Good low cost OBD2 scanner w/Bluetooth or WiFi for iPhone?

Can anyone recommend a good OBD2 scanner for my ‘20 SR5 DC that will talk to an iPhone over Bluetooth? I want to be able to check/monitor critical data, such as trans temps, check and reset fault codes, change parameters such as footwell timer, seat belt chime, etc. Hoping to find one under $50 and not really wanting to have to pay for an ongoing subscription. TIA

 

"Best" and "low cost" usually don't go together. From what I've seen, iPhone compatibility is also a challenge for bluetooth OBD readers for some reason.

For low cost code scanning, any ELM327 based OBD reader or knockoff is fine, but won't come with any software. There is this thread that talks about iPhone OBD reader software though. I have a knockoff and rarely use it, but that's because I also have a BlueDriver and OBDLink MX+. Also lets me know how to reset the maintenance reminder like ignition key and trip reset sequences to get the lights to turn off for TPMS or oil change indicators. Clear codes would probably do it as well.

BlueDriver code scanning and gives recommendations on what part is likely at fault for a given error code. BlueDriver is only compatible with its own app though, and can not be used with Torque for Android. Way over your budget, but it's paid for itself by recommending fixes unique to vehicle models/years. No subscriptions or addons. An example of a BlueDrive repair report https://www.bluedriver.com/sites/default/files/2018-07/Sample-BlueDriver-Repair-Report_0.pdf . I don't believe the BlueDriver reader is completely required. Just the BlueDriver app with the vehicle manually inputted and error code manually inputted should give you the repair report as well, all for free if you go with a ELM327 reader or similar.

OBDLink MX+ I use for data monitoring. BlueDriver does it as well, but I prefer OBDLink for this due to how the UI works. Supposedly has polls the data faster as well. Also has enhanced code scanning that understands vendor specific error codes, available for free. These enhanced functions used to be paid addons, or free trial like things. Completely free now. But the UI is still setup like a shopping cart where you have to "buy" a certain year of a manufacturer. Gives you the error code and maybe a description of it and then you have to Google the fix. Also way over your budget. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQCMvHJLnZY

Now these are READERS. They can reset error codes, but won't change other parameters. Both units I listed are at the $100 budget, but they provide free ongoing support for new vehicles and information on how common an error code is on a specific vehicle model as well as known fixes for them.

Because they're constantly being update, there is a lot of outdated information in reviews. I can answer any questions or provide screenshots for those curious, as it's quite expensive without being able to trial/test it beforehand.

Note that the ELM327 based readers with Bluetooth will most likely not work for iPhone, but the wifi versions will.:
https://medium.com/@gepeto42/using-an-iphone-or-ipod-touch-with-an-elm327-wifi-obd-ii-3527562a33d3
https://www.lifewire.com/elm327-iphone-adapter-doesnt-work-534643

 

Thanks for the great info! The MX+ looks super cool. I searched again and managed to find a trans cooler thread that discusses this subject too.
Your reply makes me curious though what people are using to reset parameters, and does that device use the same port?

 

I put in my vin on the obdlink mx+ app, but the app gives me access to all possible parameters, rather than what the vehicle supports. Blue driver will show which parameters are supported, but the obd reader must be plugged in. I'll try that tomorrow.

It doesn't look like obdlink mx+ supports transmission temperature. But again, I didn't have the reader plugged in but the app allows you to preset what you want to monitor.


EDIT: I forgot about the rest of your reply. There are other OBD devices that can do a lot of things with ABS, as well as autobleed the breaks. Those cost a lot more and aren't bluetooth. Will most likely require a subscription too. I believe the term for these are bidirectional obd.

An example: https://youtu.be/RMLSWDfUAYs

 

On an OBD thread I found, another poster confirmed that trans temps are accessible.

 

I just set up the Veepeak and had to get the $49.99 add on to get tranny temps. By the time I was done, it was close to the same cost as the MX+. Maybe I did something wrong, no expert, but that’s what I found. I do like the functionality.

 

Thanks for sharing your experience. That’s what I was afraid of. I’m going to try the $10 adder first and see if that will work for me. My scanner is due to arrive Monday.

 

I have used a $20 WiFi elm327 reader from Amazon with both iPhone and Android in various vehicles. Can read all obd2 codes and shows all sensors using “Car Scanner ELM OBD2” app.

 

I have the OBDMX+ and yes transmission temps are available.
Also when you scan the truck with the truck on it will whittle down the list to only what is readable. Compared to just typing in the VIN which gives you a bunch of useless and redundant readings.

 

Customization settings that would normally require Toyota dealer intervention will likely require the professional-level software Techstream.

Legitimate access to Techstream is far beyond the means of most hobbyists and private owners; think $$$$. Many Toyota (Tundra, T4R, Lexus) forum members have been successful with bootlegged versions of Techstream that can be made to work with a laptop and cables available on Amazon and eBay. The best of the working bootleg versions, and there are many imitators, can be $80.

 

You can customize settings, read and reset codes with Carista. You get a free trial period when you buy the device and then it works on a subscription basis. The only issue is it is rather slow.

 

Have you tried to monitor real-time transmission temps with that setup?

 

Yes, I have. I think it shows three trans temp sensor spaces- but I think that is the app default. I think the Tundra just has one. To monitor multiple sensors though you have to pay for subscription. You can read any live data for which there is a sensor through obd2 port. I don’t think it will show any for abs or trac systems since it can’t read abs.

 

Screenshot of obdlink mx+

Like said earlier, by default there are 3 sensors. Once the enhanced PIDs are scanned, it shows 2.

Blue driver was unable to see transmission temps

 

I went with the $17 Veepeak mini WiFi scanner and OBD Fusion app ($10 + $10 Toyota upgrade). For $37 total, I’m monitoring all the data I wanted and a bunch more. Only downside so far is I need to remember to unplug it when not in use so I don’t drain the battery. Thanks to @jtwags and @snwbrdr852 from the Taco forum for the cool dashboards to start with; after a few minutes of minor tweaking, I got both trans temps working on my ancient iPhone. Spotify, Pandora, CarPlay, and other cellular and Bluetooth stuff started working again after I set a static IP address on the Veepeak. Still need to work on some of the other points, but I think this is going to be fine.

$20 Veepeak Mini WiFi OBD II Scanner Adapter Car Check Engine Light Diagnostic Code Reader Scan Tool for iOS and Android Black

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00WPW6BAE?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title