The Fixd Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner has emerged as a popular tool for car owners looking to understand their vehicle’s health and maintenance needs without the hefty price tag of professional diagnostics. Paired with your smartphone, this compact adapter promises to demystify those cryptic check engine lights and remind you about crucial maintenance tasks. But does the Fixd scanner live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we delve into the features, functionalities, and user experiences to help you decide if the Fixd OBD2 scanner is the right choice for your car.
Setting up the Fixd scanner is designed to be a user-friendly process. It takes just a few minutes to get started. After downloading the Fixd app, available for both iOS and Android, registration is required. Unlike some competitors, Fixd currently focuses solely on mobile platforms, lacking software compatibility with Windows or Mac computers.
Locating the OBD-II port in your car can sometimes be tricky. Thankfully, the Fixd app offers support to guide you. If you’re unsure where the port is located, you can contact Fixd support through the app, and they will assist you in finding it for your specific vehicle model. Once you’ve plugged the Fixd scanner into the OBD-II port and launched the app, the software will ask a few initial setup questions, such as whether you typically handle car repairs yourself or use a mechanic. You will then need to input the serial number of your Fixd device, which is printed directly on the adapter.
The Bluetooth connection process is remarkably seamless. The app quickly detects the OBD adapter and establishes a Bluetooth link automatically, eliminating the need for manual pairing codes. The scanner boasts a Bluetooth range of approximately 35 feet, providing ample freedom to move around the engine bay while viewing diagnostic data on your phone.
(Image of Fixd device serial number for easy app pairing)
The Fixd app’s main dashboard, the “Condition” window, presents essential vehicle information, including the car’s year and model, and flags any current fault codes. However, it’s worth noting that unlike some OBD-II scanners like the ScanTool.net OBDLink LX and NX, Fixd does not display the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) directly on this screen.
For deeper insights, the app organizes information into categories like “Details,” which provides fault codes and explanations, “Timeline,” which outlines maintenance schedules, and “History,” a log of past events. Each of these sections conveniently includes links to locate nearby mechanics or connect with AutoZone for parts, streamlining the repair process.
Diagnosing Car Issues with Fixd
In terms of diagnostics, the Fixd scanner demonstrates competency in identifying and interpreting generic OBD-II fault codes. In tests, it accurately diagnosed issues, such as a disconnected engine oil temperature sensor, and successfully cleared the check-engine light after the problem was resolved. When a generic fault is detected, Fixd goes beyond simply showing the error code; it provides a plain-English description of the problem, for instance, indicating a failing oxygen sensor.
While Fixd can process and explain thousands of generic OBD codes and retrieve manufacturer-specific codes, it falls short in detailing the latter. Furthermore, its diagnostic capabilities are limited; it cannot diagnose issues related to critical safety systems like airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), or tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). It’s important to note that Fixd is actively working on expanding these functionalities in future updates to both the adapter and the app.
One of the standout features of Fixd is its proactive maintenance reminders. The Fixd app diligently tracks your car’s service history and alerts you about upcoming scheduled maintenance. It goes beyond basic oil changes and filter replacements, reminding you of tasks like sunroof track lubrication and inspecting constant-velocity (CV) joint boots, helping you stay on top of comprehensive vehicle care.
Fixd is versatile enough to manage diagnostics for a single vehicle or an entire family fleet. However, it does have limitations. It cannot reset service reminder lights after DIY maintenance, and it lacks the capability to perform pre-inspection emissions checks, features that are available in competitors like the Carista app and adapter. Another limitation is its inability to display and record real-time dynamic data such as speed, engine RPM, and fuel pressure, which can be crucial for advanced diagnostics. Scanners like ScanTool’s OBDLink LX and MX offer this functionality with user-friendly, dashboard-style interfaces.
User Reviews and Feedback on Fixd
Customer feedback for the second-generation Fixd scanner is generally favorable. On platforms like Amazon, users have rated the device an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on numerous reviews. While the majority of users praise its ease of use and helpful diagnostics, some have pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in the initial setup instructions.
Final Verdict: Is Fixd the Right OBD2 Scanner for You?
The Fixd Bluetooth OBD2 scanner offers a compelling package for its price. It effectively identifies car problems, suggests potential fixes, and keeps you informed about necessary maintenance. While it may require further software enhancements to expand its diagnostic scope, Fixd or similar devices are valuable tools to have for routine car care and unexpected issues.
Compared to competitors, the BlueDriver OBD2 scanner, priced at $99.95, is a strong contender, offering advanced features like interpreting manufacturer-specific codes and dynamic driving data. However, it comes at nearly twice the cost of Fixd. For budget-conscious users, the Autel Autolink AL319 provides basic OBD2 functionality with a color display but lacks code descriptions.
In conclusion, while the Fixd scanner may not be the ultimate top-tier OBD2 scanner, it strikes a good balance of features and affordability, making it a worthwhile investment for many car owners. It’s a solid tool for understanding your car better and staying ahead of potential problems.
Credit: Fixd
