Wireless OBD-II Bluetooth Connections
Traditional OBD2 code readers and scan tools use hard-wired connections, but Bluetooth has emerged as an alternative that cuts the proverbial cord. Although there are no traditional scan tools available that use a wireless connection instead of a physical cable and plug, there are a couple of different solutions out there.
DIY OBD2 Bluetooth Adapters
Most OBD2 Bluetooth adapters out there utilize the ELM327 microcontroller, which provides an interface with your vehicle’s onboard computer. Since these adapters use Bluetooth, they can be used in conjunction with virtually any Bluetooth-enabled device. Laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other devices can all function as scan tools when paired with an ELM327 Bluetooth adapter.
The main exception is iOS devices, which can’t be paired with just any off the shelf OBD-2 Bluetooth adapter. If you have an iOS device, and you want to hook it up wirelessly to your car’s onboard computer, then you’re better off with an OBD-II Wi-Fi adapters than looking for an ELM327 iPhone adapter..
Complete OBD-II Bluetooth Scanners
A handful of companies offer obd2 bluetooth scanner packages that include an OBD-II Bluetooth dongle or adapter, a device like a PDA, tablet, or a laptop, and pre-installed scan tool software. These packages are good for anyone who doesn’t have a compatible device or doesn’t want to mess around with potential incompatibilities or purchasing separate software.
OBD-II Bluetooth Software and Drivers
The functionality of an OBD-II Bluetooth connection will vary depending on the device you hook up to and the software you have installed. There is free ELM327 scanner software available for platforms like Windows and Android, but premium software typically offers additional functionality and more advanced features.
Devices that are equipped with Bluetooth typically won’t require any additional drivers in order to hook up to an OBD-II Bluetooth adapter. The process of pairing this type of adapter is similar to pairing a headset or any other Bluetooth device, so it is relatively straightforward.
Counterfeit OBD-II ELM327 Bluetooth Devices
Some low-cost OBD-II Bluetooth adapters use unofficial ELM327 microcontrollers that are based on pirated specifications. These microcontrollers sometimes fail to work properly due to poor quality control, and they also lack the tweaks and improvements seen in official ELM327 microcontrollers that are produced under license and according to updated specifications.
