Best Software for OBD2: Top Picks for Car Diagnostics in 2024 and Beyond

As a content creator at techcarusa.com and a seasoned auto repair expert, I understand the importance of reliable diagnostic tools. The market is flooded with OBD2 scanners and software, many prioritizing profit over functionality. This article aims to guide you through the noise and highlight the best software for OBD2 available, focusing on established and reputable solutions for your PC or laptop.

We’ve noticed a trend of overlooking crucial differences between OBD2 reader kits. While many might seem similar at first glance, years of workshop experience allow us to distinguish between a basic “check engine light reader” and professional-grade OBD2 software trusted by experienced automotive technicians. This guide will concentrate on the latter, specifically PC-based solutions, because we believe they offer superior functionality compared to many mobile apps.

While mobile OBD2 apps have gained popularity, many suffer from short lifespans due to market saturation and are often developed by independent developers rather than established car companies. In contrast, PC-based OBD2 software has a longer history, dating back to the early 1990s, offering more mature and robust features. Many smartphone OBD2 applications compromise functionality for user-friendly interfaces. Therefore, we recommend focusing on PC-based options for serious diagnostics.

Drawing on over a decade of experience testing and using various car software, we present our selection of 7 of the best OBD2 diagnostic software packages. We encourage you to explore their websites, assess their credibility, and choose the software that best meets your specific automotive needs.

To make this review efficient, we’ve summarized each software package in bullet points.

It’s important to remember that all OBD2 software shares a fundamental purpose: diagnosing and reporting vehicle faults. The primary difference lies in the depth of diagnosis and the number of fault codes detected. High-quality OBD-2 diagnostic software empowers car owners to perform DIY diagnostics comparable to professional mechanics. However, remember that software identifies issues; physical repairs are still necessary to resolve malfunctions.

Common Features of Top-Rated OBD Car Scanner Software:

Not Free Software: These are professional-grade tools, not free basic versions. For free OBD2 software options (often for ELM327 scan tools), consider EasyOBD as a starting point for basic functionality.
Windows-Centric, with Mac Options: The automotive industry largely develops for Windows. However, we’ve identified and reviewed two excellent OBD2 software options for macOS that cater to Mac users.
Expert Reviews: Our reviews are grounded in extensive technical and mechanical expertise, totaling 60 years of combined experience. We strive for unbiased evaluations, examining each software’s strengths and weaknesses.
ELM327 Compatibility: All reviewed software supports ELM327 OBD2 interfaces, including Bluetooth, WIFI, and USB. Installation instructions for ELM327 can be found here.
Unidirectional Operation: These software packages are primarily unidirectional, meaning they read data from the car. Bidirectional control, which allows you to send commands to the car, typically requires high-end OEM scan tools costing $1000+. For more information on workshop-grade OBD2 scanners, search our blog for “obd2 scanner“.

Understanding OBD2 Scanners and Diagnostic Tools:

The evolution of automotive technology has been remarkable. From simple transportation, cars have become sophisticated machines equipped with advanced electronics, including engine management systems. Modern vehicles are incredibly intelligent, capable of optimizing performance, managing systems, and crucially, detecting engine errors.

Most cars today feature an on-board diagnostics (OBD2) port. This port provides access to data from the engine control unit (ECU), the car’s central computer. By accessing this data, technicians and car owners can diagnose problems and perform necessary maintenance.

Accessing ECU data requires a computer and specialized OBD software. The process is straightforward: Step 1: Connect an ELM327 interface to your car’s OBD port. Step 2: Install the necessary ELM327 drivers on your computer. Step 3: Launch your chosen OBD2 software and click “Connect.”

The growing demand for vehicle diagnostics has spurred many companies to develop OBD software for laptops and PCs, empowering users to access and interpret their car’s ECU data. Typically, these products include both hardware (an OBD interface cable or adapter) and OBD-2 software. The hardware connects the car’s ECU to the computer, and the software reads and analyzes the data, aiding in vehicle maintenance and extending vehicle lifespan.

Below are seven diagnostic software options from different developers that we consider the best software for OBD2 currently available for Windows and Mac laptops and PCs.

(Note: We have no affiliate links in this review. Our recommendations are based solely on our expert opinion and intended to assist you in finding the best diagnostic solutions.)

TOAD PRO

TOAD® (Total OBD & ECU Auto Diagnostics) is a powerful, comprehensive OBD software suite designed for in-depth vehicle diagnostics. Utilizing “car-manufacturer-approved” applications, TOAD can perform extensive health checks and diagnose over 15,000 common car problems. For advanced users, it also includes ECU remapping capabilities to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.

TOAD Pro provides access to the same level of diagnostic capabilities typically used by professional car repair shops, manufacturers, and mechanics, making these advanced tools accessible to the public. Its strength lies in its broad vehicle compatibility and its ability to monitor live data through customizable visual graphs.

TOAD is suitable for both DIY car owners wanting to save on repair costs and professional mechanics requiring cutting-edge diagnostic and analysis tools. It is used by a diverse range of users, including law enforcement, dealerships, car enthusiasts, and manufacturers in approximately 80 countries.

Benefits of TOAD PRO:

Check Engine Light Diagnostics: Provides detailed descriptions of detected problems, enabling informed repairs.
Enhanced Fault Code Detection: Identifies “extra” OBD fault codes often missed by less sophisticated scanners and software.
Cost Savings on Repairs: Pinpoints faulty components, allowing for cost-effective parts sourcing and negotiation with mechanics.
Performance Tuning: Offers features to optimize car performance and improve fuel economy.
Touchscreen Optimization: Well-suited for touchscreen devices like Surface Pro.
Fuel Efficiency Improvement: Helps optimize fuel consumption.
Extended Engine Lifespan: Contributes to preventative maintenance and engine health.
Real-time Data Monitoring: Provides live insights into vehicle operation.
DIY Repair Assistance: Empowers users to diagnose and address car issues, reducing repair expenses.
Peace of Mind: Ensures vehicle is in good operating condition.
Versatile Data Display: Presents real-time data in tables and graphical plots.

Learn more at the TOAD website…

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool is a professional-grade OBD2 software known for its brand-specific diagnostic capabilities. It offers enhanced options for brands like BMW, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Honda, and Porsche, among others. ScanTool is compatible with both Windows and iOS.

This software excels in quickly scanning for trouble codes, vehicle sensor data, and IM240 emissions readiness, aiding in service decisions. A key strength is its depth of vehicle system coverage, accessing ABS, airbag systems, transmission, instrument cluster, and numerous other controllers.

ScanTool provides in-depth access to live data, bi-directional controls, adaptive resets and learning functions, and system tests. However, its higher price point makes it primarily suited for professional automotive workshops that require OEM-level bi-directional functionalities and handle high volumes of vehicle diagnostics.

Benefits of AutoEnginuity Scan Tool:

Data Logging Flexibility: Logs data in XML format for browser viewing and CSV for spreadsheet analysis.
Customizable Sensor Data: Allows users to tailor data display by adjusting sensor sampling rates, ranges, units, and scaling values.
User-Friendly Data Presentation: Presents data in a clear, concise, and easily understandable format, rather than raw data streams.

Learn more at the AutoEnginuity website…

PCMScan

PCMScan is a comprehensive, general OBD-II diagnostic software solution compatible with a wide array of OBD hardware interfaces. It features real-time visual charting, data logging, viewing, and playback. PCMScan also displays Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), freeze frame data, and other essential vehicle information. This universal scanner software supports most vehicles manufactured after 1996, across US, Asian, and European markets.

A significant drawback is that PCMScan hasn’t been updated in over 7 years. This means it lacks potentially 500+ new PIDs (sensor data parameters) incorporated into more current applications. This suggests either a halt in development or a shift of resources elsewhere, potentially impacting its effectiveness with newer vehicles.

Benefits of PCMScan:

Customizable Dashboard: Offers personalized dashboard layouts for user preference.
Dyno and Drag Features: Includes performance measurement tools.
Data Logging Capabilities: Records diagnostic data for later analysis.
DTC Reading and Clearing: Reads both stored and pending Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
Check Engine Light Control: 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 Tested:

Printing and Print Preview: Full print and preview support for all views, including virtual dashboards.
OBD-II Terminal: For users with OBD-II protocol knowledge, it provides a terminal to send custom commands to the vehicle.
Javascripting Support: Built-in Javascript support allows for custom calculations on OBD-II parameters and data for advanced users.
Configurable Alerts System: Allows users to set up alerts for specific parameters, triggering sounds or bookmarks in logged data when conditions are met.
Unit System Flexibility: Supports both English and Metric (SI) unit systems.
CSV Data Export: Customizable log file export to .CSV format for easy viewing in programs like Excel.
Real-Time Stamps: Export with real-time stamps for correlation with external data logs.
PID Priority Assignment: Allows assigning priorities to PIDs to improve data capture rates.
Interface Compatibility: Supports a wide range of interfaces including Autotap, VIA LDV, Multiplex Engineering, ELM320, ELM322, ELM323, ELM327, and any SAE-J2534 compliant OBD-II interface.

Learn more at the PCMScan website…

ProScan

ProScan was acquired by Total Car Diagnostics in 2015 and has been continuously developed and improved. This OBD2 software, now integrated into the TOAD LITE package, is known for its user-friendliness and long-standing presence in the market since 2003. ProScan is praised for its stability and development rooted in deep automotive protocol and sensor knowledge. It is compatible with any standard ELM327 hardware interface.

A standout feature of ProScan is its accurate 0-60mph (100km/h) timing performance measurement, often considered one of the most precise implementations. This is valuable for measuring speed and torque gains after ECU modifications or aftermarket part installations.

Benefits of ProScan:

Fuel Economy Adjustment: Offers features to adjust fuel economy based on driving habits.
Vehicle Connection Manager: Features a user-friendly interface for program launch and vehicle connection.
Freeze Frame Data Monitoring: Allows users to monitor data from previous time periods.
Oxygen Sensor Tests: Displays results of oxygen sensor tests and identifies malfunctioning sensors.
One-Button Diagnostic Report Generator: Simplifies report creation.
Emissions Readiness Monitors: Shows the status of vehicle emissions readiness monitors.
Oxygen Sensor Location and Count: Displays the number and location of oxygen sensors.
Oxygen Sensor Functionality Testing: Verifies the correct operation of oxygen sensors.
Data Recording and Playback: Records and replays diagnostic data.
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 cost 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: Generates printable diagnostic reports for vehicles.
Unit Conversion: Converts between English and metric units.

Learn more at the ProScan website…

OBD Auto Doctor

OBD II Auto Doctor stands out as a sophisticated and streamlined OBD2 car diagnostic tool. We consider it the best OBD software for the Mac OS X platform. This software allows users to check and reset diagnostic codes and communicate directly with the car’s OBD2 system.

While incredibly powerful, its advanced features might be considered “too advanced” for casual car owners. If you seek a balance of simplicity and professional-level reliability, consider Movi software, reviewed below. OBD II Auto Doctor is exceptionally resourceful in data extraction, making it ideal for serious car enthusiasts who want a deep understanding of their vehicles.

Benefits of OBD II Auto Doctor:

Comprehensive Diagnostics: Reads DTCs, Freeze Frame data, and MIL status.
Emissions and Fuel Data: Provides insights into fuel emissions and consumption.
Real-time OBD2 Indicators: Displays real-time OBD2 data.
Data Visualization: Offers both numerical and graphical data views.
Data Sharing: Allows data export via email.
ECU Information Retrieval: Reads VIN and ECU calibration ID.
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 ease of use on macOS while providing reliable vehicle diagnostics. It reads information from the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) with a straightforward setup. If you prioritize simplicity without sacrificing accuracy in fault code retrieval and live PID parameter reporting, Movi is an excellent OBD app choice. We find it more approachable than OBD II Auto Doctor for less technically inclined users.

The free version of Movi offers substantial diagnostic capabilities for most car owners. However, clearing DTC fault codes requires the paid Pro version. Movi can extract historical vehicle failures (DTCs) and clear the ‘check engine light’ after identifying and addressing trouble codes.

Benefits of Movi and Movi Pro:

Real-time Data Display: Views real-time data for diagnosing engine issues.
DTC Management: Reads and clears DTCs.
Freeze Frame Data Access: Views and clears freeze frame data.
Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors fuel consumption and fuel economy.
Virtual Performance Metrics: Monitors virtual horsepower and torque.
Graphical Data Representation: Graphs up to 4 engine indicators simultaneously.

Learn more at the Movi website…

EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile OBD software is designed for simplicity and ease of connection between your car and a Mac computer via an ELM327 interface. Available on the App Store, EOBD Facile rivals Movi in user-friendliness. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference in graphical user interface.

Once connected, EOBD Facile allows users to diagnose issues, view real-time results, access vehicle information, and monitor car sensor readings.

Benefits of EOBD Facile:

Check Engine Light Reset: Clears the check engine light.
Engine Code Diagnosis: Views engine codes and their descriptions.
Manufacturer Error Code Monitoring: Monitors manufacturer-specific error codes.
GPS Data Logging: Backlog of records of GPS data.

Learn more at the EOBD Facile website…

When selecting car diagnostic software, consider your specific needs and technical expertise. Some users may require advanced features like comprehensive live data monitoring, while others might prioritize basic engine health checks and safety assessments.

This concludes our review of the best OBD software, based on our extensive experience with various car diagnostic tools. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect OBD2 software for your needs.

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

4.2 (83.78%) 249 votes