The Subaru Outback is built for adventure and reliability, but even these dependable vehicles can experience the dreaded check engine light. When that little light illuminates on your 2015 Subaru Outback dashboard, it signals that something isn’t quite right under the hood. Instead of immediately heading to a mechanic and facing potentially costly diagnostic fees, you can take control and understand the issue yourself with an OBD2 scanner.
An OBD2 scanner is an invaluable tool for any car owner, especially for those who like to understand their vehicle better and handle basic maintenance. Since 1996, all cars in the U.S., including your 2015 Subaru Outback, have been equipped with the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system. This system monitors various aspects of your vehicle’s performance, from engine temperature to emissions, and communicates valuable data through a standardized port. An OBD2 scanner plugs into this port, acting as a window into your Subaru’s computer, allowing you to read Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that trigger the check engine light and access a wealth of real-time data.
Investing in the right OBD2 scanner for your 2015 Subaru Outback can save you time, money, and unnecessary trips to the mechanic. While basic scanners can read standard codes, more advanced options offer manufacturer-specific codes, live data streaming, and even bidirectional control for in-depth diagnostics. To help you choose the best tool for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of top OBD2 scanners recommended by the SubaruOutback.org community, ensuring you can confidently tackle any check engine light situation in your 2015 Subaru Outback.
Recommended OBD2 Scanners for 2015 Subaru Outback
Here are some of the best OBD2 scanners that are highly recommended for your 2015 Subaru Outback, ranging from basic code readers to more advanced diagnostic tools:
1. OBDLink MX+
The OBDLink MX+ stands out as a favorite among Subaru Outback owners for its speed and comprehensive features. This Bluetooth OBD2 scanner wirelessly connects to your smartphone or tablet, providing real-time data from your 2015 Subaru Outback’s engine and computer systems. It boasts a fast Bluetooth connection, ensuring smooth live data streaming, which is crucial for diagnosing performance issues.
The OBDLink MX+ is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android devices, a significant advantage over many budget Bluetooth scanners that are limited to Android. Paired with the free OBDLink app, or other compatible third-party apps, you can read both basic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes for your Subaru Outback, giving you a deeper understanding of any problems. Furthermore, its robust three-year warranty and safe-to-leave-plugged-in design make the OBDLink MX+ a reliable and convenient choice for ongoing vehicle monitoring and diagnostics.
2. ScanGauge II
The ScanGauge II offers a unique dual functionality, serving as both an OBD2 diagnostic scanner and an auxiliary gauge display for your 2015 Subaru Outback. Compatible with all OBD2 vehicles (1996 and newer), it reads and clears both active and pending diagnostic trouble codes, just like other scanners on this list. However, the ScanGauge II goes further by providing a wealth of real-time vehicle data on its compact screen.
This device can display multiple trip computers, performance monitors, and a variety of gauges, including RPM, speed, intake air temperature, fuel pressure, ignition timing, and coolant temperature. For fuel-conscious 2015 Subaru Outback drivers, it can also show instantaneous fuel consumption, average fuel economy, and even calculate cost per mile. With customizable gauges, including vehicle-specific options like boost pressure, the ScanGauge II is a versatile tool for both diagnostics and performance monitoring.
3. Innova 5610
The Innova 5610 OBD2 scanner offers a balance of comprehensive diagnostics and user-friendly features for your 2015 Subaru Outback. It handles both basic OBD2 codes and manufacturer-specific codes, accessing data from nearly every module in your Outback, including tire pressure sensors. The large color screen enhances readability, making it easy to view diagnostic data and trouble codes, and even graph live data streams.
What sets the Innova 5610 apart is its bidirectional control capability. This advanced feature, typically found in professional-grade scanners, allows you to send commands to vehicle modules and sensors. For example, you can disable a module for testing or command an EGR valve to open and close, aiding in pinpointing the root cause of issues. While these advanced features are beneficial for experienced DIYers, the Innova 5610 remains accessible and helpful for a range of users looking to diagnose their 2015 Subaru Outback.
4. BlueDriver Pro
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool praised for its ease of use and helpful repair information. Like the other scanners, it reads and clears standard OBD2 trouble codes and provides freeze frame data to understand the conditions when a code was triggered in your 2015 Subaru Outback. It also displays live data, allowing you to monitor sensor readings in real-time.
A standout feature of the BlueDriver Pro is its ability to perform smog check readiness tests, ensuring your 2015 Subaru Outback is ready for emissions testing. Furthermore, it generates repair reports for specific trouble codes, offering likely causes, owner-reported fixes, and other valuable insights to guide your troubleshooting process. This combination of diagnostic capabilities and repair assistance makes the BlueDriver Pro a valuable asset for 2015 Subaru Outback owners of all skill levels.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329
Autel is a well-respected brand in professional automotive diagnostics, and the AutoLink AL329 brings some of that professional quality to a DIY-friendly OBD2 scanner for your 2015 Subaru Outback. While Autel offers high-end, feature-rich diagnostic systems, the AL329 provides essential diagnostic capabilities in a standalone, easy-to-use device. This is ideal if you prefer a dedicated scanner without the need for smartphones or apps.
The Autel AutoLink AL329 features a color screen for clear display of information. It retrieves both generic and manufacturer-specific codes, checks emissions readiness status, and views freeze frame data, covering the fundamental diagnostic needs for your 2015 Subaru Outback. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end Autel models, the AL329 delivers reliable performance for basic diagnostics at an affordable price point.
Choosing the Right OBD2 Scanner for Your 2015 Subaru Outback
Selecting the best OBD2 scanner for your 2015 Subaru Outback depends on your needs and technical expertise. For basic check engine light diagnosis and code clearing, any of the scanners listed will suffice. If you desire real-time data monitoring and enhanced vehicle insights, the OBDLink MX+, ScanGauge II, or BlueDriver Pro are excellent choices. For more advanced diagnostics and bidirectional control, the Innova 5610 provides professional-level features. And if you prefer a standalone, no-frills scanner, the Autel AutoLink AL329 is a reliable and affordable option.
No matter which you choose, owning an OBD2 scanner empowers you to understand your 2015 Subaru Outback better, potentially saving you money on unnecessary mechanic visits and keeping your adventurous spirit on the road.
