Finding the “best” and “low cost” anything is always a balancing act, and OBD2 scanners are no exception. When you’re looking for an OBD2 scanner that works seamlessly with your iPhone and won’t break the bank (specifically under $20, perhaps even thinking back to 2019 models), the challenge becomes even more apparent. Compatibility with iOS devices has historically been a hurdle for budget Bluetooth OBD readers. Let’s explore what your options are and what to realistically expect in this price range.
For basic car diagnostics on a tight budget, ELM327-based OBD2 readers are generally the go-to. These are widely available and inexpensive knock-offs of the original ELM327 chip. However, it’s important to note that many Bluetooth ELM327 scanners struggle with iPhone compatibility. This is often due to Apple’s Bluetooth protocols.
A generic ELM327 OBD2 scanner being used to diagnose a vehicle, highlighting the typical application of these budget-friendly devices.
If you are set on using an ELM327 scanner with your iPhone, you’ll likely need to look for WiFi versions instead of Bluetooth. WiFi ELM327 scanners can bypass the Bluetooth compatibility issues often encountered with iOS. You can find discussions and user experiences on forums like this thread about iPhone OBD reader software which can provide more insights into app compatibility and user recommendations.
Keep in mind that scanners in this ultra-low price bracket typically come without dedicated software. You’ll need to rely on third-party OBD2 apps available on the App Store. Some popular generic OBD2 apps may work, but you might need to experiment to find one that is reliable and feature-rich enough for your needs.
It’s also worth considering what you actually need an OBD2 scanner for. If your primary goal is simply to read and clear basic error codes and perhaps reset your maintenance reminders (like oil change or TPMS lights), a basic ELM327 scanner, paired with the right free or low-cost app, could suffice. These basic scanners generally allow you to:
- Read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Clear trouble codes and turn off the check engine light
- View live engine data (though this may be limited on budget scanners and apps)
For more advanced features, such as in-depth diagnostics, vendor-specific codes, or repair recommendations, you’ll generally need to step up to more sophisticated (and more expensive) scanners. Brands like BlueDriver and OBDLink offer excellent features and iOS compatibility, but they are significantly above the $20 price point.
The BlueDriver Scan Tool interface on a smartphone, illustrating the user-friendly experience and detailed diagnostic data offered by higher-end OBD2 scanners.
While the BlueDriver scanner is beyond the “under $20” budget, it’s a good example of a tool that provides more than just basic code reading. BlueDriver is known for suggesting likely causes and fixes for specific error codes, even providing repair reports like this sample BlueDriver repair report. While the BlueDriver scanner itself is required to access the full range of features within their app, even using their app with manually entered codes might offer some free diagnostic information if you decide to use a basic ELM327 reader.
Similarly, the OBDLink MX+ is a high-performance option, often favored for live data monitoring and enhanced diagnostics. As demonstrated in videos like this OBDLink MX+ review, it offers fast data polling and access to manufacturer-specific codes. However, like BlueDriver, it is in a higher price range.
In conclusion, finding the “Best Ios Obd2 Scanner 2019 Under 20” might be about managing expectations. While a truly top-of-the-line scanner with all the bells and whistles isn’t realistic at that price, a WiFi ELM327 scanner can provide basic OBD2 functionality for your iPhone. Focus on finding a reliable WiFi ELM327 adapter and experimenting with free or low-cost OBD2 apps for iOS to see if they meet your fundamental diagnostic needs. If you find yourself needing more advanced features or guaranteed compatibility and ease of use, you may need to consider increasing your budget and exploring options like BlueDriver or OBDLink in the future.
