The Subaru Forester is known for its reliability and adventurous spirit, designed to get you where you need to go, whether it’s tackling trails or navigating city streets. However, even the most dependable vehicles can experience issues, often signaled by that dreaded check engine light. Seeing that light illuminate on your Forester’s dashboard can be unsettling, leaving you with questions and concerns about what might be wrong.
When the check engine light appears, you essentially have two choices: head to a mechanic or Subaru dealership and pay for a diagnostic service, or take matters into your own hands with an OBD2 scanner. For Subaru Forester owners who are even a little bit inclined to DIY car maintenance, investing in an OBD2 scanner is a smart move that can save you both time and money in the long run.
An OBD2 scanner, short for On-Board Diagnostics II scanner, is a tool that taps into your Subaru Forester’s internal computer system. Since 1996, every car sold in the United States, including your Subaru Forester, has been equipped with this standardized system. This system constantly monitors various aspects of your vehicle’s operation, from engine performance to emissions, using a network of sensors. When something goes wrong, the system logs diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and often triggers the check engine light.
The right OBD scanner allows you to access this wealth of data and understand exactly what those trouble codes mean. Basic scanners will read the standardized codes, giving you a general idea of the problem. More advanced scanners, however, can delve deeper, accessing manufacturer-specific codes unique to Subaru and providing even more detailed insights into your Forester’s health. While these advanced options come at a higher price point, the increased diagnostic power can be invaluable, especially for Subaru Forester owners who prefer to handle their own repairs.
To help you choose the best OBD2 scanner for your Subaru Forester, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated options, based on features, user reviews, and overall value. These scanners are designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to car diagnostics, and will empower you to understand your Subaru Forester’s issues and make informed repair decisions.
Top OBD Scanner Recommendations for Your Subaru Forester
Here are some of the best OBD2 scanners that are highly recommended for Subaru Forester owners:
1. OBDLink MX+: The Top Choice for Subaru Diagnostics
The OBDLink MX+ stands out as a favorite among car enthusiasts and DIYers, and it’s an excellent choice for your Subaru Forester. This Bluetooth-enabled scanner boasts a rapid Bluetooth connection, providing real-time live data from your Forester’s engine and computer systems directly to your smartphone or tablet. OBDLink offers a free companion app that is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android devices, a significant advantage over many budget Bluetooth scanners that often only support Android. Whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, the OBDLink MX+ has you covered.
Beyond compatibility, the OBDLink MX+ excels in functionality. It works seamlessly with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, including every Subaru Forester model from 1996 onwards. It can retrieve both basic, standardized diagnostic codes and manufacturer-specific codes, giving you a comprehensive understanding of any issues. The peace of mind is further enhanced by a generous three-year warranty. Plus, its compact design allows you to leave it plugged into your Subaru Forester’s OBD2 port without worry, making it ready whenever you need it.
2. ScanGauge II: OBD2 Scanner and Digital Gauge for Subaru Forester
The ScanGauge II offers more than just diagnostic capabilities; it doubles as a customizable digital gauge display for your Subaru Forester. Compatible with all OBD2 vehicles (1996 and newer), the ScanGauge II performs all the essential OBD2 functions, including reading and clearing both current and pending trouble codes. However, what sets it apart is its ability to display a wealth of vehicle data in real-time on its integrated screen.
The ScanGauge II can show multiple trip computers, performance monitors, and a variety of digital gauges. The backlit display can present critical information such as RPM, vehicle speed, intake air temperature, fuel pressure, and coolant temperature. For Subaru Forester owners interested in fuel efficiency, it can display real-time fuel consumption, average MPG, and even calculate cost per mile. Furthermore, vehicle-specific gauges, including boost pressure for turbocharged Forester models, are also available. The ScanGauge II is a versatile tool that provides both diagnostic insight and enhanced vehicle monitoring for your Subaru Forester.
3. Innova 5610: Advanced Diagnostics for the Subaru Forester DIYer
The Innova 5610 is a step up in diagnostic capability, making it an excellent choice for Subaru Forester owners who are more serious about DIY car repair. Like the other scanners on our list, it handles basic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes. Its large, color display makes viewing diagnostic data and trouble codes straightforward, and it also offers graphing capabilities to visualize your Subaru’s sensor readings in real-time. The Innova 5610 can scan virtually every module in your Subaru Forester, including systems like tire pressure monitoring.
What truly distinguishes the Innova 5610 is its bidirectional control functionality. This advanced feature allows you to send commands to your Subaru Forester’s modules and sensors, similar to what a professional technician can do. You can use it to disable modules for testing purposes or even command components like the EGR valve to open and close to assess their operation. While these are more advanced features, for the experienced DIYer, the Innova 5610 can be an invaluable tool for in-depth diagnostics and problem-solving on your Subaru Forester.
4. BlueDriver Pro: Smartphone-Based Subaru Forester Diagnostic Powerhouse
The BlueDriver Pro is another highly recommended OBD2 scan tool that leverages the power of your smartphone for vehicle diagnostics. It reads, interprets, and clears all standard OBD2 trouble codes on your Subaru Forester. Beyond the basics, it provides freeze frame data, capturing the vehicle’s parameters at the moment a trouble code was triggered, and displays live sensor data for real-time monitoring.
A particularly useful feature for Subaru Forester owners is its smog check readiness test. Resetting trouble codes can make your vehicle fail a smog test until internal system checks are complete. BlueDriver Pro tells you when your Forester is ready for testing, saving you potential hassles. Perhaps the most valuable feature is the repair report function. For each trouble code, BlueDriver Pro provides a detailed report with likely causes, owner-reported fixes, and other helpful information to guide your diagnostic and repair process on your Subaru Forester.
5. Autel AutoLink AL329: User-Friendly and Affordable OBD2 Scanner for Subaru Forester
Autel is a well-respected name in professional automotive diagnostic equipment, often seen in workshops and garages. While they produce high-end diagnostic systems, the Autel AutoLink AL329 offers a more accessible and DIY-friendly option for Subaru Forester owners. This standalone tool is ideal if you prefer a dedicated device over smartphone-based scanners. It’s incredibly user-friendly: simply plug it into your Forester’s OBD2 port to get started.
The AL329 features a color screen with a clear, easy-to-read display. It retrieves generic and manufacturer-specific codes, checks emissions readiness, and displays freeze frame data. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end scanners, the Autel AutoLink AL329 covers the essential diagnostic functions effectively and affordably, making it a great entry-level OBD2 scanner for your Subaru Forester to help keep it running smoothly.
Investing in an OBD2 scanner is a smart decision for any Subaru Forester owner. It empowers you to understand your vehicle’s health, diagnose issues quickly, and potentially save money on unnecessary mechanic visits. Choose the scanner that best fits your needs and budget, and take control of your Subaru Forester’s maintenance today.
