Bluetooth OBDII for Apple iOS
#1
Bluetooth OBDII for Apple iOS
I’ve seen many posts on this forum recommending the ELM 327 Bluetooth OBDII scanner and the Torque app, but that setup does not work with Apple iOS devices.
There are a few alternatives now out there that are compatible with iOS, but does anyone here have experience with them, either what to buy or what to avoid?
I know someone locally who’s been happy with the BlueDriver but it’s $99.95. There’s also the UltraGauge Blue but it’s $79.95. I’d like to find something priced closer to the ELM 327 ($9.99).
I use an UltraGauge in my Rover for day-to-day plus I have a Hawkeye for more in-depth work, so any Bluetooth OBDII setup would be more for other vehicles driven by family and friends.
There are a few alternatives now out there that are compatible with iOS, but does anyone here have experience with them, either what to buy or what to avoid?
I know someone locally who’s been happy with the BlueDriver but it’s $99.95. There’s also the UltraGauge Blue but it’s $79.95. I’d like to find something priced closer to the ELM 327 ($9.99).
I use an UltraGauge in my Rover for day-to-day plus I have a Hawkeye for more in-depth work, so any Bluetooth OBDII setup would be more for other vehicles driven by family and friends.
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I dont get why BT would be desired over WiFi. I mean from a security standpoint I get it, but this is car work not a home computer device setup. I have the WiFi version of the ELM327 and a free iOS app that does all I need for live data, fault codes, etc. But I bought the ELM327 mainly for use with my laptop for digging into the deep end and the software only works over WiFi.
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SundayFunday (01-28-2020)
#9
I dont get why BT would be desired over WiFi. ... I have the WiFi version of the ELM327 and a free iOS app that does all I need for live data, fault codes, etc. But I bought the ELM327 mainly for use with my laptop for digging into the deep end and the software only works over WiFi.
But Dakota, which free iOS app are you using, please? Thanks.
#10
I use a wifi dongle w/ OBD Fusion on iphone.
This dongle indicates it is Bluetooth, works with OBD Fusion, and iOS compatible. The OBD Fusion app is $5.
Given Amazon's liberal return policy, I'd give it a shot.
One word of caution on these dongles.... when I leave my wifi version in place, it can drain the battery. It does not power down when the car is turned off.
Some of the supporting material suggests Bluetooth is more power efficient. Not sure if that allows it to remain in the port for long periods without battery drain. YMMV.
This dongle indicates it is Bluetooth, works with OBD Fusion, and iOS compatible. The OBD Fusion app is $5.
Given Amazon's liberal return policy, I'd give it a shot.
One word of caution on these dongles.... when I leave my wifi version in place, it can drain the battery. It does not power down when the car is turned off.
Some of the supporting material suggests Bluetooth is more power efficient. Not sure if that allows it to remain in the port for long periods without battery drain. YMMV.
Last edited by WaltNYC; 01-28-2020 at 09:29 AM.