BlueDriver emerged as a top contender for the best OBD2 reader in 2017. Compared to a standard ELM-327, BlueDriver provides a more comprehensive diagnostic experience, reading beyond basic OBD-II codes. This detailed analysis highlights BlueDriver’s capabilities and why it stood out in 2017.
BlueDriver’s ability to access a vehicle’s history of stored diagnostic information sets it apart. Testing on a 2009 Honda CR-V revealed an extensive log of past issues, offering valuable insights into the vehicle’s maintenance history. Similarly, a 2005 Acura TSX scan revealed a list of potential concerns. The generated PDF reports provided a user-friendly overview of the vehicle’s condition.
These reports included specific details, such as historical records for a repaired wheel speed sensor and alerts for a low battery and lost transmission signal in a rear right tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor. BlueDriver’s ability to read TPMS codes provided an added layer of diagnostic capability.
An April 2017 firmware and app update further enhanced the reports’ visual clarity. While some retrieved codes might represent previously resolved issues, the ability to clear codes and monitor for recurring problems offered valuable diagnostic capabilities.
BlueDriver’s compact size, exceeding even the portability of ELM-327 units, made it an ideal companion for road trips and used car inspections. While certain limitations existed in 2017, such as the inability to read ABS codes on older vehicles like a 2004 Honda Civic, the continuous development of the app and firmware promised expanded vehicle and code support. BlueDriver’s comprehensive diagnostics, user-friendly reports, compact design, and continuous improvement made it a compelling choice for the best OBD2 reader in 2017.
