Research-based review: We have not hands-on tested this unit. Our assessment is based on OBDLink documentation, current Amazon marketplace data, and comparison with nearby Bluetooth scanner options.
Quick Verdict
The OBDLink MX+ is a premium Bluetooth OBD2 adapter for buyers who want broad device support and a stronger software ecosystem than a basic generic dongle. OBDLink confirms support for iOS, Android, and Windows, all legislated OBD-II protocols, Ford MS-CAN, and GM SW-CAN, along with its own apps and support for many third-party applications.
The important limitation is that the MX+ hardware should not be confused with a universal all-system scanner. Enhanced OEM diagnostics, service functions, and coding depend on the vehicle and the app being used. At the current Amazon snapshot used for this review, the MX+ was listed at $139.95.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Scan Tool Compass earns from qualifying purchases.
Check current OBDLink MX+ price on Amazon →
Key Specifications
| Item | Verified information |
|---|---|
| Product type | Bluetooth OBD2 adapter |
| Device platforms | iOS, Android, Windows |
| Protocol/network support | All legislated OBD-II protocols, Ford MS-CAN, GM SW-CAN |
| Core function | Read/clear Check Engine information through compatible software |
| Software ecosystem | OBDLink app, OBDWiz for Windows, many third-party apps |
| Firmware | Free firmware updates |
| Power management | BatterySaver low-power mode |
| Current price snapshot | $139.95 USD |
What the OBDLink MX+ Can Do
OBDLink confirms that the MX+ supports the legislated OBD-II protocols used for standardized engine and emissions diagnostics on 1996-and-newer cars and light trucks sold in the United States. That makes it suitable for the core jobs most people expect from an OBD2 adapter: communicating with the standardized diagnostic layer and reading or clearing Check Engine-related information through compatible software.
Unlike a standalone reader, the MX+ is part of an app-based workflow. OBDLink supports its own OBDLink app and OBDWiz software for Windows, and the company also documents compatibility with many third-party apps. That software flexibility is one of the main reasons to consider a premium adapter instead of the cheapest Bluetooth dongle available.
Extra network support
OBDLink also confirms Ford MS-CAN and GM SW-CAN network support. Those networks can matter for certain enhanced vehicle data and app-based workflows. However, network support by itself does not guarantee that every advanced diagnostic function is available on every Ford or GM vehicle. The app and the vehicle-specific data coverage still determine what you can actually access.
OEM-specific add-ons
OBDLink confirms free OEM-specific data add-ons within its ecosystem. This is useful because a Bluetooth adapter can be more than a generic code reader when the combination of hardware, app, and vehicle is supported. The safe way to evaluate those advanced features is to check the exact vehicle and software combination rather than treating the MX+ as a universal ABS/SRS/coding tool.
Firmware and low-power behavior
OBDLink confirms free firmware updates and BatterySaver low-power mode. For buyers who intend to use an adapter regularly, ongoing firmware support is a meaningful difference from unknown generic adapters with little or no first-party support.
Important Limitations
The MX+ has a wider verified connectivity story than a basic OBD2 reader, but advanced diagnostics remain conditional.
- Do not assume universal ABS/SRS access. Enhanced OEM diagnostics depend on supported vehicle and software.
- Do not assume service resets are built into the adapter itself. Some functions may be available only through particular apps and vehicle combinations.
- Do not treat coding as universal. Coding or configuration capability, where available, is software- and vehicle-dependent.
- The safest universal claim is legislated OBD-II support. The deeper you go into manufacturer-specific systems, the more important exact coverage becomes.
This is the key difference between a Bluetooth adapter and a dedicated full-system scanner. The hardware can provide the communication layer, while the app determines much of the user experience and enhanced functionality. Our Bluetooth vs wired OBD2 scanner guide explains that distinction in more detail.
Best For
The OBDLink MX+ is a strong fit for:
- Drivers who want one Bluetooth adapter that supports iOS, Android, and Windows
- Users who plan to work with multiple compatible diagnostic apps
- People who value first-party firmware support
- Ford or GM owners whose intended app can use the MX+ network support
- DIY users who want a more expandable app-based platform than a basic generic dongle
Who Should Skip It
Skip the MX+ if your only goal is occasional generic Check Engine code reading and you do not care about app flexibility. A lower-cost Bluetooth adapter or basic wired reader may cover that narrower job.
You should also skip it if you are buying specifically for one ABS, SRS, service-reset, or coding function without first confirming that exact function for your vehicle and chosen app. The MX+ is not a substitute for a coverage check.
Alternatives and Upgrade Path
If your priority is lower-cost generic Bluetooth OBD2 access, see our Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ review. If you want to move away from phone-based diagnostics entirely, browse Basic Code Readers or review our basic vs full-system scanner comparison.
If your real requirement is deep manufacturer-specific module access and active tests across many vehicle systems, consider a dedicated full-system or bidirectional platform rather than relying on an adapter-and-app combination.
Compare it head-to-head with Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ →
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Methodology & Sources
This review is based on OBDLink first-party product and support documentation. We verified the supported device platforms, legislated OBD-II protocol coverage, Ford MS-CAN and GM SW-CAN network support, included OBDLink/OBDWiz software, third-party app support, OEM-specific data add-ons, firmware update policy, BatterySaver mode, and the company’s stated 1996-and-newer U.S. OBD-II compatibility.
We deliberately keep enhanced OEM diagnostics, service functions, and coding conditional because OBDLink’s ecosystem depends on the specific vehicle and software being used.
- OBDLink MX+ official product page
- OBDLink MX+ official support
The Practical Takeaway
The OBDLink MX+ is best viewed as a well-supported Bluetooth diagnostic platform rather than a promise of universal enhanced diagnostics. Its verified strengths are broad device support, legislated OBD-II coverage, extra Ford/GM network support, app flexibility, firmware updates, and low-power behavior. If those benefits match the way you want to diagnose cars, it can justify its higher price. If you only need basic codes, you may not need to spend this much.