In today’s connected world, understanding your car’s health is easier than ever thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. As a leading content creator for techcarusa.com and a seasoned auto repair specialist, I’ve seen firsthand how these innovative tools have empowered drivers to take control of their vehicle maintenance. Gone are the days of relying solely on dashboard warning lights; now, a wealth of diagnostic data is available right at your fingertips via your smartphone.
Mobile app development has revolutionized the automotive industry, bringing sophisticated diagnostic capabilities to the average car owner. These OBD2 apps connect to your car’s computer, providing real-time insights into engine performance, sensor readings, and potential issues. Think of it as having a professional mechanic in your pocket, ready to decipher your car’s signals and help you avoid costly breakdowns.
Choosing the “Best Obd2 Scanner App 2019” can feel overwhelming. The app stores are flooded with options, each promising to be the ultimate solution. Navigating this crowded market to find reliable and effective apps is crucial. You don’t want to waste time and money on subpar tools, especially when your car’s health is at stake. That’s why I’ve compiled this expert guide, focusing on the top OBD2 apps of 2019 that stood out for their performance, features, and user-friendliness.
Unfortunately, some drivers have learned the hard way, investing in OBD2 apps that fail to deliver on their promises. To prevent this from happening to you, I’ve rigorously tested and reviewed a selection of the best OBD2 apps available. This article will delve into 17 exceptional OBD2 apps that were top contenders in 2019, providing detailed insights to help you make an informed decision and choose the perfect app for your vehicle and needs.
Let’s dive into the world of OBD2 apps and explore the best options that 2019 had to offer!
Top OBD2 Apps for Android and iOS in 2019
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently ranks as a top choice for Android users, often hailed as the best OBD2 app for Android. With over a million downloads and glowing user reviews, this paid app (around $5 on the Play Store) is a worthwhile investment for serious car enthusiasts and those who want in-depth vehicle diagnostics.
Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a customizable dashboard, displaying real-time data from your car’s engine with impressive clarity. You can tailor the layout to prioritize the parameters most important to you. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro allows you to export data to its servers or via email for later analysis, making it a powerful tool for tracking vehicle performance over time.
Pros:
- Highly Customizable Dashboard: Offers multiple themes and layouts to personalize your data display.
- Data Sharing: Easily share screenshots to social media and email, perfect for collaborating with mechanics or sharing performance metrics.
- Integrated GPS Compass: Includes a built-in GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging.
- Data Graphing and Car Dock Support: Provides graphical representations of data for trend analysis and supports car dock integration for convenient viewing while driving.
- CO2 Emission Readouts: Monitors and displays CO2 emission levels for environmental awareness.
- Track Recorder: Records video of your journeys, overlaying data for performance analysis and driving behavior review.
- Customizable Alarms and Warnings: Set alarms for critical parameters like coolant temperature, ensuring timely intervention for potential issues.
- Broad Android Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, including 2.0, making it accessible to a wide range of devices.
Cons:
- Paid App: Requires upfront purchase, unlike some free alternatives.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users have reported occasional Bluetooth pairing bugs, although these are often resolved with updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is a versatile OBD2 app compatible with both ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters. It functions similarly to other leading diagnostic apps, focusing on real-time tracking of essential vehicle sensors and parameters.
This app excels at monitoring multiple control units, including engine and transmission systems. Its fuel consumption monitoring is particularly noteworthy, helping you optimize fuel efficiency and save money on gas. Data can be exported in CSV format via email for in-depth analysis or record-keeping.
Pros:
- Real-Time Data Display: Provides instant access to crucial vehicle data, enabling informed decisions about maintenance and driving.
- Numerical and Graphical Data Display: Offers flexible data visualization in both numerical and graphical formats.
- Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- GPS Support: Integrates GPS functionality for location-based data logging and tracking.
- 24/7 Customer Service: Provides readily available customer support for assistance and troubleshooting.
- Advanced Customization: Offers extensive customization options to tailor the app to your specific needs.
- Imperial and Metric Unit Support: Supports both imperial and metric units for global usability.
- Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Emissions Readiness Monitoring: Tracks readiness status for emissions testing, helping you prepare for inspections.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases and Premium Upgrade: Additional features require in-app purchases or a premium upgrade.
- Potential Connection and Reading Issues: Some users have reported occasional connection problems or inaccurate data readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro was a leading OBD2 app in 2017 and 2018 and remained a strong contender in 2019. Known for its robust car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, InCarDoc Pro presents information through a clean and user-friendly interface.
A free version is available to test compatibility with your adapter and vehicle before committing to the paid version (under $5). InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 adapters via USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website.
- Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Displays real-time engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
- Overlay Mode: Allows displaying economy data over other running apps, providing seamless multitasking.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Includes widgets for quick access to fuel economy and acceleration data.
- GPS Integration: Offers GPS support for location tracking and data logging.
- Cloud Data Reporting: Supports uploading data to cloud storage for backup and accessibility.
- Email Data Sharing: Enables sharing data via email for professional assistance with car repairs.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding older devices.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have experienced occasional errors during Bluetooth connection setup.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a free car diagnostic tool that provides comprehensive insights into your vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). It allows users to understand their car’s parameters and identify potential issues proactively.
For users familiar with fault codes, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 empowers them to address minor issues themselves and determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary. Its broad compatibility across platforms, including Android, iOS, and Windows PC/Mobile, makes it a highly versatile tool. With over 2 million installs and a high user rating (4.7), it’s a popular and well-regarded choice.
Pros:
- Broad OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- ELM327 Adapter Compatibility: Compatible with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
- Customizable Dashboard: Allows users to personalize the dashboard to track preferred parameters.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides detailed fuel consumption statistics for efficiency monitoring.
- Settings Backup and Restore: Offers settings backup and restore functionality for easy configuration management.
- Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.3 and above.
- In-App Purchases: Optimal performance and full feature access may require in-app purchases.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is an OBD2 car diagnostic app for both Android and iOS that supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. It provides access to essential gauges and parameters needed for informed car maintenance decisions.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake, and numerous other parameters directly on your mobile dashboard. With over a million installs on the Google Play Store, it’s a trusted and widely used OBD2 app.
Pros:
- Real-Time Sensor Display: Provides real-time visualization of vehicle sensor data.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes with definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Fault Code Clearing: Allows users to clear fault codes and resolve engine light issues.
- Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Route Planning: Offers route planning functionality, useful for long journeys.
Cons:
- Requires OBD2 App Experience: May be less intuitive for first-time OBD2 app users.
- No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive stands out as one of the more advanced OBD2 apps for Android, albeit with a higher price point (around $10 on Google Play Store). Its premium features and extensive vehicle support make it a valuable tool for serious users.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with both OBD2 compliant vehicles and select non-OBD2 vehicles like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. It also offers cross-platform accessibility, working seamlessly with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers a highly customizable dashboard displaying a wide array of ECU parameters.
- GPS and ELM327 Support: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Advanced Monitoring: Tracks overheating and suspicious fuel trim levels for early issue detection.
- MIL Code Explanations: Provides clear explanations of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) codes.
- Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings.
- MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Accurately calculates MPG for diesel vehicles, even without battery assistance.
- Pro Version with Enhanced Gauges: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for detailed data visualization.
Cons:
- Payment Issues in Some Regions: Users in certain locations have reported difficulties with in-app payments.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven distinguishes itself with its “One-Click Apps,” offering a unique approach to vehicle customization and diagnostics. Beyond standard OBD2 functionality, OBDeleven allows users to control various car options with a single tap, setting it apart from many competitors.
To fully utilize the “One-Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. A Premium upgrade unlocks even more advanced car tracking and customization tools. Despite these requirements, OBDeleven is a favored tool among car enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Management: Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from all vehicle control units.
- Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages for global user accessibility.
- Active Social Media Community: Features a vibrant social media community for user support and knowledge sharing.
- Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in other OBD2 apps.
- DIY Repair Manuals: Offers manuals with do-it-yourself car repair guides.
- Connected Car History Retrieval: Retrieves historical data for connected vehicles.
- Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit reset functionality.
Cons:
- Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for “One-Click Apps.”
- Advertisements in Free Version: The free version contains advertisements that can be removed with a Premium upgrade.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a versatile car tracking app compatible with OBDeleven software and various smart car analysis tools. It aims to provide comprehensive insights for improved driving and vehicle maintenance, claiming compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models.
Dash focuses on enhancing driving habits and vehicle health. It offers real-time data, driver scoring, and even parking location features, aiming to be an all-in-one driving companion.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard with Background Mode: Offers a customizable parameter dashboard that operates in the background.
- Driver Score and Leaderboard: Provides a driver score and leaderboard for performance comparison with other users.
- Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding.
- GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to locate parked vehicles.
- Gas Price Comparison: Features nearby gas price comparison to help save money on fuel.
Cons:
- Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported that the app can drain mobile device batteries.
- Glitchy Compass Feature: The compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, though updates may address this.
- Network Connection Issues: Some users experience network connection problems.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app tailored for iOS devices, similar in functionality to Torque Pro but exclusively for the Apple ecosystem. It connects with ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, though recent user feedback indicates potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity.
Despite recent Wi-Fi connection concerns, Engine Link remains a powerful car tracking application on iOS, priced affordably at around $6 on iTunes. It offers comprehensive car monitoring and control capabilities.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers a customizable dashboard to track desired parameters.
- Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption.
- OBD2 Fault Code Management: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Includes a heads-up display option for projecting data onto the windshield.
- No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: Available for a one-time purchase with no recurring fees.
- Extensive Language Support: Supports over 20 languages.
- Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update includes support for Torque Custom PID files.
Cons:
- ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data.
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is a reliable car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters, offering a balanced set of features. While not as widely known as some other apps, it maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over a million installs on Android.
ScanMaster provides a clear overview of real-time car performance and accurate fault code readings, helping users avoid unnecessary mechanic costs. A free “Lite” version offers essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. The paid “Pro” version unlocks full features, including an extensive fault code database with detailed descriptions.
Pros:
- Free Version with Essential Features: Offers a functional free version with key parameters.
- Multilingual Support (German and English): Supports German and English languages.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Easy to navigate and use.
- Broad ELM327 Adapter Compatibility: Works with most ELM327 adapters.
- Data Recording Capability: Supports data recording for later analysis.
- Graphical Data Representation: Provides clear graphical representations of data.
Cons:
- Ineffective Customer Support: Some users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness.
- Device Compatibility Issues: A few users have experienced compatibility problems with certain devices.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand for iOS positions itself as a premium, advanced display for engine data, recognized with a SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014.
Priced at $14.99 on iTunes, DashCommand is one of the more expensive iOS OBD2 scanner apps, but it delivers with high-performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing for up to five trips. User reviews generally reflect satisfaction with its features and performance.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: User-friendly and intuitive interface.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows customization of performance gauges to track specific data points.
- Inclinometer: Includes an inclinometer to display roll angle and vehicle pitch for off-roading.
- Data Logging, Recording, and Playback: Supports comprehensive data logging and playback features.
- Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features an advanced trip computer with stats for up to five trips.
- Graphical Data Representation: Provides graphical displays of collected data.
Cons:
- iPhone X Incompatibility: Not compatible with iPhone X models.
- Compatibility Issues with Specific Systems: Reported compatibility issues with Haltech elite 2599 systems.
- In-App Purchases for Some Car Models: May require in-app purchases for certain car models to access full functionality.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a popular OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android, known for being a robust and feature-rich free car diagnostic tool. It boasts a high 4.6 rating on iTunes with over 2 million downloads, indicating strong user satisfaction.
BlueDriver offers wireless connectivity, monitoring critical ECU parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email. It includes advanced features often found only in paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless Connection: Offers wireless connection to your vehicle.
- Smog Readiness Check: Includes a smog readiness check feature for emissions testing preparation.
- Cost Savings: Reduces potential travel costs by enabling DIY diagnostics.
- Free and Regular Updates: Provides free and regular app updates.
- On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results.
- Enhanced Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission: Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, airbag, transmission, and other systems.
- Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generating and sharing repair reports.
Cons:
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above.
- iPhone XR Issues: Some users reported issues with iPhone XR, potentially resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR is presented as a high-performance car diagnostic device and mileage tracker, compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters. It focuses on both vehicle health monitoring and fuel efficiency optimization.
GoFAR emphasizes fuel savings (10-30% reduction potential) and IRS compliance for tax-related mileage tracking. Its Android and iOS apps maintain a strong 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences globally.
Pros:
- Easy Installation and Use: Simple to install and user-friendly.
- One-Year Warranty: Offers a one-year warranty on initial device purchase.
- Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in clear, understandable English.
- Mechanic Finder Platform: Provides a platform for finding nearby mechanics.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 3000 fault codes with descriptions.
- Global Driver Leaderboard: Features a global leaderboard based on fuel cost savings.
- Maintenance and Insurance Alerts: Sends alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration checks.
- No Subscription Fees: No ongoing subscription or hidden fees.
Cons:
- Upfront Purchase Required: Requires an initial device purchase (around $99).
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD focuses on simplicity and ease of use without sacrificing diagnostic quality. It translates fault codes into plain language, making it accessible to users without extensive automotive knowledge.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimized app performance. The Android app on Google Play Store holds a respectable 4.5 rating.
Pros:
- Quick and Easy Setup: Installs and starts working within minutes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders.
- Worn Part Alerts: Alerts users to worn-out parts needing repair or replacement.
- Easy Onboarding: Simple and straightforward onboarding process.
- In-App Parts Purchase: Enables purchasing car parts directly through the app.
- Responsive Customer Support: Offers helpful customer support.
Cons:
- Older Version Bugs: Earlier app versions had reported bugs.
- FIXD Adapter Dependency: Optimized for use with FIXD adapters.
- In-App Purchases: Includes in-app purchases for additional features.
15. Carly for BMW
Carly for BMW is a specialized OBD2 app designed exclusively for BMW vehicles, compatible with Carly-branded adapters.
Whether you are a novice or experienced BMW owner, Carly provides real-time monitoring of vital BMW parameters and offers BMW-specific functionalities. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, but compatibility testing with the “Lite” version is recommended before purchase.
Pros:
- Comprehensive BMW Health Checks: Provides thorough health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Used Car Check Feature: Includes a used car check feature for pre-purchase inspections.
- One-Click Electric Parking Brake Control: Offers one-click control for the electric parking brake.
- Premium Adapter Support and Warranty: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY Battery Registration Support: Supports DIY battery registration.
- Excellent Customer Service: Known for responsive customer service.
Cons:
- Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are more expensive than generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited Fault Codes for Specific BMW Series: Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App utilizes a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and is well-supported across brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
Carista’s standout feature is its “Customize” option, allowing users to access and modify various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealership technicians.
Pros:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Offers convenient Bluetooth connectivity.
- Compact Design: Features a compact OBD2 plug.
- Customizable Settings: Provides extensive customization options for vehicle settings.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Seamless integration between smartphone and OBD2 scanner.
- 1-Month Free Trial: Offers a 1-month free trial period.
- iOS and Android Support: Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases for full feature access after the trial.
17. OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular vehicle diagnostic app known for its user-friendliness and comprehensive reports when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner.
Its ease of use makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Customizable dashboards allow users to focus on the most relevant engine functions and data.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards.
- iOS and Android Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features.
- Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging features.
Cons:
- Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some features are locked behind expansion packs requiring additional purchase.
- No Diagnostic Data Sharing: Lacks diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive list of the best OBD2 apps for iOS and Android in 2019, you’re well-equipped to choose an app that meets your specific needs and vehicle.
However, remember to verify app compatibility with your car before purchasing. Utilize free “Lite” versions or compatibility checkers offered by many developers to ensure a seamless experience. Choosing the right OBD2 app can significantly enhance your car ownership experience, providing valuable insights into your vehicle’s health and performance.
Based on our extensive review, here are our top picks from the 2019 lineup:
Best Android OBD2 App:
Torque Pro – A paid app offering exceptional features, extensive customization, and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for Android users.
Best iOS OBD2 App:
OBD Fusion – A paid app praised for its ease of use, comprehensive tracking of vital parameters, and cross-platform availability on iOS, making it a standout option for Apple users.
