BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool Reviews

by Hymie67

A lot of people seem to like this but I haven’t had a very good experience with it.
First of all it does not support my 2000 Ford super duty 7.3.
Next, my 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe it actually works on but I have to type in the Vin number manually every single time I scan it so if I am working on the car and I have to scan it several times in the process it’s a big major pain in the rear. Why can it not save the Vin number? It takes me longer to type in the Vin number then it takes me to scan the car in the first place. Then to make it more frustrating it did save the Vin number from my Ford which it will not work on! What the hell is that?!
So if you want to scan a car that it will not scan you don’t have to worry about typing in that Vin number over and over again. It will save that one for you. If however you have a car that it will scan be prepared to type the whole friggin Vin number in every time.
Other than those annoying issues it seems to work fine.

by Ajennings2010

Been using it for quite awhile now. It is nice for quickly reading codes and clearing them but it has its own issues. It doesn’t catch all codes which kinda defeats the purpose of buying this. The live data supported list for my 02 envoy seems to have shrunk quite a bit over my time of using it. In fact I just updated the firmware and lost more off that list. Said list has shrunk down to 7 sensors. Looks like features for older vehicles are being wiped for newer vehicles to be supported from what I can tell.

The final problem is this scanner will cause the vehicle to act up if you leave it in. Mostly it’ll prevent your car from going to sleep. Sometimes it’ll randomly wake up the vehicle. Other times it’ll cause weird electrical issues. All of which go away when you unplug it. I tested it in a few vehicles and it’s done it to every one of them.

End of the day this thing has become almost useless after all these updates. Such a shame..

by Magnumized

I would suggest some things to make BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool more useful. The ability to rearrange the data fields in live view needs some work. They are difficult to rearrange in an order that the user may want without jumbling up the other fields. Make the field labels more readable. Don’t type and size makes sever I gotta which your looking at difficult depending on color chosen.
Next being able to rename the saved logs would be very helpful in pulling up the ones that may have had issue.
For example I run mine everyone I use the vehicle to help isolate a random recurring issue. I had a hiccup with it and immediately saved the log so the hiccup would be near then end of the log and easy to spot. I was not done with my drive so I restarted a new live log and 2 more since. Being able to name or bookmark the log with the issue would be very helpful in locating it later down the road.
I’m not sure if there is an auto save function on live data. I’ve experimented with not clicking the share button at the end of each drive but can find no file. It seems to just continue logging multiple drives together until you share it.
Just a log save function would be helpful. It may be there and I’m just missing it.

by A Freaking Nickname Already

Awesome gadget to keep in your vehicle or in your tool box. Most people use a smart phone these days and this lil guy connects right to your phone via Bluetooth.

An issue I had. I couldn’t seem to get the device to read a VW Jetta I was having issue with because the car wouldn’t stay running. Apparently the device requires the vehicle to be running to run any sort of test or to read codes. I was hoping it could read previous issues with car not just while the vehicle was running.

BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool has a lot of potential it just needs a few more options. I would like to update the device via cable either iPhone or mini USB port. I don’t like having to go out to my car just to update the cpu reader. If you don’t have a data plan on your phone, iPad etc you cannot update device. WiFi will still update the device but If you don’t have WiFi in range of your vehicle your out of luck. Overall not a bad buy. I still like the product. I still say it needs a graphics interface overhaul and easy email feature, text etc.

by Chris523

This combination of BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool and device is quite honestly the best tool you can get for your vehicles. Does far more than the $300+ scan tools. Love all the service bulletins and recall info for the autos.

I do have one question though. I have a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 I use it with but it doesn't seem like all the info that could be there is. For instance tire pressure. There is a low/high tire pressure indicator light on the vehicles console but can't find such a thing on the supported PIDs. It just indicates at least one tire is outside the pressure band. Is there a way to get this added? Are some diagnostics just left out or can they not be logged through the interface? Oil pressure would be another nice one to have. It's available on the vehicles control center so one would think it could be logged on bluedriver. Other than that, I still recommend this for any car enthusiast nerd such as myself.

by 😎CD😎

As a car enthusiast and someone who does their own maintenance and has for years, this tool is absolutely invaluable, you can’t put a price on it. Not only does it have the capability to read and clear check engine codes, as well as every other diagnosable module on most models, but it will also provide recommended fixes for common codes and will track live data while you’re driving. Don’t have a temperature gauge? No problem. Open the live menu and select the engine temperature gauge as an option and it will data log the engine temperature the entire time the live log is active. You can add five or six data points to log at once (if my memory serves me correctly). All of this is viewed and controlled via BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool on your phone. And no need to buy multiple scanner devices (unless you’re like me and may do so to have one dedicated to each of your cars) because the scanner automatically recognizes the VIN number and identification information of the car you’re diagnosing simply by plugging the scanner into the OBDII diagnostic port. I’m more than satisfied with this product and will continue to tell anyone who will listen that it is more than worth the investment.

by Pnewnan

I don’t do any of my own major work but this tool takes a lot of the guessing out. I never like to have doubts as to what my mechanic is telling me and this helps me confirm it all. Engine codes are easy to read and live diagnostics are incredible for checking performance levels after upgrading various systems. Whenever I’m on the track I keep it running so I can review the data including airflow, engine load, etc. Don’t look at the system while driving though. The graphs are really pretty, but you’d much rather keep your eyes on the road in front of you

I love how the maintenance schedules are also included. As an app developer, this is an extremely useful and well designed app that is functionality forward and esthetically beautiful

Thanks for setting the bar high

by Orthian

I'm a newby with this product and have favorable first impressions. The application has a lot to wade through but im sure that is a plus for a real enthusiast. I'm just a novice who wants to avoid being ripped off by a repair shop, by knowing in advance what the problem is.

I had the misfortune of ordering mine right after a move to another state, when organizational chaos prevailed, and promptly lost it! I've looked in every conceivable place but no go. I contacted customer service hoping they might have way to help me locate my unit. They said they did not but offered to sent an open box unit for just the shipping charge, as long as I could provide proof of purchase. I think that is exceptional service and felt obliged to tell others who might be considering this product.

by TomF NV

I find it hard to believe just how good this scan tool really is at the incredibly low-cost. I have had this tool for a while but wasn’t using it consistently because I have several other scan tools. Recently, I have had an opportunity to investigate more if it’s abilities and I am really impressed. You can spend a lot more money and not have all the features and quality support available with the blue driver scan tool.I always have recommended this tool to my students I’ve been a trainer for a major automotive company as well as spending a decade teaching at the college level with 40+ years as a shop owner and technician. This is a great tool!

by Mrstsan

Yes, I said “cool” and dated myself. But this is a great tool for whatever your level of auto expertise. I used to do a lot of my own repair and maintenance so I’d know it was done right and I wasn’t getting ripped off. I’m unable to do that anymore so I feel I’m at the mercy of mechanics, the quality of which has declined over the years and the dealer messes up something about every other visit.

With this tool, the power is back in my hands. I thought I’d have to buy a fancy scan tool for hundreds or even thousands to have the info this little device gives me for less than a hundred bucks.

BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool is terrific and easy to use. No problem setting it up and linking to Bluetooth. I have Toyotas, so it does the more extensive scans. I have the satisfaction of seeing the results of good maintenance on cars 15 and 7 years old. No error codes on either one! Now I’m scanning other peoples cars for them, I tell them it would cost a hundred bucks at the dealer. Found some preventative maintenance items that will save them money. Also a smog check issue they can fix before the test, which they would have failed and then had to redo. You’ll love this little tool.

by Seczc

I purchased this device because my 2007 Sentra started to idle at 1100 to 1300 rpm which was way too high for a manual transmission car. My brother had one of those bulky handheld scan tool you can buy at your local Autozone but I’ll tell right now, this Blue Driver device is 99% easier to use. I was amazed at all of the info on my car this thing gave me access to. It seems to be able to diagnose every vehicle system. It even inform me know of any recalls, any parts replaced due to recall and where my car was assembled. This is a must have tool even if you do not work on cars as it will let you know the area of your vehicle that needs attention when that service engine light comes on so your mechanic can’t poke you in the wallet for repairs you don’t need.

by Ozzy730

This scan tool has plenty of features to keep all of my vehicles running.
Not a professional’s scanner, but for the $100, I didn’t expect it to be.
I did expect it to help me make a way better diagnosis than I could before, and it does, you still have to use common sense, the problem could be upstream or downstream of the sensor that is showing fault, but it narrows down the area to one or two realistic problems. It has worked every time I’ve used it never failed. BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool has froze up on me a couple of times, I just reboot my iPhone and she’s good to go. I really like that I never have to buy a card to update the tool, it updates itself and is always ready to go. Nice little Ace in the hole for the home mechanic.

by 5c0tt

Wow. This is by far the best reader I have used in years working on cars. Why go to the parts store to pick up a “one trick pony” when this crosses over many makes and models. It connects fast, reads well, reports are great AND I can have supplemental live data streaming to my iPad or iPhone such as manifold pressure and the like. I can even reset the history/clear codes to see if they come up again. It saves reports of past scans. I used this on a BMW X5. I felt prior to this the dealer had me over the barrel with “there is something wrong with your ...” but would not give me specifics. Well, $90 well spent. Why bring it to the dealer to have them hook up their computer for $500 just to say, give us more money.

If you do your own maintenance, small investment for a GREAT tool.

by MPKeator

I live in a small town in Montana and typically try to fix things myself. I was driving my F 150 when the service wrench flashed on the dash and the throttle would not respond. I pulled over, shut the truck off and restarted it. I was able to drive home and complete some research that indicated it was a ” throttle body” issue. Ford dealer is 100 miles away and three weeks to get in for service. This scan tool was easy it link to BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool and my truck. Even though the check engine light went away this tool found the problem, initiated a report and stated that it was a throttle body issue and recommend a replacement. I ordered the parts and will install this weekend. I just saved hundreds of dollars and time by not having to go to the dealership! The live scan works flawlessly too. Thanks!

by BricktheGun

This BlueDriver is amazing. I buy and sell cars as a hobby. So I go through a few cars a week. The places I buy these cars I only have a few minutes to evaluate each car. With this portable reader I can very quickly pull engine codes as well as check smog readiness. This tool has streamlined my hobby so well. I am able to make better more informed decisions. Then at home I can quickly diagnose and fix issues I already know about. This tool has literally changed how I operate. Not every car is able to give codes or read but that is not the drivers fault. It’s the nature of used cars. I love using the live feature and can track exact temperature and how the car is doing. It has saved me on several occasions from overheating and helped me track misfires. This also better allows me to insure the cars I sell are in the best running shape I can provide.

by Legamin64

Car started running rough like the hamsters were stumbling while cruising down the highway. Tranny? Loose wheel? Asteroid strike?!?! Panic ensued, prayers uttered and fingers and toes crossed hard enough to cramp both hands and feet...yes, a few tears..
I got home and plugged in the Blue Sleuth and revved up 3500 rpms and held my breath. Diagnosis, dead hamster! Need to replace the direct ignition coil(s)
I opened the hood, popped the cover, and realized I’d been sadly mistaken..no hamsters! However two field mice had crawled up under the engine cover and passed quietly away while warming themselves using the ignition coils for warming posts (yes I have pictures!).
So off to the parts store and two hours of disassembly and reassembly, holding respectful services for Moe and Manny Mouse, a proper period of mourning their loss, 20 minutes at the wake with a bunch of drunk crying mice... the engine starts and runs smooth! Another perfect repair! Now I just wish it worked on my 1943 John Deere bulldozer....

by Cruiser15

I’m not a mechanic so when there is an issue with my truck I’ve had to rely on others to diagnose the problem. Unfortunately not every mechanic is honest or has my best interest in mind. When my check engine light comes on it’s an automatic $100 minimum just to figure out what the problem is then there’s the cost of addressing the cause, not to mention the lost time going to the shop/dealership.
With BlueDriver all of that changes. BlueDriver puts me in the drivers seat for vehicle diagnostics, maintenance and repair. No longer am I relying on some technician that may or may not have my best interest in mind or someone that may or may not be up on the latest mechanical information on my vehicle. BlueDriver gives me real time information on my specific vehicle, it gives me access to the most up to date diagnostics and informs me of the most appropriate response. BlueDriver gives my truck a voice..... it allows me to talk to my truck!!

Thanks BlueDriver!

by Svennnnnan

Let me begin by stating I am not a mechanic. I do however work on my own vehicles, and have become very proficient diagnosing mechanical/technical problems over the years. Between crank sensors, abs sensors, “stabila track”, O2 sensors, and cadalytic converters, this blue driver app/hardware combo is the MOAB in my arsenal. BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool paired with the “Blue driver” OBD2 device is simply amazing. I have been using his device for a year, and the information that BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool provides is substantially beneficial to anyone who repairs vehicles. I can diagnose problems and narrow down the true cause of warning lights faster then ever. I also use the record feature to monitor actual engine temperature if I am running hard during autocross. I have used this on a 2004 Cadillac, 2014 Accord, 2007 trailblazer ss, 2002 Subaru, 2006 impala ss, and it had worked flawlessly on my I phone 6. Also, they are constantly updating the software. This is a great company and I want to let others know that this product will not let you down. Thanks Lemur.

by HernandezInc

This thing has saved me so much time and money it actually is hilarious. I’ve owned it for years now and I’ve got my money worth at least 8 times over. Problem after problem my Blue Driver pinpoints the problem, suggests possible fixes, lists most popular fixes, and even mentions the easy fixes like tightening the fuel cap. I’ve even been able to help friends and family with their cars too so it has saved them time and money as well. It’s super easy to use. Just plug into the OBD port under the dash and connect to your phone app. Place key in car ignition and turn. Click on “Scan” and in no time you have a full diagnosis. Bottom line is when you have a car issue, the first tool you should be reaching for is a Blue Driver. Don’t go to shops blindly and get raped by shady crook mechanics who are out to milk you slowly by the “let’s try this” approach. Know what the problem is before you go to the shop. Remember that an informed consumer is a smart consumer and smart consumers don’t get taken for rides.

by Ben177463

I don’t do my own service but I do from time to time make very minor “fun engineering” modifications, and in this case I’m thinking of making some kind of MAP display visible to the driver but looking OEM-like. So as a techie but not being an automotive techie per se, I wanted something that could read CAN bus parameters and aid in understanding them.

This device and app are exactly what I wanted/needed.

I’m actually leaving the device permanently plugged in (after putting some gaffer tape over the LED which can be quite bright at night!) — assuming of course no one within Bluetooth range were to pull up and hack my car lol.

BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool seems to either contain or consult a database of manufacturer-specific CAN codes, and not only lists their value, but also the CAN address number of the parameter in question, which will help me in writing my software.

But besides, BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool is just fun. Just try not to look and drive at the same time!

One thing I would wish for is a whole-screen, single-parameter big-analog-gauge mode (bigger than the existing portrait/landscape gauges, especially with bigger numbers around the dial and a bigger “needle”) for use while driving. You could build a safety lock out to severely discourage fiddling with it while driving.

(My car = 2017 Subaru BRZ)

by Heckx75

I’m an ASE Certified Automotive Service Technician who’s been using BlueDriver for over 7. A 100% of my Service Engine Soon/Check Engine diagnosis begin with BlueDriver. There are other products out there that claim they can tell you exactly what’s wrong with a vehicle. There isn’t such a thing and I think it’s irresponsible and false advertisement. In all my years with BlueDriver I’ve never seen such claims from them. BlueDriver is a very responsible company with a great tech support service. I'm a BlueDriver user and I say it proudly. Thank you, BlueDriver!

I’ve read some other reviews in which people have had issues connecting or establishing communication with their vehicles and think it’s a compatibility issue. I’d like to say it isn’t BlueDriver’s fault. If you experience this issue make sure you check your vehicle’s fuses and replace any that are blown.

by RickyrickRickyrick

Hi DIY’s

I’m Rickyrick, I started tampering with things at a early age , I’d say by 12 years old I was doing brake jobs and full tuneups including points and setting dwell on them in the 70’s... thru the years I learned a little electricity and electronics.
In the 80’s I learned a lot about computers got my first one in about 1981 it was a Texas instrument yo hooked to a tv. Few years later I got a Commodore 64 and self thought myself their basic languages. Later I stayed with the times and upgraded to new computer systems .
I have used computers in the automobile industry also many types . I said all that to say this , for the money , you can’t beat this BlueDriver it does things that other tools costing hundreds and thousands do .
I think if everyone inputted their fixes on their repairs this tool would be perfect. Good diagnostic tools always have a database of how to repair and possible problems, fixes,repairs, etc. ... a tool is only as good as their repair library. Concentrate on fully expanding the tons of resources and this tool will be the most awesomeness tool we as DIY’s could possibly have, the help section needs way more input .give BlueDriver a try , and remember to type in what you did on the job to help everyone . It’s time us Diy’s stuck together and help each other, and remember , only a computer can do battle with a computer lol

by Thor Job

I know very little about cars except that it’s expensive to get them repaired. On itemized repair bills I noticed parts aren’t always expensive but labor always is. $85 per hour here. So I wanted to start doing my own minor maintenance and was interested in getting something that would tell me what a problem may be on my vehicles. I did quite a bit of research and this device seemed to be what I was looking for and much more. Still, I was a little hesitant to pay almost $100 for this little device.
Well I got it yesterday and downloaded the free app, which has free updates and no subscription fees, and gave it a shot. Not only is BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool and scanner easy to set up and use, you can scan and save different vehicles, I have three. There is an online instruction manual and if you have an issue with your vehicle, it gives suggestions on how to fix it. I have already fixed a minor problem and cleared the check engine light on my Subaru. Again, I’m not mechanically inclined but I already saved around $100 in mechanics fees and part to fix a small problem. On day two of me having this device it has paid for itself. I can’t say enough about this device or BlueDriverOBD2ScanTool !