensor firmly into this port.
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Wait for the Blue Light: Once plugged in, the BlueDriver sensor will illuminate a solid blue light. Wait for this light to turn off. This indicates that the sensor is ready to pair. Note: You have approximately 60 seconds after the blue light goes out to initiate the pairing process. If you exceed this time, simply unplug and replug the BlueDriver to re-enter pairing mode.
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Launch the BlueDriver App: Open the BlueDriver app you just installed on your phone or tablet.
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Tap ‘Connect’: Look for the ‘Connect’ button, usually located in the top right corner of the app’s main screen, and tap it.
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Enable Location Services (Android): If you are using an Android device, the app will likely request permission to enable Location Services. Tap ‘Allow’. Note: This permission is required by Android for Bluetooth scanning within apps for Bluetooth Low Energy devices like BlueDriver. The BlueDriver app does not access your GPS location or personal location data. If you prefer not to enable location services, you can use manual pairing (Option 2 below).
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Tap “Scan for BlueDriver Sensors”: After enabling location services (if prompted), tap the “Scan for BlueDriver Sensors” button within the app. The app will begin searching for nearby BlueDriver sensors.
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Select Your BlueDriver: Once the scan is complete, your BlueDriver sensor should appear under “Other Available BlueDriver Sensors.” Tap on your BlueDriver from the list to select it.
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Confirm Pairing (If Prompted): In some cases, your phone may ask you to confirm a PIN or pairing code. If prompted, simply tap “Pair” or “OK.” If a PIN is requested, you can try entering “0000” or “1234.” Note: The BlueDriver app does not require access to your contacts or call history. You can uncheck these permissions if prompted.
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Automatic Connection: After successful pairing, the app will usually connect to your BlueDriver automatically. You should see connection confirmation within the app. If you encounter any issues, you can access support through the app by navigating to the “More” tab and selecting “Contact Us.”
Pairing Your BlueDriver OBD2 Sensor: Option 2 – Manual Pairing via Bluetooth Settings
Manual pairing involves connecting the BlueDriver sensor directly through your device’s Bluetooth settings menu, similar to pairing headphones or other Bluetooth devices. This option is useful if you prefer not to enable location services for in-app pairing on Android, or if you are setting up a second BlueDriver sensor.
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Turn Off Ignition Completely: Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is completely off. Remove the keys from the ignition.
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Plug in Your BlueDriver: Plug the BlueDriver sensor into your vehicle’s OBD2 port.
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Wait for the Blue Light: Wait for the solid blue light on the BlueDriver sensor to go out, indicating it’s in pairing mode. Remember, you have a 60-second window for pairing after the light goes out. Replug the sensor if needed to re-enter pairing mode.
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Access Bluetooth Settings: On your phone or tablet, navigate to the Bluetooth settings menu. This is usually found within the device’s settings app under “Connections,” “Bluetooth,” or similar.
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Scan for Bluetooth Devices: In the Bluetooth settings, you may need to tap “Search,” “Scan,” or a similar option to initiate a scan for nearby Bluetooth devices. Your device will begin searching for available devices.
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Select BlueDriver to Pair: Once “BlueDriver” appears in the list of available devices, tap on it to begin the pairing process.
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Confirm Passkey (If Requested): Some devices may prompt you to confirm a passkey during pairing. If a window appears asking for confirmation, tap “OK” or “Pair” to proceed.
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Start Your Vehicle and Launch the App: After successful manual pairing via Bluetooth settings, you can now turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position (or start the engine). Then, open the BlueDriver app.
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Connect in the App (If Necessary): In most cases, the app should automatically detect and connect to your paired BlueDriver sensor. If it doesn’t connect automatically, tap the ‘Connect’ button in the top right corner of the app.
Troubleshooting BlueDriver Connection Issues
If you encounter difficulties connecting your BlueDriver OBD2 tool, here are a few troubleshooting steps to try:
- Restart the Pairing Process: Unplug the BlueDriver sensor from your vehicle’s OBD2 port and plug it back in. Then, repeat the pairing steps for your chosen method (in-app or manual). This often resolves temporary glitches.
- Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled: Double-check that Bluetooth is turned on in your device’s settings.
- Close and Reopen the App: Force close the BlueDriver app completely and then reopen it. This can refresh the app’s connection state.
- Check for App Updates: Make sure you have the latest version of the BlueDriver app installed from the app store. Outdated app versions can sometimes have connectivity issues.
- Device Compatibility: Verify that your smartphone or tablet is compatible with the BlueDriver app. Check the BlueDriver website or app store listing for compatibility information.
- Contact Support: If you continue to experience problems, don’t hesitate to contact BlueDriver customer support through the “Contact Us” option in the app’s “More” tab, or visit their website for further assistance.
By following these steps, connecting your BlueDriver OBD2 tool should be a seamless process, allowing you to quickly unlock the power of vehicle diagnostics at your fingertips.