The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool emerges as a distinctive player in the realm of Bluetooth OBD-II automotive diagnostic scanners. It sets itself apart by not only offering an in-depth analysis of your vehicle’s systems but also providing actionable repair suggestions.
While its user-friendly app is a definite plus, the device’s bulkier design compared to other Bluetooth scanners and feature limitations across all car models are points to consider. Despite these minor drawbacks, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool firmly holds its position as a leading contender among the best OBD-II scanners available.
Continue reading for a comprehensive BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool review.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: Price and Purchase Options
Priced at $120, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool from Lemur Vehicle Monitors distinguishes itself from typical Bluetooth OBD-II scanner transmitters. This diagnostic tool is the sole product offered by the company within the US market.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: Design and Build
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool, with dimensions of 2.2 x 1.9 x 1.0 inches and a weight of 2.4 ounces, is notably larger and heavier than many Bluetooth-based on-board diagnostic scanners. It’s about twice the size and weight of the Jethax OBD2 device, a competing scanner, yet it maintains a smaller, less intrusive profile compared to the ThinkDiag scanner, making it easier to install.
The device is constructed entirely in black and features ribbed sides, ensuring a secure grip for easy insertion and removal from your vehicle’s OBD-II port.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) The BlueDriver scanner includes a side-mounted LED that illuminates blue during startup and flashes blue when transmitting data. This LED is designed to dim after a short period to minimize distractions. A blinking red light signals a disconnection from a phone or tablet, while a steady red light indicates recovery mode due to a failed firmware update.
Functionally, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool rivals handheld scanners in capability, relying on the free BlueDriver app available for both Android and iOS devices. The app is well-structured, providing a clear view of your vehicle’s internal operations.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide) The application excels in capturing and displaying real-time automotive data, presented through automotive-style gauges on your smartphone or tablet screen. Users have the option to export this data as a .csv file. Furthermore, the app generates reports detailing potential problem causes, suggests possible solutions, and provides links for sourcing necessary parts. This makes it an invaluable tool for initiating repairs or for providing informed insights to your automotive technician.
(Image credit: BlueDriver) BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool’s Smog Check feature is essentially an I/M pre-inspection test, comparable to pre-inspection readiness tests offered by other OBD-II scanners. It is also capable of identifying, displaying, and clearing any stored fault codes within the vehicle’s computer system.
Beyond basic OBD-II functions, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool offers in-depth diagnostics for systems like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and engine misfires. However, the extent of data accessible is contingent on the vehicle’s manufacturer and model year.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: Operational Performance
Upon connecting the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool to my car’s OBD-II port and launching the BlueDriver Android app on a Galaxy S9, the scanner established a connection instantly, and the app displayed its main menu with nine options.
(Image credit: BlueDriver) These options included functions like Read Codes, Smog Check, and Mode 6, which delves into comprehensive vehicle diagnostics to preemptively identify potential issues before the Check Engine light activates. The system also promptly retrieved the vehicle identification number (VIN).
(Image credit: BlueDriver) The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool demonstrated consistent performance across different vehicles, quickly identifying a manually induced fault—a disconnected oil-temperature sensor—and successfully turning off the Check Engine light. The mobile app provided real-time driving data, such as engine and vehicle speed. However, it lacked a trip-summary feature, which is available in scanners like the AncelBD310.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool: Setup and Usability
Despite its size, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool remains unobtrusive once installed beneath the dashboard. During testing with an S9 phone, it maintained a Bluetooth range of 32 feet, offering considerable mobility around the car and engine compartment.
The package includes a compact setup guide with a straightforward flowchart for device setup and connection.
Regrettably, a comprehensive instruction manual is not included with the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool. Instead, the company provides a website filled with numerous diagnostic and repair tips. However, some of this online material can be challenging to read on a mobile phone screen. The device is supported by a 1-year warranty.
BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool Review: The Final Verdict
The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool excels not only in diagnosing vehicle issues but also in delivering fault code analysis and suggesting probable causes. For individuals who are always connected via their smartphones, the BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool serves as an excellent, cost-effective tool that has the potential to save significantly on automotive repair expenses.
