In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health and performance is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. These innovative applications, born from advancements in mobile app development, act as a direct line of communication with your car, providing real-time insights into its engine and various systems. Imagine having the ability to monitor speed, rotation angles, pressure levels, and temperature readings right on your smartphone. OBD2 apps empower you to listen to your car’s “voice,” potentially preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.
For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, the appeal of OBD2 apps is undeniable. They grant access to a wealth of data, allowing for informed vehicle maintenance and performance monitoring. However, the sheer number of OBD2 apps available on the market can be overwhelming. Sifting through countless options to find the perfect fit for your Android or iOS device can be time-consuming and frustrating. No one wants to waste time and money on subpar apps that fail to deliver on their promises.
Unfortunately, stories abound of users purchasing OBD2 apps only to be disappointed by limited functionality or outright scams. We understand this concern, and that’s why we’ve curated a list of the top OBD2 apps available, ensuring you get genuine value and avoid potential pitfalls.
This article delves into 17 of the best OBD2 apps currently on the market. Each of these apps offers a robust set of features designed to enhance your understanding of your vehicle and, in many cases, allows for a degree of obd2 customization, letting you tailor the app to your specific needs and preferences. Let’s dive in and explore these top contenders!
Top OBD2 Apps for Vehicle Diagnostics and Customization
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro stands out as a highly acclaimed OBD2 Bluetooth app, particularly popular among Android users. With over 1,000,000 downloads on the Play Store and consistently positive reviews, it’s often cited as the best OBD2 app for Android. While it comes with a modest price tag of around $5, users widely agree that the investment is well worth it for the features and functionality it provides.
Alt text: Torque Pro app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle data with customizable gauges.
Torque Pro delivers real-time vehicle data directly to your mobile screen through a beautifully designed and, importantly, customizable dashboard. This customization is a key strength, allowing you to prioritize the data points most relevant to you. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro enables data export to its servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Offers multiple themes for dashboard customization, allowing you to personalize the app’s appearance.
- Enables screenshot sharing to social media and email, facilitating easy data sharing and record-keeping.
- Features an integrated GPS-based compass for navigation and location-based data.
- Supports data graphing and car dock integration for enhanced data visualization and usability.
- Provides CO2 emission readouts, useful for environmental awareness and vehicle efficiency monitoring.
- Includes a track recorder for capturing video footage of your journeys, potentially useful for performance analysis or documentation.
- Offers customizable alarms and warnings for subpar car performance, such as high coolant temperature alerts.
- Impressively supports older Android versions, including 2.0, increasing accessibility for users with older devices.
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment, unlike some free or freemium OBD2 apps.
- May experience Bluetooth pairing issues, though often resolvable with app updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor operates on similar principles to many car diagnostic apps, offering compatibility with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters. It excels at tracking crucial vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, providing a comprehensive overview of your car’s operational status.
Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app interface showing real-time engine parameters and diagnostic information.
This app allows you to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission, simultaneously. Data export via email in CSV format is supported for in-depth analysis. A particularly useful feature is its optimized fuel consumption monitoring, potentially leading to significant savings on fuel costs. Furthermore, OBD Auto Doctor provides advanced customization options, allowing users to tailor the app’s behavior and display to their preferences.
Pros:
- Delivers real-time data display, empowering users to make informed decisions about their car’s maintenance and health.
- Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different data visualization preferences.
- Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Offers GPS support for location-based data logging and features.
- Provides 24/7 customer service, offering readily available support when needed.
- Features advanced customization options to personalize the app experience.
- Supports both imperial and metric units, catering to international users.
- 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 and a Premium upgrade to unlock full functionality.
- Some users report occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top OBD2 app for Android, earning accolades in car review circles for several years. Its user-friendly interface and high-level car scanning and diagnostic capabilities make it a strong contender in the OBD2 app market. The app presents diagnostic information on a clean and uncluttered home screen, enhancing user experience.
Alt text: InCarDoc Pro app dashboard displaying vehicle speed, RPM, and other engine data.
A free version of InCarDoc Pro is available, allowing users to verify adapter and car compatibility before committing to the paid version, which is priced under $5. The Pro version supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices. While not explicitly focused on customization in its name, InCarDoc Pro offers various settings and display options to tailor the user experience.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD2 compliant vehicles (check their website for specific models).
- Provides real-time engine and vehicle parameter monitoring.
- Offers an overlay mode to display economy data in the background or over other running applications, ideal for real-time fuel efficiency tracking.
- Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick access to key performance metrics.
- Features GPS support for location tracking and data logging.
- Enables uploading reporting data to cloud storage for convenient access and sharing.
- Allows data sharing via email for professional car repair assistance.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.0.3 or higher.
- Some users have reported occasional Bluetooth connection errors.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
For those seeking comprehensive car diagnostics and in-depth parameter analysis, the free Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a powerful tool. It empowers users to delve into their car’s electronic control unit (ECU) data, gaining insights into a vast array of vehicle parameters.
Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app displaying a customizable dashboard with various gauges and data points.
This app helps users proactively identify potential issues before they escalate. For users familiar with fault codes, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 facilitates self-diagnosis and minor repairs, potentially saving on mechanic costs. Its broad compatibility across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms, coupled with over 2 million installs and a high user rating (4.7), underscores its popularity and reliability. The app also boasts a customizable dashboard, a key feature for users seeking obd2 customization.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring wide applicability.
- Works seamlessly with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
- Offers a highly customizable dashboard, allowing users to select and track their preferred parameters.
- Provides fuel consumption statistics for fuel efficiency monitoring.
- Features settings backup and restore functionality for convenient app management.
- Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 and above.
- Optimal performance may require in-app purchases to unlock premium features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 car diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS. It supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters and provides access to essential vehicle gauges and parameters, enabling informed car maintenance and performance monitoring.
Alt text: EOBD Facile app interface showing real-time vehicle parameters such as speed and engine temperature.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display a wide range of data, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, and air intake. With over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile has established itself as a reputable and widely used OBD2 app. While not explicitly marketed as a customization app, users can select which gauges to display, offering a degree of dashboard customization.
Pros:
- Provides real-time display of vehicle sensor data.
- Includes a database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Allows users to delete fault codes and address engine light issues.
- Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Offers route planning functionality, beneficial for long journeys.
Cons:
- May require some prior OBD2 app experience to fully utilize its features.
- Does not support USB adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is a feature-rich OBD2 app for Android, positioned as a premium option with advanced car tracking capabilities. While it’s one of the more expensive OBD2 apps on the Google Play Store, its comprehensive features and broad vehicle compatibility justify the price for many users.
Alt text: HobDrive app showing a highly customizable dashboard with various vehicle parameters and gauges.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with not only OBD2 compliant vehicles but also some non-OBD2 vehicles, expanding its applicability. It also offers cross-platform access, working seamlessly with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS. HobDrive truly shines in its customization options, offering a highly customizable dashboard to display preferred parameters.
Pros:
- Features a highly customizable dashboard for displaying key parameters from your car’s ECU.
- Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters.
- Tracks potential issues like overheating and suspicious fuel trims.
- Provides clear explanations of MIL codes for easier diagnostics.
- Estimates car odometer readings.
- Calculates MPG for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties with in-app payments in certain locations.
- Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven takes OBD2 app functionality a step further by incorporating “One-Click Apps.” Beyond standard diagnostic features, OBDeleven allows users to control various car options with a single tap, adding a layer of convenience and customization not found in many other OBD2 apps. This innovative approach sets it apart in the android app development landscape.
Alt text: OBDeleven app showcasing its “One-Click Apps” feature for vehicle customization and control.
To fully utilize the “One-Click App” feature, a stable network connection is required. A Premium upgrade unlocks even more advanced car tracking tools and customization possibilities. Despite these requirements, OBDeleven is a popular choice among car enthusiasts and mechanics due to its unique features and comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. The “One-Click Apps” are a prime example of obd2 customization directly accessible through the app.
Pros:
- Supports reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU.
- Offers multiple language support for international users.
- Has an active social media community for user support and information sharing.
- Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in other OBD2 apps.
- Provides manuals for DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic maintenance.
- Retrieves history for connected cars for tracking vehicle diagnostics over time.
- Supports control unit reset functionality.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for “One-Click Apps.”
- Displays ads in the free version, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash Drive Smart is a car tracking app that integrates with OBDeleven software and offers a range of smart car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, making it applicable to a wide range of vehicles.
Alt text: Dash Drive Smart app interface showing driver score, trip data, and vehicle diagnostics.
Dash aims to enhance driving experience, improve performance, and facilitate informed car maintenance decisions. The app can even function without a device being constantly connected, offering flexibility in usage. While not explicitly focused on extensive obd2 customization, Dash offers a customizable parameter dashboard, allowing users to select the data they want to monitor.
Pros:
- Features an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in background mode.
- Provides a Driver Score and leaderboard to compare driving performance with other users.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding.
- Includes a GPS-tracking tool for locating parked vehicles.
- Offers a nearby gas price comparison feature to help save on fuel costs.
Cons:
- Some users have reported battery drain issues on mobile devices.
- The compass feature may be occasionally glitchy, though updates aim to address this.
- Occasional network connection issues have been reported.
9. Engine Link (IOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app similar to Torque Pro but exclusively designed for iOS devices. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. While some recent user reviews mention issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, it remains a highly regarded car tracking application on iOS.
Alt text: Engine Link app dashboard on iOS displaying real-time engine data and customizable gauges.
Priced affordably, Engine Link offers comprehensive car monitoring capabilities, putting users firmly in control of their vehicle’s diagnostics. It boasts a customizable dashboard, a key aspect of obd2 customization, allowing users to tailor the displayed data to their needs.
Pros:
- Provides a customizable dashboard to focus on preferred parameters, minimizing data clutter.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption for eco-conscious driving and cost savings.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Offers a heads-up dashboard display option for convenient viewing while driving.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees, offering a one-time purchase value.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
- The latest updates include support for Torque Custom Pid Files, enhancing customization potential.
Cons:
- Some users have reported instances of the app connecting without reading ECU data.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another capable car monitoring tool compatible with ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely known as some other apps, it maintains a solid user rating and has garnered over 1 million installs on Android.
Alt text: ScanMaster app interface showing real-time vehicle diagnostics and fault code information.
With ScanMaster, users gain a clear real-time overview of their car’s performance and accurate fault code readings, empowering them to engage more confidently with mechanics and avoid potential overcharging. The app offers a Lite (free) version providing access to essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the Pro version unlocks full features, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions. While not explicitly marketed for customization, the Pro version offers various settings to personalize the user experience.
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 most ELM327 adapters.
- Supports data recording for later analysis.
- Provides clear graphical data representation for easier interpretation.
Cons:
- Customer support has been reported as ineffective by some users.
- Compatibility issues with certain devices have been reported.
- Compatible with Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (IOS)
DashCommand positions itself as a premium solution for transforming your mobile device into an advanced engine data display, a claim solidified by its SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014.
Alt text: DashCommand app showcasing its extensive gauge customization options and performance data display.
As one of the pricier iOS OBD2 scanner apps, DashCommand justifies its cost with top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy monitoring, engine diagnostics, and emission testing capabilities. User reviews consistently highlight its value for money. A key selling point is its extensive gauge customization, allowing users to create personalized dashboards tailored to their specific monitoring needs – a prime example of obd2 customization.
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy to navigate.
- Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track preferred data points.
- Includes an inclinometer to display roll angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving.
- Supports data logging, recording, and playback for in-depth analysis.
- Features a sophisticated trip computer maintaining statistics for up to five trips.
- Provides graphical representation of collected data for visual analysis.
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhone X.
- Compatibility issues with specific aftermarket ECUs like Haltech elite 2599 have been reported.
- In-app purchases exist for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a versatile OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android platforms. It stands out as a highly-rated free car diagnostic tool, boasting a 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.
Alt text: BlueDriver app interface on a tablet displaying vehicle diagnostic information and repair reports.
BlueDriver provides access to critical ECU parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email. It even includes features often found in paid OBD2 apps, making it a popular choice among both professional mechanics and car enthusiasts. While not focused on extensive obd2 customization in terms of visual dashboards, its feature set and free updates provide a high level of value.
Pros:
- Offers wireless connection to your car, enhancing convenience.
- Supports smog readiness checks for emission compliance.
- Potentially reduces travel costs by enabling proactive vehicle maintenance.
- Provides free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing functionality and improvements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Offers enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems.
- Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above.
- Minor issues with iPhone XR have been reported, but are often addressed in updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR offers a comprehensive car diagnostic and tracking solution centered around a dedicated device. It focuses on monitoring car health and tracking mileage while maintaining compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.
Alt text: GoFAR OBD2 device plugged into a vehicle’s OBD2 port alongside the GoFAR mobile app interface.
A key selling point of GoFAR is its IRS compliance, potentially offering tax savings for mileage tracking. It also emphasizes fuel efficiency, aiming to reduce fuel costs by 10-30%. The accompanying Android and iOS apps maintain a strong user rating, reflecting positive user experiences. While GoFAR is more of a device-centric solution, the app offers a degree of personalization in terms of alerts and data display.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use, simplifying the user experience.
- Offers a one-year warranty on the initial device purchase.
- Sends alerts in plain English when vehicle errors are detected.
- Provides a platform for connecting with nearby mechanics.
- Includes a database of 3000+ fault codes and descriptions.
- Features a global leaderboard for comparing fuel cost savings with other users.
- Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance, and registration renewals.
- No subscription or ongoing fees after the initial device purchase.
Cons:
- Requires an upfront device purchase.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD aims for simplicity and ease of use in car diagnostics without sacrificing functionality. It translates fault codes into easily understandable terms, making it accessible even for users with limited car knowledge.
Alt text: FIXD app showing a simplified explanation of a vehicle fault code for easy understanding.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on Android via the Google Play Store and has a solid user rating. FIXD prioritizes user-friendliness over extensive obd2 customization in terms of visual dashboards, focusing on clear and actionable information.
Pros:
- Quick and easy installation and setup.
- Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplified interface.
- Allows scheduling maintenance reminders for proactive car care.
- Alerts users to worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement.
- Features an easy onboarding process for new users.
- Enables purchasing car parts directly through the app.
- Offers helpful customer support.
Cons:
- Older app versions have been reported to have bugs.
- Works primarily with FIXD adapters.
- Contains in-app purchases for additional features.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app tailored specifically for BMW vehicles and compatible with Carly’s proprietary adapters.
Alt text: Carly for BMW app interface displaying BMW-specific vehicle diagnostics and coding options.
Whether you’re a new or experienced BMW owner, Carly provides real-time access to vital car gauges and parameters. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, but compatibility should be tested with the Lite version before purchasing. Carly excels in BMW-specific customization and coding options, offering features beyond basic diagnostics.
Pros:
- Provides thorough health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Offers used car checks for pre-purchase inspections.
- Enables one-click control for the electric parking brake.
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- Supports DIY battery registration for BMW vehicles.
- Features excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters.
- Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App, paired with its Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug, offers a compelling customization feature. It boasts strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
Alt text: Carista OBD2 app highlighting its customization options for vehicle ECU settings.
A standout feature is the “Customize” option within the app. Once plugged in, Carista allows users to access and modify numerous ECU options typically only accessible by dealerships, providing significant obd2 customization capabilities.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation.
- Compact and portable OBD2 plug.
- Offers extensive customizable settings for supported car brands.
- Combines phone app convenience with OBD2 scanner functionality.
- Provides a 1-month free trial period.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms.
- Offers detailed diagnostics beyond basic OBD2 functions.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases for full functionality.
17) OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion, when used with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, delivers comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports. It’s recognized as a popular app for vehicle diagnostics, praised for its user-friendliness.
Alt text: OBD Fusion app example of a highly customized dashboard displaying various engine parameters in different gauge styles.
OBD Fusion is designed for both novice and experienced users. Its strength lies in its customizable dashboards, allowing users to display and closely monitor the engine functions most important to them. This level of dashboard customization is a key draw for many users.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.
- Includes GPS navigation features.
- Offers emission monitoring capabilities.
- Provides extensive data logging for detailed analysis.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive list of the best OBD2 apps for iOS and Android, you’re well-equipped to choose an app that meets your specific needs and vehicle.
However, remember that confirming app compatibility with your car is crucial before making a purchase. Functional testing is essential. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others require purchasing the paid version upfront. Explore the available options, test compatibility, and select the OBD2 app that best empowers you to understand and customize your car’s performance and health monitoring.
Top Picks:
Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A paid app offering exceptional features and broad vehicle compatibility.
Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A paid, user-friendly app that tracks essential parameters with excellent dashboard customization options.
