When it comes to diagnosing car troubles, an OBD2 scanner is an invaluable tool for any car owner or DIY mechanic. In 2017, the market was already populated with various options, from basic ELM-327 devices to more advanced scanners. One scanner that stood out for its enhanced capabilities was the BlueDriver. Let’s delve into why BlueDriver might have been considered among the best OBD2 scanners in the UK market during 2017, based on user experiences and features.
Generic ELM-327 scanners were widely available and affordable, offering basic OBD-II code reading. However, users often sought more comprehensive diagnostics. The original poster of the source article experienced this limitation firsthand. While ELM-327 devices served a purpose, they sometimes fell short in providing detailed insights into vehicle health.
The BlueDriver scanner differentiated itself by reading more than just the basic OBD-II codes. As highlighted in the original post, running a scan on a 2009 CR-V revealed a “long history of items” being stored, showcasing its ability to access deeper diagnostic information. This capability extended to other vehicles as well, with a 2005 TSX also yielding a list of potential issues. This deeper dive into vehicle systems was a significant advantage over standard ELM-327 scanners.
Another key feature that set BlueDriver apart was its ability to generate detailed reports, often in PDF format. These reports provided a structured and easy-to-understand overview of the scan results. The included images from the original post are examples of such reports, illustrating the kind of data BlueDriver could compile. This reporting function was a substantial step up from simply displaying fault codes, as it offered context and potentially historical data, aiding in more effective vehicle maintenance and repair decisions.
The user-friendliness of the BlueDriver system was another point in its favor. Firmware and app updates were mentioned as improving the report aesthetics, indicating ongoing development and support for the product. This continuous improvement is crucial for OBD2 scanners as vehicle technology evolves. The compact size of the BlueDriver, even smaller than ELM-327 units, made it highly portable – ideal for road trips or when assessing used cars before purchase.
The original poster’s experience with a wheel speed sensor issue and TPMS codes further demonstrates BlueDriver’s extended capabilities. It wasn’t just reading engine codes but also accessing systems like TPMS, offering a more holistic vehicle health assessment. However, it’s worth noting the limitation mentioned: compatibility with older vehicles. The 2004 Civic example showed that ABS code reading was not supported at that time, highlighting that vehicle compatibility could be a factor when choosing an OBD2 scanner in 2017.
In conclusion, for the UK market in 2017, the BlueDriver OBD2 scanner offered a compelling package of features that positioned it as a potentially top choice, especially for users seeking more than basic OBD-II diagnostics. Its ability to read deeper codes, generate comprehensive reports, user-friendly updates, and portability made it a valuable tool for car maintenance and diagnostics, despite some limitations with older vehicle systems. While the “best” scanner is subjective and depends on individual needs, BlueDriver presented a strong case for itself in 2017 as a capable and user-focused OBD2 diagnostic tool.
