In today’s tech-driven world, understanding your car’s health is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. With the rise of sophisticated mobile app development, numerous applications have emerged, designed to translate your vehicle’s data directly to your smartphone. For iPhone users seeking peak performance insights from their vehicles, the selection of OBD2 apps is vast. Knowing what your car is “saying” can be a game-changer, preventing potential issues and saving you from costly breakdowns.
OBD2 apps essentially provide a digital window into your car’s engine, delivering real-time data on crucial parameters such as speed, rotation angles, pressure levels, and temperature readings. This wealth of information empowers car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike to monitor their vehicle’s condition effectively.
However, navigating the app market to find the Best Performance Iphone Obd2 scanner can be overwhelming. The Apple App Store is filled with options, and not all OBD2 apps are created equal. Sifting through them can be time-consuming, and unfortunately, some users end up with subpar apps that don’t deliver on their promises. We aim to prevent that from happening to you.
This article is dedicated to reviewing 17 of the top OBD2 apps compatible with iPhones, ensuring you can choose a high-quality tool that truly enhances your car’s performance monitoring. If you’re ready to take control of your car’s diagnostics with your iPhone, let’s dive in!
Best OBD2 Apps for iPhone: Performance and Compatibility
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car) – Android Favorite, iPhone Alternative Needed
While Torque Pro is celebrated as a top-tier OBD2 Bluetooth app for Android with over 1,000,000 downloads, it’s important to note that Torque Pro is not available for iPhone. Android users often praise its comprehensive features and customizable dashboards, justifying its ~$5 price tag.
Torque Pro provides real-time vehicle data displayed on customizable dashboards and allows data export for later analysis.
Pros (Android Version):
- Customizable dashboard themes
- Social media and email screenshot sharing
- Built-in GPS compass
- Data graphing and car dock support
- CO2 emission readings
- Track recorder for journey videos
- Performance alarms and warnings
- Support for older Android versions
Cons (Android Version):
- Paid app
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues
iPhone Users Take Note: Since Torque Pro isn’t on iOS, iPhone users need to explore other powerful OBD2 apps that offer similar performance monitoring capabilities. Continue reading for excellent iPhone alternatives.
2. OBD Auto Doctor – Versatile and User-Friendly iPhone OBD2 Scanner
OBD Auto Doctor is a strong contender for iPhone users seeking a reliable OBD2 app. Compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, it excels at real-time tracking of vital vehicle sensors and parameters. This app functions similarly to many top car diagnostic tools and is fully compatible with iOS.
OBD Auto Doctor allows monitoring of engine and transmission control units, data export via email in CSV format, and optimized fuel consumption tracking, making it a cost-effective choice for iPhone users focused on performance and efficiency.
Pros:
- Real-time data display for informed decisions about car health
- Numerical and graphical sensor data display
- Compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, including iPhone connectivity
- GPS support
- 24/7 customer service
- Advanced customization options
- Metric and imperial unit tracking
- Monitoring of over 18,000 trouble codes
- Readiness status for emission testing checks
Cons:
- In-app purchases and premium upgrade for full features
- Potential connection issues or inaccurate readings reported by some users.
3. InCarDoc Pro – Advanced Diagnostics for iPhone Car Enthusiasts
InCarDoc Pro has consistently ranked among the top OBD2 apps and is available for iPhone users. It’s known for its advanced car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented through a clean and intuitive interface on your iPhone.
InCarDoc Pro offers a free version to test adapter and iPhone compatibility before purchasing the full app. It supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi adapters and is compatible with recent iOS devices, making it a strong choice for iPhone owners seeking in-depth diagnostics.
Pros:
- Compatibility with OBD2 compliant vehicles (check their website for specifics) and iPhones
- Real-time engine and vehicle parameter readings
- Overlay display of economy data over other apps
- Fuel economy and acceleration widgets
- GPS support
- Cloud storage for reporting data
- Data sharing via email for professional repair assistance
Cons:
- Requires iOS 9.0 or later
- Potential Bluetooth connection errors reported by some users.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App – Free and Highly Rated iPhone Option
For iPhone users looking for a free yet powerful car diagnostic app, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is an excellent choice. This app allows you to deeply understand your car’s performance by accessing numerous parameters read by your vehicle’s ECU.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is available across multiple platforms including iOS, and boasts a high user rating (4.7 on app stores). Its wide compatibility and feature set make it a compelling option for iPhone owners wanting a best performance iPhone OBD2 scanner without initial cost.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles and iPhones
- Compatible with most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters
- Customizable dashboard for preferred parameter tracking
- Fuel consumption statistics
- Settings backup and restore
- Multiple language support
Cons:
- Requires iOS 9.0 or later
- In-app purchases for optimal performance and advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile – Comprehensive iPhone Car Diagnostics
EOBD Facile is a robust OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, fully compatible with iPhones. It supports ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, enabling iPhone users to monitor essential gauges and parameters for informed car maintenance decisions.
EOBD Facile displays vehicle speed, engine RPM, temperature, ignition timing, torque, air intake, and many other gauges depending on your car’s ECU capabilities. Its ease of use and comprehensive features make it a popular choice for iPhone users.
Pros:
- Real-time vehicle sensor display on iPhone
- Over 11,000 fault codes and definitions
- Fault code clearing and engine light issue resolution
- Trip record storage on SD card and PC/Mac software compatibility
- Route planning feature for long drives
Cons:
- May require some prior OBD2 app experience to maximize its features
- No USB adapter support.
6. HobDrive – Premium Features, iPhone Compatibility
HobDrive is recognized as a high-quality OBD2 app and is available for iPhone users. While it’s a paid app, its advanced premium car tracking features make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-tier performance data on their iPhones.
HobDrive supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles and some non-OBD2 protocols. It’s also accessible across platforms including iOS, Windows, and Linux, providing versatility for iPhone users who may use other devices.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard for key parameters from your car’s ECU
- GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapter support, including iPhone compatibility
- Overheating and suspicious fuel trim tracking
- Clear MIL code explanations
- Car odometer estimation
- MPG calculation for diesel vehicles
- Pro version with extended graphical gauges
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some other apps.
7. OBDeleven – “One-Click Apps” for iPhone Users (with Adapter)
OBDeleven stands out for its innovative “One Click App” feature, enhancing the android app development concept for car diagnostics. While it requires a specific OBDeleven adapter, the iOS app provides a clear view of ECU parameters and offers unique control options with a single tap.
OBDeleven requires a network connection for its “One Click App” functionality and offers a Premium upgrade for expanded features. Despite these considerations, it’s a powerful tool for iPhone users who want advanced control over their vehicle’s functions.
Pros:
- Reading and clearing of diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU
- Multiple language support
- Active social media community
- Car battery analyzer
- DIY car fix manuals
- Retrieval of history for connected cars
- Control unit reset support
Cons:
- Requires a specific OBDeleven adapter
- Network needed for optimal performance of “One Click Apps”
- Ads in the free version until Premium upgrade.
8. Dash – Drive Smart – iPhone Driving Performance Analysis
Dash Drive Smart supports OBDeleven software and offers numerous smart car analysis tools, providing real-time data for iPhone users. It claims compatibility with cars manufactured from 1996 onwards, making it broadly applicable.
Dash aims to improve driving experience and car health decisions. Even without an external device, the iPhone app provides valuable insights, making it a convenient tool for performance monitoring.
Pros:
- Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard, works in background mode on iPhone
- Driver score and leaderboard for performance comparison
- Multi-vehicle support with automatic VIN decoding
- GPS tracking for parked car location
- Nearby gas price comparison for cost savings
Cons:
- Battery drain complaints reported by some users
- Glitchy compass feature (may be fixed in updates)
- Network connection issues reported by some users.
9. Engine Link (iOS) – Dedicated iPhone OBD2 Performance App
Engine Link is specifically designed for iOS devices, similar to Torque Pro but exclusively for iPhones. It connects with ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. While some recent user reviews mention WiFi connection issues, it remains a highly capable car tracking application on iOS.
Engine Link is available for a small price on iTunes and can effectively address car monitoring needs, putting iPhone users in full control of their vehicle’s diagnostics and performance data.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard to track desired parameters
- Emission rate and fuel consumption monitoring
- Reading and clearing of OBD2 fault codes
- Heads-up dashboard display option
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees
- Support for 20+ languages
- Torque Custom PID File support in recent updates
Cons:
- Some users report connection issues without ECU data reading
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster – Accurate iPhone OBD2 Readings
ScanMaster is a capable car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters, also available for iPhone. While less known than some other apps, it maintains a solid user rating and provides accurate fault code readings.
With ScanMaster on your iPhone, you gain a clear real-time overview of your car’s performance and accurate fault code readings, potentially preventing mechanic overcharges.
Pros:
- Essential parameters available in the free “Lite” version
- German and English language support
- Easy navigation
- Support for most ELM327 adapters and iPhones
- Data recording capability
- Clear graphical data representation for analysis
Cons:
- Customer support reported as ineffective by some users
- Device compatibility issues reported by a few users
- Requires iOS 9.0 or later.
11. DashCommand (iOS) – Award-Winning iPhone Performance Gauges
DashCommand is a premium iOS OBD2 scanner app, recognized as an award-winning mobile electronic product. It transforms your iPhone into an advanced engine data display.
DashCommand, while pricier than some options, provides top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine diagnostics, and emission testing features, making it a valuable investment for serious iPhone car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Customizable performance gauges for preferred data tracking
- Inclinometer for off-road angle and pitch display
- Data-logging, recording, and playback features
- Trip computer maintaining stats for up to five trips
- Graphical representation of collected data on iPhone
Cons:
- Compatibility issues reported with some specific car models and iPhone versions
- In-app purchases for certain car models.
12. BlueDriver – Free iPhone OBD2 Scanner with Advanced Features
BlueDriver is a highly-rated free OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android, making it accessible to iPhone users. Its high rating and millions of downloads reflect its popularity and effectiveness.
BlueDriver enables iPhone users to monitor critical ECU parameters, scan and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share data via email, all within a free app. Its comprehensive features rival some paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless connection with your car via Bluetooth adapter
- Smog readiness check
- Cost savings on potential repairs
- Free and regular updates
- On-board monitoring test results display
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more
- Repair report generation and sharing
Cons:
- Requires iOS 9.0 or later
- Minor compatibility issues reported with some iPhone models, potentially resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR – iPhone Mileage and Car Health Tracker
GoFAR combines car health monitoring with mileage tracking, offering a comprehensive solution for iPhone users. It’s compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters and focuses on both performance and economic benefits.
GoFAR’s IRS-compliant mileage tracking can help with tax savings, and its fuel efficiency focus aims to reduce driving costs. The iPhone app has a strong user rating, reflecting its reliability and value.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use with iPhone
- One-year warranty on initial purchase
- Plain English error alerts for vehicle system issues
- Platform for finding nearby mechanics
- 3000+ fault codes and descriptions
- Global driver leaderboard based on cost savings
- Alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration
- No subscription fees
Cons:
- Requires initial purchase of the GoFAR device.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor – Simple iPhone OBD2 Solution
FIXD offers a simplified OBD2 app experience for iPhone users without sacrificing essential features. Fault codes are translated into easy-to-understand terms, making it user-friendly even for those new to car diagnostics.
FIXD recommends using their OBD2 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal performance. The iPhone app is well-rated and provides a straightforward approach to vehicle health monitoring.
Pros:
- Quick installation and immediate use on iPhone
- Suitable for first-time OBD2 app users
- Maintenance schedule reminders
- Alerts for worn car parts needing replacement
- Easy onboarding process
- In-app car part purchasing option
- Helpful customer support team
Cons:
- Works best with FIXD adapters
- In-app purchases for additional features.
15. Carly For BMW – Specialized iPhone App for BMW Performance
Carly is a specialized OBD2 app for BMW owners, fully compatible with iPhones and Carly’s proprietary adapters. It offers in-depth diagnostics and performance monitoring specifically tailored for BMW vehicles.
Carly provides real-time data and control features, including used car checks and electronic parking brake control, catering specifically to BMW drivers who want the best performance iPhone OBD2 experience for their vehicle.
Pros:
- Thorough health checks of BMW electronic components
- Used car check feature
- One-click control for electric parking brake
- Carly adapters with premium customer support and lifetime warranty
- DIY battery registration support
- Excellent customer service
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive than generic ELM327 adapters
- Limited fault codes for certain BMW models.
16. Carista OBD2 App – Customizable iPhone Car Settings
Carista is a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and app compatible with iPhones and brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. It stands out with its customization options.
Carista’s “Customize” feature lets iPhone users access and modify ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships, offering a unique level of control.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity with iPhone
- Compact OBD2 adapter
- Customizable car settings
- Phone-to-OBD2 scanner innovation
- 1-month free trial
- iOS and Android support
- Detailed diagnostics
Cons:
- In-app purchases for full feature access.
17) OBD Fusion – Easy-to-Use iPhone Diagnostic Reporting
OBD Fusion is developed by OCTech and is a popular choice for iPhone users, praised for its ease of use and comprehensive diagnostic reports when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner.
OBD Fusion is designed for both beginners and professionals, with customizable dashboards allowing iPhone users to focus on the engine functions they want to monitor most closely for best performance iPhone OBD2 analysis.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboards on iPhone
- iOS and Android compatibility
- GPS navigation features
- Emission monitoring capabilities
- Extensive data logging
Cons:
- Features locked behind expansion packs
- No diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Performance iPhone OBD2 App
With this detailed list of top OBD2 apps for iPhones, you’re well-equipped to choose one that meets your car’s needs and your performance monitoring goals.
Before committing to a purchase, remember to verify app and adapter compatibility with your specific car model. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others require purchasing the full version upfront. Explore the options, determine what aligns best with your requirements, and select the best performance iPhone OBD2 app to take control of your car’s diagnostics today.
Top iPhone OBD2 App Picks:
- Best Overall iOS OBD2 App for Features: DashCommand – Offers a wide range of features and customization for serious performance monitoring.
- Best Free iOS OBD2 App: BlueDriver – Provides impressive features for a free app, suitable for general diagnostics and performance insights.
- Best for BMW iPhone Users: Carly for BMW – Tailored specifically for BMW vehicles with advanced control and diagnostics.
By leveraging the power of your iPhone and a compatible OBD2 app, you can gain unprecedented insight into your car’s performance and health, ensuring optimal driving experiences and proactive maintenance.
