In 2017, smartphone technology had firmly cemented its place in our daily lives, and this extended to car maintenance and diagnostics. For car owners and enthusiasts looking to understand their vehicle’s health, On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps for Android devices emerged as indispensable tools. These apps, when paired with a compatible OBD2 adapter, could unlock a wealth of real-time data from your car’s engine and systems, empowering you to monitor performance, diagnose issues, and even save money on repairs. Navigating the crowded app market to find the truly effective OBD2 applications was a challenge. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a list of the best OBD2 Android apps that stood out in 2017, offering superior features and reliable performance for vehicle diagnostics.
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently ranked as a top choice for Android users seeking a powerful and customizable OBD2 app in 2017. For a reasonable price of around $5 on the Google Play Store, Torque Pro provided a professional-grade diagnostic experience. Its strength lay in its highly customizable dashboard, allowing users to display real-time data in a visually appealing and personalized manner. The ability to export data for later analysis or sharing was another key feature that made Torque Pro a favorite among car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics alike.
Pros:
- Offers a wide range of customizable themes to personalize the dashboard’s appearance.
- Enables easy sharing of screenshots to social media and email for collaboration or record-keeping.
- Includes a built-in GPS-based compass for navigation and orientation.
- Supports data graphing and car dock integration for convenient viewing while driving.
- Provides CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Features a track recorder to capture video footage of journeys alongside diagnostic data.
- Sends alarms and warnings for critical vehicle parameters, such as high coolant temperature.
- Compatible with older Android versions, extending its usability to a wider range of devices.
Cons:
- Requires an upfront purchase, unlike some free OBD2 apps.
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues were reported, although often resolvable with updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor presented itself as a versatile and user-friendly OBD2 app in 2017, mirroring the functionality of many leading diagnostic tools. Compatible with both ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, it offered comprehensive real-time monitoring of essential vehicle sensors and parameters. Its strength in fuel consumption monitoring was particularly beneficial for users looking to optimize their driving habits and save on fuel costs.
Pros:
- Delivers real-time data display, empowering users to make informed decisions about their vehicle’s maintenance.
- Supports both numerical and graphical representations of sensor data for easy interpretation.
- Boasts compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Integrates GPS support for location-based features and data logging.
- Offers readily available customer service support for user assistance.
- Provides advanced customization options to tailor the app to individual preferences.
- Supports both imperial and metric units for global user accessibility.
- Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing extensive diagnostic coverage.
- Tracks readiness status for emissions testing, helping users prepare for vehicle inspections.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade to unlock the full suite of features.
- Some users reported occasional connection problems or inaccurate data readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro was recognized as a prominent OBD2 Android app in 2017, building upon its earlier success and maintaining its position as a leading diagnostic tool. Its clean and intuitive user interface contributed to its popularity, offering a streamlined experience for both novice and experienced users. The availability of a free version for compatibility testing was a valuable feature, allowing users to ensure the app worked with their vehicle and adapter before committing to a purchase.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD2 compliant vehicles, as listed on their official website.
- Enables users to read real-time engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
- Features an overlay mode to display fuel economy data while using other applications.
- Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick access to key performance metrics.
- Integrates GPS support for tracking location and driving routes.
- Offers cloud storage for reporting data, facilitating data backup and accessibility.
- Allows data sharing via email for remote assistance with car repairs from professionals.
Cons:
- Compatible with Android 4.0.3 and later versions, potentially excluding users with older devices.
- Some users encountered errors during Bluetooth connection attempts.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App distinguished itself as a highly versatile and widely compatible free car diagnostic tool in 2017. Its cross-platform availability across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile devices broadened its reach and user base. With millions of installs across platforms, it demonstrated its popularity and reliability among users seeking comprehensive vehicle monitoring. Its exceptional user rating further solidified its position as a top contender in the OBD2 app market.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Supports a wide variety of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering user choice and flexibility.
- Features a customizable dashboard, allowing users to prioritize and monitor their preferred parameters.
- Provides fuel consumption statistics for tracking and optimizing fuel efficiency.
- Offers settings backup and restore functionality for convenient app management.
- Supports multiple languages, including English and Russian, catering to a diverse user base.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 or higher, potentially excluding users with older devices.
- In-app purchases are necessary to unlock optimal performance and advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile stood out in 2017 as a robust OBD2 car diagnostic app for both Android and iOS platforms, supporting ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. Its focus on essential gauges and parameters made it a practical choice for users seeking to monitor critical vehicle functions. The app’s ability to display a wide range of data, dependent on the vehicle’s ECU capabilities, provided valuable insights into engine performance and vehicle health.
Pros:
- Offers real-time display of vehicle sensor data for immediate feedback on vehicle performance.
- Includes a comprehensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for detailed diagnostics.
- Allows users to clear fault codes and address engine light issues directly from the app.
- Supports the storage of trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Features route planning capabilities, beneficial for long journeys and trip optimization.
Cons:
- May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its advanced features.
- Lacks support for USB adapters, limiting connectivity options for some users.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive was recognized in 2017 as a feature-rich OBD2 app for Android, albeit at a higher price point compared to many competitors. Its premium features and extensive vehicle compatibility, including support for some non-OBD2 vehicles, justified its cost for users seeking advanced diagnostic capabilities. Its cross-platform accessibility further enhanced its value, allowing users to utilize HobDrive across various devices.
Pros:
- Features a highly customizable dashboard to display a wide array of parameters provided by the vehicle’s ECU.
- Supports both GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Monitors for critical issues such as overheating and unusual fuel trims, providing proactive alerts.
- Offers clear explanations of MIL codes, aiding in understanding diagnostic trouble codes.
- Estimates car odometer readings, providing a convenient way to track mileage.
- Calculates MPG for diesel vehicles even without battery assistance, enhancing fuel efficiency tracking.
- The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization.
Cons:
- Some users reported difficulties with in-app payments in certain regions.
- Compatible with Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding older devices.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven distinguished itself in the 2017 OBD2 app landscape by offering “One-Click Apps” in addition to standard diagnostic features. This innovative approach allowed users to perform various car customizations and control functions with a simple tap, setting it apart from purely diagnostic-focused apps. While requiring a network connection for the One-Click App functionality and a Premium upgrade for full access, OBDeleven appealed to users seeking advanced control and customization options alongside diagnostics.
Pros:
- Supports reading and clearing of diagnostic trouble codes from all vehicle control units for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Offers multi-language support, catering to a global user base.
- Features an active social media community, providing a platform for user interaction and support.
- Includes a car battery analyzer, offering an additional diagnostic capability.
- Provides access to manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs.
- Retrieves history for connected cars, enabling tracking of past diagnostic data.
- Supports control unit reset functionality for advanced troubleshooting.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for “One-Click App” features.
- Displays advertisements in the free version, which can be removed with a Premium upgrade.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart positioned itself in 2017 as an intelligent driving assistant app that integrated OBD2 functionality with smart car analysis tools. Claiming compatibility with vehicles dating back to 1996, it offered broad vehicle support. Dash aimed to provide users with insights to improve driving habits, enhance vehicle performance, and make informed maintenance decisions, even offering functionality without requiring a constant device connection.
Pros:
- Features an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in the background.
- Provides a Driver score and leaderboard to gamify driving improvement and encourage safer habits.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic VIN decoding for easy vehicle management.
- Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help users locate their parked vehicle.
- Offers nearby gas price comparison features to facilitate fuel cost savings.
Cons:
- Some users reported concerns about the app draining their mobile device’s battery.
- The compass feature was noted to be occasionally unreliable, although updates aimed to address this.
- Network connection issues were reported by some users, impacting real-time data access.
9. Engine Link (IOS)
Engine Link, while primarily an iOS app, deserves mention as a comparable option to Torque Pro for Apple users in 2017. Offering similar diagnostic capabilities, it connected with ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. Despite some user reports of Wi-Fi connectivity issues, Engine Link remained a valuable OBD2 tool for iOS users, providing comprehensive vehicle monitoring at a competitive price.
Pros:
- Provides a customizable dashboard, allowing users to focus on essential parameters.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption for environmental and economic awareness.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, enabling users to address diagnostic issues.
- Offers a heads-up display (HUD) option for projecting data onto the windshield.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees, providing a straightforward purchase model.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
- Recent updates included support for Torque Custom PID Files, expanding customization options.
Cons:
- Some users reported instances where the app connected but failed to read ECU data.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, limiting compatibility with older Apple devices.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster presented itself as a solid OBD2 monitoring tool for ELM327 adapters in 2017, offering a balanced approach to features and usability. While not as widely known as some other apps, ScanMaster garnered a respectable user rating and a substantial number of installs. Its availability in both free (Lite) and paid (Pro) versions allowed users to sample basic functionality before committing to a purchase for the full feature set.
Pros:
- Offers a selection of tracking parameters even in the free Lite version.
- Supports both German and English languages.
- Features an easy-to-navigate user interface.
- Compatible with a wide range of ELM327 adapters.
- Supports data recording for later analysis and review.
- Provides clear graphical representations of data for easier interpretation.
Cons:
- Customer support was reported to be less responsive by some users.
- Compatibility issues with certain devices were noted in some cases.
- Requires Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding users with older devices.
11. DashCommand (IOS)
DashCommand for iOS was positioned as a premium OBD2 app in 2017, recognized for its advanced features and performance. Winning awards for its mobile electronic product capabilities, DashCommand aimed to transform iPhones into sophisticated engine data displays. While priced higher than many other iOS OBD2 apps, it delivered a comprehensive suite of features and customization options, appealing to users seeking top-tier diagnostic capabilities.
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy to operate.
- Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track desired data points.
- Includes an inclinometer to display vehicle roll and pitch angles, useful for off-road driving.
- Supports data logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Features a sophisticated trip computer that maintains statistics for multiple trips.
- Offers graphical representations of collected data for visual insights.
Cons:
- Compatibility issues were reported with iPhone X models.
- Compatibility concerns with specific hardware, such as Haltech elite 2599, were noted.
- Includes in-app purchases for certain car models or advanced features.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver stood out in 2017 as a highly regarded OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android, earning recognition as a top free diagnostic tool. Its strong user ratings and substantial download numbers reflected its popularity and effectiveness. BlueDriver offered a compelling combination of features, including wireless connectivity, smog readiness checks, and advanced diagnostics, making it a favored choice among both professional mechanics and car owners.
Pros:
- Offers wireless connectivity to vehicles, enhancing ease of use and convenience.
- Supports smog readiness checks, aiding in vehicle emissions compliance.
- Significantly reduces potential travel costs associated with dealership diagnostics.
- Provides free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing improvements and feature enhancements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results, offering detailed system insights.
- Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other vehicle systems.
- Enables the generation and sharing of repair reports for documentation and communication.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding older Apple devices.
- Minor compatibility issues with iPhone XR were reported, but were expected to be resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR presented a unique approach in 2017, offering not just an app but a dedicated car diagnostic device and service. Focusing on car health monitoring and mileage tracking, GoFAR aimed to provide a comprehensive vehicle management solution. Its IRS compliance and emphasis on fuel savings added practical benefits, appealing to users seeking both diagnostic insights and cost optimization.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use, simplifying the OBD2 experience.
- Includes a one-year warranty on the initial device purchase, providing assurance and support.
- Sends alerts in plain English when vehicle errors occur, improving user understanding.
- Offers a platform for connecting with nearby mechanics, facilitating repair services.
- Includes a database of over 3000 fault codes and descriptions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Features a global leaderboard for drivers to compare fuel savings and driving efficiency.
- Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders, enhancing vehicle management.
- No subscription or ongoing fees required after the initial device purchase.
Cons:
- Requires an upfront purchase of the GoFAR device, representing a higher initial cost.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor aimed for simplicity and user-friendliness in 2017, targeting users who sought an easy-to-understand OBD2 experience without sacrificing essential diagnostic capabilities. Translating fault codes into plain language and offering seamless integration with FIXD’s own OBD2 adapters, FIXD prioritized accessibility and ease of use, particularly for first-time OBD2 app users.
Pros:
- Quick and easy installation, enabling immediate use.
- Well-suited for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplified interface.
- Allows scheduling of maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
- Sends alerts for worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement, facilitating timely maintenance.
- Features easy onboarding for new users, streamlining the setup process.
- Enables users to purchase car parts directly through the app, simplifying the repair process.
- Offers a helpful customer support team for user assistance.
Cons:
- Older app versions were reported to have some bugs.
- Primarily designed to work with FIXD adapters, limiting adapter compatibility.
- Includes in-app purchases for additional features or services.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW catered specifically to BMW owners in 2017, offering tailored diagnostic and customization features for the brand. Compatible with Carly’s proprietary adapters, it provided BMW-specific functionalities beyond standard OBD2 apps, appealing to BMW enthusiasts and owners seeking deeper control and insights into their vehicles.
Pros:
- Provides thorough health checks of BMW vehicle electronic components.
- Offers a used car check feature to assess vehicle condition before purchase.
- Enables one-click control of the electric parking brake for convenience.
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- Supports DIY battery registration for BMW vehicles.
- Offers excellent customer service support.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are generally more expensive than generic ELM327 adapters.
- Limited fault code coverage was noted for specific BMW models, such as BMW 2 series F45/F46.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App provided customizable settings and deeper vehicle access for supported brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus in 2017. Its “Customize” option allowed users to modify ECU settings typically accessible only by dealerships, offering a unique level of control for car enthusiasts and those seeking personalized vehicle configurations.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation.
- Compact and portable OBD2 adapter.
- Offers customizable vehicle settings beyond standard diagnostics.
- Innovative phone-to-OBD2 scanner integration.
- Includes a 1-month free trial period.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms.
- Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases for full feature access after the trial period.
17. OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, was recognized in 2017 for its user-friendliness and comprehensive vehicle diagnostics. Appealing to both novice and professional users, OBD Fusion offered a balance of features and ease of use, with customizable dashboards and extensive data logging capabilities. Its cross-platform compatibility further broadened its appeal.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display to user preferences.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, offering broad device support.
- Includes GPS navigation features for location-based data logging and trip tracking.
- Provides emission monitoring capabilities for environmental awareness.
- Offers extensive data logging for in-depth analysis of vehicle performance.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features, limiting collaborative diagnostics.
Conclusion
Choosing the best OBD2 Android app in 2017 depended on individual needs and priorities. This list showcases a range of top contenders, each offering unique strengths and features. Before investing in a paid app, consider testing free or Lite versions to ensure compatibility with your vehicle and OBD2 adapter. Functional testing is crucial to confirm that the app effectively communicates with your car’s systems and provides accurate data. By exploring these options and considering your specific requirements, you can select the OBD2 Android app that best empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicle’s health.
For Android users seeking a robust and feature-rich option in 2017, Torque Pro remained a top recommendation. Its extensive customization and reliable performance justified its paid status for serious car enthusiasts.
For iOS users, OBD Fusion provided an excellent balance of user-friendliness and comprehensive diagnostics, making it a strong contender for monitoring vital vehicle parameters in 2017.
