That dreaded check engine light—it’s every driver’s nemesis, especially when you own a reliable Subaru known for adventure, not garage time. When it illuminates on your Subaru Outback, Forester, or Crosstrek’s dashboard, it signals that something isn’t right. It could be a minor issue like a loose gas cap or a more significant problem under the hood. Instead of immediately heading to a mechanic and facing potentially hefty diagnostic fees, a Subaru Obd2 Scanner empowers you to understand what’s happening and take control of your car’s health.
Since 1996, all vehicles in the U.S., including your Subaru, have been equipped with the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system. This system is essentially your car’s nervous system, monitoring everything from engine temperature to sensor performance and transmitting this data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). An OBD2 scanner is your key to unlocking this hidden data network.
A quality Subaru OBD2 scanner reads standardized Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that trigger the check engine light. Better yet, the best scanners go beyond these basic codes to decipher manufacturer-specific codes, providing a deeper dive into your Subaru’s diagnostics. While dealership scanners offer comprehensive capabilities, there are excellent, affordable options available for the DIY enthusiast. We’ve consulted the SubaruOutback.org community to bring you their top Subaru OBD2 scanner recommendations, helping you invest wisely and keep your Subaru running smoothly.
1. OBDLink MX+: The Subaru Community’s Top Pick
OBDLink stands out with its range of scan tools, and the MX+ is a favorite among Subaru owners. Its rapid Bluetooth connectivity offers real-time, live data directly from your Subaru’s engine computer to your smartphone or tablet. Unlike many budget Bluetooth scanners limited to Android, the OBDLink MX+ is compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows devices through its free app. It’s universally compatible with all OBD2 vehicles, including every Subaru model, and reads both basic and manufacturer-specific codes, giving you a comprehensive understanding of any issues. Backed by a three-year warranty and designed for safe, continuous connection, the OBDLink MX+ is a reliable and versatile Subaru OBD2 scanner.
2. ScanGauge II: More Than Just a Scanner for Your Subaru
The ScanGauge II elevates the functionality of a typical Subaru OBD2 scanner by doubling as an auxiliary gauge pod for your Subaru. Compatible with all 1996 and newer OBD2 vehicles, it performs standard diagnostic functions like reading and clearing both current and pending trouble codes. However, the ScanGauge II sets itself apart by providing real-time data displays for trip computers, performance metrics, and a wide array of vehicle gauges on its compact screen. The backlit display can show essential readings like RPM and speed, as well as detailed data such as intake air temperature, fuel pressure, and ignition timing. For fuel-conscious Subaru owners, it can display instantaneous and average fuel consumption, even calculating cost per mile. With options for vehicle-specific gauges, including a boost gauge for turbocharged Subarus, the ScanGauge II is a versatile tool for diagnostics and performance monitoring.
3. Innova 5610: Advanced Diagnostics for the Subaru DIYer
The Innova 5610 is designed for Subaru owners who want more than basic code reading. It handles both generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes effectively, a fundamental requirement for any competent Subaru OBD2 scanner. Its large color screen enhances readability of data and codes, and it can display live graphs of your Subaru’s systems in action. Beyond standard diagnostics, the Innova 5610 can scan virtually every module in your Subaru, including tire pressure monitoring systems. What sets it apart is its bidirectional control capability, typically found in professional-grade tools. This feature allows you to send commands to vehicle modules and sensors—like disabling a module for testing or actuating an EGR valve—making diagnostic processes more thorough and efficient. For the experienced DIY mechanic tackling complex Subaru issues, the Innova 5610 offers significant diagnostic depth.
4. BlueDriver Pro: Smart Subaru Diagnostics via Smartphone
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended Subaru OBD2 scan tool, leveraging the power of your smartphone for in-depth vehicle diagnostics. It reads, interprets, and clears all standard OBD2 trouble codes and provides valuable freeze frame data, capturing the conditions when a code was triggered. It also displays live data streams from your Subaru’s sensors in real-time. A particularly useful feature for Subaru owners is its smog check readiness verification, indicating if your vehicle has completed all necessary internal tests for emissions inspection. Beyond diagnostics, the BlueDriver Pro generates repair reports for specific trouble codes, detailing likely causes, common fixes reported by other vehicle owners, and troubleshooting tips. This feature transforms the BlueDriver Pro from a simple scanner into a valuable diagnostic assistant.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329: Professional Features for Subaru Owners
Autel is renowned for its professional-grade diagnostic systems favored by mechanics, and the AutoLink AL329 brings some of that advanced capability to the DIY Subaru owner. If you prefer a standalone device without the need for Bluetooth or smartphone apps, the AL329 is an excellent choice. While Autel’s top-tier MaxiSys scanners offer near-factory level diagnostic and reprogramming capabilities, the AL329 focuses on essential diagnostic functions at a more accessible price point. It features a color screen for easy data viewing and retrieves both generic and manufacturer-specific codes, displays emissions readiness status, and freeze frame data. The Autel AutoLink AL329 provides reliable, straightforward diagnostics to help you maintain your Subaru without overwhelming complexity or cost.
Taking control of your Subaru’s diagnostics is easier and more affordable than ever with these recommended OBD2 scanners. Whether you choose a basic code reader or a feature-rich tool, investing in a Subaru OBD2 scanner can save you time, money, and stress, keeping you on the road and enjoying your Subaru adventures.
