Head-to-head · OBD2 Scanners
Innova 5160RS (FixAssist) vs OBDLink MX+
Both products side by side: five criteria scores, manufacturer list price and published specs. The conclusion below is generated from the scores — no opinions added.
What the scores say
On overall score, OBDLink MX+ ranks higher: 4.3 vs 3.8.
- Innova 5160RS (FixAssist) leads on spec strength (5.0 vs 4.5).
- OBDLink MX+ leads on build quality (4.5 vs 4.0), fit & compatibility (4.0 vs 3.5), warranty & support (5.0 vs 3.5), value (3.5 vs 3.0).
- Lower manufacturer list price: OBDLink MX+ ($139.95 vs $349.99, a $210.04 gap).
| Criterion | Innova 5160RS (FixAssist) | OBDLink MX+ |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 3.8/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Spec strength | 5.0 The only bidirectional, all-system tool here: engine/ABS/SRS/transmission plus resets, vs enhanced-codes-only on BlueDriver and engine-only on Foxwell and Ancel. | 4.5 Only adapter here with GM SW-CAN and Ford MS-CAN plus Windows support; BlueDriver is phone-only and the wired readers reach engine codes only. |
| Build quality | 4.0 Shop-style handheld with the same internals as Innova's 5610; Innova publishes no screen size, weight or drop rating. | 4.5 128-bit encryption, 2 mA BatterySaver mode for leaving it plugged in, and published 50 x 45 x 23 mm dimensions — specs BlueDriver does not publish. |
| Fit & compatibility | 3.5 Broad U.S./Canada coverage, but FCA vehicles after 2017 lose erase/reset functions (AutoAuth) and it will not work outside North America. | 4.0 Works with dozens of third-party apps (Torque, FORScan, etc.), but enhanced ABS/SRS depends on the app; Bluetooth 3.0 means older pairing on iPhone. |
| Warranty & support | 3.5 1-year warranty and 30-day returns; free lifetime-style updates offset the short term, but OBDLink gives 3 years. | 5.0 3-year warranty and 180-day money-back — the longest coverage in this group (BlueDriver 1 year, Foxwell 1 year). |
| Value | 3.0 $349.99 is 2.5x the BlueDriver or OBDLink; worth it only if you will use bidirectional tests and service resets. | 3.5 $139.95 list is the same as BlueDriver Pro; you pay for speed and network access rather than built-in repair advice. |
| Manufacturer list price | ||
| MSRP | $349.99 as of Oct 16, 2026 | $139.95 as of Oct 16, 2026 |
| Published specs | ||
| Interface | Wired handheld with color screen; pairs with the free RepairSolutions2 app for fixes, parts and TSBs | Bluetooth 3.0 Class 2 dongle; OBDLink app plus third-party apps on iOS, Android and Windows |
| Updates | Free updates for new model years; no subscriptions | Free firmware updates |
| Warranty | 1 year; 30-day returns | 3 years |
| Systems | Engine, ABS, SRS, transmission — all-system diagnostics | Not published |
| Bidirectional | Yes — sends commands to components such as ABS pumps or fuel injectors | Not published |
| Live data | OBD2 and OEM live data at once; graph, record and play back | Not published |
| Service functions | Relearns, calibrations and resets incl. throttle body, TPMS, steering angle sensor, oil, battery, EPB, SAS, DPF | Not published |
| Coverage | Most vehicles made for the U.S. or Canada; FCA (Jeep/Chrysler) full coverage through 2017, limited after (AutoAuth); not for use outside U.S./Canada | Not published |
| Limitations | No ECU reprogramming or key-fob programming; vehicle must crank/start | Not published |
| Protocols | Not published | All legislated OBD-II protocols plus GM SW-CAN and Ford MS-CAN networks |
| Security | Not published | 128-bit data encryption; 'hacker-proof' design |
| Sleep mode | Not published | BatterySaver low-power mode, 2 mA draw |
| Dimensions | Not published | 1.97 in x 1.77 in x 0.91 in (50 x 45 x 23 mm) |
| Money back | Not published | 180-day unconditional money-back guarantee |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Home mechanics doing brake, battery and sensor work; Owners of multiple family vehicles; Small independent shops | Ford and GM owners using FORScan or similar tools; Data loggers and tuners who want fast refresh rates; Owners who leave the adapter plugged in full-time |
Scores are calculated from the manufacturers' published specifications. BaniCar has not handled either unit. Specs and availability change — verify on the listing.
Innova 5160RS (FixAssist) on Amazon OBDLink MX+ on Amazon
Full reviews: Innova 5160RS (FixAssist) · OBDLink MX+. Updated Oct 17, 2026.