Bluetooth adapters can be a great compromise in getting professional functionality for less amount of money than with pro scan tools!
This lesson is from my premium OBD-II course provided for free to my email followers:
There are two types of Bluetooth adapters: the simple ELM327 and the more advanced J2534.
Using with Your Smartphone:
You can use these adapters with your smartphone, but make sure it’s compatible with your system. Some work only with Android or iOS.
ELM327:
- Cost: Cheap
- Functionality: Offers more than a basic code reader. You can use it with hundreds of different OBD-II apps.
- Capabilities: In addition to standard code reading, you can scan other control modules, see multiple live data graphs at once, and cast live data on your dashboard radio.
- Limitation: Slower for quick engine checks compared to a dedicated code reader, which is important when you need to work fast, like checking a used vehicle before buying.
More about the Veepeak ELM327 adapter.
J2534:
- Cost: More expensive than ELM327
- Functionality: Advanced features similar to expensive scan tools.
- Capabilities: Bi-directional testing, accessing all control modules, unlocking hidden vehicle features.
- Limitation: Requires a yearly subscription for advanced features, which can become costly over time.
More about Thinkdiag J2534 adapter.
Cost Consideration:
While the ELM327 and J2534 adapters are affordable, using advanced features often requires a yearly subscription, making them expensive in the long run.
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Hi, I am Juraj “Yuri” Lukacko. I got frustrated by unhelpful and scammy mechanics, so I decided to learn everything about car diagnostics myself. I test dozens of new car diagnostic tools every month along with learning new strategies to fix and customize cars. About Juraj Lukacko (Yuri)
