Best OBD2 Software for Mac in 2024: Top Picks for Car Diagnostics

For Mac users who are passionate about car maintenance and diagnostics, finding compatible OBD2 software can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. While the automotive industry often leans towards Windows, there are indeed robust and reliable OBD2 software options available for macOS. This article dives into the best OBD2 software for Mac, ensuring you can effectively diagnose your vehicle right from your Apple computer.

We understand the frustration of sifting through countless apps and programs, many of which are either unreliable or not truly designed for Mac. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of top-tier OBD2 software packages that are fully compatible with macOS and offer a range of features to meet different needs, from basic check-engine light reading to advanced diagnostics.

Unlike many generic mobile apps that often sacrifice functionality for a flashy interface, the software highlighted here prioritizes depth and accuracy. We focus on laptop-based solutions because they generally offer more comprehensive features and are developed by companies with a proven track record in automotive diagnostics, rather than fleeting mobile app developers.

Having rigorously tested and used various car diagnostic tools over the years, we present our curated selection of the best OBD2 software for Mac. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision, saving you time and ensuring you choose software that is both effective and trustworthy. We encourage you to explore each option, visit their websites, and select the software that best fits your specific automotive diagnostic requirements.

To make your reading experience efficient, we’ve summarized the key features and benefits of each software in bullet points. Remember, the fundamental purpose of OBD2 software is consistent: to diagnose vehicle faults. The primary distinctions lie in the depth of diagnostics, the range of fault codes detected, and the user interface.

Equipping yourself with OBD2 diagnostics empowers you to understand your car’s health, much like a professional mechanic. However, it’s crucial to remember that while you can identify issues and clear codes, physical repairs of malfunctioning components are still necessary and cannot be resolved solely by software.

Key Features Shared by Recommended OBD Car Scanner Software:

Premium Solutions: These are not free OBD2 software options. For free basic OBD2 software (often used with ELM327 scan tools), consider EasyOBD, which is a commonly recommended free option for basic diagnostics.
Mac Compatibility: Recognizing the automotive industry’s Windows focus, we specifically highlight OBD2 software that offers solid performance on macOS.
Expert-Based Reviews: Our recommendations are grounded in extensive technical expertise and hands-on mechanical experience, totaling 60 years in the automotive field. Our reviews aim for unbiased evaluation and critique.
ELM327 Support: All listed software programs are compatible with ELM327 OBD2 interfaces, supporting Bluetooth, WIFI, and USB connections.
Unidirectional Operation: It’s important to note that these software options are generally unidirectional, meaning they read data from the vehicle. Bidirectional control, which allows sending commands to the vehicle, typically requires higher-end, OEM-level scan tools that are significantly more expensive.

An image depicting an OBD2 scanner interface on a Mac laptop, highlighting the compatibility of OBD2 software with macOS for diagnosing car issues.

A Quick Guide to OBD2 Scanners and Diagnostic Tools:

The evolution of automotive technology has been remarkable. From simple machines, cars have transformed into complex systems packed with advanced technology, including sophisticated engine management systems. Modern vehicles are equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD2) ports, providing access to a wealth of data from the engine control unit (ECU). This data is invaluable for technicians and car owners alike to diagnose problems and maintain vehicle health.

OBD2 ports have become standard in most cars on the road today, offering a gateway to the ECU, the car’s central computer. By accessing this data, one can understand various aspects of the vehicle’s operation, from engine performance to emission levels.

To tap into this information, you need an OBD2 interface hardware (like an ELM327 adapter) and compatible software to interpret the data. This has led to the development of numerous OBD software solutions for various platforms, including macOS, empowering users to perform car diagnostics themselves.

Typically, an OBD2 diagnostic kit includes both the hardware interface (adapter/cable) to connect to the car’s OBD2 port and the software to run on your computer (Mac, Windows, etc.). The hardware acts as a bridge between the car’s ECU and your computer, while the software deciphers and presents the diagnostic data in a user-friendly format. The primary goal of OBD2 software is to aid in vehicle maintenance, diagnose issues, and ultimately extend the lifespan of your car.

Below, we present seven distinct car diagnostic software options from different developers, which we consider to be among the best OBD2 software for Mac and Windows computers available for purchase.

(Disclaimer: We do not use affiliate links for these recommendations. Our aim is to provide genuine and helpful advice on OBD2 scanners and software that we believe can effectively assist you with your diagnostic needs.)

OBD Auto Doctor

OBD Auto Doctor stands out as a highly refined and user-friendly OBD2 car diagnostic tool, and we consider it the best OBD software for Mac OS X currently available. This software is designed to allow users to effortlessly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and establish direct communication with their car’s OBD2 system.

While its advanced capabilities might be extensive for the average car owner, for those who are technically inclined and eager to delve deeper into their vehicle’s diagnostics, OBD Auto Doctor offers a wealth of resources and data extraction. It strikes a balance between professional-grade features and user accessibility.

Benefits of OBD II Auto Doctor:

Comprehensive Diagnostics: Reads DTCs, freeze frame data, and provides insight into MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) status.
Emissions and Fuel Data: Monitors fuel emission levels and fuel consumption, offering valuable insights into engine efficiency.
Real-Time Data: Displays OBD2 real-time parameters in both numerical and graphical formats for easy analysis.
Data Sharing: Allows users to send diagnostic data via email for record-keeping or professional consultation.
Vehicle Information: Capable of retrieving VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and ECU calibration IDs.
Extensive DTC Database: Integrated database with over 14,000 diagnostic trouble codes, ensuring comprehensive fault code descriptions.

Learn more at OBD II Auto Doctor website…

Movi and Movi Pro

Movi/ Movi Pro excels in providing straightforward access to your vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) data on a Mac, without requiring complex setups. If you prioritize simplicity and reliability in retrieving car fault codes and precise live parameter identification (PIDs), Movi is an excellent choice. It offers a less overwhelming user experience compared to more feature-rich software, making it highly accessible.

The free version of Movi is adequate for basic diagnostics, but the paid version, Movi Pro, unlocks the crucial ability to clear DTC fault codes, enhancing its utility for regular car maintenance.

Benefits of Movi and Movi Pro:

Real-Time Data Monitoring: Allows viewing of real-time engine data to aid in diagnosing active engine issues.
DTC Management: Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Freeze Frame Data: Views and clears freeze frame data for historical diagnostic insights.
Fuel Efficiency Monitoring: Tracks fuel consumption and fuel economy metrics.
Performance Metrics: Monitors virtual horsepower and torque.
Data Visualization: Capable of graphing up to 4 engine indicators simultaneously for comparative analysis.

Learn more at Movi website…

EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile is designed for simplicity and ease of use, especially for Mac users connecting via an ELM327 interface. Available directly from the App Store, EOBD Facile is comparable to Movi in terms of user-friendliness, often coming down to personal preference regarding the user interface.

Once connected, EOBD Facile enables users to quickly diagnose issues, view results in real-time, access vehicle information, and monitor sensor data, making it a practical tool for everyday car diagnostics on a Mac.

Benefits of EOBD Facile:

Check Engine Light Reset: Clears the check engine light after addressing issues.
Engine Code Diagnostics: Displays engine codes and their descriptions for clear problem identification.
Manufacturer Code Monitoring: Monitors manufacturer-specific error codes in addition to standard OBD2 codes.
GPS Data Logging: Maintains a backlog of GPS data records for trip analysis and diagnostics in context.

Learn more at EOBD Facile website…

TOAD PRO

TOAD PRO software package, highlighting its comprehensive OBD-II and ECU diagnostic capabilities for advanced users.

TOAD® (Total OBD & ECU Auto Diagnostics) is a comprehensive and powerful OBD software suite, often considered “car-manufacturer-approved” due to its advanced capabilities. While primarily designed for Windows, it is robust enough to be run on a Mac using virtualization software like Parallels or Boot Camp, making its extensive features accessible to Mac users as well. TOAD PRO excels in performing in-depth vehicle health checks and diagnosing over 15,000 common issues. It also includes ECU remapping software for performance tuning, appealing to technically inclined users.

Originally intended for professional mechanics and service shops, TOAD PRO makes advanced diagnostic capabilities available to both professionals and serious car enthusiasts.

Benefits of TOAD PRO:

Advanced Fault Code Detection: Detects and describes check engine light issues, enabling informed repairs.
Extended OBD Code Reading: Extracts “extra” OBD fault codes often missed by standard scanners.
Cost Savings on Repairs: Identifies specific broken components, allowing for cost-effective part sourcing and mechanic negotiations.
Performance Tuning: Offers ECU remapping for optimizing car performance and fuel efficiency.
Touch Input Optimization: Optimized for touch-enabled devices, enhancing usability on devices like Surface Pro (when used via Windows environment on Mac).
Real-Time Data Monitoring: Displays real-time data in customizable graphs and tabular formats.
Comprehensive Vehicle Health Checks: Aids in maintaining vehicle condition and reducing long-term repair costs.

Learn more at TOAD website…

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool

AutoEnginuity provides brand-specific diagnostic options for a wide range of vehicle manufacturers including BMW, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Honda, and Porsche. While primarily a Windows-based software, it can be used on Macs via Windows emulation. ScanTool is known for its depth of coverage, accessing systems like ABS, airbag, transmission, and instrument cluster controllers.

Although it is on the higher end price-wise and geared towards professional workshops, its comprehensive features are valuable for serious car enthusiasts who require in-depth diagnostics.

Benefits of AutoEnginuity Scan Tool:

Extensive Brand Coverage: Offers deep diagnostics for numerous car brands.
Detailed System Access: Accesses a wide array of vehicle systems beyond basic engine diagnostics.
Data Logging: Logs data in XML and CSV formats for versatile data analysis in browsers or spreadsheets.
Customizable Sensor Data: Allows users to customize data display including sampling rates, units, and scaling.
User-Friendly Data Presentation: Presents data concisely and understandably, avoiding raw data complexity.

Learn more at AutoEnginuity website…

PCMScan

PCMScan is a feature-rich, generic OBD-II diagnostic software compatible with various OBD hardware interfaces. While it is a robust Windows application, it can be utilized on a Mac through Windows virtualization. PCMScan excels in real-time data charting, logging, and playback, alongside viewing DTCs, freeze frame data, and other vehicle information. It supports a broad spectrum of vehicles manufactured post-1996, including US, Asian, and European models.

However, PCMScan has not been updated in over 7 years, meaning it may lack support for newer sensor data (PIDs) compared to actively developed software.

Benefits of PCMScan:

Customizable Dashboard: Users can personalize the dashboard display to their preferences.
Performance Features: Includes Dyno and Drag performance measurement tools.
Data Logging Capabilities: Comprehensive data logging for in-depth analysis.
Trouble Code Management: Reads and clears stored and pending Diagnostic Trouble Codes and clears Check Engine lights.
Freeze Frame Data Access: Reads and clears freeze frame data.
Extensive Code Definitions: Supports thousands of vehicle trouble code definitions.

Worthy Features Tested:

Printing and Preview: Full support for printing and print preview for all views including dashboards.
OBD-II Terminal: Includes an OBD-II terminal for users knowledgeable in OBD-II protocol to send custom commands.
Javascripting Support: Built-in Javascript support for custom calculations on OBD-II data.
Configurable Alerts: Customizable alert system based on parameter conditions with sound warnings and data bookmarks.
Unit Systems: Supports both English and Metric unit systems.
Data Export: Customizable log file export to .CSV for Excel and other programs.
Real-time Stamps: Export with real-time stamps for correlation with external data logs.
PID Prioritization: PIDs can be prioritized to enhance data capture rates.
Interface Support: Supports a wide array of interfaces including Autotap, VIA LDV, Multiplex Engineering T16, ELM320, ELM322, ELM323, ELM327, and any SAE-J2534 compliant OBD-II interface.

Learn more at PCMScan website…

ProScan

ProScan OBD software interface, showcasing its user-friendly design and key diagnostic functions.

ProScan, now part of Total Car Diagnostics, is known for its user-friendliness and stability. While designed for Windows, it can be effectively used on a Mac via virtualization. ProScan has been consistently developed since 2003, offering reliable performance based on deep automotive protocol and sensor knowledge. It is compatible with standard ELM327 hardware and is included in the TOAD LITE package.

A standout feature of ProScan is its accurate 0-60mph (100km/h) timing, useful for performance testing and ECU modifications analysis.

Benefits of ProScan:

Fuel Economy Adjustment: Capability to adjust fuel economy based on driving habits.
Vehicle Connection Manager: Features an intuitive interface for easy program launch and vehicle connection.
Freeze Frame Data: Reads and displays freeze frame data for historical diagnostics.
Oxygen Sensor Tests: Provides detailed oxygen sensor tests, identifying malfunctioning sensors.
One-Click Diagnostic Reports: Generates comprehensive diagnostic reports effortlessly.
Emissions Readiness Monitors: Shows vehicle emissions readiness status.
Oxygen Sensor Information: Displays the number and location of oxygen sensors.
Performance Testing: Calculates 0-60 mph, 1/4 mile time, horsepower, and torque.
Data Recording and Playback: Records and plays back diagnostic data.
Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculates real-time fuel efficiency and trip cost.
Unit Conversion: Converts between English and metric units.

Learn more at ProScan website…

Choosing the Best OBD2 Software for Your Mac

Selecting the best OBD2 software for Mac depends largely on your specific needs. For Mac users seeking native macOS applications, OBD Auto Doctor, Movi/Movi Pro, and EOBD Facile are excellent choices, offering varying levels of features and user interfaces. OBD Auto Doctor is feature-rich, while Movi and EOBD Facile prioritize simplicity and ease of use.

For those willing to use Windows virtualization on their Mac for more advanced features, TOAD PRO, AutoEnginuity ScanTool, PCMScan, and ProScan offer deeper diagnostic capabilities and broader functionalities, albeit with a Windows-dependent setup.

Consider what features are most important to you – whether it’s ease of use, depth of diagnostics, specific vehicle system access, or performance testing – and choose the software that aligns best with your requirements. Each of these options provides robust tools to help you maintain your vehicle and understand its diagnostic data effectively.

In Conclusion:

This guide highlights some of the best OBD2 software for Mac users in 2024. Each software package offers unique strengths, catering to different user needs from basic fault code reading to comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and performance analysis. By exploring these options, Mac-based car enthusiasts and professionals can find the perfect tool to keep their vehicles running smoothly and efficiently.

7 Best OBD2 Software in 2025 and Beyond: Reviewed and Tested

4.2 (83.78%) 249 votes