Best OBD2 Gauge Apps for Real-Time Vehicle Monitoring

In today’s automotive landscape, staying informed about your vehicle’s health is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Onboard Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps have emerged as powerful tools, providing unprecedented insight into your car’s performance and condition. Thanks to advancements in mobile app development, these apps transform your smartphone into a sophisticated dashboard, displaying crucial engine data in real-time. For drivers and car enthusiasts alike, OBD2 gauge apps offer a direct line of communication with your vehicle, helping you proactively address issues and prevent costly breakdowns.

Imagine having instant access to vital parameters like speed, engine temperature, RPM, and fuel efficiency, all displayed on a customizable digital gauge right on your phone. This is the power of the Best Obd2 Gauge Apps. They go beyond simply reading error codes; they present a dynamic, real-time view of your car’s inner workings, empowering you to understand its performance and identify potential problems early on.

However, with a vast array of OBD2 apps flooding the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Many users have experienced the frustration of investing in subpar apps that fail to deliver on their promises. To prevent you from wasting time and money, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top OBD2 gauge apps available for both Android and iOS devices. This list features apps that stand out for their reliability, features, user-friendliness, and ability to provide truly valuable insights into your vehicle’s performance as a gauge app.

Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a daily driver looking to stay informed, this article will guide you through the best OBD2 gauge apps, ensuring you find the perfect tool to monitor your vehicle’s health and performance effectively. Let’s dive in and explore the top contenders in the world of OBD2 gauge applications.

Top OBD2 Gauge Apps For Android/IOS

1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)

Torque Pro is widely recognized as a leading OBD2 gauge app for Android, boasting over a million downloads and consistently high user ratings. For a reasonable price of around $5 on the Google Play Store, Torque Pro unlocks a wealth of real-time vehicle data, presented through a highly customizable and visually appealing dashboard. This app excels as a gauge app, allowing you to monitor everything from engine temperature to boost pressure with clarity and precision.

Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a powerful OBD2 gauge display. Its customizable dashboards allow you to prioritize the parameters most relevant to you, creating a personalized vehicle monitoring experience. Furthermore, the ability to export data to Torque Pro servers or via email enables in-depth analysis and record-keeping of your vehicle’s performance over time.

Pros

• Highly Customizable Gauges: Offers multiple themes and layouts to personalize your OBD2 gauge dashboard, ensuring the data you need is always front and center.
• Data Sharing and Export: Easily share screenshots to social media or email performance data for analysis or collaboration.
• Integrated GPS Compass: Includes a built-in GPS compass directly within your gauge display for enhanced navigation and vehicle orientation data.
• Advanced Data Visualization: Graph data in real-time and supports car dock integration for optimal gauge visibility while driving.
• Emissions Monitoring: Provides CO2 emission readouts directly on your OBD2 gauge display, useful for tracking environmental impact.
• Journey Recording: Features a track recorder to create video logs of your drives, overlaying gauge data for performance analysis.
• Performance Alerts: Set alarms and warnings based on gauge readings, such as coolant temperature exceeding safe limits, ensuring proactive issue detection.
• Broad Android Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, extending its usability to a wider range of devices.

Cons

• Paid App: Requires an upfront purchase, unlike some free or freemium OBD2 gauge app options.
• Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users have reported Bluetooth connectivity bugs, though these are often resolved with app updates.

2. OBD Auto Doctor

OBD Auto Doctor functions as a versatile OBD2 gauge app, compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters. It provides real-time tracking of essential vehicle sensors and parameters, offering a comprehensive view of your car’s health. As a gauge app, OBD Auto Doctor excels in presenting data clearly and efficiently, making it easy to monitor critical readings while on the road.

This app allows you to monitor various control units, including engine and transmission, simultaneously. Its fuel consumption monitoring gauge is particularly useful for optimizing driving habits and saving money on fuel costs. The ability to export collected data via email in CSV format further enhances its utility for detailed analysis and record-keeping.

Pros

• Real-Time Gauge Data Display: Provides instantaneous data updates on your screen, enabling quick and informed decisions regarding your vehicle’s condition.
• Graphical and Numerical Data Representation: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data on your OBD2 gauge interface, catering to different user preferences.
• Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
• GPS Integration: Includes GPS support for tracking location data alongside vehicle parameters.
• Dedicated Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer service for user assistance and troubleshooting.
• Extensive Customization Options: Provides advanced customization features to tailor the gauge display and app functionality to your needs.
• Metric and Imperial Unit Support: Tracks data in both imperial and metric units, accommodating users worldwide.
• Comprehensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing detailed diagnostic information.
• Emission Readiness Monitoring: Tracks readiness status for emission testing, helping you ensure your car is compliant with regulations.

Cons

• In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade to unlock the full suite of features, limiting functionality in the free version.
• Connectivity and Accuracy Concerns: Some users have reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings, which can impact the reliability of the gauge data.

3. InCarDoc Pro

InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top OBD2 app, known for its robust car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented through a user-friendly interface. As a gauge app, InCarDoc Pro delivers essential vehicle data with clarity and efficiency, making it a reliable tool for real-time monitoring.

Before committing to the paid version (available for a small fee), users can download a free version to verify adapter and vehicle compatibility. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters, and is compatible with most modern Android devices, making it a versatile choice for OBD2 gauge functionality.

Pros

• Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website, ensuring broad applicability.
• Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Displays real-time engine and vehicle parameters on customizable gauges for immediate insights.
• Overlay Data Display: Features an overlay mode to display economy data in the background or over other running applications, enhancing multitasking.
• Fuel Efficiency and Acceleration Gauges: Includes dedicated widgets for fuel economy and acceleration data, providing performance metrics at a glance.
• GPS Support: Offers GPS integration for location tracking alongside vehicle data.
• Cloud Data Backup: Supports uploading reporting data to cloud storage for secure data backup and accessibility.
• Data Sharing for Professional Assistance: Allows data sharing via email, facilitating remote diagnostics and professional car repair assistance.

Cons

• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with older devices.
• Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have encountered errors while establishing Bluetooth connections, which can hinder gauge app usability.

4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a highly regarded free car diagnostic tool, offering comprehensive vehicle parameter monitoring. Its compatibility across multiple platforms and impressive user ratings solidify its position as a top OBD2 gauge app. With this app, you can transform your smartphone, tablet, or even Windows PC into a powerful vehicle gauge display.

This app empowers users to proactively identify potential issues and make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance. Understanding fault codes and real-time data allows for DIY fixes of minor problems and helps determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary. The app’s cross-platform availability and high user rating (4.7) make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a reliable OBD2 gauge app.

Pros

• Broad OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring wide-ranging usability.
• Adapter Versatility: Compatible with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, providing flexibility in hardware choices.
• Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Offers a customizable dashboard to track preferred parameters, allowing users to prioritize the gauges they need most.
• Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides detailed fuel consumption statistics, aiding in fuel efficiency monitoring.
• Settings Backup and Restore: Features settings backup and restore functionality, simplifying app management across devices or after reinstalls.
• Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a global user base.

Cons

• Android Version Limitation: Only supports Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding older devices.
• In-App Purchases for Full Functionality: Requires in-app purchases to unlock optimal performance and features, limiting the free version’s capabilities.

5. EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile is a user-friendly OBD2 car diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS. It supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters and provides access to essential vehicle parameters, functioning effectively as a real-time OBD2 gauge app. With EOBD Facile, monitoring your car’s vitals is straightforward and accessible directly from your mobile device.

Depending on your vehicle’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile displays a range of gauges including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, and air intake. The app’s widespread adoption, with over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, reflects its reliability and user satisfaction as an OBD2 gauge solution.

Pros

• Real-Time Sensor Data: Displays vehicle sensor data in real-time, allowing for immediate monitoring of critical parameters on your OBD2 gauge.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes and definitions, aiding in comprehensive diagnostics.
• Fault Code Clearing: Enables users to delete fault codes and address engine light issues directly from the app.
• Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating detailed trip analysis.
• Route Planning Feature: Offers route planning capabilities, beneficial for long journeys and integrating trip data with vehicle performance.

Cons

• Requires OBD2 App Experience: May be less intuitive for first-time OBD2 app users, potentially requiring some familiarity with vehicle diagnostics.
• No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

6. HobDrive

HobDrive stands out as a premium OBD2 gauge app for Android, offering advanced car tracking features. While it’s priced higher than many other options on the Google Play Store, HobDrive justifies its cost with comprehensive functionality and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a powerful tool for serious car enthusiasts and professionals.

A key advantage of HobDrive is its support for both OBD2 compliant vehicles and select Non-OBD2 vehicles, expanding its applicability. Furthermore, HobDrive is accessible across various platforms including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone, and iOS, providing unparalleled versatility in how you monitor your vehicle’s gauges.

Pros

• Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Offers a highly customizable dashboard to display a wide array of parameters provided by your vehicle’s ECU, allowing for personalized gauge setups.
• Adapter Compatibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, providing flexible connectivity options.
• Advanced Monitoring Features: Tracks critical parameters such as overheating and suspicious fuel trims, offering in-depth vehicle health insights via gauges.
• Clear MIL Code Explanations: Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes, aiding in accurate diagnosis and repair.
• Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings, offering a secondary odometer verification tool.
• MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Accurately calculates MPG (Miles Per Gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance, enhancing fuel efficiency tracking.
• Pro Version with Enhanced Gauges: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for more detailed and visually rich data representation.

Cons

• Payment Issues in Some Regions: Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments depending on their location.
• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above, excluding users with very old devices.

7. OBDeleven

OBDeleven distinguishes itself in the OBD2 app market with its “One Click App” feature, setting it apart from standard OBD2 gauge apps. Beyond providing real-time gauge data from your car’s ECU, OBDeleven allows users to control various vehicle functions with a single tap, offering advanced customization and control capabilities.

While the “One Click App” feature requires a network connection, OBDeleven remains a powerful tool for vehicle diagnostics and customization. Upgrading to the Premium version unlocks even more advanced features, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and professional mechanics who value in-depth vehicle control and monitoring beyond basic gauge functions.

Pros

• Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Management: Supports reading and clearing all diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle’s ECU, providing complete diagnostic control.
• Multilingual Support: Offers support for multiple languages, catering to a diverse user base.
• Active Social Media Community: Maintains an active social media community, fostering user support and knowledge sharing.
• Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in other OBD2 apps, adding to its diagnostic utility.
• DIY Repair Manuals: Provides manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic maintenance and repairs.
• Vehicle History Retrieval: Retrieves history for connected cars, offering valuable insights into past diagnostic events.
• Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit resets, enabling advanced system management.

Cons

• Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for the “One Click App” features.
• Advertisements in Free Version: The free version contains advertisements, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.

8. Dash – Drive Smart

Dash Drive Smart is an OBD2 app that emphasizes smart car analysis tools and comprehensive vehicle tracking. It supports OBDeleven software and claims compatibility with vehicles dating back to 1996, offering broad applicability for older and newer models alike. Dash aims to be more than just a gauge app; it’s designed to enhance the entire driving experience.

Dash provides real-time data and insights to improve driving habits, optimize vehicle performance, and make informed maintenance decisions. Its ability to function even without a dedicated device enhances its convenience and accessibility for everyday use.

Pros

• Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Features a customizable parameter dashboard that operates in background mode, allowing for continuous gauge monitoring without constant app interaction.
• Driver Score and Leaderboard: Provides a Driver Score and leaderboard, allowing users to compare their driving performance with others, gamifying driving improvement.
• Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding, simplifying setup for households with multiple cars.
• GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help users locate their parked vehicle, a convenient feature in urban environments.
• Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Offers nearby gas price comparison features, enabling users to save money on fuel purchases.

Cons

• Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported that the app can drain mobile device battery, particularly with continuous background operation.
• Compass Glitches: The compass feature has been reported to be occasionally glitchy, although updates may address these issues.
• Network Connection Problems: Some users have experienced network connection issues, potentially affecting real-time data updates and feature reliability.

9. Engine Link (IOS)

Engine Link is a robust car diagnostic app for iOS, often compared to Torque Pro for Android. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, functioning as a dedicated OBD2 gauge app for iPhone and iPad users. While some recent user feedback mentions issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, Engine Link remains a powerful iOS option for vehicle monitoring.

Available for a one-time purchase on iTunes, Engine Link offers a comprehensive suite of features for car monitoring and diagnostics without recurring subscription fees. It aims to provide iOS users with complete control over their vehicle’s data and performance monitoring through its gauge interface.

Pros

• Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Offers a one-stop customizable dashboard, allowing users to tailor the displayed gauges to their specific monitoring needs.
• Emissions and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Tracks emission rates and fuel consumption directly within the gauge display, providing key efficiency metrics.
• Extensive Fault Code Management: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, aiding in DIY diagnostics and repairs.
• Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Includes a Heads-Up Display option, projecting gauge data onto the windshield for safer driving.
• No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: Available for a single purchase with no additional in-app costs or subscription fees, offering long-term value.
• Multilingual Support: Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global iOS user base.
• Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update supports Torque Custom PID (Parameter IDs) files, enhancing customization and advanced data access.

Cons

• ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data, hindering gauge functionality.
• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later, potentially excluding users with older Apple devices.

10. ScanMaster

ScanMaster is a reliable car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters, offering a straightforward approach to vehicle diagnostics and gauge monitoring. While not as widely known as some other apps, ScanMaster maintains a solid user rating and a substantial number of installs, indicating its value as an OBD2 gauge app.

With ScanMaster, users can gain a clear real-time overview of their vehicle’s performance and accurately read fault codes, empowering them with diagnostic information. The app offers both a free Lite version with basic parameters and a paid Pro version unlocking the full feature set.

Pros

• Free Version with Essential Parameters: The Lite (free) version provides access to essential car parameters such as VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status, offering a valuable free gauge option.
• Multilingual Support (German and English): Supports both German and English languages, catering to European and English-speaking users.
• User-Friendly Navigation: Features an easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users of varying technical skill levels.
• Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware selection.
• Data Recording Capability: Includes data recording functionality, allowing users to capture and analyze vehicle performance data over time.
• Graphical Data Representation: Presents data graphically, facilitating easier analysis and trend identification within the gauge display.

Cons

• Ineffective Customer Support: Users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness and effectiveness.
• Device Compatibility Issues: Some users have encountered compatibility issues with certain devices, potentially limiting app usability.
• Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, excluding older Android devices.

11. DashCommand (IOS)

DashCommand positions itself as a premium OBD2 gauge app for iOS, transforming your iPhone or iPad into an advanced engine data display. It has received industry recognition, including a SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product, highlighting its quality and innovation in vehicle monitoring.

While DashCommand is one of the more expensive iOS OBD2 apps, it justifies its price with a rich feature set including performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine gauges, and emission testing capabilities. User reviews consistently praise its performance and value for money as a comprehensive OBD2 gauge solution on iOS.

Pros

• Ease of Use: Features a user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for users new to OBD2 apps and vehicle diagnostics.
• Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track preferred data parameters, catering to individual monitoring needs.
• Inclinometer for Off-Roading: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving and vehicle stability monitoring.
• Data Logging and Playback: Supports data-logging, recording, and playback, enabling detailed analysis of vehicle performance over time.
• Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a sophisticated trip computer maintaining statistics for up to five trips, providing comprehensive trip data analysis.
• Graphical Data Representation: Presents collected data in graphical format, facilitating easier interpretation and trend analysis within the gauge display.

Cons

• iPhone X Incompatibility: Not fully compatible with iPhone X models, potentially limiting usability for some iOS users.
• Haltech Elite 2599 Compatibility Issues: Users have reported compatibility issues with Haltech Elite 2599 aftermarket ECUs.
• In-App Purchases for Specific Car Models: Contains in-app purchases for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost depending on vehicle type.

12. BlueDriver

BlueDriver is a popular OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android, recognized as a top free car diagnostic tool. Its high user rating and extensive download count reflect its effectiveness and user satisfaction as an OBD2 gauge and diagnostic solution.

BlueDriver provides access to critical vehicle parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email, all within a user-friendly interface. Its feature set rivals some paid OBD2 apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts seeking a powerful yet free OBD2 gauge app.

Pros

• Wireless Car Connection: Establishes a wireless connection with your car via Bluetooth, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
• Smog Readiness Check: Includes a smog readiness check feature, helping users ensure their vehicle meets emission standards.
• Cost Savings on Diagnostics: Significantly reduces travel costs associated with professional diagnostics by enabling DIY vehicle health checks.
• Free and Regular Updates: Offers free and regular app updates, continuously improving functionality and compatibility.
• On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results, providing detailed insights into vehicle system checks.
• Enhanced Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission: Offers improved diagnostics for systems beyond the engine, including ABS, Airbag, and Transmission.
• Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record-keeping.

Cons

• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding users with older iOS devices.
• iPhone XR Issues (Potentially Resolved): Some users reported issues with iPhone XR compatibility, although updates may have addressed these.

13. GoFAR

GoFAR is presented as a high-performance car diagnostic device and app combination designed to keep drivers informed and in control of their vehicle’s health. It focuses on comprehensive car health monitoring, mileage tracking, and fuel efficiency optimization, functioning as more than just a basic OBD2 gauge app.

A unique selling point of GoFAR is its IRS compliance for mileage tracking, potentially offering tax savings for users. Its emphasis on fuel savings, with claims of 10-30% reduction in fuel costs, makes it an attractive option for экономия-conscious drivers. The GoFAR app and device system has garnered high user ratings, reflecting its effectiveness and user satisfaction.

Pros

• Easy Installation and Use: Designed for easy installation and user-friendliness, making it accessible for drivers of all technical backgrounds.
• One-Year Warranty: Offers a one-year warranty on initial device purchase, providing peace of mind and product assurance.
• Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English, simplifying diagnostic understanding for non-technical users.
• Mechanic Finder Platform: Includes a platform for finding and hiring nearby mechanics, streamlining the repair process.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Contains over 3000 fault codes and descriptions, providing comprehensive diagnostic information.
• Global Driver Leaderboard: Features a global leaderboard comparing drivers based on fuel cost savings, adding a competitive and engaging element.
• Preventative Maintenance Alerts: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders, promoting proactive vehicle maintenance.
• No Subscription Fees: Requires a one-time purchase with no ongoing subscription fees, offering long-term cost-effectiveness.

Cons

• Upfront Purchase Required: Requires an initial purchase of the GoFAR device, unlike purely app-based OBD2 gauge solutions.

14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor

FIXD distinguishes itself by offering simplicity and user-friendliness without sacrificing quality in vehicle diagnostics. It aims to make OBD2 technology accessible to everyone, particularly those new to car diagnostics and gauge apps. FIXD translates fault codes into easy-to-understand terms, making it simple for users to take immediate action when vehicle issues arise.

FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimized app performance and gauge monitoring, ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software. The FIXD app is available on the Google Play Store and has received positive user ratings, highlighting its user-friendliness and effectiveness.

Pros

• Quick and Easy Setup: Installs in minutes and is designed for immediate use, simplifying the initial setup process for new users.
• Beginner-Friendly OBD2 App: Particularly suitable for first-time OBD2 app users due to its simplicity and clear explanations.
• Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care and preventing neglected maintenance.
• Worn Part Alerts: Alerts users to worn-out car parts requiring repair or replacement, enabling timely maintenance and preventing further damage.
• Easy Onboarding Process: Features an easy onboarding process, guiding new users through app setup and usage.
• In-App Car Part Purchases: Allows users to buy car parts directly through the app, streamlining the repair process.
• Responsive Customer Support: Offers helpful customer support, assisting users with any questions or issues.

Cons

• Past App Bugs: Older app versions were reported to have bugs, although updates likely address these issues.
• FIXD Adapter Dependency: Primarily designed to work with FIXD adapters, potentially limiting compatibility with other ELM327 adapters.
• In-App Purchases: Offers in-app purchases, potentially adding to the overall cost for full feature access.

15. Carly For BMW

Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app tailored specifically for BMW vehicles. It’s designed to provide both novice and experienced BMW drivers with in-depth vehicle insights and control. Carly functions as a comprehensive OBD2 gauge app and diagnostic tool for BMWs, offering features beyond standard OBD2 functionality.

Carly offers a Lite version for compatibility testing before purchasing the full app and requires proprietary Carly adapters for optimal performance. It provides access to vital BMW-specific parameters and functions, making it a valuable tool for BMW owners seeking detailed vehicle monitoring and customization.

Pros

• Thorough BMW Health Checks: Performs thorough health checks of your BMW’s electronic components, providing in-depth diagnostic information.
• Used Car Check Feature: Includes a used car check feature, useful for pre-purchase inspections of used BMWs.
• One-Click Electric Parking Brake Control: Offers one-click control for the electric parking brake, adding convenience and control.
• Premium Adapter Support and Warranty: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, offering long-term value and support.
• DIY Battery Registration Support: Supports DIY battery registration, enabling users to perform battery replacements themselves.
• Excellent Customer Service: Provides excellent customer service, assisting BMW users with app and adapter-related inquiries.

Cons

• Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters, increasing the initial investment.
• Limited Fault Codes for Specific BMW Series: Has limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models, potentially limiting diagnostic depth for these vehicles.

16. Carista OBD2 App

Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 solution, supported by a range of car brands including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. Carista combines OBD2 diagnostics with vehicle customization features, offering a unique approach to car management.

A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option within the app. This allows users to access and modify various ECU settings, typically only accessible by dealership technicians, providing a high degree of vehicle personalization and control beyond basic gauge functions.

Pros

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connection, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
• Compact Adapter Design: Features a compact adapter design, minimizing physical bulk in the OBD2 port.
• Customizable Vehicle Settings: Offers customizable vehicle settings, allowing users to personalize various ECU parameters.
• Phone-to-OBD2 Scanner Innovation: Integrates phone and OBD2 scanner functionality seamlessly, providing a user-friendly experience.
• Free Trial Period: Offers a 1-month free trial, allowing users to test the app and features before committing to a purchase.
• Cross-Platform Support (iOS and Android): Supports both iOS and Android platforms, catering to a wide range of smartphone users.
• Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities, going beyond basic fault code reading and gauge monitoring.

Cons

• In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases to unlock full features and functionality, potentially increasing the overall cost.

17) OBD Fusion

OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular OBD2 app recognized for its ease of use and comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports. It’s considered a versatile OBD2 gauge app suitable for both novice and professional users, offering a balance of simplicity and advanced features.

OBD Fusion’s selling point is its user-friendliness and highly customizable dashboards. Users can tailor the gauge display to prioritize specific engine functions and data parameters, creating a personalized and efficient vehicle monitoring experience.

Pros

• Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards, allowing users to display the gauges and data parameters most relevant to them.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility (iOS and Android): Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad accessibility.
• GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features, integrating location data with vehicle performance monitoring.
• Emission Monitoring Capabilities: Provides emission monitoring features, helping users track and manage their vehicle’s environmental impact.
• Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging capabilities, enabling detailed recording and analysis of vehicle performance over time.

Cons

• Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some advanced features are locked behind expansion packs, potentially increasing the overall cost for full functionality.
• No Diagnostic Data Sharing Features: Lacks built-in diagnostic data sharing features, limiting collaborative diagnostics or remote assistance options.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive list of the best OBD2 gauge apps for iOS and Android, you’re now better equipped to choose the right tool for your vehicle. Remember, verifying app compatibility with your specific car model is crucial before making a purchase. Many developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others may require upfront payment for the full version. Take the time to determine which app best suits your needs and vehicle.

Ultimately, selecting the “best OBD2 gauge app” depends on individual preferences and requirements. However, based on features, user reviews, and overall performance, here are our top recommendations:

Best Android OBD2 Gauge App

Torque Pro: A paid app offering a rich feature set, extensive customization, and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for Android users seeking a powerful OBD2 gauge app.

Best iOS OBD2 Gauge App

OBD Fusion: A paid app praised for its ease of use, comprehensive parameter tracking, and customizable dashboards, making it an excellent choice for iOS users looking for a user-friendly and effective OBD2 gauge app.