Best OBD2 to PC Software: Top Picks for Car Diagnostics in 2024

As a car owner, understanding your vehicle’s health is crucial. Modern cars are complex machines, and when that check engine light illuminates, you need reliable tools to diagnose the issue quickly and effectively. While mobile apps for OBD2 scanners have gained popularity, for serious car diagnostics, professional mechanics and savvy car enthusiasts often turn to OBD2 to PC software. This article dives deep into why PC-based solutions are often superior and highlights the Best Obd2 To Pc software options available today.

The market is flooded with OBD2 scan tools, many prioritizing profit over genuine functionality. This surge has unfortunately diluted the focus on quality features. That’s why we felt it essential to spotlight established innovators in automotive diagnostics – companies with a proven long track record of OBD2 expertise.

For the average driver, the subtle yet significant differences between OBD reader kits might be easily missed. Both types can appear convincing at first glance. However, with years of experience in vehicle workshops, we can quickly distinguish a basic “me-too” check-engine-light reader from professional OBD2 software approved by experienced automotive technicians. This article focuses squarely on the latter – the top-tier software solutions for your PC.

We’re intentionally steering clear of mobile apps for a few key reasons. Firstly, the mobile OBD app market is incredibly volatile. Many apps are abandoned quickly due to intense competition. Secondly, and more importantly, most mobile apps aren’t developed by car manufacturers but by independent freelancers, often lacking the depth and reliability of dedicated PC-based systems.

OBD-II software for PCs has been around since the early 1990s, while mobile apps are a relatively recent development. Many popular smartphone OBD2 applications offer stripped-down functionality, often masked by flashy user interfaces. This is a primary reason why we advocate for PC-based solutions when you need serious diagnostic capabilities.

Having tested and used numerous car software packages for over a decade, we present you with seven of the most worthy OBD2 diagnostic software packages for your PC. Our ultimate advice is to explore their websites, gauge their trustworthiness, and choose the software that best fits your specific automotive needs.

To save you time, we’ve summarized each review in bullet points for easy scanning.

A fundamental principle to remember: All OBD2 software essentially performs the same core function – diagnosing and reporting vehicle faults. The primary difference lies in the quantity and depth of fault codes detected. More comprehensive software will identify a wider range of errors.

Do-it-yourself OBD2 diagnostics empowers car owners, placing them on a more level playing field with mechanics. However, it’s crucial to remember that identifying a malfunction with software is only the first step. Physical repairs of broken parts are still necessary and cannot be resolved simply by clicking a “Clear fault” button in your software.

Key Features Shared by the Listed OBD Car Scanner Software:

Premium, Not Free: These are not free OBD2 software options. For free alternatives (often used with ELM327 scan tools), consider EasyOBD. However, the software listed here offers significantly more features and reliability.
Windows Dominance, with Mac Options: The automotive industry primarily targets Windows. However, we’ve included two excellent OBD2 software options for macOS, catering to Apple users.
Expert-Based Reviews: Our reviews are grounded in extensive technical and car mechanical expertise, with a combined experience of 60 years. We’ve strived for unbiased evaluations, focusing on factual assessments.
ELM327 Compatibility: All reviewed software supports ELM327 OBD2 interfaces, including Bluetooth, WIFI, and USB versions.
Unidirectional Operation: None of these software packages are bidirectional. Bidirectional control, allowing you to command vehicle systems, typically requires high-end OEM scan tools costing thousands of dollars. For reports on workshop-grade OBD2 scanners with bidirectional capabilities, explore other articles on our blog by searching for “obd2 scanner”.

Image: A visual representation of OBD2 scanner software interface on macOS, highlighting its compatibility and user-friendliness for Apple users.

A Brief Introduction to OBD2 Scanners and Diagnostic Tools:

Automotive technology has evolved dramatically since the invention of the first gasoline-powered automobile in 1885. Cars have transformed from basic transportation to sophisticated machines equipped with advanced technology, from air conditioning and navigation systems to even autopilot features.

Before this technological boom, cars were simpler and easier to repair. However, modern vehicles are increasingly intelligent. They can now collect data to optimize routes, adjust fluids based on driving conditions, and, importantly, detect engine errors.

Most vehicles on the road today have an on-board diagnostics (OBD2) port. This port provides access to data from the engine control unit (ECU). With this data, technicians and car owners can diagnose problems and identify necessary maintenance.

Step 1: Connect an ELM327 scanner to your car’s OBD port. Step 2: Install the necessary ELM327 drivers on your PC. Step 3: Launch your chosen OBD2 software and click “Connect.” It’s a straightforward process!

Accessing ECU data requires a computer and specialized software to interface with the OBD2 port. This demand has driven automotive software companies to develop user-friendly OBD software for laptops and PCs, empowering end-users to access and interpret their car’s ECU data.

Typically, OBD2 diagnostic solutions include two main components: the hardware (an ELM327 interface or similar cable) to connect to the OBD2 port, and the OBD2 software for PC to read and analyze the data. This software is designed to assist with vehicle maintenance and extend the lifespan of your car.

Below, we review seven distinct diagnostic software options from different developers, which we consider to be among the best OBD2 software for PC available for Windows and Mac.

(Disclaimer: We have no affiliate links in this review. Our recommendations are based on genuine evaluations to provide unbiased guidance for your diagnostic needs.)

TOAD PRO

Image: Packaging of TOAD PRO software, showcasing its professional and comprehensive nature for advanced car diagnostics.

TOAD (Total OBD Auto Diagnostics) PRO is a powerful and comprehensive OBD software suite designed for in-depth car diagnostics. It incorporates “car-manufacturer-approved” applications capable of performing thorough vehicle health checks and diagnosing over 15,000 common issues. For advanced users, TOAD PRO even includes ECU remapping software to optimize performance and fuel consumption.

This software offers capabilities typically reserved for professional car repair shops, manufacturers, and mechanics, making advanced diagnostic tools accessible to the public.

TOAD PRO’s key strengths include its broad vehicle compatibility and its ability to monitor live data with customizable visual graphs.

It’s suitable for both home car owners seeking to save on repair costs by diagnosing and fixing issues themselves, and professional mechanics requiring cutting-edge diagnostic and analysis software. TOAD PRO is utilized across approximately 80 countries by law enforcement, franchise car dealerships, car enthusiasts, and everyday car owners.

Key Benefits of TOAD PRO:

Check Engine Light Diagnostics: Provides detailed descriptions of detected problems, guiding users towards effective repairs.
Enhanced OBD Fault Code Detection: Identifies “extra” OBD fault codes often missed by standard scanners and software.
Cost Savings on Car Repairs: Pinpoints broken components, enabling users to source parts affordably or negotiate repair costs with mechanics.
Vehicle Performance Optimization/Tuning: Includes ECU remapping capabilities for performance adjustments and fuel efficiency improvements.
Touch Input Optimization: Well-suited for touch-enabled devices like Surface Pro.
Fuel Cost Reduction: Optimizes engine performance for better fuel economy.
Extended Engine Lifespan: Promotes proactive maintenance and early issue detection.
Real-Time Data Monitoring: Displays live vehicle data in customizable tabular and graphical formats.
DIY Car Repair Empowerment: Helps users diagnose and fix issues, reducing reliance on expensive mechanic services.
Peace of Mind Driving: Ensures vehicle health is monitored and maintained.

Learn more at the TOAD website…

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool stands out with its brand-specific diagnostic options, supporting a wide range of manufacturers including BMW, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Honda, and Porsche. ScanTool is compatible with both Windows and iOS platforms.

The software allows users to quickly scan for trouble codes, vehicle sensor data, and IM240 readiness, facilitating efficient service decisions. A key differentiator of ScanTool is its exceptional depth of vehicle system coverage.

It provides access to systems beyond basic engine and emissions, including ABS, airbag, instrument cluster, transmission, and numerous other controllers. This depth encompasses live data, bidirectional controls, adaptive resets, and system tests.

The primary drawback of AutoEnginuity ScanTool is its higher price point. It’s clearly geared towards professional automotive workshops that handle a high volume of vehicle scans and require OEM-level bidirectional functionalities.

Key Benefits of AutoEnginuity Scan Tool:

Data Logging Versatility: Logs data in XML (for browsers) and CSV (for spreadsheets) formats for flexible data analysis.
Customizable Sensor Data Display: Users can tailor data presentation by adjusting sensor sampling rates, ranges, units, and scaling values.
User-Friendly Data Presentation: Displays data in a clear and concise format, rather than raw, complex data streams.

Learn more at the AutoEnginuity website…

PCMScan

PCMScan is a comprehensive generic OBD-II automotive diagnostic software package compatible with a wide array of OBD hardware interfaces. It offers real-time visual charting, data logging, viewing, and playback of recorded data. PCMScan also supports viewing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), freeze frame data, and other essential vehicle information. This universal scanner software is compatible with US, Asian, and European vehicles manufactured from 1996 onwards.

However, a significant downside of this once-leading Windows OBD2 software is that it hasn’t received updates in over 7 years. This means it lacks support for at least 500+ new PIDs (sensor data) introduced since then, which are incorporated in more current software options. This suggests a potential abandonment of software development or a shift in focus elsewhere by the developers.

Key Benefits of PCMScan:

Customizable Dashboard: Users can personalize the software interface to their preferences.
Dyno and Drag Performance Features: Includes tools for performance measurement and analysis.
Comprehensive Data Logging: Records extensive vehicle data for later review and analysis.
DTC Reading and Clearing: Reads stored and pending Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
Check Engine Light Reset: Clears the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon indicator light.
Freeze Frame Data Access: Reads and clears stored Freeze Frame data.
Extensive Trouble Code Definitions: Supports thousands of vehicle trouble code definitions.

Worthy Features of PCMScan:

Printing and Print Preview: Full support for printing and print preview across all views, including virtual dashboards.
OBD-II Terminal: For users with OBD-II protocol knowledge, PCMScan provides a terminal to send custom commands to the vehicle.
Javascripting Support: Built-in Javascripting support for advanced users to perform custom calculations on OBD-II parameters and data.
Configurable Alerts System: Allows users to set up alerts for specific parameter conditions, with sound warnings and data bookmarks.
Unit Measurement System Choice: Supports both English and Metric (SI) unit systems.
CSV Data Export: Customizable log file data export to .CSV format for easy viewing in programs like Excel.
Real-Time Stamps for Exported Data: Exports data with real-time stamps for easy correlation with external data logs.
PID Priority Assignment: Allows prioritizing PIDs to optimize data capture rates.
Wide Interface Support: Compatible with Autotap, VIA, Multiplex Engineering, ELM320, ELM322, ELM323, ELM327 (all versions), and any SAE-J2534 compliant OBD-II interface.

Learn more at the PCMScan website…

ProScan

Image: Screenshots of ProScan OBD software interface, highlighting its user-friendliness and diagnostic reporting features.

ProScan, now part of the TOAD LITE package after being acquired by Total Car Diagnostics in 2015, has been enhanced for modern vehicles. This OBD2 software is updated to read the latest sensor data, accommodating advancements in vehicle technology.

ProScan is known for its user-friendly interface, making it one of the most accessible Windows OBD2 software options. With a history dating back to 2003, its strengths lie in its consistent stability and development rooted in deep automotive protocol and sensor knowledge. It’s compatible with standard ELM327 hardware.

A standout feature of ProScan, less commonly found in other software, is its accurate 0-60mph (100km/h) timing performance measurement. This allows users to conduct live, precise measurements of speed and torque gains after ECU adjustments or modifications.

Key Benefits of ProScan:

Fuel Economy Adjustment: Enables users to optimize fuel economy based on driving habits.
Vehicle Connection Manager: Features a streamlined interface for easy program launch and vehicle connection.
Freeze Frame Data Display: Allows monitoring of data from previous time periods.
Oxygen Sensor Tests: Displays comprehensive oxygen sensor test results, pinpointing malfunctioning sensors.
One-Button Diagnostic Report Generator: Generates easy-to-read diagnostic reports.
Readiness Monitor Status: Shows the status of vehicle emissions readiness monitors.
Oxygen Sensor Location Information: Displays the number and location of oxygen sensors on the vehicle.
Oxygen Sensor Functionality Testing: Tests vehicle oxygen sensors to verify correct operation.
Data Recording and Playback: Records and replays diagnostic data for analysis.
Instantaneous Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculates and displays real-time fuel efficiency (mpg/liters per km) for MAF-based vehicles.
Trip Cost Calculation: Calculates real-time trip costs based on distance and fuel efficiency.
Performance Statistics: Calculates performance metrics like 0-60 mph, 1/4 mile time, trap speed, and 1/8 mile time.
Horsepower and Torque Estimation: Estimates horsepower and torque curves and generates dyno charts.
Printable Diagnostic Reports: Creates printable diagnostic reports for vehicle documentation.
Unit Conversion: Converts between English and metric units.

Learn more at the ProScan website…

OBD Auto Doctor

OBD II Auto Doctor is a highly sophisticated and user-friendly OBD2 car diagnostic tool, considered one of the best OBD software for the Mac OS X platform. This software enables users to check and reset trouble codes and communicate directly with the vehicle’s OBD2 system.

While feature-rich, OBD II Auto Doctor might be considered “too advanced” for casual car owners. For users seeking a simpler yet reliable “repair-shop” level tool, Movi software (reviewed below) is another excellent option.

Overall, OBD II Auto Doctor is exceptionally resourceful in terms of data extraction, making it an ideal tool for serious car enthusiasts who want a deep understanding of their vehicles.

Key Benefits of OBD II Auto Doctor:

Comprehensive Diagnostics: Reads DTCs, freeze frame data, and MIL status.
Fuel and Emission Monitoring: Provides insights into fuel emission and consumption.
Real-Time OBD2 Indicators: Displays real-time OBD2 data.
Data Visualization: Offers both numerical and graphical data views.
Data Sharing via Email: Allows data sharing via email.
ECU Information Retrieval: Reads VIN and calibration ID of the ECU.
Extensive DTC Database: Includes a built-in database of over 14,000 alarm codes.

Learn more at the OBD II Auto Doctor website…

Movi and Movi Pro

Movi/ Movi Pro excels in its ability to read vehicle engine control module (ECM) data with minimal setup on macOS. If you prioritize simplicity and absolute reliability in retrieving car faults and precise live PID parameter reports, Movi is an ideal OBD app. It’s considered more approachable and less overwhelming than OBD II Auto Doctor for some users.

The free version of Movi is sufficient for many general car owners. However, clearing DTC fault codes requires the paid Pro version.

Movi software can extract historical vehicle failures (DTCs) and clear the ‘check engine light’ after addressing the underlying issues.

Key Benefits of Movi and Movi Pro:

Real-Time Data Viewing: Displays real-time data to aid in diagnosing engine failures.
DTC Read/Clear Functionality: Reads and clears Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
Freeze Frame Data Access: Views and clears freeze frame data.
Fuel Consumption and Economy Monitoring: Tracks fuel consumption and fuel economy.
Virtual Horsepower and Torque Monitoring: Monitors virtual horsepower and torque.
Multi-Parameter Graphing: Graphs up to 4 engine indicators simultaneously.

Learn more at the Movi website…

EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile OBD software is known for its simplicity and ease of setup for connecting a car to a computer via an ELM327 interface on macOS. Available in the App Store, EOBD Facile is a close competitor to Movi in terms of user-friendliness. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference regarding the GUI interface.

Once connected, users can diagnose issues, view real-time data, access vehicle information, and monitor car sensor readings.

Key Benefits of EOBD Facile:

Check Engine Light Clearing: Clears the check engine light.
Engine Code Diagnostics: Displays engine codes and their descriptions.
Manufacturer Error Code Monitoring: Monitors manufacturer-specific error codes.
GPS Data Logging: Maintains a backlog of records with GPS data.

Learn more at the EOBD Facile website…

When selecting car diagnostic software, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. Some users may require advanced functions like live data monitoring and extensive parameter visualization, while others may only need basic engine health and safety checks.

This concludes our review of the best OBD software based on years of experience with various car diagnostic tools. We hope this guide helps you choose the best OBD2 to PC software for your needs in 2024 and beyond.

7 Best OBD2 Software in 2024 and Beyond: Reviewed and Tested

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