In today’s automotive landscape, understanding your vehicle’s health is no longer confined to professional mechanics. Thanks to advancements in mobile technology, a wealth of information about your car’s engine and performance is readily accessible through onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. These innovative tools, born from the surge in mobile app development, empower drivers to monitor their vehicle’s vital signs in real-time, offering insights that can prevent costly repairs and roadside emergencies.
OBD2 apps, when paired with a compatible Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, act as a direct line of communication with your car’s computer. They translate complex engine data into user-friendly parameters like speed, rotation angle, pressure, and temperature, displayed conveniently on your smartphone.
However, the vast selection of OBD2 apps available for Android and iOS can be overwhelming. Sifting through countless options to find the Best Bluetooth Obd2 Scanner App for your needs can be time-consuming and frustrating. Many users have unfortunately experienced purchasing apps that fail to deliver on their promises, resulting in wasted money and unmet diagnostic needs.
To prevent you from falling into this trap, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top OBD2 apps in the market. This curated list features 17 of the best options, each offering unique features and capabilities to enhance your car diagnostic experience. Let’s dive into the details and help you choose the perfect companion for your Bluetooth OBD2 scanner.
Top Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner Apps for Android and iOS
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro stands out as a highly acclaimed OBD2 Bluetooth app for Android users, boasting over a million downloads and consistently positive reviews. While it comes with a modest price tag of around $5 on the Play Store, users widely agree that the investment is worthwhile.
Image alt text: Torque Pro app customizable dashboard displaying real-time vehicle diagnostics data.
Torque Pro transforms your smartphone into a customizable dashboard, displaying real-time data from your car in an intuitive and visually appealing manner. Beyond live monitoring, it allows you to export collected data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard with multiple themes to personalize the app’s appearance.
- Seamless screenshot sharing to social media and email for easy data dissemination.
- Integrated GPS-based compass for navigation and location tracking.
- Robust data graphing and car dock support for enhanced data visualization and usability.
- CO2 emission readouts for environmentally conscious drivers.
- Track recorder to capture video footage of your journeys, useful for analysis or documentation.
- Configurable alarms and warnings for detecting subpar car performance, such as high coolant temperature.
- Impressively supports older Android versions, including 2.0, extending compatibility to a wider range of devices.
Cons:
- Requires upfront purchase, unlike some free or freemium options.
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues reported, though often resolvable with app updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor operates on similar principles to many leading car diagnostic apps, offering compatibility with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters. It excels at monitoring crucial vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, providing a comprehensive overview of your car’s health.
Image alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app interface showing real-time vehicle sensor data in numerical and graphical formats.
This app goes beyond engine diagnostics, allowing you to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission. Furthermore, OBD Auto Doctor facilitates data export via email in CSV format for detailed analysis and record-keeping. A standout feature is its optimized fuel consumption monitoring, potentially leading to significant savings on fuel costs.
Pros:
- Real-time data display empowers users to make informed decisions regarding their vehicle’s maintenance and performance.
- Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences for data visualization.
- Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Integrated GPS support for location-based features and data logging.
- Responsive and helpful customer service team available 24/7 for user assistance.
- Advanced customization options to tailor the app to individual needs and preferences.
- Supports both imperial and metric units, enhancing usability for a global audience.
- Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing extensive diagnostic coverage.
- Tracks readiness status, informing users when their car is ready for emission testing.
Cons:
- In-app purchases and a Premium upgrade are necessary to unlock the full range of features.
- Some users have reported occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top OBD2 app, earning accolades in car review circles for several years. It continues to be a leading contender in the OBD2 app market, offering high-level car scanning and diagnostics presented through a user-friendly and uncluttered interface.
Image alt text: InCarDoc Pro app dashboard displaying vehicle parameters with fuel economy and acceleration widgets.
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.
Pros:
- Broad compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their official website.
- Comprehensive reading of real-time engine and vehicle parameters.
- Overlay feature to display fuel economy data in the background or overlaid on other running applications.
- Dedicated fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick access to performance metrics.
- GPS support for location-based features and data logging.
- Cloud storage integration for uploading reporting data and accessing it across devices.
- Data sharing via email facilitates collaboration with mechanics or seeking professional assistance with car repairs.
Cons:
- Compatibility limited to Android 4.0.3 and later versions.
- Some users have reported potential errors during Bluetooth connection attempts.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App empowers you to delve deep into your car’s electronic control unit (ECU) and understand a vast array of parameters. This free car diagnostic app allows you to proactively identify potential issues before they escalate. If you possess knowledge of fault codes and their meanings, this app becomes even more powerful, enabling you to address minor problems independently and make informed decisions about when to seek professional mechanic assistance.
Image alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app customizable dashboard with gauges displaying various vehicle parameters.
With over 2 million installations across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 demonstrates its widespread popularity and user trust. Notably, it boasts a high user rating of 4.7, the highest among the apps featured in this list.
Pros:
- Universally compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Supports a wide range of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
- Highly customizable dashboard to prioritize and track your preferred parameters.
- Integrated fuel consumption statistics for monitoring fuel efficiency.
- Settings backup and restore functionality for convenient app management.
- Multilingual support, including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a diverse user base.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 or later, excluding older devices.
- In-app purchases are necessary to unlock optimal performance and access advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 car diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS platforms. It seamlessly integrates with ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, providing access to a comprehensive suite of gauges and parameters essential for making informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance and performance.
Image alt text: EOBD Facile app interface displaying essential vehicle parameters such as speed, RPM, and engine temperature.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display a wealth of information, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake volume, and numerous other gauges, all presented clearly on the app’s dashboard. EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installations on the Google Play Store, indicating its popularity and reliability.
Pros:
- Real-time display of vehicle sensor data for immediate insights into car performance.
- Extensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Capability to delete fault codes and resolve engine light issues, potentially saving on mechanic visits.
- Trip record storage on SD card for later review using the EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating in-depth data analysis.
- Integrated route planning feature, beneficial for long journeys and optimizing travel routes.
Cons:
- May require prior OBD2 app experience to fully leverage its advanced features.
- No support for USB adapters, limiting connectivity options.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive distinguishes itself as a premium OBD2 app for Android, commanding a higher price point on the Google Play Store compared to many competitors. Priced around $10, HobDrive justifies its cost with advanced car tracking features and comprehensive vehicle compatibility.
Image alt text: HobDrive app customizable dashboard showing various vehicle parameters in graphical and numerical formats.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad vehicle support, encompassing all OBD2 compliant vehicles as well as certain Non-OBD2 vehicles, expanding its applicability beyond standard OBD2 protocols. HobDrive’s versatility extends to platform compatibility, seamlessly integrating with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS devices.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard to display essential parameters provided by your car’s ECU.
- Supports both GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Monitors for overheating and suspicious fuel trims, proactively identifying potential engine problems.
- Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes for easy understanding of diagnostic information.
- Estimates car odometer readings, offering a convenient mileage tracking feature.
- Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance, enhancing fuel efficiency monitoring.
- Pro version unlocks extended graphical gauges for advanced data visualization.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties with in-app payment processing in certain locations.
- App compatibility limited to Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven takes a unique approach to OBD2 app functionality, setting it apart from many competitors. Beyond providing a clear view of ECU parameters, OBDeleven incorporates a “One Click App” feature, enabling users to control various car options with a single tap.
Image alt text: OBDeleven app interface showcasing the “One Click App” feature for controlling vehicle functions.
To fully utilize the “One Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. Upgrading to the Premium version unlocks access to a broader range of car tracking tools. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven remains a valuable tool for car diagnostics and vehicle customization, popular among car enthusiasts and mechanics.
Pros:
- Supports reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from all vehicle control units.
- Multilingual support enhances accessibility for a global user base.
- Active social media community provides a platform for user support and knowledge sharing.
- Offers a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in other OBD2 apps.
- Includes DIY car fix manuals, empowering users to perform basic maintenance tasks.
- Retrieves history for connected cars, providing a valuable record of past diagnostic data.
- Supports control unit reset functionality.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for the “One Click App” feature.
- Displays ads in the free version, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a versatile car tracking app compatible with OBDeleven software and a range of smart car analysis tools. It delivers real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, expanding its applicability to older vehicles.
Image alt text: Dash – Drive Smart app customizable dashboard displaying real-time driving data and vehicle performance metrics.
Dash aims to enhance your driving experience by providing insights to improve driving habits and optimize car performance, while also supporting informed decisions for long-term vehicle health. The app offers functionality even without continuous device connection.
Pros:
- Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard operates effectively in background mode, minimizing battery drain.
- Driver score and leaderboard features enable performance comparison with other Dash users, fostering friendly competition and driving improvement.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding for streamlined vehicle management.
- GPS tracking tool to locate parked vehicles, a convenient feature in urban environments.
- Nearby gas price comparison feature helps users save money on fuel purchases.
Cons:
- Some users have reported concerns about the app draining mobile device battery life.
- Compass feature reported as occasionally glitchy, though potentially resolvable with updates.
- Network connection issues experienced by some users.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app tailored for iOS devices, often compared to Torque Pro in functionality. It seamlessly connects with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. While some recent user feedback indicates issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, it remains a highly regarded car tracking application within the iOS ecosystem.
Image alt text: Engine Link iOS app interface displaying real-time vehicle diagnostics data with customizable gauges.
Priced at around $6 on iTunes, Engine Link offers a comprehensive solution for car monitoring, empowering users with control over their vehicle’s diagnostics and performance.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard allows users to prioritize and track only essential parameters.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption for environmentally conscious and fuel-efficient driving.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, enabling users to address diagnostic issues.
- Heads-up display (HUD) option for projecting data onto the windshield, enhancing driver convenience and safety.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees, offering a one-time purchase model.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
- Recent updates include support for Torque Custom PID files, expanding customization capabilities.
Cons:
- Some users have reported instances of the app connecting without successfully reading ECU data.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, potentially excluding users with older iOS devices.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another reputable car monitoring tool designed for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely recognized as some other scanners, this Android application maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over 1 million installations, indicating user satisfaction.
Image alt text: ScanMaster app interface showing real-time vehicle performance data and fault codes.
With ScanMaster on your mobile device, you gain a clear overview of your car’s performance in real-time and access accurate fault code readings, potentially preventing overcharging by mechanics. The app offers a Lite (free) version providing access to essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the Pro version is required to unlock the full feature set, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions.
Pros:
- Free Lite version offers a valuable set of basic tracking parameters.
- Supports both German and English languages for user convenience.
- User-friendly and easy to navigate interface.
- Compatible with a wide range of ELM327 adapters.
- Data recording capability for capturing and analyzing vehicle performance data.
- Clear graphical representation of data for easier interpretation and analysis.
Cons:
- Customer support team reported as ineffective by some users.
- Compatibility issues reported with certain devices.
- Compatible only with Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand positions itself as a premium solution for transforming your iOS device into an advanced engine data display, and has received industry recognition, winning the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014.
Image alt text: DashCommand iOS app featuring a highly customizable gauge dashboard for advanced vehicle data display.
DashCommand is a more expensive iOS OBD2 scanner app, priced at $14.99 on iTunes, but justifies its cost with high-performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing for up to five trips. User reviews generally reflect satisfaction with the app’s value and performance.
Pros:
- User-friendly and intuitive interface.
- Highly customizable performance gauges to track preferred data parameters.
- Inclinometer feature displays rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving.
- Supports data logging, recording, and playback for detailed performance analysis.
- Sophisticated trip computer maintains statistics for up to five trips, providing comprehensive driving data.
- Graphical representation of collected data enhances data visualization and analysis.
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhone X, limiting compatibility for some newer iOS devices.
- Compatibility issues reported with Haltech elite 2599.
- In-app purchases for certain car models may be required to unlock full functionality.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a versatile OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android platforms. It stands out as a highly-rated and popular free car diagnostic tool, achieving a 4.6 rating on iTunes with over 2 million downloads.
Image alt text: BlueDriver app interface displaying comprehensive vehicle diagnostics information and trouble codes.
BlueDriver enables users to monitor critical ECU parameters, scan for and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share collected data via email. Its feature set rivals some paid OBD2 apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless connection to your car via Bluetooth.
- Supports smog readiness check, helping users prepare for emission testing.
- Significantly reduces potential travel costs associated with mechanic visits.
- Free and regular updates ensure ongoing app improvement and feature enhancements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other vehicle systems.
- Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record-keeping.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices.
- Minor issues reported with iPhone XR, potentially addressed in future updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR offers a comprehensive car diagnostic device and app system designed for high-performance vehicle monitoring and mileage tracking. It maintains compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters, providing broad vehicle support.
Image alt text: GoFAR OBD2 device and companion app interface for vehicle health monitoring and mileage tracking.
A notable feature of GoFAR is its IRS compliance, potentially enabling users to save on taxes related to vehicle expenses. It also emphasizes fuel savings, aiming to reduce travel costs by 10-30%. The Android and iOS apps maintain a strong 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences globally.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use, suitable for users of all technical levels.
- Offers a one-year warranty on initial device purchase.
- Sends error alerts in plain English, simplifying diagnostic information for non-technical users.
- Platform for hiring nearby mechanics, providing convenient access to repair services.
- Database of over 3000 fault codes and descriptions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Global leaderboard for comparing fuel savings with other drivers, gamifying fuel efficiency.
- Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders, promoting proactive vehicle maintenance.
- No subscription or ongoing fees required after initial device purchase.
Cons:
- Requires upfront device purchase, priced at $99.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD focuses on simplicity and user-friendliness without compromising diagnostic quality. Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into easily understandable terms, empowering users to take immediate action when vehicle issues arise.
Image alt text: FIXD app interface with simplified vehicle diagnostics and easy-to-understand fault code descriptions.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance and gauge monitoring. The Android app, available on the Google Play Store, holds a solid 4.5 rating from users.
Pros:
- Quick and easy installation process, enabling immediate use.
- Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplicity.
- Allows scheduling of maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
- Alerts users to worn-out car parts requiring repair or replacement, preventing potential breakdowns.
- Easy onboarding process for new users.
- Integrated car part purchasing functionality directly within the app.
- Helpful customer support team for user assistance.
Cons:
- Bugs reported in older app versions, potentially resolved in newer updates.
- Works exclusively with FIXD adapters, limiting adapter compatibility.
- In-app purchases are offered for additional features.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app designed exclusively for BMW vehicles, compatible with adapters provided by Carly.
Image alt text: Carly For BMW app interface tailored for BMW vehicle diagnostics and control features.
Whether you are a novice or experienced BMW driver, Carly provides access to vital car gauges and parameters in real-time. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, with a Lite version available for compatibility testing before purchasing the full version.
Pros:
- Thorough health checks of BMW vehicle electronic components.
- Used car check feature for pre-purchase inspections of BMW vehicles.
- One-click control for electric parking brake functionality.
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY battery registration support for BMW vehicles.
- Excellent customer service team dedicated to BMW users.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited fault code coverage reported for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App utilizes a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and accompanying app, offering compatibility with brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
Image alt text: Carista OBD2 app interface showing customization options for vehicle ECU settings.
A standout feature is the “Customize” option, allowing users to access and modify ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships, providing advanced vehicle personalization.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation.
- Compact and portable OBD2 plug.
- Customizable vehicle settings through ECU access.
- Direct phone-to-OBD2 scanner innovation for user convenience.
- 1-month free trial to test app functionality.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms.
- Detailed vehicle diagnostics capabilities.
Cons:
- In-app purchases required to unlock full features after the trial period.
17) OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular app known for its user-friendliness and comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner.
Image alt text: OBD Fusion app interface showcasing customizable dashboards and extensive data logging capabilities.
The app is designed for both novice and professional users, offering customizable dashboards to display desired engine functions and provide detailed vehicle insights.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display to user preferences.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.
- GPS navigation features integrated within the app.
- Emission monitoring capabilities for tracking vehicle emissions.
- Extensive data logging functionality for detailed performance analysis.
Cons:
- Certain features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features, limiting collaborative diagnostics.
Conclusion
With this detailed overview of the best bluetooth OBD2 scanner apps for iOS and Android, you’re now better equipped to choose the ideal app for your car diagnostic needs.
Before making a purchase or committing to a specific app, it’s crucial to verify compatibility with your vehicle. Utilize free “lite” versions, when available, to test app functionality and compatibility with your car and Bluetooth OBD2 scanner. Carefully consider your needs and preferences, and select the best bluetooth OBD2 scanner app that empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicle’s health effectively.
Our Top Picks:
Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A feature-rich paid app with broad vehicle compatibility.
Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A user-friendly paid app that monitors essential vehicle parameters effectively.
