Communicating with your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) is essential for identifying problems and maintaining your vehicle’s health. When that engine management light (EML) pops up on your dashboard, a wireless OBD2 scanner can quickly tell you why by accessing the ECU. Even issues that don’t trigger the EML can be logged in the ECU, and these devices can also monitor service needs and component functionality.
Understanding Wireless OBD2 Scanners
So, how do you tap into your car’s ECU to get this vital information? The answer is a wireless OBD2 scanner, also known as a fault code reader. These devices plug into a standardized communication port in your car, the OBDII port. OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics, and the “2” indicates the second generation of this standard. You’ll typically find this port under the driver’s side dashboard, though it can sometimes be located in the center console.
OBD2 became a standard in the US around 1996. Europe followed suit, making it mandatory for gasoline cars from 2001 and diesel cars from 2004. Wireless OBD2 scanners take this technology a step further by connecting to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, offering convenience and portability.
How We Tested These Wireless OBD2 Scanners
Our testing involved seven Bluetooth-connected scanners, all designed to plug into your car’s OBD2 socket. We pitted them against each other in a comprehensive diagnostic showdown to find the Best Wireless Obd2 scanner. These wireless options are generally more affordable than traditional scanners with built-in screens.
Setting up these seven wireless scanners was remarkably similar across the board. The first step for each was downloading a compatible app to a smartphone or laptop. Some scanners utilize dedicated apps, while others offer compatibility with various third-party applications.
Next, we plugged each Bluetooth dongle into the OBD2 port of our test vehicle. With the ignition turned on, we launched the app on our phone or laptop. Establishing a Bluetooth connection between the device and the phone/laptop was consistently straightforward and quick for all scanners tested.
Having worked with car diagnostics for years, I was particularly interested to see how these budget-friendly wireless devices would perform. Continue reading to discover the results of our in-depth testing.
Best Wireless OBD2 Scanners: Top Picks
vLinker MC+ – Best Overall & Best Value
Pros: Clear connection status display, versatile app compatibility.
Cons: Finding the ideal third-party app can take time.
Price: From $59.99
The vLinker MC+, from manufacturer vGate, stands out for its user-friendliness. Its clear LED display on the front shows connection status and power issues, simplifying the pairing process. A dedicated connect button further aids in app pairing. It works with numerous third-party apps on Android, iOS, and Windows devices.
Using the “Car Scanner” app, the vLinker MC+ impressed us with its detailed diagnostics, accurately identifying a parking sensor fault on an Audi A3. It provided comprehensive system checks and displayed real-time data for engine monitoring, fuel consumption calculations, and even acceleration timing.
For a deeper dive, check out our full vLinker MC+ review.
OBDeleven – Editor’s Choice
Pros: Simple, effective fault code scanning.
Cons: Optimized for VAG, BMW, and limited other brands.
Price: From $88.34
The OBDeleven is remarkably compact, which, while generally positive, made it slightly difficult to remove from some OBD2 ports. The included keyring attachment helps, and an extension cable is also a solution.
Its dedicated app is tailored for brands like VAG, BMW, and Rolls-Royce. During testing, vehicle identification was inconsistent, sometimes requiring manual VIN entry.
The free, entry-level app is basic yet functional, scanning for faults and, in some cases, conducting detailed scans of systems like audio, parking sensors, and airbags. Faults are presented with codes and helpful descriptions.
Beyond fault codes, the free app is limited (live data is available for supported makes). Advanced features like one-click car setting adjustments and system tests require a Pro subscription (from $53.29 annually) or credit purchases (from $2.19).
With a two-year warranty and a user-friendly free scanning app, the OBDeleven is a reliable, no-frills wireless OBD2 scanner, especially if you own a compatible vehicle brand.
Read Rob’s complete review of the OBDeleven here.
TopDon TopScan – Approved
Pros: Excellent dedicated app for fault diagnosis.
Cons: Incompatible with 32-bit Android phones.
Price: $69.99
TopDon, known for professional mechanic tools, offers the TopScan for DIY users. It requires a dedicated mobile app, but we encountered an issue with 32-bit Android phone incompatibility (64-bit required). This problem was unique to the TopDon among the tested scanners. For iPhones (iOS 10+), the “TopGuru” app is needed, information we only found after contacting support. Both US and China support centers responded quickly and helpfully.
Aside from the initial app discovery, installation and scanner connection were smooth. A DTC scan identified a parking sensor issue, a fault also detected by the OBDeleven and vLinker MC+. Vehicle identification was unsuccessful in our test, necessitating manual vehicle selection. We appreciated the “Hot Functions,” like oil service and battery resets. However, live data, freeze-frame, and dashboard features are absent, limiting real-time engine data viewing. The app is free for one year, with subscriptions of $49-$99 for subsequent years.
For more details, see Rob’s full TopDon TopScan review.
OBDLink CX
Pros: Free app included, compatible with third-party apps like BimmerCode.
Cons: Very small size makes it hard to unplug.
Price: From $79.99
The OBDLink CX is the entry-level wireless OBD2 scanner from OBDLink, a US-based company. Its tiny size is convenient for storage but made it difficult to grip and unplug from the OBDII port. An extension cable from UK supplier Gendan resolves this.
A clear user guide with a QR code simplifies the free app download. App setup, scanner connection, and initial pairing were quick, although connection took a couple of attempts. The app features a straightforward menu system.
Diagnostics were responsive but missed the existing parking sensor fault.
The dashboard feature is a highlight, providing readings for RPM, speed, MAF pressure, voltage, and fuel. It integrates with freeze-frame data and offers trip logging with fuel consumption and mileage calculations. Live data can be displayed graphically.
While OBDLink offers more feature-rich, pricier scanners, the CX is a valuable and affordable entry point to wireless OBD2 diagnostics.
OBDLink CX full review available here.
OBDLink MX+
Pros: Free app with advanced diagnostic capabilities.
Cons: Marginally better than the significantly cheaper CX model.
Price: From $139.95
OBDLink’s premium wireless OBD2 scanner, the MX+, is packed with features and includes a comprehensive free app. It’s the most expensive scanner in our test. The app installs quickly on phones and Kindle Fire devices. Scanner-app connection is fast and easy, aided by a button on the scanner itself. A concise user guide simplifies setup.
The OBDLink dedicated app is user-friendly with a simple menu.
Its diagnostic depth, especially with enhanced diagnostics, is impressive and successfully identified the parking sensor fault missed by some competitors.
Advanced features include versatile live data analysis, with Dashboard, Graph, and Map functions for data visualization and logging. A Performance function calculates acceleration.
The MX+ justifies its higher price over the CX if enhanced diagnostics are a priority. Otherwise, the CX offers excellent value at a lower cost.
Read the full OBDLink MX+ review here.
UniCarScan UCSI-2100
Pros: Wide selection of free dedicated and generic apps.
Cons: App choice can be overwhelming.
Price: From $79.99
The German-made UniCarScan UCSI-2100 from WGSoft is a compact wireless OBD2 scanner compatible with a broad range of apps for smartphones (iOS and Android) and Windows PCs/laptops. These include brand-specific apps for BMW and Opel, and generic apps like WGSoft’s ScanMaster.
Connection to phones or laptops is rapid after plugging into the OBDII port. The level of detail depends on the app used. ScanMaster, for example, offers nine menu options, with some features requiring in-app purchases. Trouble codes are quickly accessible, but it missed the parking sensor fault in our testing. Freeze-frame data and live data are valuable for in-depth diagnostics.
The UniCarScan is a practical, affordable wireless OBD2 scanner for emergency use and routine fault checks.
Rob’s full review of the UniCarScan scanner is here.
vLinker FD+
Pros: Compatible with numerous third-party apps across platforms.
Cons: Extensive app choices can require trial and error.
Price: From $49.99
The vLinker FD+, another vGate product, is a compact wireless scanner with a connection status display. Its small size can make OBD2 port removal slightly tricky.
Choosing a compatible third-party app can be challenging due to the sheer volume of options, including dedicated apps. Pairing with devices is straightforward and reliable. App-dependent features provide detailed fault information and live data for problem analysis.
The vLinker FD+ is a good entry-level wireless OBD2 scanner for diagnostics and live data access.
vLinker FD+ full review.
Choosing the Best Wireless OBD2 Scanner for Your Needs
Selecting the best wireless OBD2 scanner can feel overwhelming. There’s no single “best” answer. Start by defining your needs. For basic EML diagnosis, any scanner tested will suffice. However, some offer deeper diagnostics for specific car brands, which is beneficial if your car is supported. For BMW owners, scanners compatible with the BimmerCode app are recommended.
Be aware that scanner compatibility varies. Newer cars (2017 onwards) often use CAN-Bus communication, an OBDII protocol supported by some scanners. If your car is newer, confirm compatibility with the scanner manufacturer or supplier before purchasing. We found all contacted parties to be very helpful in clarifying compatibility.
All tested scanners can reset the EML by clearing fault codes. If you need additional reset functions, like oil service light resets, these may require extra payment, a Pro package, or a subscription.
Extra features like live data, MPG calculation, and dashboard displays are available on some models. Consider whether these are essential features or simply appealing extras based on your diagnostic needs.
For more information on car diagnostics, explore reputable automotive resources and forums.
