Finding the perfect OBD2 scanner for your Chrysler can feel overwhelming. Like many Chrysler owners, especially those with newer models like the Pacifica Hybrid, you might be wondering which scan tool offers the best value and functionality without breaking the bank. I recently went through this process myself, trying to decide between the popular OBDLink MX+ and the more budget-friendly OBDLink EX. My goal was to use it with AlfaOBD software, and the price difference was significant – the MX+ was nearly three times the cost of the EX. Here’s my experience to help you navigate this decision for your Chrysler vehicle.
Initially, the price tag of the OBDLink MX+ made me hesitate. Spending over $100 for a scanner felt like a big commitment. The OBDLink EX, on the other hand, was on sale for a tempting $40. My main question was: could the cabled OBDLink EX, when paired with AlfaOBD, offer the same functionality as the Bluetooth-enabled MX+ for my Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid? I noticed the EX is often promoted for Ford vehicles, which added to my confusion. However, the AlfaOBD website recommended both the EX and MX+ for Chrysler vehicles due to their support for MS-CAN interfaces, crucial for many Chrysler models. I hoped the EX would work seamlessly with Android apps like AlfaOBD and the OBDLink app, providing robust diagnostics for my Pacifica Hybrid. Being new to vehicle interfaces, I worried about missing crucial technical details. (Keep in mind, connecting the EX to an Android phone requires a USB to USB-C OTG adapter).
Another practical concern arose when I located the OBD port on my Pacifica. The position seemed like the cabled EX adapter might dangle in a way that could be easily bumped or damaged when getting in and out of the van. The compact, Bluetooth design of the MX+ seemed to avoid this issue entirely.
Despite these worries, the Cyber Monday deal was too good to pass up. I decided to “bite the bullet” and order the OBDLink EX. A YouTube video review I found included a 30% discount code, bringing the total cost down to an incredible $27.17! The order from obdlink.com shipped incredibly fast, and soon the OBDLINK EX unit arrived.
My first step was testing the EX with OBDWiz software on my Windows 11 PC. Installation of the USB drivers, following OBDLink’s instructions, was straightforward. However, OBDWiz itself had a minor installation glitch – a missing file folder that I had to manually create. Despite this, the program loaded and seemed to function correctly in a quick test on an older 2004 Toyota Camry. It wasn’t a perfectly smooth install, but it worked.
Next, I tried the OBDLink app on my Android phone. Unfortunately, the app initially failed to recognize the OBDLink EX cable as a supported device. I reached out to ScanTool.net support, and their response was impressively quick, asking for clarifying details about my setup. While waiting for further advice, all signs still pointed to the EX being compatible. The OBDLink app looked user-friendly, and using my phone was much more convenient than lugging around a laptop for diagnostics. Sadly, I couldn’t test the AlfaOBD app yet because my Pacifica was in the shop for repairs. The whole process felt a bit less “plug and play” than I had hoped, raising the question: is the MX+ truly a smoother, more user-friendly experience out of the box?
After some back-and-forth with OBDLink support, the issue with the Android app and the latest revision (2.2) of the EX cable came to light. The good news is that OBDLink’s support team was very helpful and responsive. Within a week of identifying the compatibility problem, they updated the OBDLink App, and it now works flawlessly with the EX cable 2.2!
So, to conclude my experience: the OBDLink EX cable does work with my Android phone and, presumably, will work with AlfaOBD (once I get my Pacifica back!). While there were a few initial bumps in the road, the excellent support from OBDLink resolved the issue quickly. For Chrysler owners looking for a capable and affordable OBD2 scanner, especially for use with AlfaOBD, the OBDLink EX is a viable option. Just be aware of the cabled connection and potential initial compatibility quirks, which are usually quickly addressed. If you prioritize Bluetooth connectivity and potentially smoother initial setup, the MX+ might be worth the extra investment. However, for budget-conscious DIYers willing to troubleshoot minor issues, the OBDLink EX proves to be a powerful tool for Chrysler diagnostics.
