In-depth review
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner Review (2027)
Research review of the OBDLink MX+: GM and Ford enhanced diagnostics included, Bluetooth speed, app support, and who should pay the premium.
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
The fast Bluetooth adapter with OEM enhanced diagnostics included.
Our verdict
The MX+ is the adapter for owners of GM and Ford vehicles who want module-level data without a shop tablet: enhanced diagnostics are included in the OBDLink app, the adapter is fast, and it works across phones and Windows laptops.
What we like
- GM SW-CAN and Ford MS-CAN enhanced diagnostics included in the OBDLink app at no extra charge
- Works with iOS, Android, and Windows, unlike platform-locked adapters
- High-speed adapter keeps live data refresh rates smooth in third-party apps
- Battery-saver sleep mode protects the car battery between drives
What to watch out for
- Premium price among Bluetooth adapters
- Enhanced coverage still varies by make, model, and year
- No screen of its own; a phone or tablet is required
What owners report: OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner
Synthesized from recurring themes in long-term owner feedback.
Most praised
- Ford and GM owners get enhanced network diagnostics included instead of sold back as add ons
- Live data refreshes smoothly enough for dashboard style monitoring in third party apps
- The sleep mode lets owners leave it plugged in without worrying about draining the car battery
Common complaints
- It costs far more than generic adapters that look almost identical
- Which enhanced systems open up still depends on the make, model and year plugged into
- A phone or tablet is required because the adapter has no display of its own
Who it is for
DIYers and enthusiasts with GM or Ford vehicles, and multi-platform households.
Enhanced diagnostics included
Most adapters charge per-brand add-ons. The MX+ includes enhanced diagnostics in the OBDLink app, with GM SW-CAN and Ford MS-CAN network access reaching modules beyond the engine computer, varying by model year.
Speed and platforms
OBDLink rates the MX+ among the fastest Bluetooth adapters, which shows up as smooth live-data refresh in dashboard apps. It also supports Windows, opening laptop diagnostic software that BLE-only adapters cannot use.
Living with it
A battery-saver sleep mode means the adapter can stay plugged in without draining the car, and the compact body sits unobtrusively under the dash. The premium over generic adapters buys the app bundle and the vehicle networks.
Key specifications
- Connection
- Bluetooth (iOS, Android, Windows)
- Enhanced networks
- GM SW-CAN, Ford MS-CAN
- App diagnostics
- Enhanced diagnostics included in OBDLink app
- Vehicle power
- 12V and 24V tolerant
- Weight
- About 28 g
Also consider
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro
Pro-grade diagnostics through your phone.
Why consider it: The simpler premium route with all-system scans and guided fixes in one app.
- Connection: Bluetooth to iOS and Android
- Diagnostics: Enhanced codes plus generic OBD2
Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+
A dual-Bluetooth adapter built for third-party diagnostic apps.
Why consider it: The cheaper app-agnostic adapter for third-party app users.
- Connection: Bluetooth LE and Classic
- Compatibility: iOS and Android
Research-based assessment. TrueGear has not hands-on tested this product; this evaluation synthesizes manufacturer specifications, retailer documentation, and published expert reviews.
Questions, answered
Does the MX+ work with iPhone and Android?
Yes, it supports iOS, Android, and Windows over Bluetooth, per the product specifications.
What do GM and Ford owners gain?
Access to the SW-CAN and MS-CAN networks with enhanced diagnostics included in the OBDLink app, covering modules beyond basic engine codes on supported models.