Best OBD2 Apps for Android in 2019: Top Picks for Vehicle Diagnostics

In today’s automotive landscape, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. These innovative mobile applications connect to your car’s computer, providing real-time data and insights into its performance and potential issues. With the surge in mobile app development, numerous OBD2 apps have flooded the market, aiming to empower drivers with diagnostic capabilities right at their fingertips. Knowing what your car is “saying” through these apps can be a game-changer, helping you prevent costly repairs and roadside emergencies.

OBD2 apps grant you virtual access to a wealth of information about your engine and vehicle systems. From speed and rotation angles to pressure and temperature readings, these apps translate complex data into understandable metrics. However, the sheer volume of options can make choosing the best OBD2 app for your Android device a daunting task. Navigating through countless apps, many of which may fall short of expectations, can be time-consuming and frustrating. You deserve a reliable tool that delivers accurate diagnostics and valuable features without unnecessary hassle.

It’s not uncommon for car owners and enthusiasts to invest in OBD2 apps, only to be disappointed by subpar performance or misleading claims. We aim to prevent that from happening to you. This article dives into a curated list of top-tier OBD2 apps that were highly regarded in 2019 and remain excellent choices for your Android device today. While the automotive tech landscape evolves, the core functionality and reliability of these apps have stood the test of time.

Let’s explore these exceptional OBD2 apps and find the perfect match for your car and diagnostic needs!

Top OBD2 Apps For Android (2019 & Beyond)

1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car): The Veteran Performer

Torque Pro consistently earns high praise from vehicle owners and is frequently cited as a leading OBD2 app for Android. With over a million downloads, this paid app (typically around $5 on the Google Play Store) has established itself as a robust and feature-rich diagnostic tool. User reviews and expert opinions often highlight its value, making it a worthwhile investment for serious car enthusiasts and those who want comprehensive vehicle monitoring.

Torque Pro excels at displaying real-time vehicle data on a customizable dashboard directly on your Android device. This visually appealing and user-friendly interface allows you to monitor critical parameters at a glance. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro offers data logging capabilities, enabling you to export compiled data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping. This feature is particularly useful for tracking intermittent issues or sharing data with mechanics for remote diagnostics.

Pros:

• Highly Customizable Dashboard: Torque Pro offers multiple themes and layouts, allowing you to personalize your dashboard to display the parameters most relevant to you. This level of customization enhances user experience and ensures you see the data you need quickly.
• Social Sharing and Data Export: Easily share screenshots of your dashboard on social media or via email. The data export functionality allows for in-depth analysis and record-keeping, useful for vehicle maintenance logs or performance tracking.
• Integrated GPS Compass: An in-built GPS-based compass adds navigational utility, which can be helpful during diagnostics or while driving in unfamiliar areas.
• Advanced Data Visualization: Graph data and car dock support provide versatile ways to view and interact with vehicle data. Graphical representations can make it easier to spot trends and anomalies.
• CO2 Emission Readouts: For environmentally conscious drivers, Torque Pro provides CO2 emission readouts, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s environmental impact.
• Track Recorder: The track recorder feature provides video coverage of your journeys, potentially useful for documenting driving conditions or diagnosing issues that occur under specific circumstances.
• Configurable Alarms and Warnings: Set alarms and warnings for parameters like coolant temperature exceeding safe limits (e.g., 120°C). This proactive warning system can help prevent serious engine damage.
• Broad Android Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, including 2.0, making it accessible to users with a wider range of devices.

Cons:

• Initial Purchase Required: Torque Pro is a paid app, requiring upfront payment. However, many users find the features justify the cost.
• Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users have reported Bluetooth pairing bugs, although these are often resolved with app updates or troubleshooting steps.

2. OBD Auto Doctor: User-Friendly and Feature-Rich

OBD Auto Doctor operates similarly to many car diagnostic apps, focusing on ease of use and comprehensive data monitoring. Compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, it provides real-time tracking of vital vehicle sensors and parameters. Its user-friendly interface and robust feature set make it a strong contender in the OBD2 app market.

OBD Auto Doctor stands out for its ability to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission systems. This comprehensive monitoring provides a holistic view of your vehicle’s health. Furthermore, its optimized fuel consumption parameter monitoring can help you save money on fuel costs by identifying inefficient driving habits. Data export via email in CSV format allows for easy sharing and analysis of vehicle data.

Pros:

• Real-time Data Display: Provides crucial real-time data on your screen, empowering you to make informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and driving.
• Numerical and Graphical Data Display: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences and data interpretation needs.
• Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability across different car makes and models.
• GPS Support: Integrated GPS support enhances functionality, potentially useful for tracking routes and correlating location with vehicle data.
• Responsive Customer Service: Offers helpful customer service available 24/7, providing support and assistance when needed.
• Extensive Customization: Advanced customization options allow users to tailor the app to their specific needs and preferences.
• Imperial and Metric Unit Support: Supports both imperial and metric units in English, accommodating users with different measurement system preferences.
• Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, offering a comprehensive diagnostic capability.
• Readiness Status Tracking: Tracks readiness status, informing you when your car is ready for emission testing, saving you time and potential test failures.

Cons:

• In-app Purchases and Premium Upgrade: Access to additional features often requires in-app purchases or a premium upgrade, which may add to the overall cost.
• Connection and Reading Issues: Some users have reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings, although these may be adapter-related or specific to certain vehicle models.

3. InCarDoc Pro: Feature-Rich and User-Approved

InCarDoc Pro, previously recognized as one of the top OBD2 apps for Android in 2017 and 2018, remains a leading contender for OBD2 app excellence. Its reputation for high-level car scanning and diagnostics, presented through a clean and intuitive home screen, continues to attract users.

Before committing to the paid version (typically under $5), InCarDoc Pro offers a free version that allows you to test adapter and car compatibility. This risk-free trial period is a valuable feature for ensuring the app works seamlessly with your specific setup. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and maintains compatibility with most modern Android devices.

Pros:

• Broad OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website, providing a reliable compatibility reference.
• Real-time Parameter Monitoring: Provides real-time readings of engine and vehicle parameters, giving you immediate insights into your car’s operation.
• Overlay Mode: Offers an overlay feature to display economy data in the background or over other running applications, allowing for convenient multitasking and data monitoring while using other apps (like navigation).
• Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Includes widgets for fuel economy and acceleration data, providing quick access to key performance metrics directly on your device’s home screen.
• GPS Integration: GPS support enhances the app’s functionality, enabling location-based data logging and tracking.
• Cloud Data Upload: Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage, facilitating data backup and access from multiple devices.
• Data Sharing for Professional Assistance: Enables data sharing via email, making it easy to send diagnostic information to mechanics for remote assistance with car repairs.

Cons:

• Android Version Requirement: Supports Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with very old devices.
• Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have encountered occasional errors while establishing Bluetooth connections, which may require troubleshooting.

4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App: Free, Feature-Packed, and Highly Rated

If you’re looking for a comprehensive understanding of your car’s parameters without an upfront cost, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app is an excellent choice. This free car diagnostic app allows you to access a wide range of data from your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU), empowering you with valuable insights into your vehicle’s performance.

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app helps you proactively identify potential issues before they escalate. If you are familiar with fault codes and their meanings, this app can be a powerful tool for DIY car maintenance. It allows you to address minor problems yourself and determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary. Its broad compatibility across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, coupled with over 2 million installs, highlights its widespread popularity and user satisfaction. Notably, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 boasts a high 4.7 rating, often the highest among OBD2 apps in app stores, reflecting its user-perceived quality and effectiveness.

Pros:

• Universal OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring wide applicability.
• Adapter Compatibility: Works with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware choices.
• Customizable Dashboard: Provides a customizable dashboard, allowing you to track your preferred parameters and prioritize the data most important to you.
• Fuel Consumption Statistics: Offers fuel consumption statistics, helping you monitor and optimize your fuel efficiency.
• Settings Backup and Restore: Includes settings backup and restore functionality, making it easy to transfer your app setup between devices or after reinstalling the app.
• Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a diverse user base.

Cons:

• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.3 and above, excluding older devices.
• In-app Purchases for Full Functionality: Optimal performance and access to all features may require in-app purchases, which can add to the cost if you desire the full suite of capabilities.

5. EOBD Facile: Deep Dive Diagnostics

EOBD Facile is another strong contender in the OBD2 app arena, available for both Android and iOS. It supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters and focuses on providing comprehensive access to essential vehicle parameters, enabling informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and operation.

Depending on the data provided by your car’s ECU, EOBD Facile can display a wide array of gauges and parameters, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake, and more. This wealth of data is presented clearly on the app’s dashboard, giving you a detailed view of your vehicle’s performance. With over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile has established a solid user base.

Pros:

• Real-time Sensor Display: Provides real-time display of vehicle sensor data, allowing for immediate monitoring of critical parameters.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes and definitions, offering comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
• Fault Code Clearing: Allows you to delete fault codes and resolve engine light issues (for minor problems), potentially saving trips to the mechanic for simple fixes.
• Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating detailed trip analysis and record-keeping.
• Route Planning: Includes route planning functionality, which can be helpful for long trips and integrating vehicle diagnostics with navigation.

Cons:

• Requires OBD2 App Experience: May be more suitable for users with some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its features effectively.
• No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

6. HobDrive: Advanced Tracking, Premium Features

HobDrive stands out as one of the more feature-rich OBD2 apps for Android, though it comes with a higher price tag compared to many others on the Google Play Store (around $10). This premium pricing reflects its advanced car tracking capabilities and broader vehicle compatibility.

A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with not only OBD2 compliant vehicles but also some Non-OBD2 vehicles, such as Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. This expanded compatibility makes it a versatile option for users with a wider range of car models. HobDrive also offers seamless access across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS, providing multi-device accessibility.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Features a customizable dashboard that displays a wide range of parameters provided by your car’s ECU, allowing you to prioritize relevant data.
• Adapter Compatibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, offering flexible connectivity options.
• Advanced Monitoring: Tracks potential issues like overheating and suspicious fuel trims, providing proactive diagnostics.
• MIL Code Explanations: Offers clear explanations of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) codes, making it easier to understand diagnostic trouble codes.
• Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings, potentially useful for tracking mileage and maintenance intervals.
• MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance, offering accurate fuel efficiency data.
• Pro Version with Enhanced Gauges: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges, providing more visually appealing and informative data representations.

Cons:

• Payment Issues in Some Regions: Some users have reported difficulties with completing in-app payments in certain geographical locations.
• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding users with very old devices.

7. OBDeleven: “One-Click Apps” and Advanced Control

OBDeleven differentiates itself from many OBD2 apps by incorporating “One Click Apps” alongside standard diagnostic features. These apps offer convenient control over various car options with a single tap, adding a unique layer of functionality beyond basic diagnostics.

To fully leverage the “One Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. While the base app provides valuable diagnostic data, a Premium upgrade unlocks access to a broader range of car tracking tools and advanced functionalities. OBDeleven is favored by car enthusiasts and professional mechanics for its comprehensive features and control capabilities, making it a powerful tool for in-depth vehicle management.

Pros:

• Diagnostic Trouble Code Management: Supports reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU, providing comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
• Multi-Language Support: Offers support for multiple languages, catering to a global user base.
• Active Social Media Community: Maintains an active social media community, providing a platform for user support, discussions, and shared knowledge.
• Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in all OBD2 apps, adding extra diagnostic utility.
• DIY Repair Manuals: Provides manuals containing DIY car fixes, offering guidance for addressing common vehicle issues.
• Vehicle History Retrieval: Allows retrieval of history for connected cars, useful for tracking maintenance and diagnostic records.
• Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit resets, enabling advanced troubleshooting and system management.

Cons:

• Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for the “One Click App” features.
• Advertisements in Free Version: The free version contains advertisements that can be removed by upgrading to Premium.

8. Dash – Drive Smart: Driving Insights and Smart Features

Dash – Drive Smart is designed to go beyond basic diagnostics, focusing on providing driving insights and smart car analysis tools. It supports OBDeleven software and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, offering broad vehicle coverage.

Dash aims to enhance your driving experience and improve your car’s long-term health by providing data-driven insights. It can even function without requiring a device to be constantly connected, offering flexibility in usage.

Pros:

• Customizable Background Dashboard: Offers an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in background mode, allowing continuous monitoring.
• Driver Score and Leaderboard: Provides a driver score and leaderboard, enabling you to compare your driving performance with other users, potentially fostering safer and more efficient driving habits.
• Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding, simplifying setup for users with multiple cars.
• GPS Tracking for Parking: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help you locate where you parked your car, a convenient feature in busy areas.
• Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Features nearby gas price comparison, helping you save money on fuel purchases by finding the most affordable gas stations.

Cons:

• Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported concerns about the app draining their mobile device’s battery, especially with continuous background operation.
• Glitchy Compass Feature: The compass feature has been reported as glitchy, although updates may address this issue.
• Network Connection Issues: Some users have experienced network connection problems, which can affect real-time data updates.

9. Engine Link (iOS): iOS-Focused Diagnostic Powerhouse

Engine Link is a car diagnostic app tailored for iOS devices, often compared to Torque Pro for Android in terms of functionality. It seamlessly connects with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, though recent user feedback suggests potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity.

Despite some connectivity concerns, Engine Link remains a highly regarded car tracking application on iOS. Available for a one-time purchase (around $6 on iTunes), it offers a comprehensive suite of car monitoring features to keep you informed and in control.

Pros:

• Customizable Parameter Dashboard: Provides a customizable dashboard that allows you to select and track only the parameters you need, reducing clutter and improving focus.
• Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption, helping you track your vehicle’s environmental performance and fuel efficiency.
• Extensive Fault Code Management: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, offering robust diagnostic capabilities.
• Heads-Up Display Option: Offers a heads-up dashboard display option, projecting data onto your windshield for convenient viewing while driving.
• No In-app Purchases or Subscriptions: Requires a single upfront purchase, with no recurring subscription fees or in-app purchases for core features.
• Extensive Language Support: Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
• Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest updates include support for Torque Custom PID files, expanding customization and data tracking possibilities.

Cons:

• ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data, potentially requiring troubleshooting or adapter checks.
• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later, excluding users with older iOS devices.

10. ScanMaster: Accurate Fault Code Readings

ScanMaster is another capable car monitoring tool designed for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While perhaps not as widely known as some other scanners, this Android application maintains a respectable 4.0 rating with over a million installs, indicating solid user satisfaction.

ScanMaster focuses on providing a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and delivering accurate fault code readings. This accuracy can be particularly valuable in preventing overcharging by mechanics by providing you with reliable diagnostic information before seeking professional repairs.

ScanMaster offers a Lite (free) version that provides access to essential car parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the Pro version unlocks the full feature set, including a more extensive fault code database and detailed descriptions for error codes.

Pros:

• Free Version with Key Parameters: Offers a free version with access to a useful set of tracking parameters.
• Multi-Language Support: Supports German and English languages, catering to a bilingual user base.
• User-Friendly Navigation: Designed for easy navigation and intuitive use.
• Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware choices.
• Data Recording Capabilities: Includes data recording functionality for later analysis and review.
• Graphical Data Representation: Provides clear graphical representations of data for easier interpretation and trend identification.

Cons:

• Ineffective Customer Support: Some users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness or effectiveness.
• Device Compatibility Issues: A few users have reported compatibility issues with certain devices, although this may be device-specific.
• Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding older devices.

11. DashCommand (iOS): Award-Winning Performance Gauges

DashCommand prides itself on transforming your mobile device into an advanced display for engine data, earning recognition as the SEMA Show’s best mobile electronic product in 2014. This iOS app is positioned as a premium option for users seeking high-performance monitoring and customization.

DashCommand is among the more expensive OBD2 scanner apps on iOS (around $14.99 on iTunes), but it delivers a robust set of features, including customizable performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine gauges, and emission testing for up to five trips. Customer reviews often affirm that the app’s features and performance justify its price.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Designed for user-friendliness and intuitive operation.
• Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track your preferred data parameters and display them in your preferred format.
• Inclinometer for Off-Roading: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving and monitoring vehicle stability.
• Data Logging and Playback: Supports data-logging, recording, and playback, enabling detailed analysis of vehicle performance over time.
• Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a sophisticated trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips, providing comprehensive trip data analysis.
• Graphical Data Representation: Offers graphical representations of collected data for easier interpretation and trend analysis.

Cons:

• iPhone X Incompatibility: Reportedly not compatible with iPhone X models, potentially limiting its use for some iOS users.
• Haltech Elite 2500 Compatibility Issues: Compatibility issues have been reported with Haltech Elite 2500 engine management systems, potentially limiting its use for users with these systems.
• In-app Purchases for Car Models: Contains in-app purchases for some car models, potentially adding to the overall cost depending on your vehicle.

12. BlueDriver: Free Features and Professional-Grade Diagnostics

BlueDriver stands out as a notable OBD2 scanner app, available on both iOS and Android, offering a compelling combination of free features and professional-grade diagnostic capabilities. Its high 4.6 rating on iTunes and 2 million downloads underscore its popularity and user satisfaction.

BlueDriver provides access to critical vehicle parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email, all within its free functionality. It even incorporates features often found in paid OBD2 apps, making it a valuable tool for both professional mechanics and car enthusiasts seeking robust diagnostics without subscription fees.

Pros:

• Wireless Connection: Offers wireless connection to your car, enhancing convenience and eliminating cable clutter.
• Smog Readiness Check: Includes a smog readiness check feature, helping you ensure your vehicle is ready for emissions testing.
• Travel Cost Reduction Potential: Can help reduce travel costs by enabling proactive maintenance and identifying potential issues early.
• Free and Regular Updates: Provides free and regular updates, ensuring the app remains current and compatible with evolving vehicle technologies.
• On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results, providing in-depth diagnostic information.
• Enhanced Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission: Offers improved diagnostics for systems like ABS, Airbag, and Transmission, going beyond basic engine diagnostics.
• Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and documentation of vehicle maintenance.

Cons:

• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding users with older iOS devices.
• iPhone XR Issues: Some users have reported issues with iPhone XR compatibility, although updates may address these issues.

13. GoFAR: Mileage Tracking and Fuel Savings Focus

GoFAR distinguishes itself as a car diagnostic device and app combination focused on car health monitoring and mileage tracking, while emphasizing fuel savings. It maintains compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters, offering broad vehicle support.

A key selling point of GoFAR is its IRS-compliant mileage tracking, which can potentially lead to tax savings for business or mileage-deducting users. Its focus on fuel efficiency can also help reduce driving costs by an estimated 10-30%. The Android and iOS applications maintain a high 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences.

Pros:

• Easy Installation and Use: Designed for straightforward installation and user-friendly operation.
• Warranty Included: Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase, providing peace of mind.
• Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English, making diagnostic information easily understandable for non-technical users.
• Mechanic Finder Platform: Provides a platform for finding and hiring nearby mechanics, streamlining the repair process.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 3000 fault codes and descriptions, offering comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
• Driver Leaderboard and Competition: Features a global leaderboard and driver competition based on cost savings, potentially motivating more efficient driving habits.
• Maintenance and Alert Reminders: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders, promoting proactive vehicle maintenance.
• No Subscription Fees: Requires a one-time purchase, with no ongoing subscription fees.

Cons:

• Upfront Purchase Required: Requires an initial purchase of the GoFAR device (around $99), which may be a higher upfront cost compared to app-only solutions.

14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor: Simplicity and Ease of Use

FIXD prioritizes simplicity and ease of use without compromising on core diagnostic functionality. It aims to make OBD2 diagnostics accessible to a wider audience, even those with limited technical expertise.

Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into easy-to-understand language, enabling users to quickly grasp the nature of any vehicle issues and take appropriate action. FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, optimized for seamless app performance and gauge monitoring. The Android app on Google Play Store maintains a solid 4.5 rating.

Pros:

• Quick and Easy Setup: Designed for quick installation and immediate usability, ideal for first-time OBD2 app users.
• User-Friendly Interface: Suitable for users with limited OBD2 app experience due to its simplicity and clear presentation.
• Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
• Worn Part Alerts: Alerts you to worn-out car parts requiring repair or replacement, enabling preventative maintenance.
• Easy Onboarding Process: Features a streamlined and user-friendly onboarding experience.
• In-App Parts Purchasing: Offers the ability to buy car parts directly within the app, potentially simplifying the repair process.
• Helpful Customer Support: Provides a helpful customer support team for assistance and troubleshooting.

Cons:

• Bugs in Older App Versions: Some users have reported bugs in older versions of the app, though updates may address these issues.
• Proprietary Adapter Requirement: Primarily works with FIXD adapters, limiting adapter choice.
• In-app Purchases: Offers in-app purchases for additional features or services, potentially adding to the overall cost.

15. Carly For BMW: BMW-Specific Diagnostics and Control

Carly For BMW is specifically designed for BMW owners, offering tailored diagnostics and control features for BMW vehicles. It is compatible with adapters provided by Carly, ensuring optimized performance within the BMW ecosystem.

Whether you are a new or experienced BMW driver, Carly provides access to vital car gauges and parameters in real-time. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, and a Lite version is available for compatibility testing before purchasing the full app.

Pros:

• Comprehensive BMW Health Checks: Offers thorough health checks of your BMW’s electronic components, providing in-depth diagnostics.
• Used Car Check Feature: Includes a used car check feature, useful for assessing the condition of a used BMW before purchase.
• One-Click Parking Brake Control: Provides one-click control for the electric parking brake, adding convenient control functionality.
• Premium Customer Support and Adapter Warranty: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, adding value and peace of mind.
• DIY Battery Registration Support: Supports DIY battery registration, a BMW-specific maintenance task.
• Excellent Customer Service: Known for providing excellent customer service and support to BMW users.

Cons:

• Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are relatively expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters, increasing the initial investment.
• Limited Fault Codes for Certain BMW Models: Some users have reported limited fault code coverage for specific BMW models like the 2 Series F45/F46.

16. Carista OBD2 App: Customization and Brand Support

Carista OBD2 App, paired with its Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug, offers a blend of diagnostic capabilities and customization options. Carista boasts strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.

A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option within the app. Once plugged in, this feature allows you to access and modify various ECU settings, often configurations that are typically only accessible by dealership technicians.

Pros:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connection, enhancing convenience.
• Compact Adapter: Features a compact OBD2 adapter for easy portability and discreet use.
• Customizable Settings: Offers extensive customizable settings, allowing users to personalize their vehicle’s electronic configurations.
• Phone to OBD2 Scanner Innovation: Integrates smartphone convenience with OBD2 scanning functionality.
• Free Trial Period: Offers a 1-month free trial period, allowing users to test the app and features before committing to a purchase.
• Cross-Platform Support: Supports both iOS and Android platforms, catering to a wider user base.
• Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities for supported vehicle brands.

Cons:

• In-app Purchases: Requires in-app purchases to unlock full features and ongoing access beyond the trial period.

17. OBD Fusion: User-Friendly with Extensive Data Logging

Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion, in conjunction with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, provides comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports. It is recognized as a popular and user-friendly option for vehicle diagnostics, catering to both novice and experienced users.

OBD Fusion’s ease of use is a key advantage, making it accessible to a broad range of users. Customizable dashboards are a highlight, enabling you to display the specific information you need and closely monitor critical engine functions.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards, allowing users to tailor the display to their specific monitoring needs.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android, providing platform versatility.
• GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features, potentially integrating vehicle diagnostics with navigation functionalities.
• Emission Monitoring: Features emission monitoring capabilities, helping users track their vehicle’s environmental performance.
• Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging capabilities for in-depth analysis and record-keeping.

Cons:

• Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some features are locked behind expansion packs, potentially increasing the overall cost for full functionality.
• No Diagnostic Data Sharing Features: Lacks built-in diagnostic data sharing features, which may be desired for collaborating with mechanics remotely.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Best Android OBD2 App

You now have a comprehensive overview of some of the best OBD2 apps available for Android, many of which were top choices in 2019 and remain highly relevant today. When selecting an app, consider your specific needs, technical expertise, and budget.

Before making a purchase or committing to a particular app, remember to verify compatibility with your car. Functional testing is crucial to ensure seamless communication between the app, your OBD2 adapter, and your vehicle’s computer. Many app developers offer free “lite” versions specifically for compatibility testing. Take advantage of these free versions to confirm compatibility before investing in a paid app.

To help you narrow down your choices, here are our top recommendations for Android OBD2 apps:

Best Overall Android OBD2 App:

Torque Pro – A paid service that delivers exceptional features, extensive customization, and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for serious users.

Best User-Friendly Android OBD2 App:

OBD Fusion – A paid service renowned for its ease of use, customizable dashboards, and comprehensive tracking of vital parameters, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced users.

Ultimately, the best OBD2 app for you will depend on your individual requirements and preferences. Explore the options, test compatibility, and choose the app that empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicle effectively.