For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, understanding your vehicle’s health is becoming increasingly important. In 2018, Bluetooth OBD2 scanners were gaining popularity as a convenient way to access vehicle diagnostics using your smartphone. However, navigating the market to find the Best Bluetooth Obd2 Scanner 2018 required understanding the capabilities and limitations of these devices.
Many users are drawn to inexpensive Bluetooth ELM327 dongles, often priced around $13. These, paired with a phone app, offer basic OBDII functionality. They can read standard OBDII codes, which are helpful for diagnosing common engine and emissions issues. However, it’s crucial to understand that these basic setups have limitations. For instance, if you’re looking to monitor systems outside of the standard OBDII protocol, or require data like oil level, a simple Bluetooth OBD2 scanner 2018 of this type will likely fall short. OBDII is designed for specific emissions-related data, and while it can report issues with an oil level sensor via fault codes, it won’t directly provide the oil level itself. Manufacturers like VeePeak clearly state that their entry-level models are designed solely for OBDII scanning, emphasizing this limitation for anyone seeking broader diagnostic access.
For more in-depth diagnostics, especially accessing non-OBDII systems, you’ll need to step up to more advanced tools. Consider options in the price range of around $100. At this level, the Autel DiagLink emerges as a noteworthy contender. Priced between $90 and $100, the DiagLink offers enhanced capabilities, but with a specific focus: it is brand-specific. When you purchase a DiagLink, you choose one car brand for which you receive free, advanced diagnostic software. This software, downloaded from Autel and installed on the DiagLink, unlocks features beyond basic OBDII, such as resetting oil change lights and operating electronic parking brakes – functions unavailable with basic Bluetooth OBD2 scanner 2018 devices. While this brand specificity might seem restrictive, it presents a cost-effective solution for owners dedicated to a single car brand. The option to add software for other brands is available for around $10 per brand, offering flexibility should your vehicle portfolio expand.
If your needs extend to working with multiple car brands and accessing non-OBDII data across them, a multi-brand scan tool is the logical next step. In 2018, the Autel MD806, priced around $200, stood out as a strong option in this category. While it shares hardware similarities with the DiagLink, the MD806’s software is the key differentiator. It supports multiple car brands without requiring separate software downloads for each, streamlining the diagnostic process for users working on various vehicles. Furthermore, Autel often includes “lifetime” software updates with tools like the MD806. While “lifetime” realistically refers to the tool’s support lifespan, it still represents significant long-term value. For DIY enthusiasts and even professional technicians seeking a balance of capability and affordability, the Autel MD806 and similar multi-brand scanners offered compelling features beyond the basic Bluetooth OBD2 scanner 2018 market. These tools bridge the gap, providing access to deeper vehicle systems without the prohibitive cost of high-end professional diagnostic equipment.
In conclusion, when considering the best bluetooth obd2 scanner 2018, it’s essential to align your choice with your diagnostic needs. Basic Bluetooth OBD2 scanners are suitable for reading standard OBDII fault codes. However, for accessing non-OBDII systems or performing more advanced functions, brand-specific tools like the Autel DiagLink or multi-brand scanners like the Autel MD806 offer superior capabilities. Understanding these distinctions will guide you to the most effective tool for your car diagnostic tasks.
