In an age where your smartphone is a pocket-sized computer, it’s no surprise that it can also become a powerful tool for car diagnostics. On-board diagnostics II (OBD2) apps have revolutionized how drivers understand their vehicles, offering unprecedented access to real-time engine data right on your iPhone. Forget confusing dashboard lights and expensive mechanic visits for simple checks. With the right OBD2 app and a compatible adapter, your iPhone becomes a window into your car’s soul, providing insights that can save you money, time, and stress.
The market is flooded with OBD2 apps, making the quest for the Best Obd2 App Ios 2019 a daunting task. You need an app that’s not only compatible with your iPhone and car but also provides accurate, user-friendly data and valuable features. Navigating through countless options in the App Store can be overwhelming, and nobody wants to waste time and money on subpar apps.
This article dives deep into the landscape of OBD2 apps for iOS in 2019, highlighting the top contenders that stood out for their performance, features, and user experience. We’ve sifted through the noise to bring you a curated list of the best options to transform your iPhone into a professional-grade car diagnostic tool. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a new driver, finding the best OBD2 app iOS 2019 is crucial for staying informed about your vehicle’s health.
Let’s explore the top OBD2 apps that were making waves for iPhone users in 2019.
1. Engine Link (IOS)
For iPhone users specifically seeking a robust and affordable OBD2 solution, Engine Link emerged as a strong contender for the best OBD2 app iOS 2019. Priced affordably on iTunes, this app mirrors the functionality of popular Android counterparts like Torque Pro but is tailored exclusively for the iOS ecosystem. Engine Link connects seamlessly with ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, although some users in 2019 reported occasional hiccups with WiFi connectivity. Despite these minor issues, its comprehensive feature set and iOS focus positioned it as a top choice for iPhone car diagnostics.
Engine Link puts you firmly in the driver’s seat when it comes to car monitoring. Its customizable dashboard allows you to prioritize the parameters that matter most to you, eliminating data clutter and focusing on essential information. From emission levels and fuel consumption to reading and clearing thousands of OBD2 fault codes, Engine Link provides a wealth of diagnostic capabilities. The inclusion of a heads-up display (HUD) mode further enhances its usability, projecting critical data onto your windshield for safer driving. With support for over 20 languages and consistent updates, including Torque Custom PID file compatibility, Engine Link delivered significant value to iOS users in 2019.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard for personalized data monitoring.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption effectively.
- Reads and clears a vast database of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-up display (HUD) mode for enhanced driving safety.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees, offering excellent value for a one-time purchase.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
- Regular updates with feature enhancements like Torque Custom PID File support.
Cons:
- Some users reported instances of the app connecting but failing to read ECU data.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, potentially excluding users with older devices (in 2019 context).
- WiFi connectivity issues were reported by some users in 2019.
2. DashCommand (IOS)
If you were looking for the most feature-rich and visually impressive OBD2 app for your iPhone in 2019, DashCommand was a premium option that stood out. Winning the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, DashCommand lived up to its reputation as a top-tier diagnostic tool. While carrying a higher price tag on iTunes, DashCommand justified the investment with its extensive array of performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing capabilities, supporting up to five trips. User testimonials consistently highlighted its value, making it a strong contender for the best OBD2 app iOS 2019 for users willing to invest in premium features.
DashCommand’s user-friendly interface and deep customization options were key strengths in 2019. You could effortlessly personalize performance gauges to monitor your preferred data streams, ensuring you see exactly what you need at a glance. For off-road enthusiasts, the integrated inclinometer displaying roll angle and vehicle pitch was a valuable addition. The app’s robust data-logging, recording, and playback features enabled in-depth analysis of vehicle performance, while the sophisticated trip computer maintained detailed statistics for up to five journeys. Graphical data representation further simplified data interpretation.
Pros:
- Intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
- Highly customizable performance gauges to track specific data points.
- Inclinometer for off-road driving data (roll angle and pitch).
- Comprehensive data-logging, recording, and playback capabilities.
- Advanced trip computer with statistics for multiple trips.
- Clear graphical representation of collected data for easy analysis.
Cons:
- Compatibility issues reported with iPhone X in 2019.
- Compatibility concerns with specific aftermarket ECUs like Haltech elite 2599.
- In-app purchases for certain car models to unlock full functionality.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
3. BlueDriver
BlueDriver distinguished itself in 2019 as a versatile OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android, offering a compelling blend of free features and professional-grade capabilities. Boasting a high rating on iTunes and millions of downloads, BlueDriver appealed to a broad user base, from DIY enthusiasts to professional mechanics. Its free feature set was remarkably comprehensive, positioning it as a top best OBD2 app iOS 2019 contender for users seeking value and robust functionality without immediate cost.
BlueDriver’s wireless connectivity simplified the diagnostic process, eliminating cable clutter. Whether on iOS or Android, users could seamlessly monitor critical engine parameters, scan and clear trouble codes, access freeze frame data, and share data via email. Its smog readiness check feature helped users proactively prepare for emissions tests, while on-board monitoring test results provided deeper insights into system performance. Notably, BlueDriver offered enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, and Transmission systems – features often absent in free apps. The ability to generate and share repair reports further enhanced its professional utility.
Pros:
- Wireless connectivity for convenient vehicle diagnostics.
- Smog readiness check to prepare for emissions testing.
- Reduces potential travel costs by enabling DIY diagnostics.
- Free and regular updates to enhance functionality and compatibility.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results for detailed analysis.
- Advanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more.
- Generates and shares professional-looking repair reports.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding older devices (in 2019 context).
- Minor issues reported with iPhone XR in 2019, potentially resolved with updates.
- While feature-rich for free, some advanced features might be behind a hardware purchase.
4. OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, earned its place among the best OBD2 app iOS 2019 options due to its user-friendliness and cross-platform compatibility. Available on both iOS and Android, OBD Fusion catered to a wide audience seeking a reliable and easy-to-use diagnostic tool. Its strength lay in its accessibility, making it suitable for both novice users and seasoned professionals.
Customization was a hallmark of OBD Fusion in 2019. The app allowed users to personalize dashboards to display their preferred data parameters, providing a tailored view of essential engine functions. This focus on user experience, combined with robust diagnostic capabilities, made OBD Fusion a popular choice. Beyond diagnostics, OBD Fusion integrated GPS navigation features and emission monitoring, adding further value. Extensive data logging capabilities allowed for in-depth performance analysis.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to display preferred data.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.
- User-friendly interface suitable for both beginners and experts.
- Integrated GPS navigation features.
- Emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive data logging for detailed analysis.
Cons:
- Some features locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- Lacked diagnostic data sharing features directly within the app (in 2019).
Conclusion
Choosing the best OBD2 app iOS 2019 ultimately depended on your individual needs and priorities. Whether you prioritized affordability, advanced features, ease of use, or iOS-specific optimization, there were excellent options available.
For iPhone users in 2019 seeking a balance of features and value, Engine Link stood out as a strong contender, offering a comprehensive diagnostic toolkit at a reasonable price. If you were willing to invest in a premium experience with extensive customization and advanced features, DashCommand delivered top-tier performance and visual appeal. BlueDriver impressed with its generous free features and professional-grade capabilities, while OBD Fusion provided a user-friendly and customizable experience across both iOS and Android platforms.
Remember, regardless of which app you chose, always ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle and OBD2 adapter. Many developers offered “lite” versions or compatibility checkers to verify functionality before committing to a purchase. By leveraging the power of your iPhone and the right OBD2 app, you could gain invaluable insights into your car’s health and performance in 2019, empowering you to make informed decisions and save money on car maintenance.
