Blue Driver OBDII

[theoldwizard1]

This software that runs on iPhone/iPad or Android along with a Bluetooth OBDII dongle. They "claim" it is a "professional" grade solution.

Is anyone using Blue Driver on any more than a casual basis and how do you like it ? Have they provided updated software on a regular basis ?

 

[mcmtech]

We have one in our service truck at work. It works ok for quick scans out on the road, but I wouldn't call it a "professional" level scan tool, at least compared to our verus or even genisys. It does update maybe once a month on my iPhone.

 

[rockinacummins]

I’m no professional by any stretch of the imagination, but I would like to say that I use my blue driver quite frequently and I love it. No wires and stuff to keep up with, small and easy to store, and it’s pretty impressive what it can do. Codes, repair suggestions, real time data, saving data, vehicle recalls and service bulletins - best $100 I’ve spent for diagnosing

 

[Git]

It's hard to ignore all the positive reviews on Amazon so I bought one to see if I could figure out what why I was getting an ABS light on my S10. I had a pretty good idea that the ABS module needed to be repaired or replaced, (a pretty common problem) but the Blue Driver could not tell me anything. It was NO help at all, and I returned it. A used ABS module did, in fact, solve the problem and it was cheaper than sending in my existing module to get it resoldered

Here is what the claim from the Amazon website:

"However, a lot of important information (such as ABS, Airbag, Climate Control, etc.) is left behind by the other wireless and handheld code readers. Only BlueDriver gives you the complete set of diagnostics on a wide range of manufacturers."

 

[engineer2]

I've been invited by them to do QA testing on the enhanced Honda system diagnostics (probably with a 1000 other people), but have yet to buy the $100 device. I'm in the market for a new one anyhow to be compatible with iPhones. They claim no upgrade or "enhanced diagnostic" fees.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I reach for mine first always. Its bright up Ford codes my innova 3160b and action cp9690 never even saw. And I like how it saves the information in the app so even when cleared I can save the report and look at it at a later date, live data and all

 

[catron44]

It's hard to ignore all the positive reviews on Amazon so I bought one to see if I could figure out what why I was getting an ABS light on my S10. I had a pretty good idea that the ABS module needed to be repaired or replaced, (a pretty common problem) but the Blue Driver could not tell me anything. It was NO help at all, and I returned it. A used ABS module did, in fact, solve the problem and it was cheaper than sending in my existing module to get it resoldered

Here is what the claim from the Amazon website:

"However, a lot of important information (such as ABS, Airbag, Climate Control, etc.) is left behind by the other wireless and handheld code readers. Only BlueDriver gives you the complete set of diagnostics on a wide range of manufacturers."

I just wanted to tack this bit of info on for future readers. I read the same thing on amazon and bought the blue driver to diagnose the abs light on my 07 avalanche. I received the unit and couldn't get it to connect. I checked their website and they claim it is not compatible with the ABS system on my truck. So if you are looking into getting one, I would suggest you check their website for compatibility before you purchase.

I will be returning mine and getting a Foxwell NT510 as I've read works best for the abs in other threads.

 

[MN_Runner]

I was looking at Bluedriver ($99) but bought Obdlink MX Bluetooth ($79) instead. If you have a Windows PC or Android phone then Obdlink MX is a fine too. I don't know if Bluedriver is better than Obdlink MX but I bought it to read and reset DTC on my Honda.

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

Id be interested in anyone's back to back comparison vs a generic ELM adapter.
Worth the extra $85?

 

[kythri]

Id be interested in anyone's back to back comparison vs a generic ELM adapter.
Worth the extra $85?

Likewise.

The OBDLink MX (Bluetooth or WiFi) and the BlueDriver look nice and polished, but I'm curious what they (or their software) provide for the $80 or $100 (or $130 for the OBDLink Wifi) you have to pay over a generic ELM adapter and something like Torque Pro or Forscan.

I bought Foseal-branded WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, and they both seem to work pretty well - granted, I haven't played with them super extensively, but they both seem to do what I've asked via the software that I'm using.

Hoping someone can feed my curiosity...

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I can't comment on elm vs bluedriver but I can say they bluedriver is still the tool I reach for 99% of the time. It's picked up things my actron cp9690 hasn't. For live data in not crazy about it though.

 

[kythri]

Anyone else?

 

[M6erfan]

I'm not a pro by any stretch of the definition, but I work on a lot of vehicles. I bought the BlueDriver late last year and while it doesn't delve deep into ABS, SRS, etc., it is pretty damn handy. I havent had any problems with it on cars ranging from 1998 to 2014, asian and euro. Pairs to my iPhone7 with no issues. Speaking of iPhone, it seems that there are way more wireless OBD readers for Android than iPhone.

Mine replaced a tethered cheap Autel OBDII reader I had for years, but that one had no internal database for proposed fixes. Not having to 'look up' codes is worth the $99 I paid for the BD. My only wish is that it came with some sort of carry case, mine just bounces around in my console.

 

[kythri]

My only wish is that it came with some sort of carry case, mine just bounces around in my console.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N4VGSPT/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[M6erfan]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N4VGSPT/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Thx, I know, I just wish it came with one or at least a slide on cover for the 'port' part to keep dust and debris out.

 

[Danglerb]

Two different issue, the OBDII connection device and the software the works with it. Iphone and Android use different types, wifi vs bluetooth. I paid $6 for the third different device that finally worked, so that end can be cheap, but some software only works with the device the software company sells.

For an end user you need to check that the software fully supports the vehicles you want to use it on, AND has some sane path to improve the product. Nothing beats good reviews in a forum that supports your exact car and talks about issues with that car.

 

[wkndwarrior29]

Not to get off topic, but what manufacturer vehicle are you working on?

I ask because I have an obdlink mx and it works great with the torque app for general information and code resets, but ultimately I ended up with different software and tools for my vehicles for true advanced capabilities such as module diagnostics. It might be worth considering if you need more than basic resets.

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

 

[stioc]

Don't have one but a pro tool for $100? That would put SnapOn, MaxiDas, Genesys etc out of business in a hurry. Does it have bi-directional controls? Does it allow factory relearn on say IACV, battery, AAP etc? I doubt it. However, for most DIYers it's likely a very good tool and competes with the Actrons and lower end Autels and such.

 

[willhall996]

I've had a Blue driver for a couple of years now and to be honest I have never been more impressed with a diagnostic reader for the price. Clearly there's better out there, but I challenge anyone to show me a better one for 100 bucks. With real time data and code description right now right there, and also wether it is a common problem for your vehicle or a rare issue. To me that's a big help, if I'm on the fence about the cause and the OBDII says it's very rare to have that issue I'm more likely to check other possible sources. It has saved me many hours of unnecessary labour. Is it the best, no. Is it worth a hundred dollars, definitely. Price for options it's a no brainer.

 

[ChevyEFI]

Old threads that get bumped are still good reading.

I had an intermittent fuel gauge failure over the weekend on a long trip and thought having bidirectional control to trigger the gauge could be handy.

 

[Buckaroo5]

Dear Old Dad & family fleet wrencher here that needs to work on a budget. I upgraded to Bluedriver from basic OBDII reader maybe 4 or 5 years ago because I had an SRS light that needed addressed on a 2004 Honda Accord. Identified the seat belt sensor as the issue, took it to the Dealer and had it fixed under warranty (SRS system components have lifetime warranty). It has been very useful since. I will upgrade to bidirectional when I can't figure out how to complete a necessary job without it. Postponing as long as possible to capture technology advancements and avoid ongoing cost of the updates. As long as I can git-r-done, I am sticking with the Bluedriver!

 

[VolvoRyan]

Does it actually do more than a $15 ELM 327 dongle? I forget what app I'm running on my android phone, but I can get codes that are deeper than standard OBD-II..... from a Volvo. Pretty much nothing speaks Volvo.

-Ryan

 

[bob from indiana]

I keep my Blue Driver in the road bag for quick scans. It does a good job for me. I have a bidirectional Launch if needed. I like the Blue Driver for quick scans and if can send a report to a customers phone.

 

[P0234]

Does it actually do more than a $15 ELM 327 dongle? I forget what app I'm running on my android phone, but I can get codes that are deeper than standard OBD-II..... from a Volvo. Pretty much nothing speaks Volvo.

Not if there is a specific app that talks to your car, but most of those apps are single car model or brand.

It does a whole lot more than and ELM clone and something like Torque which at this point is borderline useless. Bluedriver has updated their software to talk to many more modules along the way, I think when this thread was started it only did the engine control module. It also has access to common fixes for a particular code. Lastly the interface is really polished and well done, the reports it generated are pro quality, you could hand them to a customer and be proud. It's more than enough for most "car guys."

If you need it all, it's hard to beat the Autel AP200, it talks to everything the big Autels do. The UI and client are terrible, and worst of all it takes close to 1.5 gigs of your phones memory.

 

[VolvoRyan]

I keep my Blue Driver in the road bag for quick scans. It does a good job for me. I have a bidirectional Launch if needed. I like the Blue Driver for quick scans and if can send a report to a customers phone.

You live near me! I'm right around Corydon.

Not if there is a specific app that talks to your car, but most of those apps are single car model or brand.

It does a whole lot more than and ELM clone and something like Torque which at this point is borderline useless. Bluedriver has updated their software to talk to many more modules along the way, I think when this thread was started it only did the engine control module. It also has access to common fixes for a particular code. Lastly the interface is really polished and well done, the reports it generated are pro quality, you could hand them to a customer and be proud. It's more than enough for most "car guys."

If you need it all, it's hard to beat the Autel AP200, it talks to everything the big Autels do. The UI and client are terrible, and worst of all it takes close to 1.5 gigs of your phones memory.

Indeed, Torque is pretty hopeless. I have it, but don't use it. I think I'm using "Car Scanner Pro" for Volvo stuff. It pulls codes/data from a number of modules. I can't recall if I had to go brand-specific when I got it. It's obviously limited in its functionality.

When things escalate, I have two Volvo-specific bi-directional tools. One of which is dealership software.

I'm always interested in a better mousetrap for wireless OBD-II.

Thanks for the replies, guys!

-Ryan