Hardware guide · OBD2 adapters
Which OBD2 adapter should I buy?
To scan your car or watch live engine data in the Athrun app, you need a small Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the port under your dashboard. These are the ones we recommend.
Last reviewed October 20, 2026 · Prices are approximate
The short answer
Look for an adapter that says BLE or Bluetooth Low Energy. If you just want one that works, get the Vgate iCar Pro 2S. If you plan to leave it plugged in all the time, the OBDLink CX is worth the extra money.
You don't need an adapter to use Athrun. You can describe the problem, or type in codes from a free read at most auto-parts stores.
Our picks
Best for most people
Vgate iCar Pro 2S
About $25–35
Inexpensive and dependable. It goes to sleep when your car is off and wakes up when you start it, and it handles hybrids and electric cars well.
Buying tip: make sure the name says “iCar Pro 2S.” The older “iCar Pro BLE 4.0” is a different, slower model.
Best if it stays plugged in
OBDLink CX
About $80 · manufacturer page
The steadiest connection and the lowest battery use while parked. This is the one we suggest for the upcoming drive companion, where the adapter stays in the car.
Buying tip: it's advertised for BMW owners, but it works on any 1996-or-newer car. Don't mix it up with the OBDLink MX+, which won't connect to iPhones in Athrun.
Budget option
Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+
About $25–35
Cheap and easy to find. Good for an occasional scan.
Buying tip: get the BLE+ (with the plus), not the plain “OBDCheck BLE.”
Already own one of these? You're set. There's no need to buy anything else.
Setting up the drive companion? See adapters for the drive companion.
What to avoid
- Wi-Fi adapters. They take over your phone's Wi-Fi and can't reconnect on their own.
- Classic Bluetooth-only adapters (like the OBDLink MX+, or anything that pairs with a PIN code and doesn't mention BLE). They won't connect to iPhones.
- Scanners locked to their own app (like BlueDriver or FIXD). They can't connect to Athrun.
- Unbranded “ELM327 v1.5” or “v2.1” adapters. They're unreliable, and many keep drawing power when the car is off, which can drain your battery.
Buying the right one
Look-alike copies are common. Search for the exact model name and buy from the manufacturer or a well-known retailer. If the listing doesn't mention BLE or Bluetooth Low Energy, skip it.
Setting it up
- Find the OBD2 port. It's usually under the dashboard on the driver's side, near your knees.
- Plug the adapter in and turn the ignition on. The engine can stay off.
- Open the Athrun app and connect from there. Don't pair the adapter in your phone's Bluetooth settings first.
Common questions
Can I leave the adapter plugged in?
Usually, yes. The adapters above go to sleep when the car is off and use very little power. If your car will sit unused for several weeks, or the battery is already weak, unplug it to be safe.
Do I need an adapter to use Athrun?
No. You can describe the problem in your own words or type in codes from a parts-store read. An adapter lets the Android app read your car's codes and live data directly, which gives a more specific answer.
Does it work on iPhone?
The Athrun app is on Android today. iPhone users can chat in the browser at driveathrun.com. The adapters above all use Bluetooth Low Energy, which is what an iPhone needs.
Athrun doesn't earn money from these recommendations. We picked them for reliability, battery use and how well they work with phones, and we'll update this page as we test more adapters.