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OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool a must have!

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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 09:34 AM
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Default OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool a must have!

I have a code reader that I use and it works great but it is not a diagnostic tool and cannot provide live data. I decided to buy one a few days ago and this thing is amazing. I highly recommend anyone that does not have a diagnostic tool to buy one or if you just have a code reader; you should consider a diagnostic scanner as well. This thing is fantastic to use.

I've been trying to figure out why my RPMs idle at 1200 (higher when engine is cold) and I have been cleaning parts, looking at replacing parts etc. Then I picked up this handy little device and discovered that my RPMs at idle are actually normal. My car idles at the manufactures recommended idle speed. Turns out this device can read everything in the car and provide live accurate data. So my RPM and speedometer are both showing incorrect readings at the gauges. I'm going to replace the cluster ASAP.

This little tool is a small module with Bluetooth and connects to any android or iOS device. I am shocked at just how many things this device monitors and tests. I have a feeling it will pay for itself in no time. It connects to an online database for codes and possible fixes and stuff which should make repairs much easier.

Anyways I just thought I'd post this up for those that do not own one of these devices. It is already saving me money from fixing an issue my car doesn't even have due to the faulty cluster.

The one I bought is fairly cheap at $99 and though I know there are much better devices out there I think this is quite a good deal for such a handy device.

BlueDriver Bluetooth professional OBDII Scan tool
Amazon Amazon


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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 11:23 AM
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You can get much cheaper bluetooth odbii adapters that will pretty much do the same thing with the android app torque. Just search obdii bluetooth android.
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 12:10 PM
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Good find. Not to rain on your parade, and that one may have more options than cheaper versions... but I got 2 of these and purchased the Android app Torque Pro and have been pretty happy with the results.
Amazon Amazon

Whatever works... important thing is to pull the codes and data so you can start the evaluation process.
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 12:22 PM
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Folks,can you tell us what you used the device for and about the diagnostic functions? Thanks. Oh,and anybody know if they will work with a Kindle Fire?

Last edited by spuds; Aug 28, 2018 at 12:25 PM.
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 12:30 PM
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Originally Posted by Legender
Good find. Not to rain on your parade, and that one may have more options than cheaper versions... but I got 2 of these and purchased the Android app Torque Pro and have been pretty happy with the results.
https://www.amazon.com/Panlong-Bluet...uetooth+reader

Whatever works... important thing is to pull the codes and data so you can start the evaluation process.
No raining here man! I also looked at those cheaper ones but after reading reviews and features decided to spend the $99 on this one. Plus I needed it to work with iOS for my ipad and iphone. Most of the cheap ones only work with android. I do own some android tablets but for convenience sake I prefer iOS.

Like you said, "whatever works"

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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 12:33 PM
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Originally Posted by spuds
Folks,can you tell us what you used the device for and about the diagnostic functions? Thanks. Oh,and anybody know if they will work with a Kindle Fire?
So far I have used it to check my emissions (smog check), fuel banks, fuel system, all sensors and to monitor speed, rpm, fuel system status and coolant temps. These things do so much more though. Truly a time and money saver without a doubt.
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 12:51 PM
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I've been trying to figure out why my RPMs idle at 1200 (higher when engine is cold) and I have been cleaning parts, looking at replacing parts etc. Then I picked up this handy little device and discovered that my RPMs at idle are actually normal. My car idles at the manufactures recommended idle speed. Turns out this device can read everything in the car and provide live accurate data. So my RPM and speedometer are both showing incorrect readings at the gauges. I'm going to replace the cluster ASAP.
==============================

I spent my lifetime working in ICU,we had a saying...TREAT THE PATIENT,NOT THE MONITOR

I notice on these boards all too often folks treating the monitors bad readings and not the car. Surprising how much automotive applies to people medicine,like hydraulics and electrical.I always liked explaining health problems to mechanics,they really understood.

Sounds like these dongles are worth their weight in gold!! Sounds like this should be first advice given when someone has certain issues....Get a cheapy dongle(or more if thats in your wheelhouse),torque pro or something (add a linky or 2),and see what the diagnostics say.Could save a lot of time,money and headaches,eh? I sure would be willing to drop a 20 if someone advised that,especially telling me how dirt cheap it is.

Last edited by spuds; Aug 28, 2018 at 01:04 PM.
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 01:45 PM
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Originally Posted by spuds
Folks,can you tell us what you used the device for and about the diagnostic functions? Thanks. Oh,and anybody know if they will work with a Kindle Fire?
if you can get the app called Torque then it will work with a kindle fire. I'm pretty sure Kindles don't have the Google play store? There are other obdii apps you can look at on the Amazon store or whatever it's called for kindle and you can check them out before buying a dongle.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005NLQAHS?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title
that plus torque pro will run you about $30.

They also make iOS adapters, just need to search for one and read the reviews to make sure it works with iOS
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Old Aug 28, 2018 | 02:28 PM
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I have the exact same BlueDriver device and have been happy with it over the last 2 years of owning. It has helped me multiple times with my LS, Tacoma, and 4Runner, along with co-workers that have check engine lights pop up.
There do seem to be a few cheaper yet similar options out there, but BlueDriver is constantly updating and has a great customer support team. Would recommend.
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Old Aug 29, 2018 | 09:58 AM
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I was researching BD it and it says it will read and reset all the modules,like abs,airbag,etc,most wont.Also no issues about will it really work on all flavors of obdii.
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Old Jan 17, 2019 | 07:33 PM
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anyone know if BlueDriver is able to set the Lexus Personalized Settings like Carista is supposed to be able to do?

Anyone happen to have both and can list some pros/cons of each?

Thanks!
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Old Sep 14, 2019 | 06:54 PM
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I was planning on purchasing an Actron CP9670 for about $113+tax, but after reading all the positive reviews on Blue Drive as well as You Tube I'm going to give this a shot. Besides, how do you go wrong with a 180 day free return policy? and free updates? Sounds like a deal to me if the bluetooth has no glitches.
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Old Sep 14, 2019 | 10:32 PM
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BlueDriver is the one Scoty Kilmer recommends. I just got the check engine light on my 97 so I think I will be getting one. Was already planning too just not sure which one but probably the BlueDriver. Great post Amish.
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Old Sep 14, 2019 | 11:15 PM
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I use my fixd that k got for $6 shipped lol
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Old Sep 15, 2019 | 09:42 AM
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I see the fixd for $75-$200 on amazon. $6 sure is a good deal it seems like a good one also.
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