In an age where technology pervades every aspect of our lives, it’s no surprise that even car maintenance has been revolutionized by smartphone applications. Onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps have emerged as indispensable tools for car owners, providing unprecedented access to real-time vehicle data directly on your mobile device. For Android users in 2019, the quest to find the best OBD2 Android app was met with a plethora of options, each promising to unlock the secrets hidden within your car’s engine control unit (ECU). These innovative apps offered a window into your vehicle’s health, enabling you to monitor performance, diagnose issues, and potentially save significant money on repairs.
With a vast market of OBD2 apps available on the Google Play Store in 2019, selecting the right one could be overwhelming. Drivers sought reliable, user-friendly, and feature-rich applications that could accurately interpret the complex data streamed from their vehicles. The ideal app would seamlessly connect to an OBD2 adapter, translate cryptic error codes into plain English, and offer customizable dashboards to display the most relevant parameters. This article delves into the top contenders for the title of best OBD2 Android app in 2019, providing insights into their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you were a seasoned car enthusiast or a novice driver, understanding your car’s diagnostics through these apps became an empowering and cost-effective way to stay ahead of potential problems on the road.
Top OBD2 Android Apps of 2019: In-Depth Reviews
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Alt text: Torque Pro app dashboard on Android showcasing real-time vehicle diagnostics data, a top choice for best OBD2 Android app 2019.
Torque Pro, consistently lauded as a top-tier OBD2 app, cemented its position as a leading choice for Android users in 2019. For a modest price around $5 on the Play Store, this app unlocked a wealth of diagnostic capabilities, making it a worthwhile investment for car owners seeking comprehensive vehicle insights. Its popularity was evident with over 1,000,000 downloads, reflecting its trusted reputation within the Android automotive community in 2019.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: In 2019, Torque Pro’s highly customizable dashboard was a standout feature, allowing users to tailor the display to their specific needs and preferences. This personalized experience was crucial for efficient real-time monitoring.
- Data Export and Sharing: The ability to export compiled data to servers or email was particularly useful in 2019 for users who wanted to keep records or share diagnostic information with mechanics remotely.
- Rich Feature Set: Including a GPS-based compass, graph data support, CO2 emission readouts, and a track recorder, Torque Pro offered a comprehensive suite of tools that were highly valued by users in 2019.
- Alarm and Warning System: The alarm and warning system for performance issues, like high coolant temperature, provided timely alerts, helping drivers address potential problems promptly in 2019.
- Android Version Compatibility: Its support for lower Android versions, including 2.0, ensured accessibility for a broader range of users with older devices in 2019.
Cons:
- Paid App: Being a paid app from the outset was a barrier for some users in 2019, especially when free alternatives were available.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues: While generally reliable, some users in 2019 reported occasional Bluetooth pairing bugs, although these were often resolved with updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app interface on Android displaying real-time engine parameters, a versatile option in the best OBD2 Android app 2019 category.
OBD Auto Doctor presented itself as a robust and versatile OBD2 application in 2019, functioning similarly to many other diagnostic apps but with its own set of strengths. Its compatibility with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi adapters ensured broad connectivity, making it a practical choice for Android users seeking reliable vehicle monitoring.
Pros:
- Real-time Data Monitoring: Providing real-time sensor data on the screen was a core strength in 2019, enabling users to make informed decisions about their car’s maintenance and driving habits.
- Data Display Options: Supporting both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data catered to different user preferences for data visualization in 2019.
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles was a significant advantage, making it accessible to a wide range of car owners in 2019.
- Fuel Consumption Monitoring: The optimized fuel consumption parameter tracking was a valuable feature for cost-conscious drivers in 2019, helping them improve fuel efficiency.
- Customer Support: The availability of a 24/7 customer service team offered reassurance and assistance to users, enhancing the overall user experience in 2019.
Cons:
- In-app Purchases: The need for in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to unlock full features was a common drawback for users seeking a fully featured free app in 2019.
- Connection Issues: Some users in 2019 reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings, highlighting the importance of adapter compatibility and app updates.
3. InCarDoc Pro
Alt text: InCarDoc Pro app home screen on Android showing a clean and user-friendly design, recognized as a leading OBD2 app in 2019.
InCarDoc Pro stood out as a prominent OBD2 app in both 2017/2018 and continued to be a strong contender for the best OBD2 Android app in 2019. Its focus on high-level car scanning and diagnostics, presented through a clean and intuitive interface, appealed to users who valued both functionality and ease of use.
Pros:
- OBD2 Compliance: Ensuring compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their site provided users with confidence in its broad applicability in 2019.
- Real-time Parameter Monitoring: The ability to read real-time engine and vehicle parameters was a fundamental feature for effective car diagnostics in 2019.
- Background Mode Overlay: The overlay feature for displaying economy data in the background or over other apps was a unique and convenient functionality for multitasking users in 2019.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Dedicated widgets for fuel economy and acceleration provided quick and accessible performance metrics on Android devices in 2019.
- Cloud Reporting and Data Sharing: The options to upload reporting data to cloud storage and share data via email facilitated professional assistance and data management in 2019.
Cons:
- Android Version Support: Supporting Android 4.0.3 and up meant users with very old devices might face compatibility issues, although this was less of a concern in 2019.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users experienced potential errors during Bluetooth connection, suggesting the need for careful adapter selection and app setup in 2019.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App customizable dashboard on Android displaying diverse vehicle data, a highly-rated free option for best OBD2 Android app 2019.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App distinguished itself as a highly-rated and widely adopted free car diagnostic tool in 2019. Boasting over 2 million installs across various platforms, including Android, iOS, and Windows, it demonstrated its broad appeal and effectiveness in the OBD2 app market. Its impressive 4.7 rating on app stores further solidified its reputation as a user-favorite.
Pros:
- OBD2 Standard Compatibility: Its compatibility with all OBD2 standard vehicles ensured accessibility for the majority of car owners in 2019.
- Adapter Compatibility: Supporting most Wifi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters provided flexibility in hardware choices for users.
- Customizable Dashboard: Similar to Torque Pro, its customizable dashboard allowed users to prioritize and track their preferred parameters, enhancing the user experience in 2019.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Providing fuel consumption statistics was a valuable feature for drivers aiming to monitor and optimize their fuel efficiency in 2019.
- Settings Backup and Restore: The settings backup and restore function offered convenience and ease of use, especially when switching devices or reinstalling the app in 2019.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Supporting only Android 4.3 and above excluded users with older Android devices in 2019.
- In-app Purchases for Optimal Performance: While free to download, unlocking optimal performance might require in-app purchases, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious users in 2019.
5. EOBD Facile
Alt text: EOBD Facile app interface on Android showcasing real-time vehicle gauges and parameters, a popular diagnostic tool in the best OBD2 Android app 2019 landscape.
EOBD Facile established itself as a reliable OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS platforms in 2019. Supporting ELM327 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters, it aimed to provide users with essential gauges and parameters for effective car monitoring and diagnostics directly on their mobile devices. Its popularity was reflected in over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store.
Pros:
- Real-time Sensor Display: The real-time display of vehicle sensors was a core function, enabling users to monitor critical data as they drove or diagnosed issues in 2019.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Including over 11,000 fault codes and definitions provided a comprehensive resource for understanding and addressing vehicle problems in 2019.
- Fault Code Clearing: The ability to delete fault codes and resolve engine light issues empowered users to handle minor problems themselves, potentially saving on mechanic visits in 2019.
- Trip Record Storage: Supporting trip record storage on an SD card for later review on PC/Mac software offered advanced data analysis capabilities for enthusiasts in 2019.
- Route Planning Feature: The inclusion of a route planning feature, although not directly diagnostic, added extra utility, especially for users taking long trips in 2019.
Cons:
- Requires OBD2 App Experience: The app might be less user-friendly for beginners, potentially requiring some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its features in 2019.
- No USB Adapter Support: The lack of support for USB adapters might limit connectivity options for some users who prefer wired connections in 2019.
6. HobDrive
Alt text: HobDrive app customizable dashboard on Android showing detailed vehicle statistics, a premium and feature-rich contender for best OBD2 Android app 2019.
HobDrive positioned itself as a premium and feature-rich OBD2 app for Android in 2019, albeit with a higher price point compared to many competitors. While costing around $10 on the Google Play Store, it aimed to justify its price through advanced car tracking features and broader vehicle compatibility, including some Non-OBD2 vehicles.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offering a highly customizable dashboard, HobDrive allowed users to display a wide array of parameters provided by their car’s ECU, catering to diverse monitoring needs in 2019.
- Broad Adapter and Platform Support: Supporting GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi adapters, as well as compatibility with CarPCs, car audio systems, and Windows Phone/iOS, provided exceptional versatility in 2019.
- Advanced Monitoring: Tracking overheating and suspicious fuel trims offered deeper insights into potential engine issues beyond basic OBD2 readings in 2019.
- MIL Code Explanations: Providing clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes helped users understand error messages effectively in 2019.
- Odometer Estimation and MPG Calculation: Features like car odometer estimation and MPG calculation for diesel vehicles added practical value for tracking vehicle usage and fuel economy in 2019.
Cons:
- Higher Price: Being one of the more expensive OBD2 apps on the Play Store was a significant factor for budget-conscious users in 2019.
- Payment Issues: Some users reported difficulties with in-app payments in certain locations, potentially hindering access to the app in 2019.
- Android Version Requirement: Running only on Android version 3 and above, while not a major limitation in 2019, still excluded users with very outdated devices.
7. OBDeleven
Alt text: OBDeleven app showcasing the “One Click App” feature on Android, an innovative and advanced OBD2 solution considered among the best in 2019.
OBDeleven distinguished itself in the OBD2 app landscape of 2019 with its innovative “One Click App” feature, setting it apart from many standard diagnostic tools. Beyond providing a clear view of ECU parameters, OBDeleven offered users the ability to control various car options with a single click, adding a layer of convenience and advanced functionality.
Pros:
- One Click Apps: The “One Click App” feature was a unique selling point in 2019, allowing users to perform complex car modifications and customizations with ease.
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Supporting reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes from the ECU provided a robust diagnostic capability in 2019.
- Active Community and Support: Having an active social media community offered users a platform for support, knowledge sharing, and troubleshooting in 2019.
- Additional Features: Including a car battery analyzer and DIY car fix manuals enhanced the app’s overall utility beyond basic OBD2 scanning in 2019.
- Control Unit Reset: Supporting control unit resets offered advanced users and mechanics more in-depth control over vehicle systems in 2019.
Cons:
- Network Dependency: Requiring a network connection for optimal performance, especially for the “One Click App” feature, could be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity in 2019.
- Premium Upgrade and Ads: Annoying ads in the free version and the need for a Premium upgrade to access full features could detract from the user experience for some in 2019.
8. ScanMaster
Alt text: ScanMaster app interface on Android displaying real-time vehicle data and fault codes, a reliable and user-friendly OBD2 scanner in 2019.
ScanMaster emerged as a reliable and user-friendly car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters in 2019. While not as widely recognized as some other apps, it maintained a respectable 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, indicating a solid user base and dependable performance.
Pros:
- Free Version Features: Offering a handful of tracking parameters even in the free “Lite” version, including VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status, provided valuable functionality without initial cost in 2019.
- Language Support: Supporting both German and English languages catered to a broader user base across different regions in 2019.
- Ease of Navigation: The app’s easy navigation made it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise in 2019.
- Data Recording and Graphical Representation: Supporting data recording and clear graphical representations of data enhanced analysis and understanding of vehicle performance in 2019.
Cons:
- Customer Support Issues: Reports of an ineffective customer support team might be a concern for users needing assistance or troubleshooting in 2019.
- Device Compatibility: A few cases of unsupported devices suggested users should check compatibility before committing to the app in 2019.
- Android Version Requirement: Compatibility with only Android 4.0 and above meant users with older devices were excluded in 2019.
9. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
Alt text: FIXD Vehicle Health Monitor app interface on Android with simplified fault code explanations, a user-friendly OBD2 option for 2019.
FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor aimed to simplify the OBD2 app experience in 2019, focusing on user-friendliness without compromising essential diagnostic quality. Its key differentiator was translating fault codes into easily understandable terms, making car diagnostics accessible to a wider audience, including those without extensive automotive knowledge.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: Designed for simplicity, FIXD was particularly suitable for first-time OBD2 app users in 2019, offering a straightforward and intuitive interface.
- Simplified Fault Code Explanations: Translating fault codes into plain language was a major advantage, enabling users to quickly understand and act upon vehicle issues in 2019.
- Maintenance Reminders: The ability to schedule maintenance reminders helped users stay on top of routine car care, potentially preventing larger problems in 2019.
- Parts Purchase Option: Integrating the ability to buy car parts directly within the app offered a convenient solution for DIY repairs in 2019.
- Customer Support: A helpful customer support team provided assistance and guidance to users, enhancing the overall user experience in 2019.
Cons:
- Adapter Dependency: Working optimally with only FIXD adapters limited user choice and required purchasing specific hardware in 2019.
- In-app Purchases: Offering in-app purchases meant some features or extended functionalities might require additional spending beyond the initial adapter purchase in 2019.
10. Carista OBD2 App
Alt text: Carista OBD2 App showcasing customization options on Android, a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug for advanced vehicle settings in 2019.
Carista OBD2 App stood out in 2019 with its focus on customization and brand-specific features, particularly for Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus vehicles. Its Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and accompanying app offered users the ability to access and modify ECU options typically reserved for dealerships.
Pros:
- Customizable Settings: The “Customize” option, allowing users to change various ECU settings, was a unique and powerful feature for car enthusiasts in 2019.
- Brand Specific Focus: Strong support for major car brands like Toyota, BMW, and VW made it a highly specialized and effective tool for owners of these vehicles in 2019.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity offered wireless convenience and ease of use in connecting to the OBD2 adapter in 2019.
- Free Trial: Offering a 1-month free trial allowed users to test the app’s features and compatibility before committing to a purchase in 2019.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Providing detailed diagnostics beyond basic OBD2 readings catered to users seeking in-depth vehicle analysis in 2019.
Cons:
- In-app Purchases: The reliance on in-app purchases for full functionality might be a limiting factor for users seeking a comprehensive one-time purchase app in 2019.
11. OBD Fusion
Alt text: OBD Fusion app customizable dashboard on Android displaying a range of vehicle parameters, a user-friendly and versatile diagnostic tool for 2019.
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, was recognized as a popular and user-friendly OBD2 app in 2019, catering to both novice and professional users. Its ease of use and customizable dashboards were key strengths, allowing users to tailor the app to their specific diagnostic needs and preferences.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboards: Highly customizable dashboards were a central feature, enabling users to display and prioritize the vehicle information most relevant to them in 2019.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatibility with both iOS and Android platforms expanded its accessibility to users across different mobile ecosystems in 2019.
- GPS Navigation Features: Including GPS navigation features added extra utility beyond vehicle diagnostics, making it a more versatile tool for drivers in 2019.
- Emission Monitoring: Emission monitoring capabilities were increasingly relevant in 2019, as environmental awareness and emission regulations grew in importance.
- Extensive Data Logging: Extensive data logging capabilities allowed for in-depth analysis of vehicle performance over time, appealing to enthusiasts and professionals in 2019.
Cons:
- Features Behind Expansion Packs: Locking some features behind expansion packs meant users might need to purchase additional content to access the app’s full potential in 2019.
- No Diagnostic Data Sharing Features: The lack of diagnostic data sharing features might be a limitation for users who wanted to easily share information with mechanics or other parties in 2019.
Conclusion
The landscape of best OBD2 Android apps in 2019 offered a diverse range of options, each catering to different user needs and technical expertise. From feature-rich paid apps like Torque Pro to user-friendly free options like Car Scanner ELM OBD2, Android users in 2019 had access to powerful tools for vehicle diagnostics and monitoring. The key to choosing the right app in 2019, as it remains today, was to consider your specific requirements, budget, and the compatibility of the app with your vehicle and OBD2 adapter.
While many excellent apps were available, two stood out as particularly compelling choices for Android users seeking the best OBD2 app in 2019:
- For Feature-Rich Performance: Torque Pro remained a top recommendation for users who valued extensive customization, advanced features, and reliable performance, making it a worthwhile investment.
- For User-Friendly Versatility: OBD Fusion provided a balanced combination of ease of use, customizable dashboards, and cross-platform compatibility, appealing to a broad range of Android users in 2019.
Ultimately, the best OBD2 Android app for 2019 for any individual depended on their specific needs and preferences. However, the apps highlighted in this review represented the leading contenders in the market, offering valuable tools for car owners to take control of their vehicle’s health and performance in the evolving automotive technology landscape of 2019.
