Vgate vLinker MS Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Fixd Car Diagnostic Tool Code Reader CH-CAN and LS-CAN Work for iOS & Android & Windows, Black

I've been using the Vgate vLinker MS Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for a month now, and here's why I think it's a solid investment for both car enthusiasts and professionals:Compatibility: One of the standout features of this device is its broad compatibility. It works seamlessly with iOS, Android, and Windows, which makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you're using an app on your phone or a program on your laptop, this scanner connects without fuss.Functionality: The support for multiple CAN protocols (including CH-CAN and LS-CAN) is a massive plus. It's not just your basic code reader; it dives deep into various vehicle systems, offering comprehensive diagnostics that can save you a trip to the mechanic. From reading fault codes to live data streaming, it does what you'd expect from a high-end scanner.Ease of Use: Pairing with devices is straightforward, and the Bluetooth connection is reliable, which means you're not constantly reconnecting or dealing with dropped connections. The app interfaces (I've tried a couple) are generally user-friendly, although your mileage may vary with different software.Performance: It's fast. The data transfer rate feels quick, providing real-time data without significant lag. For those who like to keep an eye on their car's performance or diagnose issues on-the-go, this speed is crucial.Build Quality: The device feels robust, not like some of the cheaper models that seem they might fall apart after a few uses. The black design is sleek, though that's hardly a factor in its performance, it's nice to have something that looks good too.Battery Life: A nice touch is its auto sleep feature, which helps in preserving your car's battery when you forget to unplug it - although, like any good practice, it's best not to leave it plugged in all the time.Value for Money: Considering its capabilities, the price point feels justified. While there are cheaper options out there, the reliability, speed, and protocol support of the Vgate vLinker MS make it worth the extra investment.Areas for Improvement: The instructions could be more detailed for beginners. Not everyone is tech-savvy, and diving into OBD2 diagnostics can be daunting. Also, while it supports many apps, some of the more advanced features might require you to buy additional software or in-app purchases, which isn't immediately clear.Overall, this scanner has become an indispensable tool in my DIY car maintenance kit. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close for anyone serious about car diagnostics. Would recommend to fellow car enthusiasts or anyone looking to understand their vehicle better!

I have been using cheaper (~$15) OBD2 dongles for many years (most recently with the free version of the “Car Scanner” app). They have saved me lots of money, but cheap dongles tend to have relatively limited ability to report manufacturer-specific codes or anything more than basic diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). The vLinker MS OBD2 dongle provides much more information, but there is a no app included, so you need to download your favorite OBD2 app. Almost all such apps have free, limited-functionality versions as well as premium full-featured versions. (I like the “Car Scanner" app. The free version is good, and the premium version is only $5 for a lifetime license.)I Bluetooth-paired the adapter to my phone. I installed the “VGateFWupdater” app from the Play Store, and I successfully updated the firmware. There are no instructions included about how to do this, but there are some instructions on the Amazon listing that will give you a good idea how to do it. It’s disappointing that there were no instructions about this in the box.After updating the firmware, I had no problem pairing and connecting to my 2007 Chevy and my 1996 Chevy through the free version of the “Car Scanner” app.It’s nice that it automatically goes into a low-power sleep state if left unattended for long. That’s great if you want to leave it connected all the time, or you forget to disconnect it. But remember that if you’re phone is on with Bluetooth on and an OBD2 app running, it will stay connected if close enough and so it won’t go to sleep.Some OBD2 readers (like the $100 BlueDriver) are bundled with an app which is arguably better because it’s a one-stop-shop. The Vlinker dongle works with many 3rd party apps. If you already have a particular favorite app (like I do), then that’s arguably a better thing—especially if your favorite app is better than BlueDriver’s app. I’ve been using the free version of the “Car Scanner” app, which was good enough for my cheap OBD2 dongles. But I may pay $5 to get a lifetime license to the premium version of “Car Scanner”. If you add that $5 to the vLinker MS price, then it still comes out cheaper than BlueDriver.The user manual is not good but I was able to figure out how to use it, so I’m giving it 5-stars.

I have never used an OBD2 scanner before, but after doing some online research on the subject, and after thoroughly reading and following the included manual, and installing a recommended app on my iPhone 15 Pro Max (I chose the "Car Scanner" app), I was able to plug this unit into the port on my 2018 Ford Ecosport, pair it, and get a reading on my phone with no problem at all.Prior to this, the orange "check engine" light had lit up on my dashboard, so I thought this was a perfect time to test this OBD2 scanner, before taking the vehicle to my mechanic. It gave a PO443 error code reading, which apparently indicates something to do with the evaporative emission system. I then visited my mechanic, who determined that I needed to replace the PCV valve, which he did (for $230.00) and reset the warning light on the dash.Not being mechanically inclined, I'm always pretty much at the mercy of the professionals, but at least with my having a good quality OBD2 scanner like this one, it gives me some sense of control and peace of mind.5 STARS!!!

The mysterious nature of engine codes is such a nuisance to anyone that owns a vehicle, having an ODB2 reader like this empowers drivers to diagnosis and do their own minor repairs. This device fits snug into my Hyundai's ODB2 port, and I really like that it has a very low power mode when inactive, so that I can always leave it plugged in. I've used Torque on my Android phones for years. Not only is it useful for reading the actual ODB2 codes, but it allows for the building of custom dashboards of various engine metrics while it is running (which looks cool, although I admit it has little utility to commuters like me). Connecting the device to my phone was a breeze, which is was nice, as Bluetooth pairing can sometimes be finicky. Overall, this ODB2 reader is a must have for anyone that owns a car.

This reader works pretty good on my 2019 truck just install the app from the App Store that accompanies this device plug it in and pair it and it will give you information about your vehicle error codes ability to reset and some other diagnostic information.I had a bit of trouble getting it to work initially with the app, but I restarted the process of a few times and got it to go.Handy gadget to keep in your vehicle for sure.

This works great with the Car Scanner app on my iPhone.I pressed the "pair" button on the front of the OBD device and the blue LED started flashing quickly. Then the device showed up in the list of Bluetooth devices available to my phone and I connected with no problem.After that, the Car Scanner app found and connected to the vLinker MS with no problem.I leave this device plugged in all the time because it gives be a really nice display of live information about my vehicle.

Connects quickly and offers a good refresh rate, so data is displayed in real time and not lagging. Compatible with many different apps, find the app that you like best!