For anyone looking into vehicle diagnostics using their Android device, the Veepeak Mini Bluetooth OBD2 scanner paired with the Torque Pro app is a strong contender. Based on personal experience, this combination offers a user-friendly and cost-effective way to monitor your car’s health and performance. This review dives into the pros and cons of using this setup, especially for those interested in accessing advanced data like Ford-specific PIDs.
One of the biggest advantages of the Veepeak Mini OBD2 scanner is its seamless compatibility with Android devices and apps like Torque Pro. Setting it up is straightforward: simply plug the Veepeak scanner into your car’s OBD2 port, pair it with your Android device via Bluetooth, and launch Torque Pro. The initial appeal lies in its affordability and the wealth of information it unlocks. For Ford vehicle owners, accessing specific parameters like FICM voltage and HPOP is a significant bonus. These Ford-specific PIDs are readily available online as free downloads and are easily integrated into Torque Pro through the app’s settings.
The customization offered by Torque Pro is another major highlight. Users can create custom dashboards displaying real-time data in various formats, tailoring the app to their specific needs. The availability of numerous add-ons further extends its functionality, including features for data logging and graphing. The active online community and frequent updates for both the Veepeak scanner and Torque Pro ensure continued support and improvement. The compact size of the Bluetooth dongle is also a practical advantage, and its universal compatibility makes it a versatile tool for different vehicles. Furthermore, the ability to read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) directly from your Android device eliminates the need for separate code readers in many situations.
However, the extensive customization options in Torque Pro can be initially overwhelming for new users. While the app is quick to set up for basic functions, mastering its advanced features requires a learning curve. It’s also worth noting that the Bluetooth dongle remains powered on when plugged in, potentially drawing a small amount of battery even when the car is off. For users seeking instantaneous real-time data, the Bluetooth connection might introduce a slight delay compared to a direct laptop connection. Finally, while powerful, setting up advanced features like graphing and logging to function exactly as desired can sometimes be a bit frustrating.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Veepeak Mini Bluetooth OBD2 scanner and Torque Pro app combination provides a powerful and versatile Android Things Obd2 solution for car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. It’s an excellent tool for monitoring vehicle health, diagnosing issues, and understanding your car’s performance data, especially for Ford owners wanting to access specific engine parameters. While a dedicated tuner like an SCT might offer always-on monitoring of key temperatures, the Veepeak and Torque Pro setup excels when you need in-depth diagnostic capabilities and customizable data displays on your Android device.
