In today’s automotive landscape, understanding your vehicle’s health is no longer confined to mechanics. Onboard Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps have revolutionized car maintenance, providing real-time insights directly to your smartphone. With the proliferation of mobile app development, a plethora of OBD2 applications have emerged, each promising to be the best tool to decipher your car’s signals. These apps empower you to monitor parameters like speed, rotation angles, pressure, and temperature, effectively giving your car a voice you can understand. This proactive approach can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
However, navigating the crowded app market to find the best OBD2 app for your Android or iOS device can be overwhelming. Countless options are available, and not all deliver on their promises. Investing time and potentially money in subpar apps is a frustrating experience we want to help you avoid.
This comprehensive review dives into 17 of the top OBD2 apps currently available. Each app on this list has been carefully evaluated to ensure it offers valuable features and reliable performance. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time car owner, you’ll find an OBD2 app here that perfectly suits your needs.
Let’s explore the best OBD2 apps that can transform your smartphone into a powerful car diagnostic tool.
Top OBD2 Apps for Android and iOS
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently ranks as a top choice and is often lauded as the best OBD2 app for Android. Boasting over 1,000,000 downloads on the Google Play Store and highly positive user reviews, this paid app (around $5) is considered a worthwhile investment by many car owners.
Torque Pro provides a highly customizable and visually appealing dashboard that displays real-time data from your car directly on your mobile screen. Beyond live monitoring, it allows you to export collected data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Offers multiple themes to personalize your dashboard’s appearance.
- Enables screenshot sharing to social media and email platforms.
- Features an integrated GPS-based compass for navigation.
- Supports graphing data and car dock integration for convenient viewing.
- Provides CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Includes a track recorder to capture video footage of your journeys.
- Offers customizable alarms and warnings for suboptimal car performance, such as high coolant temperature alerts.
- Remarkably, it supports older Android versions, including 2.0.
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment for app purchase.
- Some users have reported Bluetooth pairing issues, although these are often resolvable with app updates or device adjustments.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor operates on similar principles to many car diagnostic apps, offering comprehensive vehicle monitoring. It’s compatible with both ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, ensuring broad connectivity. This app diligently tracks essential vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, providing a constant stream of vital data.
OBD Auto Doctor excels at monitoring multiple control units simultaneously, including engine and transmission systems. Data logging is simplified with CSV format export via email. Furthermore, its optimized fuel consumption monitoring feature can lead to significant fuel savings on your trips.
Pros:
- Presents real-time data directly on your screen, facilitating informed decisions about your car’s maintenance needs.
- Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences.
- Boasts compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring wide applicability.
- Integrates GPS support for location-based features.
- Offers readily available and helpful customer service support around the clock.
- Provides advanced customization options to tailor the app to your specific needs.
- Supports both imperial and metric units for user convenience.
- Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing extensive diagnostic coverage.
- Tracks readiness status to inform you when your car is prepared for emission testing.
Cons:
- In-app purchases and a Premium upgrade are necessary to unlock the full spectrum of features.
- Some users have reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings, which may require troubleshooting or adapter adjustments.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top OBD2 app for Android, earning accolades in car reviews as far back as 2017/2018 and remaining a leading contender. The app prioritizes high-level car scanning and diagnostics, presented through a clean and intuitive home screen interface.
A free version of InCarDoc Pro is available, allowing you to verify adapter and car compatibility before committing to the paid version (typically under $5). InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and maintains compatibility with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD2 compliant vehicles, with a compatibility list available on their website.
- Enables reading of real-time engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
- Offers an overlay mode to display fuel economy data in the background or over other running applications for seamless monitoring.
- Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick performance metrics.
- Features GPS support for location-based tracking and data logging.
- Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage for accessibility and backup.
- Facilitates data sharing via email, enabling users to easily seek professional assistance with car repairs when needed.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.0.3 or later, potentially excluding users with very old devices.
- Some users have encountered occasional errors during Bluetooth connection attempts, which may require troubleshooting.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Unlocking a comprehensive understanding of your vehicle and accessing every parameter read by your car’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is achievable with the free Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app.
This app empowers you to identify potential issues before they escalate. If you possess knowledge of fault codes and their meanings, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 becomes an even more valuable tool, enabling you to address minor problems independently and determine when professional mechanic intervention is genuinely necessary.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is arguably the best monitoring tool in terms of device compatibility, with versions available for Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms. Its impressive user base, exceeding 2 million installs across supported platforms, underscores its value and reliability. Furthermore, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 boasts the highest user rating (4.7) among the apps featured on this list, reflecting strong user satisfaction.
Pros:
- Broad compatibility with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Supports a wide array of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, enhancing flexibility.
- Features a customizable dashboard, allowing you to prioritize and track your preferred parameters.
- Provides fuel consumption statistics for economy monitoring.
- Offers settings backup and restore functionality, ensuring data security and ease of transfer.
- Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish in recent updates, catering to a global user base.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding users with older Android devices.
- In-app purchases are necessary to unlock optimal performance and access all features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile stands out as a versatile OBD2 Car Diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS. It supports all ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, ensuring seamless connectivity. With this app installed on your mobile device, you can effectively monitor nearly all essential gauges and parameters crucial for making informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and performance.
Depending on the data provided by your car’s ECU, EOBD Facile displays vital information such as vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake volume, and numerous other gauges directly on its user-friendly dashboard. EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, demonstrating its widespread adoption and user trust.
Pros:
- Provides a real-time display of vehicle sensor readings for immediate analysis.
- Contains a comprehensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and their definitions, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
- Enables users to delete fault codes and resolve engine light issues directly from the app.
- Supports the storage of trip records on an SD card for later review using the EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating in-depth data analysis.
- Includes route planning functionality, particularly useful for long journeys and efficient navigation.
Cons:
- May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully leverage its advanced features and capabilities effectively.
- Lacks support for USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is recognized as a top-tier OBD2 app for Android, distinguished by its advanced premium car tracking features. It is also one of the more expensive options on the Google Play Store, typically priced around $10, reflecting its robust feature set and comprehensive capabilities.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad vehicle compatibility, extending beyond OBD2 compliant cars to include certain Non-OBD2 vehicles, such as those using Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. HobDrive also offers seamless accessibility across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS devices, enhancing its versatility.
Pros:
- Features a highly customizable dashboard that displays a wide array of parameters provided by your car’s ECU, allowing for personalized monitoring.
- Supports both GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, ensuring flexible connectivity options.
- Actively tracks potential issues like overheating and suspicious fuel trims, providing early warnings.
- Offers clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes, aiding in understanding diagnostic information.
- Estimates car odometer readings, adding a convenient mileage tracking feature.
- Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance, offering accurate fuel efficiency data.
- The Pro version unlocks extended graphical gauges, providing enhanced visual data representation.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments in certain geographical locations, potentially hindering access to premium features.
- The app requires Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding users with very outdated Android devices.
7. OBDeleven
When evaluating the Android app development behind OBD2 apps, OBDeleven distinguishes itself with an innovative “One Click App” feature, setting it apart from many competitors. Beyond providing clear visualization of parameters from your car’s ECU, OBDeleven goes further by incorporating this unique functionality. The “One Click App” allows users to control various car options and settings with a single tap, streamlining vehicle customization and control.
To fully utilize the “One Click App” feature in OBDeleven, a stable network connection is recommended. Access to more advanced car tracking tools requires a Premium upgrade. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven remains a valuable tool for car diagnostics and reviews, widely adopted by both automotive enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Pros:
- Supports reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your car’s ECU, providing comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
- Offers multi-language support, catering to a diverse global user base.
- Maintains an active social media community, fostering user interaction and support.
- Uniquely includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in other OBD2 apps.
- Provides access to manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs.
- Retains a history of connected cars, useful for managing multiple vehicles or tracking vehicle history.
- Supports control unit reset functionality, enabling advanced system adjustments.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for the “One Click App” feature.
- Contains advertisements in the free version, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a car tracking app that not only supports OBDeleven software but also integrates numerous smart car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and boasts compatibility with vehicles dating back to 1996 models, offering broad applicability to a wide range of cars.
Dash aims to deliver comprehensive insights to enhance your driving experience and optimize car performance, while also supporting informed long-term vehicle maintenance decisions. Remarkably, Dash can function effectively even without requiring a dedicated OBD2 device to be connected at all times, leveraging smartphone sensors for some features.
Pros:
- Offers an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in background mode for continuous monitoring without interrupting other app usage.
- Provides a Driver score and leaderboard, allowing you to compare your driving performance with other Dash users and encourage safer driving habits.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding for easy setup and management of multiple cars.
- Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help you locate your parked vehicle, especially useful in unfamiliar locations.
- Integrates nearby gas price comparison features, enabling users to save money on fuel purchases by identifying the most affordable gas stations.
Cons:
- Some users have reported concerns about the app potentially draining mobile device battery life, especially with prolonged background operation.
- The compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, although updates may address this issue.
- A subset of users have experienced network connection issues, which could affect real-time data updates and feature availability.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app specifically designed for iOS devices, sharing similarities with Torque Pro but exclusively available on the Apple platform. It seamlessly connects with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. However, recent user feedback suggests potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, with some users reporting connection failures.
These connectivity concerns have contributed to a slightly lower app rating. Nevertheless, Engine Link remains a prominent car tracking application on iOS. Priced at around $6 on the iTunes App Store, Engine Link aims to provide comprehensive car monitoring capabilities, empowering users with control over their vehicle’s diagnostics.
Pros:
- Offers a customizable dashboard, allowing users to select and prioritize the parameters they wish to monitor, streamlining data display.
- Enables control over emission rates and fuel consumption tracking, promoting eco-conscious driving and fuel efficiency.
- Allows reading and clearing of thousands of OBD2 fault codes, facilitating basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
- Features a heads-up display (HUD) option, projecting essential data onto the windshield for safer viewing while driving.
- Notably, it does not include in-app purchases or subscription fees, providing full functionality with the initial purchase.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global and diverse user base.
- The latest updates include support for Torque Custom PID (Parameter IDs) files, expanding customization and data access.
Cons:
- Some users have reported instances where the app connects to the adapter but fails to read ECU data, hindering diagnostic functionality.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, potentially excluding users with older iOS devices.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another noteworthy car monitoring tool designed for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely recognized as some other scanners, this Android application maintains a respectable 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs, indicating solid user satisfaction and reliability.
With the ScanMaster app on your mobile device, you gain a clear, real-time overview of your car’s performance and can accurately read fault codes. This level of diagnostic precision can help prevent unnecessary expenses by empowering you to understand issues before visiting a mechanic.
The app developers generously offer a Lite (free) version that provides access to essential car parameters, including VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CVN (Calibration Verification Number), fault codes, and MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) status. However, unlocking the full feature set, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions, requires purchasing the Pro version.
Pros:
- Offers a valuable set of tracking parameters even in the free Lite version, providing basic diagnostic capabilities without initial investment.
- Supports both German and English languages, catering to a bilingual user base.
- Features an easy-to-navigate user interface, promoting user-friendliness.
- Compatible with a broad range of ELM327 adapters, enhancing connectivity options.
- Supports data recording, allowing for later analysis and review of vehicle performance history.
- Presents data graphically, facilitating easier interpretation and analysis of trends.
Cons:
- Users have reported an ineffective customer support team, potentially hindering issue resolution.
- A small number of users have reported device incompatibility issues, suggesting limited device support in some cases.
- Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding users with older Android devices.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand for iOS positions itself as the ultimate solution to transform your mobile device into an advanced engine data display and has largely lived up to this claim. The app received the prestigious SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, recognizing its innovation and functionality.
DashCommand is among the pricier OBD2 scanner apps for iOS, available for $14.99 on iTunes. However, it provides a robust suite of features, including performance gauges, fuel economy gauges, engine gauges, and emission testing capabilities for up to five trips. Customer reviews generally indicate that DashCommand delivers excellent value for its price.
Pros:
- Features an easy-to-use interface, promoting user accessibility and intuitive operation.
- Allows extensive customization of performance gauges, enabling users to prioritize and track their preferred data parameters.
- Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, particularly useful for off-road driving and monitoring vehicle stability.
- Supports comprehensive data-logging, recording, and playback functionalities, facilitating in-depth performance analysis.
- Offers a sophisticated trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips, providing detailed trip analysis and record-keeping.
- Presents collected data graphically, enhancing data visualization and interpretation.
Cons:
- Reportedly not compatible with iPhone X, potentially excluding users with this specific device model.
- Compatibility issues have been reported with Haltech Elite 2500 ECUs, limiting compatibility for certain aftermarket engine management systems.
- Contains in-app purchases for some car models, potentially adding extra costs for specific vehicle functionalities.
12. BlueDriver
The BlueDriver OBD2 scanner app is available for both iOS and Android platforms, offering broad device compatibility. It is considered one of the best free car diagnostic tools, contributing to its high 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads, demonstrating significant user adoption and satisfaction.
Whether using the Android or iOS version, BlueDriver empowers users to monitor critical parameters from their car’s ECU, scan for and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data for later analysis, and share collected data via email for collaboration or record-keeping. Remarkably, BlueDriver incorporates features often absent in paid car tracking apps, making it a preferred tool for professional mechanics and car enthusiasts alike.
Pros:
- Establishes a wireless connection with your car, eliminating cable clutter and enhancing user convenience.
- Supports smog readiness checks, helping users ensure their vehicles meet emission standards.
- Significantly reduces travel costs associated with frequent mechanic visits by enabling proactive diagnostics.
- Offers free and regular updates, ensuring continuous improvement and feature enhancements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results, providing detailed insights into vehicle system checks.
- Provides improved diagnostics for ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Airbag, Transmission, and other critical systems, offering comprehensive coverage.
- Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, streamlining communication with mechanics and facilitating record-keeping.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding users with older Apple devices.
- Some users have reported minor issues with iPhone XR compatibility, although these are generally resolvable with app updates.
13. GoFAR
If your goal is to “go far” and you require a high-performance car diagnostic device to maintain control, GoFAR is a compelling option. This system focuses on monitoring car health and tracking mileage, while maintaining compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.
A standout feature of the GoFAR car tracking device is its IRS (Internal Revenue Service) compliance, potentially offering tax benefits for mileage tracking. It also emphasizes fuel savings, aiming to reduce travel costs by 10-30% through optimized driving insights and fuel efficiency monitoring. The Android and iOS applications maintain a strong 4.7 rating, indicating positive user experiences globally.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use, promoting user-friendliness and quick setup.
- Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase, providing peace of mind and product assurance.
- Sends alerts in plain English as soon as an error arises in your vehicle’s system, simplifying diagnostics for non-technical users.
- Includes a platform for hiring nearby mechanics, facilitating convenient access to repair services.
- Contains a database of over 3000 fault codes and descriptions, aiding in comprehensive diagnostics.
- Features a competitive element, allowing users to compete on a global leaderboard based on cost savings achieved through fuel efficiency.
- Sends alerts for routine maintenance checks such as tire pressure, insurance, and registration renewals, promoting proactive car care.
- No subscription or ongoing fees are required after the initial device purchase, offering long-term value.
Cons:
- Requires an upfront purchase of the GoFAR device, priced at $99, representing a higher initial investment compared to app-only solutions.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD operates as a car diagnostic app with a focus on simplicity and user-friendliness without sacrificing functionality. Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into easily understandable terms, enabling users to quickly grasp diagnostic information and take prompt action when car issues arise.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters designed to optimize app performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on Android via the Google Play Store and holds a solid 4.5 rating from user reviews, indicating positive user experiences.
Pros:
- Installs rapidly within minutes and is immediately usable, facilitating a quick and easy setup process.
- Particularly suitable for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplified interface and user guidance.
- Allows scheduling maintenance reminders, promoting proactive car care and preventing missed service intervals.
- Sends alerts for worn-out car parts that require repair or replacement, enabling timely maintenance interventions.
- Features an easy onboarding process, simplifying initial setup and app familiarization.
- Uniquely allows users to buy car parts directly through the app, streamlining the repair process.
- Provides access to a helpful customer support team, assisting users with app-related queries and issues.
Cons:
- Older versions of the app have been reported to contain bugs, although updates may address these issues.
- Works optimally with FIXD adapters, potentially limiting adapter compatibility and requiring users to purchase the FIXD-specific hardware.
- Offers in-app purchases, potentially adding extra costs for access to premium features or functionalities.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly for BMW is a specialized car diagnostic app tailored exclusively for BMW owners and is designed for optimal compatibility with adapters provided by Carly. Whether you are a novice or experienced BMW driver, Carly offers access to vital car gauges and parameters in real-time.
The Android app also supports standard OBD2 features, but compatibility testing with the Lite version is recommended before purchasing the full version.
Pros:
- Provides a thorough health check of your BMW’s electronic components, offering comprehensive system diagnostics.
- Includes a used car check feature, useful for evaluating a pre-owned BMW before purchase.
- Offers one-click control for the electric parking brake, simplifying vehicle operations.
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, providing long-term product assurance.
- Supports DIY battery registration, enabling users to manage battery replacements independently.
- Offers access to an excellent customer service team, providing dedicated support for BMW-specific queries.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are generally more expensive compared to generic OBD2 adapters available in the market, representing a higher hardware investment.
- Limited fault code coverage has been reported for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models, potentially restricting diagnostic depth for these specific vehicles.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App functions with a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug-in device. The Carista scanner is designed to be highly compatible with car brands including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
A notable feature of Carista is its “Customize” option, accessible once the device is plugged in. This function allows users to access and modify numerous ECU (Engine Control Unit) options, typically restricted to dealership access.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless communication with your smartphone.
- Compact and discreet OBD2 adapter design.
- Customizable settings, allowing users to personalize vehicle functions and parameters.
- Combines phone-based app convenience with OBD2 scanner innovation.
- Offers a 1-month free trial period, allowing users to test full functionality before committing to purchase.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device compatibility.
- Provides detailed diagnostics, offering in-depth vehicle health analysis.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases to unlock full functionality after the trial period, potentially adding ongoing costs.
17. OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, the OBD Fusion app, used in conjunction with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, delivers comprehensive diagnostic reports for your vehicle. It is widely regarded as one of the more popular apps for vehicle diagnostics due to its user-friendliness and robust feature set.
OBD Fusion’s primary selling point is its ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. The app’s dashboard customizability is a significant advantage, allowing users to prioritize the information they want to see and closely monitor specific engine functions.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards, enabling users to tailor data displays to their preferences.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device accessibility.
- Integrates GPS navigation features, potentially combining diagnostic and navigation functionalities.
- Provides emission monitoring capabilities, aiding in tracking vehicle emissions performance.
- Offers extensive data logging, facilitating in-depth analysis of vehicle performance over time.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases to unlock full functionality.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features, potentially limiting collaboration or remote assistance in diagnostics.
Conclusion
With this detailed list of the best OBD2 apps for iOS and Android, you’re now better equipped to choose an app that aligns with your car and diagnostic needs.
However, remember that confirming app compatibility with your specific vehicle before committing to a purchase is crucial. Functional testing is essential to ensure seamless operation. Many OBD2 app developers offer a free “lite” version specifically for compatibility testing, while others may require purchasing the paid version upfront. Explore the free versions where available or research user reviews for your car model to make an informed decision.
Ultimately, selecting the “best” OBD2 app depends on your individual requirements and vehicle.
Our Top Picks:
Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A feature-rich paid app with broad car compatibility and excellent user reviews.
Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A user-friendly paid app that effectively tracks vital parameters and offers robust functionality.
