The Ancel BD310 car diagnostic tool emerges as one of the most compact OBD-II scanners available, offering a unique 2-in-1 functionality. This device adeptly functions as both a traditional wired scanner and a wireless unit via Bluetooth, providing users with enhanced versatility. Priced affordably around $60, the BD310 also doubles as an in-car supplemental gauge, capable of monitoring essential vehicle parameters such as engine speed and battery voltage.
Dive deeper into our comprehensive Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner review to explore its features and capabilities.
Ancel BD310: Pricing and Purchase Options
Currently retailing for approximately $60, the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner presents itself as a uniquely versatile handheld OBD-II scanner. Its distinguishing feature lies in its triple operational modes: it can be employed as a standard handheld device connected directly to the car’s OBD-II port, wirelessly linked to a smartphone or tablet, or even as an auxiliary dashboard display for real-time vehicle data monitoring.
Ancel’s product line extends beyond the BD310, encompassing a range of automotive diagnostic solutions. They offer OBD-II extension cables and protective cases, alongside a spectrum of diagnostic scanners. These range from basic, budget-friendly models starting at $25 to advanced professional-grade tools like the DS700, priced at $1,350. This broad selection ensures options for users with varying needs and budgets.
Ancel BD310 Design and Build
The Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner boasts a sleek black and chrome design, positioning it among the smallest and lightest handheld OBD-II scanners on the market. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and ease of handling. Weighing in at a mere 5.4 ounces and measuring just 5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches, it is significantly smaller and lighter than typical scanners, making it an unobtrusive addition to your car’s accessories, easily stowed in the center console or glove compartment.
(Image credit: Ancel)
Due to its diminutive size, the Ancel BD310 is equipped with a 2-inch color display. While smaller than the screens found on many OBD-II scanners, which often measure twice the size, the display is functional and clear once you adjust to its dimensions. The main screen is intuitively organized, featuring four primary icons: OBD-II (for diagnostics), Meter (for live data), I/M (for emissions readiness testing), and Settings (for system adjustments). This streamlined interface allows for quick navigation despite the screen’s compact nature.
(Image credit: Ancel)
Beyond its core OBD-II diagnostic capabilities, the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner can function as a supplementary dashboard display. This feature allows drivers to monitor a variety of real-time parameters, ranging from engine timing and RPM to crucial readings like oil temperature and battery voltage. To facilitate this dashboard integration, the device includes a vent mounting kit and incorporates a magnetic back plate for secure and versatile placement within the vehicle.
The Ancel BD310 also offers wireless connectivity, enabling it to transmit diagnostic data to smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth. Ancel provides dedicated applications for both Android and iOS platforms, enhancing the scanner’s utility and making it a truly versatile tool. This dual-mode operation, combining handheld and Bluetooth functionalities, is a feature shared by only a few other scanners, such as the Innova CarScan Inspector 5310.
Despite its advanced features, the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner maintains a user-friendly interface with a basic four-button control system. Navigation is straightforward, though the simplicity can occasionally require an extra button press for certain functions. The scanner also includes a mini-USB port and a dedicated button for toggling between handheld and Bluetooth modes, adding to its operational flexibility.
Ancel BD310 Performance Analysis
In performance testing, the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner demonstrated quick connectivity, establishing a link with both of my test vehicles’ computer systems in under 15 seconds. Retrieval of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) was successful, although it required a bit of menu navigation. Critically, the scanner accurately identified a pre-introduced fault—a deliberately disconnected oil-temperature sensor—and effectively cleared the Check Engine Light on the dashboard.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Reflecting its classification as a basic-level scanner, the Ancel BD310 omits some of the more advanced features found in higher-end models. It lacks functionalities such as battery charging system analysis, starter tests, or the ability to reset the oil maintenance light. Furthermore, it does not provide integrated repair guidance or access to parts databases, features typically available in more sophisticated, and often more expensive, diagnostic tools.
On-road testing revealed the BD310’s practical utility, particularly its trip analysis mode. This feature helpfully summarizes driving metrics such as maximum and minimum speeds and instances of rapid deceleration. The scanner’s capacity to display a wide array of live data parameters renders it exceptionally useful as an auxiliary gauge, capable of showing real-time data from ambient air temperature readings to the operational status of the oxygen sensor and other vital components.
Ancel BD310 Setup and Usability
A notable design aspect of the Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner is its permanently attached flat cable. This design choice proves advantageous when using the scanner as a supplementary dashboard display, as the flat cable is easily routed under the dashboard and the OBD-II plug’s low profile minimizes obstruction. With a length of 58 inches, the cable provides ample reach from the OBD-II port, typically located near the front seats, to various points within the engine bay.
The Ancel BD310 package includes essential accessories such as a USB cable for updates, a vent mount kit for dashboard display setup, and a concise quick-start guide that covers basic operations, though it is not intended as a comprehensive user manual. Ancel supports the BD310 with a three-year warranty, significantly surpassing the warranty periods offered by many competitors, adding considerable value to the purchase.
Ancel BD310 Verdict
The Ancel BD310 2-in-1 diagnostic OBD2 scanner distinguishes itself through its versatile functionality, operating effectively as a handheld scanner, a dashboard-mounted display, and a wirelessly connected device via smartphone or tablet. It adeptly addresses a wide spectrum of basic automotive diagnostic needs.
While fundamentally a basic scanner in terms of advanced features, its compact size and aesthetically pleasing design make it a device you might prefer to keep in view rather than hidden away. The Ancel BD310 is an OBD-II scanner that not only performs its diagnostic duties efficiently but also serves as a visually appealing and functional addition to your vehicle’s interior.
