In today’s automotive landscape, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. With the rise of mobile app development, numerous companies have created applications designed to give drivers access to their car’s diagnostic data right on their smartphones. These apps offer a fantastic way to “listen” to what your car is telling you, potentially saving you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Most OBD2 apps provide real-time insights into your engine’s performance, displaying crucial parameters like speed, rotation angles, pressures, and temperatures. However, with a vast array of options available on the app market, choosing the best OBD2 Android app in 2018 for your needs can be a daunting task. You certainly wouldn’t want to waste time and money on subpar apps. To help you navigate this crowded space, we’ve compiled a list of top-tier OBD2 apps that were highly recommended for Android devices in 2018.
It’s a common frustration for drivers and car enthusiasts to invest in OBD2 apps only to find they don’t deliver on their promises. We aim to prevent that from happening to you. This review focuses on some of the leading OBD2 apps that were available and effective in 2018, any of which would have been a valuable tool for your vehicle.
Let’s dive into the top OBD2 app contenders for Android in 2018!
Top OBD2 Apps for Android in 2018
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently earns high praise from vehicle owners, often cited as a leading contender for the best OBD2 app for Android and it was certainly a top pick in 2018. With over 1,000,000 downloads, its popularity speaks volumes. While it required a purchase of around $5 on the Play Store, user reviews and expert opinions consistently highlighted its value.
Alt text: Torque Pro app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle diagnostics on an Android phone.
Torque Pro offered users a customizable and visually appealing dashboard to monitor their car’s performance in real-time directly on their Android device. A key feature was its data export capability, allowing users to save compiled data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis or record-keeping. This was particularly useful for tracking vehicle performance over time or sharing data with mechanics.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard themes for personalized visual experience.
- Screenshot sharing to social media and email for easy data dissemination.
- Integrated GPS-based compass for navigation and data context.
- Graph data and car dock support for versatile data presentation and usage.
- CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Track recorder for video documentation of journeys and driving conditions.
- Configurable alarms and warnings for critical performance parameters, like high coolant temperature.
- Compatibility with older Android versions, including 2.0, expanding its usability across devices available in 2018.
Cons:
- Initial purchase required, unlike some free alternatives.
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues reported, though often resolvable with app updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor operated on similar principles to many other car diagnostic apps popular in 2018. It was designed to work seamlessly with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi adapters, providing real-time monitoring of essential vehicle sensors and parameters.
Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app interface showing real-time engine data and diagnostic information.
OBD Auto Doctor stood out for its ability to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission systems. Data export via email in CSV format was a convenient feature for users who wanted to analyze data with spreadsheet software or share it with others. Furthermore, its optimized fuel consumption monitoring parameter was a valuable tool for saving money on fuel costs, a significant concern for drivers in 2018.
Pros:
- Real-time data display for informed decision-making regarding vehicle maintenance.
- Support for both numerical and graphical data visualization.
- Compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- GPS support for location-based data logging and context.
- Responsive 24/7 customer service team for user assistance.
- Extensive customization options to tailor the app to individual needs.
- Support for both imperial and metric units, catering to diverse user preferences.
- Monitoring of over 18,000 trouble codes for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Readiness status tracking to indicate vehicle emission test readiness.
Cons:
- In-app purchases and premium upgrades required to unlock full features.
- Some users reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro was recognized as a top OBD2 Android app for car reviews in 2017 and 2018 and remained a strong contender moving forward. The app offered advanced car scanning and diagnostic capabilities presented through a clean and user-friendly interface.
Alt text: InCarDoc Pro app displaying a vehicle health dashboard with key parameters and gauges.
A free version of InCarDoc Pro was available, allowing users to test adapter and vehicle compatibility before committing to the paid version, which was priced under $5. InCarDoc Pro supported ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wifi adapters and was compatible with a wide range of Android devices prevalent in 2018.
Pros:
- Compatibility with a broad range of OBD2 compliant vehicles (check their website for specifics).
- Real-time engine and vehicle parameter monitoring.
- Overlay feature to display fuel economy data in the background or over other running apps.
- Fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick access to key performance metrics.
- GPS support for tracking location and driving routes.
- Cloud storage for reporting data, facilitating data backup and accessibility.
- Data sharing via email for remote professional assistance with vehicle repairs.
Cons:
- Compatibility limited to Android 4.0.3 and newer versions.
- Some users experienced Bluetooth connection errors.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
For users wanting comprehensive insight into their vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) data, the free Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App was a compelling option in 2018. It allowed users to monitor a wide range of parameters, helping them proactively identify potential issues.
Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app interface showing customizable dashboards and real-time data.
For those familiar with fault codes, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App empowered them to diagnose and potentially resolve minor issues themselves, saving on mechanic visits. Its broad compatibility across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms contributed to its popularity, with over 2 million installs across supported platforms. Notably, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App held an impressive 4.7 rating, the highest among the apps in this list, reflecting strong user satisfaction in 2018.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Works with most Wifi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Customizable dashboard for focused monitoring of preferred parameters.
- Fuel consumption statistics for efficiency tracking.
- Settings backup and restore for convenient app management.
- Support for multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 or later.
- In-app purchases needed to unlock full functionality.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile was a versatile OBD2 Car Diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS, supporting ELM327 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters. In 2018, it was a solid choice for users seeking to monitor essential vehicle parameters.
Alt text: EOBD Facile app displaying a dashboard with vehicle speed, engine RPM, and temperature gauges.
Depending on the data provided by the car’s ECU, EOBD Facile displayed key gauges like vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, and air intake. Its user base exceeded 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, indicating its widespread adoption in 2018.
Pros:
- Real-time display of vehicle sensor data.
- Database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions.
- Ability to clear fault codes and address check engine light issues.
- Trip record storage on SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Route planning functionality for long journeys.
Cons:
- May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to maximize its potential.
- No support for USB adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive was recognized as a premium OBD2 app for Android in 2018, albeit with a higher price tag compared to many alternatives on the Google Play Store, costing around $10. Its advanced features aimed to justify the investment for serious car enthusiasts.
Alt text: HobDrive app showcasing a customizable dashboard with various engine parameters and gauges.
A key advantage of HobDrive was its broad vehicle compatibility, supporting not only OBD2 compliant cars but also some Non-OBD2 vehicles, like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. Its cross-platform compatibility extended to CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS, making it a versatile option for users with diverse tech setups in 2018.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard to display ECU parameters.
- Support for GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi adapters.
- Monitoring of overheating and unusual fuel trims.
- Clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes.
- Car odometer estimation feature.
- MPG (Miles Per Gallon) calculation for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- Pro version offered enhanced graphical gauges.
Cons:
- Some users reported difficulties with in-app payments in certain regions.
- Compatibility starts from Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
In terms of android app development sophistication for OBD2 apps in 2018, OBDeleven stood out. Beyond standard ECU parameter monitoring, it offered a unique “One Click App” feature, allowing users to control various car functions with a single tap.
Alt text: OBDeleven app interface highlighting “One Click Apps” and vehicle customization options.
The “One Click App” functionality required a network connection to operate. Access to more advanced car tracking tools also necessitated a Premium upgrade. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven was a valuable tool for car diagnostics and customization, popular among enthusiasts and mechanics in 2018.
Pros:
- Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from the ECU.
- Supports multiple languages for global accessibility.
- Active social media community for user support and knowledge sharing.
- Car battery analyzer functionality.
- DIY car fix manuals.
- History retrieval for connected vehicles.
- Control unit reset capabilities.
Cons:
- Network connection required for optimal performance, especially for “One Click Apps.”
- Ads in the free version, prompting users to upgrade to Premium for an ad-free experience.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash Drive Smart was a car tracking app that supported OBDeleven software and offered various smart car analysis tools. It provided real-time data and claimed compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, making it a potentially versatile option for users with older vehicles in 2018.
Alt text: Dash Drive Smart app displaying driver score, trip details, and vehicle location on a map.
Dash aimed to provide comprehensive insights to improve driving habits and vehicle maintenance decisions. Its functionality extended beyond real-time data to include driver scoring and vehicle location tracking. It even offered gas price comparison features, helpful for cost-conscious drivers in 2018.
Pros:
- Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard with background mode operation.
- Driver score and leaderboard for performance comparison.
- Multi-vehicle support with automatic VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) decoding.
- GPS tracking to locate parked vehicles.
- Nearby gas price comparison feature.
Cons:
- Battery drain complaints from some users.
- Glitchy compass feature reported, though potentially fixable with updates.
- Network connection issues experienced by some users.
9. Engine Link (IOS)
Engine Link was a car diagnostic app for iOS, similar in functionality to Torque Pro on Android. It connected with ELM327 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters. While primarily for iOS, it’s worth mentioning as a comparable app in the OBD2 app landscape of 2018.
Alt text: Engine Link app on iOS showing a customizable dashboard with gauges and diagnostic data.
Engine Link aimed to provide comprehensive car monitoring on iOS for a one-time purchase price of around $6 on iTunes, without in-app purchases or subscriptions, which was appealing to users in 2018 looking for a straightforward paid app.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard to display desired parameters.
- Emission rate and fuel consumption monitoring.
- Reading and clearing of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-up display (HUD) option for dashboard projection.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees.
- Support for over 20 languages.
- Torque Custom Pid File support in recent updates.
Cons:
- Some users reported connection issues without ECU data reading.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster was another Android car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While less widely known than some other apps, it maintained a respectable 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs, indicating a solid user base in 2018.
Alt text: ScanMaster app interface displaying real-time vehicle parameters and diagnostic information.
ScanMaster provided real-time car performance overviews and accurate fault code readings. The app offered a free “Lite” version with basic parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. The paid “Pro” version unlocked full features, including a comprehensive fault code database with detailed descriptions, which was valuable for users wanting in-depth diagnostics in 2018.
Pros:
- Free version with essential parameters.
- Support for German and English languages.
- User-friendly navigation.
- Compatibility with most ELM327 adapters.
- Data recording capabilities.
- Clear graphical data representation.
Cons:
- Inconsistent customer support.
- Device compatibility issues reported by some users.
- Requires Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (IOS)
DashCommand positioned itself as a premium iOS app for transforming mobile devices into advanced engine data displays. It won the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, highlighting its recognized quality within the automotive industry, and it remained a strong option in 2018.
Alt text: DashCommand app on iOS showcasing customizable performance gauges and vehicle data.
DashCommand was one of the pricier iOS OBD2 scanner apps, available for $14.99 on iTunes. However, it offered advanced performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing features. User reviews generally indicated satisfaction with its performance and features in 2018.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Customizable performance gauges.
- Inclinometer for off-road driving data (roll angle, vehicle pitch).
- Data logging, recording, and playback capabilities.
- Trip computer for tracking stats across up to five trips.
- Graphical data representation.
Cons:
- Compatibility issues reported with iPhone X.
- Haltech elite 2599 compatibility issues.
- In-app purchases for certain car models.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver was an OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android. It was a highly regarded free car diagnostic tool, boasting a 4.6 rating on iTunes with 2 million downloads, signifying its popularity and user satisfaction in 2018.
Alt text: BlueDriver app interface showing diagnostic report, trouble codes, and vehicle information.
BlueDriver provided critical parameter monitoring, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email. It included features often found in paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts in 2018.
Pros:
- Wireless connection to vehicle.
- Smog readiness check.
- Potential to reduce travel costs by enabling proactive maintenance.
- Free and regular updates.
- On-board monitoring test results display.
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more.
- Repair report generation and sharing.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above.
- Minor issues reported with iPhone XR, potentially addressed by updates.
13. GoFAR
For users prioritizing comprehensive car health monitoring and mileage tracking, GoFAR was a noteworthy option in 2018. It was a dedicated device and service designed to work with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.
Alt text: GoFAR device plugged into OBD2 port with app interface showing driving data and fuel efficiency metrics.
GoFAR stood out for its IRS-compliant mileage tracking, potentially offering tax savings. Its focus on fuel efficiency aimed to reduce driving costs by 10-30%. The accompanying Android and iOS apps had a 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences in 2018.
Pros:
- Easy installation and use.
- One-year warranty.
- Plain English error alerts.
- Platform for finding nearby mechanics.
- Database of 3000+ fault codes and descriptions.
- Driver leaderboard for cost-saving comparison.
- Alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration.
- No subscription fees.
Cons:
- Initial device purchase required at around $99.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD offered a user-friendly car diagnostic app with a focus on simplicity. It translated fault codes into easily understandable terms, making it accessible even for users new to OBD2 apps in 2018.
Alt text: FIXD app showing simplified vehicle health alerts and maintenance reminders.
FIXD offered their own OBD2 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance. The Android app on Google Play Store had a 4.5 rating, indicating positive user reception in 2018.
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup.
- Suitable for OBD2 app beginners.
- Maintenance schedule reminders.
- Alerts for worn car parts needing replacement.
- Streamlined onboarding process.
- In-app car part purchasing.
- Helpful customer support.
Cons:
- Bugs reported in older app versions.
- Designed to work primarily with FIXD adapters.
- In-app purchases available.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW was a specialized OBD2 app designed for BMW vehicles and compatible with Carly adapters. It catered to BMW owners seeking in-depth diagnostics and customization options in 2018.
Alt text: Carly for BMW app interface with vehicle health check, coding options, and diagnostic information.
Carly For BMW provided real-time vehicle parameter monitoring and also offered standard OBD features. Users were advised to test compatibility with the free “Lite” version before purchasing the full app.
Pros:
- Comprehensive health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Used car checks for pre-purchase inspections.
- One-click electric parking brake control.
- Carly adapters with premium customer support and lifetime warranty.
- DIY battery registration support.
- Excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive than generic ELM327 adapters.
- Limited fault codes for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App was another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 option, supporting brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. It was a versatile choice for users with these vehicle makes in 2018.
Alt text: Carista OBD2 app with customization options, diagnostic features, and supported vehicle brands.
Carista’s standout feature was its “Customize” option, allowing users to modify various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships, offering a degree of vehicle personalization not common in other OBD2 apps of 2018.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Compact adapter design.
- Customizable ECU settings.
- Phone-to-OBD2 scanner integration.
- 1-month free trial.
- iOS and Android support.
- Detailed diagnostics.
Cons:
- In-app purchases for full functionality.
17) OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, was a popular app known for its ease of use. It provided comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner and was well-regarded in 2018.
Alt text: OBD Fusion app showing customizable dashboards, real-time gauges, and diagnostic data.
OBD Fusion was considered user-friendly for both beginners and experienced users. Its customizable dashboards allowed users to prioritize the data they wanted to monitor, offering a personalized diagnostic experience in 2018.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboards.
- Compatibility with both iOS and Android.
- GPS navigation features.
- Emission monitoring.
- Extensive data logging.
Cons:
- Features locked behind expansion packs (in-app purchases).
- No diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
This list provides a solid overview of some of the best OBD2 Android apps available in 2018. When choosing an app, it’s crucial to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle.
Before committing to a paid app, take advantage of free “lite” versions or compatibility checks offered by many developers. This ensures the app works seamlessly with your car and OBD2 adapter.
Our Top Picks for 2018:
Best Android OBD2 App:
Torque Pro – A paid option with a rich feature set and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for serious Android users in 2018.
Best iOS OBD2 App:
OBD Fusion – A user-friendly paid app that effectively tracks vital parameters and was well-regarded on iOS platforms in 2018.
