Everything seems to be going wireless, and scan tools are no different. Many popular models now plug a device into your car’s computer and connect seamlessly with your smartphone or PC to access error code information, diagnostics, and more.
BlueDriver Review
The BlueDriver is a popular wireless unit that delivers functionality and convenience, all while gracefully connecting your smartphone to your computer. The BlueDriver is built by Lemur Vehicle Monitors, and generally costs about $100, which is a pretty average price for this type of product. You can easily spend more, but you can also find similar units for less.
There are many advantages to this scan tool, but it does have some limitations. Take a look at our review to find out if the BlueDriver is right for you…
Advantages of the BlueDriver
Many Modes and Functions Available: The BlueDriver provides many modes and options to work with, including an emissions readiness check, live data, and freeze frame data, and Mode 6. These modes help create a versatile tool that is ready perform just about every function you need.
Live data lets you see what your vehicle is doing while it’s doing it, and freeze frame data lets you pause the diagnostics for future reference and detailed reviews. With the BlueDriver, you also have the ability to email reports, so you can send them to yourself or email them to a certified mechanic for a professional opinion. There are also available trouble codes for the anti-lock brake system, although you’ll need to make sure this feature is compatible with your vehicle.
Works with Apple Devices: As we reported in our review of the ScanTool 426101 OBDLink MX, some smartphone-connected scan tools don’t work with Apple products. This won’t be a problem with the BlueDriver, it’s setup to work with iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. If you use one of these Apple products, you shouldn’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
Small, Convenient Package: One of the first things you’ll notice about the BlueDriver is the small size. While some scan tools can be as long as 10 inches, the BlueDriver measures only 5 inches wide and only 3 inches long. You’ll be able to fit the tool in your glove compartment or tool box with ease, and you shouldn’t have to make room by removing other tools.
Get Possible Causes and Reported Fixes: A scan tool that gives you basic error codes is nice, but a tool that can give you the code definitions as well as potential fixes is one of the best devices you can have in your garage. You’ll get on-the-job suggestions for potential solutions, giving you better information and helping you narrow down the right fixes. This will likely save you time, and could also help you save money by targeting the right repair on the first try.
Disadvantages of the BlueDriver
Required Payments: One of the top complaints about the BlueDriver is the required payments for repair reports. While the first five repair reports are free, you will be charged an addition fee beyond those five. An online product description says reports come at a “nominal” fee, but it doesn’t say what that fee is. Previously, there was also a charge for getting the advanced apps, but this caused significant backlash has since been changed – now all features are free.
ABS Codes for Detroit Three Only: The ABS (anti-lock brake system) function helps you diagnose and fix issues related to an important safety feature, but there’s a catch: it only works for General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler Group vehicle. If it were 1955, then most American drivers wouldn’t be affected by this. (Then again, if it were 1955 you wouldn’t be worried about wirelessly connecting your car’s computer to a smartphone.) If you drive a Toyota, Honda, BMW, or anything else not made by the Detroit Three, you won’t be able to diagnose ABS problems and may want to consider a different model. Note: Lemur Vehicle Monitors has said that ABS support for more vehicles is coming.
Bottom Line
If you choose the BlueDriver, you’ll get a useful device that can perform many of the diagnostic tasks and functions on practically any computer or smartphone. You’ll be able to work with live data and freeze frame information, and the convenient email tool makes for quick and easy information sharing.
Just be sure you don’t need the ABS function for an import vehicle, and do thorough research on the payment structure so you’re not surprised by unexpected fees.