In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. As mobile app technology advances, numerous developers have created applications designed to interface with your car’s computer, providing real-time diagnostics directly to your smartphone. For Android users, the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity makes wireless OBD2 adapters and apps an incredibly powerful tool. Instead of relying solely on dashboard warning lights or expensive trips to the mechanic, you can now gain insights into your car’s performance and potential issues from the palm of your hand.
OBD2 apps essentially give you a window into your vehicle’s engine, displaying crucial parameters like speed, RPM, sensor readings, and much more. This wealth of information empowers you to proactively maintain your car, potentially preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.
However, the sheer number of OBD2 apps available for Android can be overwhelming. Finding the Best Obd2 Bluetooth Android App for your needs amongst the thousands in the Google Play Store can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. To save you time and potential frustration with subpar apps, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of top-tier OBD2 applications specifically designed for Android devices.
We understand the disappointment of investing in an OBD2 app only to find it lacking in features or reliability. Our goal is to prevent this from happening to you. This article will delve into 17 of the leading OBD2 apps, all of which are excellent choices for Android users seeking to enhance their car diagnostic capabilities.
Let’s get started and explore the best OBD2 Bluetooth Android apps available!
Top OBD2 Bluetooth Android Apps for Car Diagnostics
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro is widely recognized as a leading OBD2 Bluetooth Android app, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and consistently high ratings on the Google Play Store. While it comes with a modest price tag of around $5, user reviews and expert opinions agree that Torque Pro delivers exceptional value.
Image: A screenshot of the Torque Pro app dashboard, showcasing its customizable gauges and real-time vehicle data.
Torque Pro provides a real-time view of your car’s performance data on a customizable dashboard displayed on your Android device. This data can be tailored to show the parameters most important to you, and you can even export compiled data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis or sharing.
Pros
- Highly customizable dashboard with multiple themes to personalize the app’s appearance.
- Easy screenshot sharing to social media and email for quick data sharing.
- Integrated GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging.
- Supports graphing of live data and convenient car dock integration.
- Provides CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Track recorder feature to capture video of your journeys synchronized with vehicle data.
- Configurable alarms and warnings for out-of-spec car performance, such as high coolant temperature.
- Impressively, it supports older Android versions, including 2.0.
Cons
- Requires upfront purchase from the Google Play Store.
- Some users have reported Bluetooth pairing issues, although these are often resolved with app updates or device adjustments.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many other car diagnostic apps, offering robust vehicle monitoring and data analysis. It’s compatible with both ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, making it versatile for various user setups. The app excels at tracking critical vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, providing a comprehensive overview of your car’s condition.
Image: The OBD Auto Doctor app interface, highlighting its ability to monitor multiple parameters and display data graphically.
OBD Auto Doctor allows you to monitor various control units, including engine and transmission systems. It also supports data export via email in CSV format, useful for detailed analysis or record-keeping. A standout feature is its optimized fuel consumption monitoring, which can help you save money on fuel costs over time.
Pros
- Provides real-time data display, enabling informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance.
- Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data for easy interpretation.
- Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Integrated GPS support for location-based data logging.
- Offers helpful customer service support, available around the clock.
- Features advanced customization options to tailor the app to your preferences.
- Supports both imperial and metric units for data display.
- Monitors over 18,000 diagnostic trouble codes for comprehensive issue detection.
- Tracks readiness status for emissions testing, indicating when your car is ready for inspection.
Cons
- Requires in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade to unlock all features, limiting functionality in the free version.
- Some users have experienced occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings, which may require troubleshooting.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently ranked as a top OBD2 Bluetooth Android app for car diagnostics. Recognized for its high-level scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented through a user-friendly interface, InCarDoc Pro remains a strong contender in the OBD2 app market.
Image: A screenshot of the InCarDoc Pro app, demonstrating its clean dashboard and real-time vehicle parameter monitoring.
A free version of InCarDoc Pro is available, allowing you to test adapter and vehicle compatibility before committing to the paid app, which is priced under $5. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi adapters, and it is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their official website.
- Displays 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 apps.
- Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for convenient performance monitoring.
- Integrated GPS support for location tracking and data logging.
- Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage for backup and accessibility.
- Enables data sharing via email to facilitate professional assistance with car repairs.
Cons
- Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with older devices.
- Some users have reported occasional errors during Bluetooth connection setup.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
For comprehensive insight into your vehicle’s operation, the Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App stands out as a powerful free car diagnostic tool. This app allows you to access a vast array of parameters read by your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU), essentially giving you access to your car’s “electronic brain.”
Image: The Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app showcasing its customizable dashboard and real-time vehicle information.
By using Car Scanner ELM OBD2, you can proactively identify potential issues before they escalate. If you are familiar with fault codes and their meanings, this app empowers you to address minor problems yourself and make informed decisions about when to seek professional mechanic assistance.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is arguably the best monitoring tool considering its broad device compatibility. Versions are available for Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms. With over 2 million installations across supported platforms and a high user rating (4.7), this car scanner is definitely worth exploring as a best OBD2 Bluetooth Android app option.
Pros
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring wide applicability.
- Supports most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Features a customizable dashboard to track your preferred vehicle parameters.
- Provides fuel consumption statistics for efficiency monitoring.
- Offers settings backup and restore functionality for convenient app management.
- Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons
- Requires Android 4.3 and above, limiting compatibility with older Android versions.
- In-app purchases are necessary to unlock optimal performance and access advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, compatible with ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. With this app on your Android device, you can monitor almost all the essential gauges and parameters needed to make informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and performance.
Image: The EOBD Facile app demonstrating its real-time gauge display and vehicle parameter monitoring.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake volume, and various other gauges directly on its dashboard. EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, indicating its popularity and user trust.
Pros
- Real-time display of crucial vehicle sensor data for immediate feedback.
- Extensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Ability to clear fault codes and resolve engine light issues directly from the app.
- Supports storage of trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Includes route planning functionality, beneficial for long journeys.
Cons
- May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its features effectively.
- Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and WiFi ELM327 adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is a highly regarded OBD2 Bluetooth Android app, known for its advanced car tracking features. While it is one of the more expensive OBD2 apps on the Google Play Store, its premium capabilities justify the investment for users seeking comprehensive vehicle monitoring.
Image: The HobDrive app showcasing its customizable dashboard with various gauges and real-time vehicle data parameters.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad compatibility, supporting all OBD2 compliant vehicles as well as certain Non-OBD2 vehicles like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. HobDrive also offers seamless access across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS.
Pros
- Highly customizable dashboard to display essential parameters provided by your car’s ECU.
- Supports GPS and both ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters for versatile connectivity.
- Monitors for overheating and suspicious fuel trim values, indicating potential engine issues.
- Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes for better understanding of problems.
- Estimates car odometer readings, potentially useful for tracking mileage.
- Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance.
- Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments in certain geographical locations.
- Requires Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding users with very old Android devices.
7. OBDeleven
When evaluating the Android app development of OBD2 applications, OBDeleven distinguishes itself with innovative features. Beyond providing a clear view of parameters from your car’s ECU, OBDeleven incorporates “One-Click Apps” that allow users to control various car options with a single tap. This innovative approach sets it apart as a unique OBD2 Bluetooth Android app.
Image: The OBDeleven app interface, highlighting its “One-Click App” feature for vehicle customization and control.
To fully leverage the “One-Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. A Premium upgrade unlocks access to more advanced car tracking and customization tools. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven remains a valuable tool for car diagnostics, favored by enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike.
Pros
- Supports reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle’s ECU.
- Offers multi-language support, catering to a global user base.
- Features an active social media community for user support and knowledge sharing.
- Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not found in all OBD2 apps.
- Provides access to manuals containing DIY car fixes and troubleshooting guidance.
- Retrieves history for connected cars, useful for fleet management or tracking vehicle maintenance history.
- Supports control unit reset functionality for advanced diagnostics.
Cons
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for “One-Click Apps.”
- 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 integrates with OBDeleven software and offers a range of intelligent car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars as far back as 1996 models, making it a versatile option for a wide range of vehicles.
Image: The Dash – Drive Smart app interface, showcasing its customizable dashboard and driving performance analysis features.
With Dash, you gain insights to improve your driving habits and optimize your vehicle’s long-term health. The app can even be used without requiring a device connection at all times for certain features.
Pros
- Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that operates in background mode for continuous monitoring.
- Provides a Driver score and leaderboard to compare your driving performance with other users.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding.
- Integrated GPS tracking tool to help you locate your parked car.
- Nearby gas price comparison feature to potentially save money on fuel purchases.
Cons
- Some users have reported the app draining their mobile device’s battery, especially with continuous background operation.
- Compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, although updates may address this.
- A few users have experienced network connection issues, which may affect real-time data updates.
9. Engine Link (IOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app similar to Torque Pro, but specifically designed for iOS devices. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, although recent user feedback suggests potential issues with WiFi connectivity. Despite this, Engine Link remains a strong OBD2 Bluetooth app option for iOS users.
Image: The Engine Link app on iOS, displaying a customizable dashboard with real-time vehicle data.
While lower ratings due to connectivity concerns exist, Engine Link is still recognized as a leading car tracking application on iOS. Available for a one-time purchase on iTunes, Engine Link aims to provide comprehensive car monitoring and control.
Pros
- Customizable dashboard to display only the parameters you need to monitor.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption for eco-conscious driving.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes for diagnostics and troubleshooting.
- Heads-up display (HUD) option for projecting data onto the windshield.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees after the initial app purchase.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a diverse user base.
- Recent updates include support for Torque Custom PID Files, enhancing customization.
Cons
- Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data, requiring troubleshooting.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another capable car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely known as some other scanners, the Android application maintains a respectable 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs.
Image: The ScanMaster app interface, showcasing its real-time data display and diagnostic capabilities.
With ScanMaster on your Android device, you can gain a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and accurately read fault codes. This feature helps ensure transparency with mechanics and prevents potential overcharging for repairs.
The developers offer a Lite (free) version that provides access to essential car parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the Pro version is required to unlock all features, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions.
Pros
- A useful set of tracking parameters is available even in the free Lite version.
- Supports both German and English languages for user preference.
- User-friendly and easy to navigate interface.
- Compatible with a wide range of ELM327 adapters.
- Supports data recording for later analysis and review.
- Clear graphical representation of data for easier interpretation.
Cons
- Customer support has been reported as ineffective by some users.
- Compatibility issues with certain devices have been noted in user reviews.
- Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding older devices.
11. DashCommand (IOS)
DashCommand positions itself as a premium solution to transform your mobile device into an advanced engine data display. It has been recognized for its innovation, winning the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014.
Image: The DashCommand app on iOS, featuring customizable performance gauges and real-time vehicle data displays.
DashCommand is among the more expensive OBD2 scanner apps for iOS on iTunes, but it delivers high-performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing for up to five trips. User reviews generally indicate that DashCommand provides excellent value for its price.
Pros
- User-friendly and intuitive interface for easy operation.
- Highly customizable performance gauges to track preferred data parameters.
- Inclinometer feature to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-roading.
- Supports data-logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Sophisticated trip computer to maintain statistics for up to five separate trips.
- Graphical representation of collected data for visual analysis.
Cons
- Reported incompatibility with iPhone X, potentially affecting newer iPhone users.
- Compatibility issues with specific aftermarket ECUs like Haltech elite 2599 have been reported.
- Contains in-app purchases for certain car models or advanced features.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is an OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android, highly regarded as a top free car diagnostic tool. Its popularity is evident in its high 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.
Image: The BlueDriver app, showcasing its user-friendly interface and diagnostic report generation features.
BlueDriver allows monitoring of critical ECU parameters, scanning and clearing trouble codes, accessing freeze frame data, and sharing data via email on both Android and iOS platforms. It includes features often found in paid apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros
- Wireless Bluetooth connection to your vehicle for convenient operation.
- Supports smog readiness checks for emissions compliance.
- Significantly reduces potential travel costs associated with mechanic visits for basic diagnostics.
- Offers free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing improvements and feature enhancements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results for detailed system analysis.
- Provides improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems beyond basic engine codes.
- Allows generation and sharing of professional-looking repair reports for documentation.
Cons
- Requires iOS 8 and above, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices.
- Minor issues reported with iPhone XR, potentially resolved with app updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR is a comprehensive car diagnostic system that combines a dedicated device with a mobile app. It monitors car health, tracks mileage, and is compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters. If you’re looking for a dedicated device paired with a best OBD2 bluetooth android app experience, GoFAR is worth considering.
Image: The GoFAR device and app interface, illustrating its mileage tracking and vehicle health monitoring features.
A key selling point of GoFAR is its IRS compliance, potentially offering tax savings for business or mileage tracking purposes. It also emphasizes fuel efficiency, claiming potential fuel cost reductions of 10-30%. The Android and iOS apps maintain a strong 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences.
Pros
- Easy to install and use, designed for user-friendliness.
- Offers a one-year warranty on the initial device purchase.
- Sends alerts in plain English when vehicle system errors occur, making diagnostics accessible to non-experts.
- Platform for connecting with nearby mechanics for convenient service booking.
- Extensive database of over 3000 fault codes and descriptions.
- Features a global leaderboard to compare fuel savings with other GoFAR users.
- Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders.
- No subscription or ongoing fees after the initial device purchase.
Cons
- Requires an upfront purchase of the GoFAR device, adding to the initial cost compared to app-only solutions.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD emphasizes simplicity and ease of use in its car diagnostic app, without compromising functionality. Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into clear, understandable language, making it easier for users to quickly grasp and respond to vehicle issues.
Image: The FIXD Vehicle Health Monitor app, highlighting its simplified fault code explanations and maintenance scheduling features.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters for optimized app performance and gauge monitoring. The Android app on the Google Play Store has a solid 4.5 rating from users.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process, ready to use within minutes.
- Especially suitable for first-time OBD2 app users due to its simplified interface.
- Allows scheduling maintenance reminders to keep up with vehicle servicing.
- Sends alerts for worn-out car parts that require repair or replacement.
- Streamlined and easy onboarding process for new users.
- Integrated feature to buy car parts directly through the app.
- Offers helpful customer support team for user assistance.
Cons
- Some older app versions have been reported to have bugs.
- Works optimally with FIXD adapters, potentially limiting compatibility with generic ELM327 adapters.
- Includes in-app purchases for certain features or services.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app designed exclusively for BMW vehicles, compatible with adapters provided by Carly. For BMW owners, this app provides in-depth diagnostics and customization options. It is a top OBD2 Bluetooth Android app choice specifically within the BMW ecosystem.
Image: The Carly For BMW app, showcasing its BMW-specific diagnostics and coding features.
Whether you are a new or experienced BMW driver, Carly allows real-time viewing of vital car gauges and parameters. The Android app also supports standard OBD2 features, but compatibility should be tested with the Lite version before purchasing the full app.
Pros
- Comprehensive health check of your BMW’s electronic components.
- Used car check feature to assess a pre-owned BMW before purchase.
- One-click control for the electric parking brake on compatible models.
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY battery registration support for BMW models requiring specific procedures.
- Excellent customer service team dedicated to BMW users.
Cons
- Carly adapters are generally more expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters.
- Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models compared to other BMW models.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 solution, accompanied by a user-friendly app. The Carista scanner offers strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus, making it a versatile option for owners of these vehicles.
Image: The Carista OBD2 app interface, emphasizing its customization options and vehicle-specific settings.
A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option within the app. Once plugged in, Carista allows access and modification of numerous ECU options typically only accessible by dealership technicians.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation.
- Compact and portable OBD2 adapter design.
- Customizable vehicle settings through the app interface.
- Seamless phone-to-OBD2 scanner integration.
- Offers a 1-month free trial period to test features.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms.
- Provides detailed diagnostic information for supported vehicles.
Cons
- In-app purchases are required to unlock full functionality beyond the trial period.
17) OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion, when paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, delivers a comprehensive diagnostic report for your vehicle. It is considered a popular app for vehicle diagnostics, appreciated for its user-friendliness, making it a solid best OBD2 bluetooth android app choice.
Image: The OBD Fusion app interface, showcasing its customizable dashboards and real-time vehicle parameter monitoring.
OBD Fusion is designed for ease of use, appealing to both novice and experienced users. Dashboard customizability is a key strength, allowing users to display and closely monitor the specific engine functions most relevant to them.
Pros
- Highly customizable dashboards to display preferred data parameters.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms for broad device support.
- Includes GPS navigation features for trip tracking and location-based data.
- Provides emission monitoring for environmental awareness and compliance checks.
- Extensive data logging capabilities for detailed vehicle performance analysis.
Cons
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases for full functionality.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features directly within the app, limiting collaboration or remote assistance options.
Conclusion
With this extensive list of the best OBD2 Bluetooth Android apps, you are now better equipped to choose an application that meets your specific car diagnostic needs.
However, before making a purchase or committing to a specific app, it’s crucial to verify compatibility with your vehicle. Functional testing is essential to ensure seamless communication between the OBD2 app, adapter, and your car’s ECU. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others may require purchasing the paid version upfront. Explore the available options and choose the app that best suits your vehicle and diagnostic requirements.
To summarize our top recommendations:
Best Android OBD2 App
Torque Pro: A feature-rich paid app widely compatible with various car models and praised for its performance and customization.
Best iOS OBD2 App
OBD Fusion: A user-friendly paid app that effectively tracks vital parameters and offers cross-platform compatibility.
