Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner App 2018: Expert Reviews & Recommendations

In today’s tech-driven automotive world, understanding your vehicle’s health is no longer a mystery reserved for mechanics. Thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) and the surge in innovative mobile applications, you can now gain real-time insights into your car’s performance right from your smartphone. As a seasoned auto repair expert at techcarusa.com, I’ve seen firsthand how OBD2 Bluetooth scanner apps have revolutionized vehicle maintenance and diagnostics. These apps, fueled by advancements in mobile app development, empower drivers with unprecedented access to their car’s data, helping to prevent costly repairs and roadside headaches.

The beauty of OBD2 apps lies in their ability to translate complex engine data into user-friendly information. They tap into your vehicle’s computer, revealing crucial parameters such as speed, engine temperature, pressure levels, and much more. However, with a crowded app market, finding the best OBD2 Bluetooth scanner app can feel like navigating a maze. Many drivers, eager to take control of their car’s diagnostics, have unfortunately encountered subpar apps that fail to deliver on their promises.

To prevent you from wasting time and money on ineffective tools, I’ve compiled an expert-backed list of the top OBD2 apps for both Android and iOS devices. This guide will delve into the features, pros, and cons of each app, ensuring you choose the perfect companion for your car in 2018 and beyond. We’ve thoroughly tested and analyzed these apps to bring you recommendations you can trust, helping you get the true value and performance you deserve from an OBD2 scanner.

Let’s dive into the detailed reviews and find the best OBD2 Bluetooth scanner app to empower your car care journey!

Top OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner Apps: Expert Breakdown

1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)

Torque Pro consistently earns high praise from car owners and enthusiasts, solidifying its reputation as a leading OBD2 Bluetooth app for Android. Boasting over a million downloads on the Google Play Store, this app is a testament to its effectiveness and user satisfaction. While it comes with a modest price tag of around $5, user reviews and expert opinions confirm that Torque Pro delivers exceptional value for the investment.

Alt text: Torque Pro app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle diagnostics data including speed, RPM, and engine temperature.

Torque Pro transforms your smartphone into a comprehensive vehicle monitoring system. Its beautifully designed and fully customizable dashboard displays real-time data from your car’s engine, giving you a clear picture of its performance. Beyond live monitoring, Torque Pro offers robust data logging capabilities, allowing you to export compiled data to its servers or via email for later analysis and review.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Offers multiple themes to personalize the look and feel of your diagnostic dashboard.
• Data Sharing: Enables easy screenshot sharing to social media platforms and email for collaborative diagnostics or record-keeping.
• Integrated GPS Compass: Features a built-in GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging context.
• Data Visualization: Supports graph data displays and car dock integration for convenient viewing while driving.
• Emissions Analysis: Provides CO2 emission readouts, contributing to environmentally conscious driving.
• Journey Recording: Includes a track recorder to capture video footage of your drives, useful for analysis or documentation.
• Performance Alerts: Features customizable alarms and warnings for suboptimal car performance, such as high coolant temperatures.
• Wide Compatibility: Remarkably, supports older Android versions, including 2.0, extending its usability to a broader range of devices.

Cons:

• Paid App: Requires upfront purchase, unlike some free alternatives.
• Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users have reported Bluetooth pairing bugs, although these are often resolved with app updates or device adjustments.

2. OBD Auto Doctor

OBD Auto Doctor operates on similar principles to many leading car diagnostic apps, offering comprehensive vehicle health monitoring. It’s designed to be compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, making it accessible for a wide range of users. This app excels at tracking vital vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, giving you immediate insights into your car’s condition.

Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app interface showcasing real-time engine parameters and diagnostic information with clear graphs.

OBD Auto Doctor goes beyond basic engine monitoring, allowing you to oversee multiple control units, including engine and transmission systems. It also supports data export in CSV format via email, facilitating detailed analysis and record-keeping. A standout feature is its optimized fuel consumption monitor, which can help you save significantly on fuel costs by providing data to improve driving efficiency.

Pros:

• Real-time Data Display: Provides immediate, on-screen data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your car’s maintenance.
• Versatile Data Presentation: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences.
• Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring wide applicability.
• GPS Integration: Offers GPS support for location tracking and data logging context.
• Responsive Customer Support: Provides access to a helpful customer service team available around the clock.
• Extensive Customization: Features advanced customization options to tailor the app to your specific needs.
• Units Flexibility: Supports both imperial and metric units, accommodating users in different regions.
• Comprehensive Trouble Codes: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing in-depth diagnostic capabilities.
• Emission Readiness Tracking: Tracks readiness status, informing you when your car is prepared for emission testing, saving time and potential failures.

Cons:

• In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to unlock full functionality and access advanced features.
• Connectivity & Accuracy Concerns: Some users have reported occasional connection issues or instances of inaccurate readings, highlighting the importance of adapter compatibility and app updates.

3. InCarDoc Pro

InCarDoc Pro stood out as a top OBD2 Android app in reviews for 2017 and 2018, and it continues to be a strong contender in the OBD2 app market. This application is recognized for its high-level car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented through a clean and user-friendly home screen.

Alt text: InCarDoc Pro app main screen showing vehicle status, diagnostic options, and performance parameters in a user-friendly layout.

To ensure compatibility with your adapter and vehicle, InCarDoc Pro offers a free version that allows you to test its core functions before committing to the paid version. The full app is available for a reasonable price of under $5 on app stores. In terms of connectivity, InCarDoc Pro is versatile, supporting ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters. It is also designed to function reliably on most modern Android devices.

Pros:

• Extensive Vehicle Support: Compatible with a wide range of OBD2 compliant vehicles, with a compatibility list available on their website for verification.
• Real-time Parameter Monitoring: Provides real-time readings of crucial engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
• Overlay Functionality: Features an overlay mode to display economy data in the background or over other running applications, enhancing multitasking.
• Fuel Efficiency Tools: Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets to help you monitor and improve driving efficiency.
• GPS Integration: Offers GPS support for location tracking and trip data logging.
• Cloud Data Backup: Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage for secure backup and accessibility across devices.
• Data Sharing for Expert Assistance: Enables data sharing via email, facilitating remote diagnostics and professional advice on car repairs.

Cons:

• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and higher, potentially excluding users with older devices.
• Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have encountered occasional errors when establishing Bluetooth connections, suggesting potential adapter-specific issues.

4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

For those seeking comprehensive insight into their vehicle’s operation, the Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a powerful free car diagnostic tool. This app empowers you to understand the vast array of parameters read by your car’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU), essentially giving you access to your car’s “electronic brain.”

Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app customizable dashboard displaying various gauges and real-time vehicle information in a personalized layout.

By providing detailed diagnostic information, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 helps you proactively identify potential issues before they escalate. If you are familiar with fault codes and their meanings, this app becomes an invaluable tool for DIY car maintenance, enabling you to address minor problems yourself and determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary.

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is arguably the best monitoring tool in terms of cross-platform compatibility. Versions are available for Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms, ensuring accessibility across your devices. With over 2 million installations across supported platforms, its popularity speaks volumes about its reliability and user satisfaction. Notably, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 boasts a high user rating (4.7) among OBD2 apps, further highlighting its quality and effectiveness.

Pros:

• Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
• Adapter Versatility: Compatible with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware choice.
• Customizable Dashboard: Provides a customizable dashboard, allowing you to prioritize and track your preferred parameters.
• Fuel Consumption Tracking: Offers fuel consumption statistics, aiding in efficient driving and cost savings.
• Settings Backup & Restore: Includes settings backup and restore functionality, simplifying setup across devices or after app re-installation.
• Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a diverse user base.

Cons:

• Android Version Limitation: Only supports Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding users with older devices.
• In-App Purchases for Full Features: Requires in-app purchases to unlock optimal performance and access advanced features, as the free version may have limitations.

5. EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS platforms, designed to work seamlessly with ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. This app is a powerful tool for monitoring essential vehicle parameters, giving you the data you need to make informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and performance.

Alt text: EOBD Facile app interface displaying a variety of real-time gauges including speed, RPM, engine temperature, and other vehicle parameters.

Depending on the data provided by your car’s ECU, EOBD Facile can display a comprehensive range of gauges on its dashboard, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake volume, and numerous other crucial parameters. Since its launch on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installations, indicating its widespread adoption and user trust.

Pros:

• Real-time Sensor Display: Provides immediate, real-time display of vehicle sensor data for up-to-the-minute monitoring.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes a database of over 11,000 fault codes with definitions, aiding in accurate diagnostics.
• Fault Code Clearing: Allows you to delete fault codes and address engine light issues directly from your smartphone.
• Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using the EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating detailed trip analysis.
• Route Planning: Offers route planning functionality, which can be particularly useful for long journeys and optimizing travel efficiency.

Cons:

• Requires OBD2 Experience: May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully leverage its advanced features and interpret data effectively.
• No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

6. HobDrive

HobDrive is a robust OBD2 app for Android, recognized for its advanced features and comprehensive vehicle tracking capabilities. It stands out as one of the more premium options on the Google Play Store, priced around $10, reflecting its extensive functionality and professional-grade features.

Alt text: HobDrive app dashboard example showing a customizable layout with various gauges, graphs, and real-time vehicle parameters.

A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad vehicle compatibility. It supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles, and extends compatibility to some Non-OBD2 vehicles, including Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems, broadening its applicability. HobDrive also offers cross-platform accessibility, working seamlessly with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS, providing a unified diagnostic experience across devices.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Features a highly customizable dashboard that can display a wide range of parameters provided by your car’s ECU.
• Adapter Flexibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, offering versatile connectivity options.
• Advanced Monitoring: Tracks critical parameters like overheating and suspicious fuel trims, providing early warnings for potential issues.
• MIL Code Explanation: Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes, aiding in understanding diagnostic information.
• Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings, useful for tracking mileage and maintenance intervals.
• Diesel MPG Calculation: Accurately calculates MPG for diesel vehicles even without battery assistance, enhancing fuel efficiency analysis.
• Pro Version Features: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges, offering enhanced data visualization.

Cons:

• Payment Issues: Some users have reported difficulties with completing in-app payments in certain locations, potentially hindering access to the full app.
• Android Version Requirement: Runs only on Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding older devices.

7. OBDeleven

When considering the android app development sophistication of OBD2 apps, OBDeleven stands out with its innovative approach. While providing a clear view of ECU parameters, OBDeleven goes further by incorporating a unique “One Click App” feature. This allows users to control various car functions with a single tap, adding a layer of convenience and advanced control not found in many other apps.

Alt text: OBDeleven app interface showcasing the “One Click Apps” feature, allowing users to access and control various vehicle functions with a single tap.

To fully utilize OBDeleven’s “One Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. Access to the more advanced car tracking tools typically requires a Premium upgrade. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven is a highly regarded tool for car diagnostics and customization, popular among both car enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Diagnostics: Supports reading and clearing all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your car’s ECU, providing thorough diagnostic capabilities.
• Multilingual Support: Offers support for multiple languages, catering to a global user base.
• Active Community: Maintains an active social media community, fostering user interaction and support.
• Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in all OBD2 apps.
• DIY Manuals: Provides manuals with DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs themselves.
• Car History Retrieval: Allows retrieval of history for connected cars, useful for tracking maintenance and diagnostic records.
• Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit resets, enabling advanced troubleshooting and system adjustments.

Cons:

• Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for “One Click App” features.
• Advertisements: Displays ads in the free version, which can be intrusive until upgrading to Premium.

8. Dash – Drive Smart

Dash – Drive Smart is a versatile car tracking app compatible with OBDeleven software and a wide range of smart car analysis tools. It delivers real-time data and is claimed to be compatible with cars dating back to 1996 models, offering broad vehicle coverage.

Alt text: Dash – Drive Smart app driving interface showing real-time speed, RPM, and other driving parameters with a clean and intuitive design.

Dash aims to enhance your driving experience and car maintenance by providing insights to improve driving habits and make informed decisions about your car’s long-term health. Notably, the app can function effectively even without continuous device connection, offering flexibility in usage.

Pros:

• Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Features an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that operates in background mode, allowing for seamless integration with other apps.
• Driver Score & Leaderboard: Provides a Driver score and leaderboard, enabling performance comparison with other Dash users.
• Multi-Vehicle Support: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding, simplifying setup for households with multiple cars.
• GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help you easily locate where you parked your vehicle.
• Gas Price Comparison: Offers a nearby gas price comparison feature, assisting in finding the most economical fuel options.

Cons:

• Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported concerns about the app draining the mobile device’s battery, particularly during prolonged use.
• Glitchy Compass Feature: The compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, though this may be addressed in updates.
• Network Connection Issues: Certain users have experienced network connection issues, potentially affecting real-time data updates and feature reliability.

9. Engine Link (IOS)

Engine Link is a robust car diagnostic app designed exclusively for iOS devices, offering functionality similar to Torque Pro but tailored for the Apple ecosystem. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. However, recent user feedback suggests that the Wi-Fi connection feature may be experiencing some reliability issues.

Alt text: Engine Link app customizable gauges displaying various engine parameters in a user-defined dashboard layout within the iOS environment.

Despite the Wi-Fi connectivity concerns, Engine Link remains a highly capable car tracking application on iOS. Priced at around $6 on iTunes, it offers a comprehensive set of features to monitor your car’s health and performance, putting you firmly in control of your vehicle’s diagnostics.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Provides a one-stop customizable dashboard, allowing users to focus on tracking only the parameters they deem essential.
• Emissions & Fuel Monitoring: Enables monitoring of emission rates and fuel consumption, promoting eco-conscious and efficient driving.
• Extensive Fault Code Support: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, facilitating comprehensive diagnostics.
• Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Offers a heads-up dashboard display option, projecting data onto the windshield for safer driving.
• No In-App Purchases: Does not include in-app purchases or subscription fees after the initial app purchase, providing full functionality upfront.
• Multilingual Support: Supports over 20 languages, catering to a diverse global user base.
• Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update includes support for Torque Custom PID (Parameter IDs) files, enhancing customization and data access.

Cons:

• ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects to the adapter but fails to read ECU data, potentially hindering diagnostic capabilities.
• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later to run, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices.

10. ScanMaster

ScanMaster is another commendable car monitoring tool designed for use with ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other scanners, this Android application maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over 1 million installations, indicating consistent user satisfaction and reliability.

Alt text: ScanMaster app interface displaying real-time vehicle data, fault codes, and diagnostic information in a clear and organized layout.

With ScanMaster 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 be invaluable in preventing overcharging by mechanics, as you’ll have a better understanding of necessary repairs.

The developers of ScanMaster offer a Lite (free) version that generously provides access to essential car parameters such as VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, to unlock the full potential of the app, including access to an extensive database of fault codes and detailed error descriptions, purchasing the Pro version is necessary.

Pros:

• Free Version Functionality: Offers a useful set of tracking parameters even in the free Lite version, allowing users to test basic capabilities.
• Language Support: Supports both German and English languages, catering to a bilingual user base.
• User-Friendly Navigation: Features an easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users of varying technical expertise.
• Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters, providing flexibility in hardware selection.
• Data Recording: Includes data recording capabilities, enabling users to log and analyze vehicle performance over time.
• Graphical Data Representation: Provides clear graphical representations of data, simplifying analysis and interpretation.

Cons:

• Ineffective Customer Support: Users have reported issues with the effectiveness of the customer support team, potentially hindering issue resolution.
• Device Compatibility Issues: A few cases have been reported where certain devices are not fully supported, suggesting potential compatibility limitations.
• Android Version Requirement: Compatible only with Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding older devices.

11. DashCommand (IOS)

DashCommand proudly positions itself as the ultimate tool for transforming your mobile device into an advanced engine data display, and it largely lives up to this claim. The app’s excellence was recognized when it won the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, a testament to its innovation and functionality.

Alt text: DashCommand app performance gauges displaying engine data with customizable layouts and real-time feedback for performance monitoring.

DashCommand is one of the more premium OBD2 scanner apps available for iOS, priced at $14.99 on iTunes. This investment provides access to high-quality performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing capabilities, storing data for up to five trips. Customer reviews generally indicate that DashCommand delivers on its promises and provides excellent value for its price.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Features a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for novice users.
• Customizable Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges, enabling users to track their preferred data parameters.
• Inclinometer: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, particularly useful for off-road driving enthusiasts.
• Data Logging & Playback: Supports data-logging, recording, and playback, facilitating detailed performance analysis and historical review.
• Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a sophisticated trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips, aiding in fuel efficiency and travel analysis.
• Graphical Data Display: Offers graphical representation of collected data, simplifying interpretation and trend analysis.

Cons:

• iPhone X Incompatibility: Reportedly not fully compatible with iPhone X, potentially limiting usability for users of this specific model.
• Haltech Elite Compatibility Issues: Compatibility issues have been noted with Haltech Elite 2500 engine management systems, potentially limiting its use for certain modified vehicles.
• In-App Purchases for Car Models: Contains in-app purchases for certain car models, meaning full functionality for some vehicles may require additional spending.

12. BlueDriver

BlueDriver stands out as a highly regarded OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android platforms. It’s recognized as one of the best free car diagnostic tools, evidenced by its impressive 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.

Alt text: BlueDriver app diagnostic report example showing detailed vehicle health information, trouble codes, and potential repair recommendations.

Whether you use the Android or iOS version, BlueDriver allows you to monitor critical parameters from your car’s ECU, scan for and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share collected data via email. Remarkably, BlueDriver includes features often found only in paid apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts alike.

Pros:

• Wireless Connectivity: Establishes a wireless connection with your car, offering convenience and ease of use.
• Smog Readiness Check: Supports smog readiness checks, helping you ensure your vehicle passes emissions tests.
• Cost Savings: Significantly reduces potential travel costs by enabling proactive vehicle maintenance and diagnostics.
• Free Regular Updates: Offers free and regular updates, ensuring continued functionality and feature enhancements.
• On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results, providing in-depth system health information.
• Advanced Diagnostics: Provides improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems beyond basic engine codes.
• Repair Report Generation: Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record-keeping.

Cons:

• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding users with older Apple devices.
• iPhone XR Issues: Some users have reported minor issues with iPhone XR compatibility, although these are often resolved with app updates.

13. GoFAR

If your goal is to “go far” with vehicle diagnostics and efficiency, GoFAR is a high-performance car diagnostic device and app system designed to keep you in control. This system focuses on monitoring car health and tracking mileage, and it’s compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.

Alt text: GoFAR device plugged into OBD2 port and app interface showing fuel efficiency data and driving insights on a smartphone.

A key benefit of GoFAR is its IRS-compliant mileage tracking, which can potentially lead to tax savings for business or mileage-deductible driving. The system also emphasizes fuel efficiency, aiming to reduce fuel costs by 10-30% through driving behavior analysis and feedback. The Android and iOS applications boast a high 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences and global usability.

Pros:

• Easy Installation & Use: Designed for straightforward installation and user-friendly operation.
• Warranty: Offers a one-year warranty on initial device purchase, providing peace of mind.
• Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English, making diagnostic information easily understandable for non-experts.
• Mechanic Platform: Provides a platform for hiring nearby mechanics, streamlining repair processes.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes a database of over 3000 fault codes with descriptions, aiding in comprehensive diagnostics.
• Driver Leaderboard: Features a global leaderboard where drivers can compete based on fuel cost savings, gamifying efficiency.
• Maintenance Reminders: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration, promoting proactive vehicle maintenance.
• No Subscription Fees: Requires no ongoing subscription or fees after the initial device purchase.

Cons:

• Upfront Device Purchase: Requires an initial purchase of the GoFAR device, priced around $99, which may be a barrier for some users.

14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor

FIXD distinguishes itself in the car diagnostic app market by prioritizing simplicity without sacrificing diagnostic quality. Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into clear, easily understandable language, enabling users to quickly grasp and respond to vehicle issues.

Alt text: FIXD app showing easy-to-understand diagnostics with plain language descriptions of vehicle issues and maintenance recommendations.

FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters designed for optimal app performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on Android via the Google Play Store and holds a strong 4.5 rating based on user reviews.

Pros:

• Quick Setup: Installs in minutes and is ready for immediate use, simplifying the initial setup process.
• Beginner-Friendly: Particularly suitable for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplicity and clear explanations.
• Maintenance Scheduling: Allows scheduling of maintenance reminders, promoting proactive car care.
• Wear Part Alerts: Provides alerts for worn-out car parts that require repair or replacement, preventing unexpected breakdowns.
• Easy Onboarding: Features a streamlined and easy onboarding process, facilitating quick app adoption.
• In-App Parts Purchase: Offers the ability to buy car parts directly through the app, streamlining the repair process.
• Helpful Customer Support: Provides access to a helpful customer support team for assistance and issue resolution.

Cons:

• Older Version Bugs: Some users have reported bugs in older app versions, suggesting the importance of keeping the app updated.
• FIXD Adapter Dependency: Works optimally with FIXD adapters, potentially limiting compatibility with other OBD2 adapters.
• In-App Purchases: Includes in-app purchases, suggesting that full functionality or advanced features may require additional spending.

15. Carly For BMW

Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app designed exclusively for BMW owners and is optimized for use with adapters provided by Carly. This app caters specifically to the nuances and diagnostic needs of BMW vehicles.

Alt text: Carly For BMW app showing detailed vehicle status, health checks, and BMW-specific diagnostic information on a smartphone.

Whether you are a new or experienced BMW driver, Carly provides access to vital car gauges and parameters in real-time. The Android app also supports standard OBD2 features, and users can test compatibility with their BMW using the Lite version before purchasing the full app.

Pros:

• Thorough BMW Health Checks: Performs thorough health checks of your BMW’s electronic components, offering comprehensive diagnostics.
• Used Car Check: Includes a used car check feature, valuable for assessing the condition of a pre-owned BMW before purchase.
• One-Click Parking Brake Control: Provides one-click control for the electric parking brake, adding convenience for BMW owners.
• Carly Adapter Benefits: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, adding value to the hardware investment.
• DIY Battery Registration: Supports DIY battery registration, a BMW-specific maintenance procedure.
• Excellent Customer Service: Offers a highly regarded customer service team dedicated to BMW app users.

Cons:

• Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are priced higher compared to generic OBD2 adapters on the market, representing a greater upfront cost.
• Limited Fault Codes for F45/F46: May have limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 Series F45/F46 models, potentially restricting diagnostic depth for these specific vehicles.

16. Carista OBD2 App

Carista OBD2 App is another notable option in the OBD2 scanner market, utilizing a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and a companion app. Carista boasts strong compatibility with a range of car brands, including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus, making it versatile for owners of these makes.

Alt text: Carista OBD2 app showing customization options for various vehicle settings and ECU parameters, accessible through the app interface.

A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option. Once the Carista adapter is plugged in and connected via the app, users can access and modify numerous ECU options. These customization settings are typically only accessible through dealership equipment, giving Carista users unique control over their vehicle’s functions.

Pros:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connection between the adapter and your smartphone.
• Compact Adapter: Features a compact adapter design, making it discreet and easy to store.
• Customizable Settings: Offers extensive customizable settings, enabling users to personalize vehicle functions and behavior.
• Phone to OBD2 Innovation: Represents an innovative phone-to-OBD2 scanner approach, integrating mobile technology with vehicle diagnostics.
• Free Trial: Provides a 1-month free trial period, allowing users to test the app and adapter before committing to a purchase.
• Cross-Platform Support: Offers support for both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device compatibility.
• Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities, going beyond basic fault code reading.

Cons:

• In-App Purchases: Relies on in-app purchases for full functionality, meaning the free trial and basic app version have limited features.

17. OBD Fusion

Developed by OCTech, the OBD Fusion app, when paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, offers a comprehensive vehicle diagnostic solution. It’s considered a popular app for vehicle diagnostics, appreciated for its user-friendliness and robust features.

Alt text: OBD Fusion app customizable dashboard layouts showing different configurations for displaying vehicle parameters and diagnostic data.

OBD Fusion’s key selling point is its ease of use, making it suitable for both novice users and experienced automotive professionals. The app’s customizable dashboard is a significant strength, allowing users to tailor the displayed information to their specific needs and closely monitor desired engine functions.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards, enabling users to create personalized data displays.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device support.
• GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features, adding extra utility beyond diagnostics.
• Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities, aiding in ensuring vehicle compliance and environmental awareness.
• Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging capabilities, allowing for detailed performance tracking and analysis.

Cons:

• Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some advanced features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases to unlock full functionality.
• No Diagnostic Data Sharing: Lacks diagnostic data sharing features, potentially limiting collaborative diagnostics or remote assistance.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Best OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner App

With this detailed overview of the best OBD2 apps for iOS and Android in 2018, you’re now better equipped to select the ideal app for your car. However, remember that confirming compatibility between your specific car model and your chosen OBD2 app is crucial before making a purchase. Functional testing, ideally using a free “lite” version of the app if available, is a wise step to ensure seamless integration and accurate data readings. While some developers offer free versions for compatibility testing, others may require purchasing the paid version upfront. Carefully consider your needs, budget, and vehicle compatibility to make the best choice.

To streamline your decision further, here are my top expert recommendations from this comprehensive list:

Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A paid app that justifies its cost with excellent features, extensive customization, and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for Android users seeking in-depth diagnostics.

Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A paid service that balances ease of use with comprehensive functionality, tracking all vital parameters and offering a user-friendly experience for iOS users looking for reliable vehicle monitoring.