That pesky check engine light on your Subaru dashboard – it’s a sight that can quickly turn an enjoyable drive into a moment of dread. Instead of immediately scheduling a costly visit to the mechanic, what if you could quickly understand what’s going on under the hood of your Subaru from the convenience of your smartphone? Enter the world of OBD2 Bluetooth scanners, a game-changer for Subaru owners seeking to take control of their vehicle’s diagnostics.
Since 1996, all vehicles in the U.S., including your reliable Subaru, have been equipped with an On-Board Diagnostic II (OBDII) system. This system constantly monitors various parameters of your vehicle, from engine performance to emissions. When something isn’t right, that check engine light illuminates, and a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored within your car’s computer. An OBD2 scanner is the key to unlocking this information.
While basic OBD2 scanners can read these standardized codes, the best OBD2 Bluetooth scanners for Subaru go a step further. They offer wireless connectivity to your smartphone or tablet, providing a user-friendly interface and often accessing manufacturer-specific codes for a deeper dive into your Subaru’s health. We’ve consulted with Subaru owners and experts to bring you a curated list of top Bluetooth OBD2 scanners that can help you diagnose issues, save money, and maintain your Subaru with confidence.
1. OBDLink MX+ – The Subaru Enthusiast’s Choice
The OBDLink brand is highly regarded within the Subaru community, and the MX+ model stands out as a top recommendation. Its super-fast Bluetooth connection allows for smooth, real-time data streaming from your Subaru’s engine computer directly to your phone or tablet. OBDLink provides a free, feature-rich app compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows devices, overcoming the limitation of many budget Bluetooth scanners that only support Android.
Beyond reading basic and manufacturer-specific codes on your Subaru, the OBDLink MX+ is known for its reliability and comprehensive vehicle compatibility. It’s also safe to leave plugged into your OBDII port, and comes with a reassuring three-year warranty. For Subaru owners looking for a dependable and fast Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, the OBDLink MX+ is an excellent choice.
2. ScanGauge II – OBD2 Scanner and Digital Gauge for Subaru
The ScanGauge II offers a unique proposition: it’s not just an OBD2 scanner; it also functions as a customizable digital gauge display for your Subaru. Compatible with all OBDII vehicles (1996 and newer), this device reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes, including both current and pending codes, just like other scanners.
However, the ScanGauge II goes beyond basic diagnostics by providing real-time monitoring of various vehicle parameters. Its compact screen can display RPM, speed, intake air temperature, fuel pressure, coolant temperature, and much more. For fuel-conscious Subaru drivers, it can also show instantaneous and average fuel economy, and even calculate cost per mile. With the ability to display vehicle-specific gauges, including boost pressure, the ScanGauge II is a versatile tool for both diagnostics and performance monitoring in your Subaru.
3. Innova 5610 – Advanced OBD2 Diagnostics for Subaru DIYers
The Innova 5610 is a step up for Subaru owners who want more than just basic code reading. While it handles standard and manufacturer-specific trouble codes efficiently, its standout feature is bidirectional control. This advanced capability allows you to send commands to your Subaru’s modules and sensors, just like a professional mechanic.
With the Innova 5610, you can test components like the EGR valve by commanding it to open and close, or disable modules for troubleshooting. The large color screen clearly displays data and trouble codes, and it can graph live data streams from your Subaru. It can also scan various modules, including tire pressure monitoring systems. For the serious DIY Subaru mechanic, the Innova 5610 offers a powerful diagnostic tool to tackle complex issues.
4. BlueDriver Pro – Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner with Repair Reports for Subaru
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended Bluetooth OBD2 scanner praised for its user-friendliness and helpful features. It excels at reading and clearing all standard OBDII codes and provides freeze frame data, capturing the conditions when a trouble code was triggered in your Subaru. Live data streaming allows you to monitor sensor readings in real-time.
A standout feature of the BlueDriver Pro is its repair report function. For each trouble code, the BlueDriver app can generate a report detailing likely causes, common fixes reported by other vehicle owners, and other relevant information to guide your diagnosis and repair process. It also helps determine if your Subaru is ready for emissions testing, a useful feature after clearing codes. For Subaru owners seeking guidance in diagnosing and resolving check engine light issues, the BlueDriver Pro offers valuable support.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329 – Reliable and Affordable OBD2 Scanner for Subaru
Autel is a well-known name in professional automotive diagnostics, often seen in workshops and garages. While they offer high-end diagnostic systems, the Autel AutoLink AL329 provides a more accessible and DIY-friendly option for Subaru owners. This handheld scanner is ideal if you prefer a standalone device without relying on Bluetooth connections or smartphone apps.
The AL329 features a color screen for easy readability and can retrieve both generic and manufacturer-specific codes for your Subaru. It also displays emissions readiness status and freeze frame data. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end models, the Autel AutoLink AL329 covers the essential diagnostic functions effectively and at a very reasonable price point, making it a solid and reliable choice for basic Subaru diagnostics.
Choosing the best OBD2 Bluetooth scanner for your Subaru depends on your needs and technical expertise. For seamless wireless connectivity and comprehensive features, the OBDLink MX+ and BlueDriver Pro are excellent choices. If you desire a standalone gauge and scanner combo, the ScanGauge II is a great option. For advanced DIY diagnostics, the Innova 5610 offers powerful bidirectional control. And for a reliable and budget-friendly handheld scanner, the Autel AutoLink AL329 is a solid pick. Equip yourself with one of these top OBD2 Bluetooth scanners and take control of your Subaru’s health today.
