Waking up to a one-star review claiming your app isn’t working is every developer’s nightmare. For apps like Dr. Prius and Hybrid Assistant, which rely on precise vehicle data, the culprit is often not the software itself, but the unreliable Bluetooth OBD2 adapters flooding the market. These cheap clones promise incredible value but frequently deliver headaches, leading to user frustration and inaccurate diagnostics.
Many users mistakenly believe that if an OBD2 adapter works with generic apps like Torque, it will automatically function correctly with specialized apps like Dr. Prius. However, this is a dangerous assumption. Accessing detailed battery information and other advanced metrics requires an OBD2 adapter capable of “setting message headers” to different ECU addresses – a capability often lacking in basic clones designed only to retrieve fundamental vehicle data such as speed, RPM, and coolant temperature.
Driven by this widespread issue, I decided to delve into the world of budget-friendly OBD2 adapters. My goal? To test a range of these clones firsthand and provide you, the user, with a clear guide to navigating this confusing market. Consider this your expert resource, separating the reliable tools from the deceptive junk.
Note: The majority of adapters tested here are designed for Android devices. iOS users, please scroll to the dedicated section at the end for iOS-compatible recommendations.
Tools and Apps Used for Testing
To ensure a comprehensive and objective evaluation, I utilized the following tools and applications:
- ELM327 Identifier: To verify the authenticity and version of the ELM327 chip within each adapter.
- Elm327 OBD Terminal: For direct communication and command testing with the OBD2 adapters.
- Dr. Prius App: A crucial test, as compatibility with Dr. Prius is a key benchmark for hybrid vehicle diagnostics.
- Hybrid Assistant App: Another essential app for assessing adapter performance with hybrid-specific data.
- Torque App: A popular generic OBD2 app used as a baseline for basic functionality testing.
Panlong Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: A Reliable Workhorse for Android and iOS
The Panlong OBD2 adapter stands out as a trustworthy option in a sea of uncertainty. Initially purchased from Amazon with the expectation of potential returns, this adapter quickly became my go-to tool for development and testing over the past two years. Its robust internal build quality, noticeably more substantial than many mini clones, speaks to its reliability. However, it’s important to note that their newer red-colored adapter variant has been found to be defective and incompatible with Dr. Prius and Hybrid Assistant apps.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon US (10% promo code LP6ACKZD):
- Android only version: https://amzn.to/3kSmvY8
- Version for both Android and iOS: https://amzn.to/3rkAV9G
Viecar / Carista Bluetooth OBD2 Adapters: Popular Rebrands for iOS and Android
Interestingly, Viecar and Carista appear to be marketing the same rebranded OBD2 adapter. This popular option is widely available and often recommended.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon US: Viecar OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iOS and Android
- AliExpress: Same OBD2 adapter from AliExpress
Recommended Bluetooth OBD2 Adapters for Android Users
The following Bluetooth OBD2 adapters have earned the approval of numerous Dr. Prius app users and are known for their reliable performance on Android platforms.
NEXAS Bluetooth 5.0 OBD2 Scanner: Versatile and Fast for iOS and Android
The NEXAS NexLink Bluetooth 5.0 OBD2 scanner offers broad compatibility and fast communication speeds, making it a solid choice for both iPhone and Android users.
Where to Buy:
BAFX 34t5 Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: Android-Specific Reliability
The BAFX 34t5 Bluetooth adapter is a long-standing favorite among Android users, consistently praised for its dependable connection and performance.
Where to Buy:
INFOCAR Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: Amazon’s User-Approved Option for iOS and Android
The INFOCAR OBD2 Bluetooth adapter has gained popularity and positive user feedback on Amazon, making it another user-suggested option for both iOS and Android platforms.
Where to Buy:
Expensive Doesn’t Always Mean Better: OBDLink LX and MX Adapters
The OBDLink LX and MX adapters serve as a stark reminder that a higher price tag doesn’t guarantee superior performance or compatibility. Despite their cost, these adapters have received mixed reviews, with a 50/50 split between praise and complaints.
While boasting impressive speed, their advantages largely end there. The manufacturer claims “both Android and iOS” support, but iOS compatibility is limited to classic Bluetooth, not the more common and efficient Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Unfortunately, the vast majority of iOS apps, including Dr. Prius, rely on BLE. Furthermore, pairing these adapters with Android devices can be a frustratingly finicky process, often requiring precise timing or button press duration. Overall, despite their speed, these adapters are not recommended due to their iOS limitations and Android pairing issues.
Where to Buy:
“Bait and Switch” Tactics: The Problem with Generic Clones
These generic-looking OBD2 adapters are widely available online, but navigating this category is fraught with risk. While a few sellers offer genuine, functional units, many are selling unreliable clones. Initially, a double-layer PCB (printed circuit board) was considered an indicator of better quality.
Update 07/11/2018: Disappointingly, even dual-layer PCBs are no longer a guarantee of quality. Feedback from users and further testing revealed that even adapters with dual-layer PCBs can be faulty clones. Therefore, I no longer recommend any OBD2 adapter in this generic form factor. It appears clone manufacturers are adapting their strategies to counter quality checks, making it increasingly difficult to identify reliable units. Purchase these adapters at your own risk.
Update 06/09/2018: Thanks to community feedback, a specific good clone was identified on AliExpress (as of June 8, 2018). If opting for this style, choose the BLUE or WHITE adapter, specifically avoiding the black “MINI” version. However, be warned that this seller has been known to substitute the black adapter with a completely non-functional clone. Exercise caution.
Where to Buy (Use Caution):
- AliExpress OBD2 adapter for Android: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/V1-5-Super-MINI-Bluetooth-ELM-327-Version-1-5-OBD2-OBDII-ELM327-for-Android-Torque/32272347186.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.Hp5VyS
OBD2 Scams: Adapters to Absolutely Avoid
AUTOPHIX Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: A Known Scam
The AUTOPHIX OBD2 Bluetooth adapter is flagged as a scam and should be avoided entirely.
Near Misses: Adapters That Fall Short
Zurich OBD2 Adapter (Harbor Freight): Protocol Incompatibility
Purchased from Harbor Freight, the Zurich OBD2 adapter, unfortunately, does not utilize the ELM327 protocol. This fundamental incompatibility renders it unusable with most OBD2 apps, including Dr. Prius.
Expensive Junk: Overpriced and Underperforming Adapters
FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: Slow and Unreliable
Despite its premium $60 price tag on Amazon, the FIXD adapter is a disappointment. Its slow data transmission and tendency to skip records make it unsuitable for accurate diagnostics. While technically functional with Dr. Prius, its unreliability could lead to inaccurate test results and, consequently, negative user reviews. Avoid this overpriced option.
Mini Junk: Deceptive Packaging, Poor Performance
Mini Bluetooth 4.0 OBD2 Adapter: Tiny Size, Tiny Functionality
This adapter, packaged in a sleek, space-grey, semi-transparent case and boasting Bluetooth 4.0 and comprehensive OBD protocol support, is another example of deceptive marketing. Despite its claims, it lacks the crucial ability to switch between ECUs, rendering it ineffective for advanced diagnostics. Disappointingly, it failed to perform adequately on both iOS and Android devices. The only app it seems to function with is the basic “Mini OBD II” app, which provides only rudimentary vehicle information.
No Name Junk: Same Packaging, Same Problems
No Name Transparent Blue OBD2 Adapter: Looks Can Be Deceiving
Sharing the same packaging as the “Mini Junk” adapter, this no-name, transparent blue OBD2 adapter initially appears promising, seemingly capable of ECU switching. However, testing revealed its inability to retrieve battery-related information from both Prius Gen2 and Gen3 vehicles. Steer clear of this packaging style altogether, as it likely originates from manufacturers prioritizing aesthetics over functionality and quality control.
Mother of All Junks: The Ubiquitous and Terrible Clone
Classic Cheap OBD2 Clone: Market Dominance of Inferiority
This particularly cheap clone has unfortunately dominated the OBD2 adapter market for years. While a genuine ELM327 version exists at a more realistic price, this prevalent clone is notoriously unreliable. It fails to support even basic OBD commands across various versions (v1.2 to v2.3) and is unsuitable for demanding apps like Dr. Prius. It might function with the simplest OBD apps, but its limitations are severe.
Quirky Performance: Adapters with Intermittent Issues
OBD2 Mini with ON/OFF Switch: Connection Problems and Data Gaps
This OBD2 adapter with an on/off switch presents a peculiar case – it “kind of” works. However, it suffers from frequent connection losses and consistently omits data bytes at the beginning of each data payload. While I managed to get it functioning with Dr. Prius, its instability and data inconsistencies make it unreliable and not recommended.
Almost There: Adapters with Minor Flaws
GNTOP Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: Branding and Packaging Exceed Performance
The GNTOP adapter impresses initially with its attractive acrylic case and included instructions. It performs reasonably well in most tests, but a persistent bug prevents consistent retrieval of certain data points. While it can function with Dr. Prius, the missing DTC error code data is a significant drawback, leading to negative user reviews from those needing comprehensive diagnostics.
Expensive Orphan: Proprietary and Incompatible
BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter: Excellent Adapter, Closed System
Many users inquire about BlueDriver compatibility. Unfortunately, the answer is no, even despite its $100 price. BlueDriver is designed to function exclusively with its proprietary app, utilizing its own protocols rather than the standard ELM327. While BlueDriver itself is a high-quality adapter and system, its closed nature means it won’t work with any other ELM327-compatible software, including Dr. Prius. Technical support confirmed its intentional incompatibility with third-party apps.
Further Resources: Hybrid Assistant’s OBD Adapter Guide
For additional insights and recommendations, I encourage you to visit my colleagues at Hybrid Assistant and their helpful OBD adapter resource page.
- http://hybridassistant.blogspot.fr/p/obd.html
- http://hybridassistant.blogspot.fr/2016/08/quality-of-obd-adapters.html
This overview represents my current findings in the ever-evolving world of OBD2 clone adapters. Undoubtedly, countless other clones remain untested, and seller opinions will vary. I welcome your feedback and experiences! Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] to share your adapter models for testing and potential inclusion in future evaluations.
Thank you for your trust,
Jack C.
Dr. Prius App Website
