That Subaru Outback is your ticket to adventure, built for exploring, not endless garage time. But even the most reliable vehicles can flash that dreaded check engine light. Suddenly, that little icon on your dashboard throws a wrench in your plans, signaling something amiss under the hood – or maybe it’s just a loose gas cap, or perhaps a sensor acting up. Finding out what’s wrong usually means a trip to the dealership and a hefty labor charge just to diagnose the issue. However, there’s a smarter way: arm yourself with your own OBD2 scanner and take control of your Subaru’s diagnostics.
An OBD2 scanner, named after the On-Board Diagnostics II system standard on all cars sold in the US since 1996, is your key to unlocking your Subaru’s onboard computer. This network constantly monitors everything from the air intake temperature to the water pump, feeding data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to ensure optimal performance. The right OBD2 scanner can tap into this wealth of information, reading standardized Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) – the very codes that trigger your check engine light. For even deeper insights, the best scanners go beyond these basic codes, accessing manufacturer-specific codes to give you a more detailed picture of your Subaru’s health. Of course, advanced capabilities come at a higher price.
To help you navigate the world of OBD2 scanners, we’ve turned to the SubaruOutback.org community for recommendations on the best tools worth investing in. Here are some of their top picks to help you diagnose your Subaru like a pro.
Top OBD2 Scanner Recommendations for Subaru Vehicles
When it comes to diagnosing your Subaru, having the right OBD2 scanner can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are some of the best options, catering to different needs and budgets:
1. OBDLink MX+: The Subaru Enthusiast’s Choice
The OBDLink brand is a favorite among Subaru owners, and the MX+ model stands out for its performance and versatility. Its super-fast Bluetooth connection provides real-time live data from your Subaru’s engine computer directly to your smartphone or tablet. OBDLink offers a free app compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows, a significant advantage over many budget Bluetooth scanners that only support Android. This scanner works seamlessly with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, including your Subaru, providing both basic and manufacturer-specific diagnostic codes. Plus, its robust three-year warranty and safe-to-leave-plugged-in design make it a reliable choice for any Subaru owner.
2. ScanGauge II: More Than Just a Scanner – A Dashboard Companion
The ScanGauge II offers a unique blend of diagnostic capability and real-time vehicle monitoring, acting as both an OBD2 scanner and an auxiliary gauge display for your Subaru. Compatible with all 1996 and newer OBD2 vehicles, it performs standard diagnostic functions like reading and clearing both active and pending trouble codes. However, the ScanGauge II goes further by displaying multiple trip computers, performance metrics, and a variety of user-selectable gauges on its compact screen. Monitor RPM, speed, intake air temperature, fuel pressure, ignition timing, coolant temperature, and more. For fuel-conscious Subaru drivers, it can display real-time fuel economy, average MPG, and even cost per mile. With customizable vehicle-specific gauges available, you can even monitor parameters like boost pressure for turbocharged Subaru models.
3. Innova 5610: Advanced Diagnostics for the Serious DIYer
The Innova 5610 is a step up for Subaru owners who want more than just basic code reading. It handles both generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes and features a large, easy-to-read color display that shows data and graphs. Beyond standard OBD2 functions, the Innova 5610 can scan virtually every module in your Subaru, including the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Its standout feature is bidirectional control, allowing you to command modules and sensors for in-depth testing, just like a professional technician. For example, you can disable a module for isolation testing or operate components like the EGR valve to verify functionality. While these advanced features are geared towards experienced DIYers, they provide powerful diagnostic capabilities for tackling complex Subaru issues.
4. BlueDriver Pro: Smartphone Convenience with Repair Guidance
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended OBD2 scanner that leverages the power of your smartphone. It reads, identifies, and clears all standard OBD2 trouble codes and provides freeze frame data, capturing the vehicle’s parameters at the moment a code was triggered. Live data streaming allows you to monitor sensor readings in real-time. A particularly useful feature for Subaru owners is the emissions test readiness check, helping you ensure your vehicle is ready for smog inspections. BlueDriver Pro also provides repair reports for each trouble code, offering likely causes, owner-reported fixes, and other helpful information to guide your diagnostic and repair process. This makes it an excellent tool for both diagnosing and fixing issues on your Subaru.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329: Professional Reliability for the DIYer
Autel is a well-known name in professional automotive diagnostics, often seen in workshops and garages. While they offer high-end, feature-rich diagnostic systems, the Autel AutoLink AL329 provides a more accessible and user-friendly option for DIY Subaru mechanics. This standalone tool eliminates the need for Bluetooth or smartphone apps, offering a direct plug-and-read experience. The AL329 features a color screen and retrieves both generic and manufacturer-specific codes, displays emissions readiness status, and provides freeze frame data. While it may not have all the advanced functions of professional-grade Autel scanners, the AL329 delivers reliable basic diagnostics to help you keep your Subaru running smoothly, all at a very affordable price point.
Conclusion: Empower Your Subaru Diagnostics
Investing in an OBD2 scanner is a smart move for any Subaru owner. It provides the ability to understand and address check engine lights and other potential issues, saving you money on diagnostic fees and empowering you to take control of your vehicle’s maintenance. Whether you choose a basic code reader or a more advanced tool with features like live data and bidirectional control, there’s an OBD2 scanner to suit your needs and technical expertise. Explore the options, compare features and prices, and find the best OBD2 scanner to keep your Subaru running its best for every adventure.
