In today’s saturated market of automotive scan tools, finding truly reliable professional OBD software can be time-consuming. Many competing products prioritize profit over functionality, often leading to diluted features and questionable dependability. That’s why we felt it necessary to highlight established innovators in vehicle diagnostics – companies with a long track record of OBD2 expertise.
To the untrained eye, the subtle yet crucial differences between OBD reader kits can be easily missed. While both might appear convincing at first glance, years of experience in vehicle workshops allow us to quickly distinguish a generic “me-too” check-engine-light reader from genuine OBD-2 software approved by savvy automotive technicians. This article will concentrate on the latter, specifically focusing on laptop software rather than mobile apps.
We hold reservations about Android/iOS apps for a couple of key reasons: (1) many are abandoned due to the competitive nature of the on-board-diagnostics app market, and (2) most are not developed by car manufacturers, but rather by independent freelancers. PC-based OBD-II software, on the other hand, has been around since the early 1990s, predating mobile apps by a significant margin.
A common misconception among consumers is that popular smartphone OBD2 applications offer comparable functionality to PC software. In reality, they often feature stripped-down capabilities, compensated for with flashy user interfaces. This is a primary reason why we advocate for PC-based solutions.
Having rigorously tested and utilized various car software packages for over a decade, we present 7 noteworthy OBD2 diagnostic software packages…
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and discernment. We encourage you to visit their websites, assess their trustworthiness, and select the OBD2 software that best aligns with your specific automotive requirements.
To streamline your reading experience, we’ve summarized each review using bullet points.
General Principle: All OBD2 software essentially performs the SAME core function: diagnosing and reporting vehicle faults. The main differentiator lies in the quantity of fault codes detected, with some programs identifying more comprehensive error ranges than others.
OBD-2 do-it-yourself diagnostics empowers car owners to perform tasks traditionally reserved for mechanics. However, it’s crucial to remember that detected malfunctions or broken parts still require physical repair, and should not be simply dismissed by using the “Clear fault” button within the software.
Common Features of Recommended OBD Car Scanner Software:
- These are not free OBD software solutions. For free options (specifically for ELM327 scan tools), download EasyOBD. It’s the most capable “free” software available.
- The automotive industry predominantly targets Windows operating systems. Fortunately, we’ve identified and reviewed two excellent OBD2 software options for macOS , detailed below.
- All reviews are rooted in our extensive technical and car mechanical expertise, totaling 60 years of combined experience. We strived for unbiased evaluation, critique, and judgment.
- Each software package supports ELM327 OBD2 Bluetooth, WIFI and USB interfaces. ELM327 installation instructions are available here.
- None of these software options offer bidirectional control capabilities. Bidirectional functionality requires high-end OEM scan tools, typically priced at $1000+. For detailed reports on high-end workshop-grade OBD2 scanners or code readers, please explore our blog using the search term “obd2 scanner”.
A Quick Guide to Scanners / Code Readers / General Diagnostic Tools:
Automotive engineering has progressed remarkably since Karl Benz invented the first gasoline-powered automobile in 1885. Cars have evolved from basic transportation to luxurious and efficient vehicles.
In the pre-technology era, cars were straightforward and easy to repair. However, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, including air conditioning, navigation systems, and even autopilot features.
Technological advancements have made automobiles increasingly intelligent. Today’s cars can gather data to optimize routes, adjust fluids based on driving conditions, and, importantly, detect engine errors.
Most vehicles on the road today have an on-board diagnostics, or OBD2 port, which provides access to data from the engine control unit (ECU). This data allows technicians to diagnose car problems and determine necessary maintenance.
Step 1: Connect ELM327 to your vehicle’s OBD port. Step 2: Install ELM327 drivers. Step 3: Launch the OBD2 software and click “Connect.” It’s that simple!
Accessing ECU (Electronic Control Unit) information requires a computer and software to interface with the OBD port. This demand has driven automotive companies to develop OBD software for laptops and mobile devices, enabling end-users to access car ECU data.
Typically, these products include two components: a hardware device (cable) for connecting to the car, and OBD-2 software for data access and analysis. The hardware establishes the connection between the ECU and the computer.
The OBD software (PC/laptop/Android/Mac/iOS) then interprets and analyzes the data for users. The primary purpose of this technology is to aid in vehicle maintenance and extend vehicle lifespan.
Below are seven distinct car diagnostic software options from different companies, representing what we consider the best software currently available for your Windows/Mac laptop/PC computer.
(Note: None of the following links are affiliate links. Total Car Diagnostics has no financial interest in these recommendations. This is a genuine review of scanners we believe will effectively address your diagnostic needs.)
TOAD PRO
TOAD® offers advanced, comprehensive, and powerful “car-manufacturer-approved” OBD software applications. It performs thorough vehicle health checks and diagnoses over 15,000 common issues. It also includes ECU remapping software (for advanced users) to potentially optimize car performance and fuel consumption.
This software is typically used by established car repair shops, manufacturers, servicemen, and mechanics. TOAD makes this professional-grade technology accessible to the public.
Its key strengths include broad car compatibility and the ability to monitor live data with customizable visual graphs.
TOAD is suitable for both home car owners seeking to save on repair costs through DIY diagnostics, and professional mechanics requiring cutting-edge detection and analysis software to ensure vehicle safety.
TOAD is utilized by law enforcement, franchise dealerships, car enthusiasts, everyday car owners, and car manufacturers in approximately 80 countries globally.
Benefits of TOAD PRO:
- Check engine light diagnostics: Provides detailed descriptions of detected problems for effective DIY repairs.
- Extracts “Extra” OBD Fault Codes: Detects fault codes often missed by standard scanners and software.
- Saves Money On Car Repair: Identifies specific broken components, enabling cost-effective parts procurement and mechanic negotiation.
- Optimize / Tune Car Performance: Offers ECU remapping capabilities for performance enhancement.
- Touch Input Optimized: User-friendly interface, ideal for touch-screen devices like Surface Pro.
- Fuel Cost Savings: Potential for fuel efficiency optimization through diagnostics and adjustments.
- Increased Engine Lifespan: Proactive diagnostics aid in maintaining engine health and longevity.
- Real-time Vehicle Data Monitoring: Provides live insights into vehicle operation.
- Facilitates DIY Car Repair: Empowers users to diagnose and address car issues, reducing repair expenses.
- Peace of Mind: Ensures vehicle is in optimal condition for safe driving.
- Real-time Data Display: Presents data in tabular and graphical formats for easy interpretation.
Learn more at TOAD website…
AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool
AutoEnginuity provides brand-specific options for manufacturers like BMW, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Honda, Porsche, and more. ScanTool is compatible with Windows and iOS.
This software allows users to quickly scan for trouble shooting codes, vehicle sensors, and IM240 data to determine necessary services. ScanTool stands out due to its extensive diagnostic coverage.
It accesses systems like ABS, airbag, instrument cluster, transmission, and numerous other controllers.
This depth includes live data, bi-directional controls, adaptive resets and learns, and system tests.
The primary drawback is its higher price point, making it more suitable for professional car mechanic workshops that handle a high volume of vehicles and require OEM manufacturer bi-directional functions.
Benefits of AutoEnginuity Scan Tool:
- Data Logging: Data is logged in XML format for browser viewing and CSV for spreadsheet analysis.
- Customizable Sensor Data: Users can adjust data display parameters such as sampling rate, ranges, units, and scaling.
- User-Friendly Interface: Presents data in a clear and understandable format, rather than raw data.
Learn more at AutoEnginuity website…
PCMScan
PCMScan is a comprehensive generic OBD-II automotive diagnostic software supporting various OBD hardware interfaces. It features real-time visual charting, logging, viewing, and playback of recorded data. It also displays vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Freeze Frame data, and other vehicle information. This universal scanner software supports US, Asian, and European vehicles manufactured after 1996.
However, a significant downside of this otherwise excellent Windows OBD2 software is that it has not been updated in over 7 years. This means it lacks at least 500+ new PIDs (sensor data) added in other applications since then. This suggests either discontinued development or a shift in development focus elsewhere.
Benefits of PCMScan:
- Customizable Dashboard: Users can personalize the dashboard to their preferences.
- Dyno and Drag Features: Includes performance measurement tools.
- Data Logging: Records diagnostic data for later review.
- DTC Reading and Clearing: Reads stored and pending Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
- Check Engine Light Control: Clears the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon indicator light.
- Freeze Frame Data: Reads and clears stored Freeze Frame data.
- Extensive Trouble Code Definitions: Supports thousands of vehicle trouble code definitions.
Worthy Features Tested:
- Printing and Print Preview: Full support for printing and previewing all views, including virtual dashboards.
- OBD-II Terminal: For users with OBD-II protocol knowledge, PCMSCAN offers a terminal for sending custom commands.
- Javascripting Support: Built-in Javascripting for custom calculations on OBD-II parameters and data for advanced users.
- Configurable Alerts System: Allows users to set alerts for specific parameter conditions, with sound warnings and data bookmarking.
- Unit Measurement Systems: Supports both English and Metric (SI) units.
- Customizable Data Export: Exports log files to .CSV format for easy viewing in programs like Excel.
- Real-time Stamps: Exports with real-time stamps for correlation with external data logs.
- PID Priority: Allows assigning priorities to PIDs to accelerate data capture rates.
- Interface Support: Compatible with Autotap AT1, AT2, AT3, AT123 (v2.x), VIA LDV100, LDV200, LDV300, LDV123, Multiplex Engineering T16, ELM320, ELM322, ELM323 (v2.x), ELM327 (all versions), and any SAE-J2534 compliant OBD-II interface.
Learn more at PCMScan website…
ProScan
Total Car Diagnostics acquired ProScan in 2015. This OBD2 software has been enhanced for 2024 and beyond, now including the ability to read the latest sensor data to accommodate advancements in vehicle technology and sensors. It’s included in the TOAD LITE package.
ProScan is recognized as one of the most user-friendly Windows OBD2 software options available. It has been on the market since 2003, establishing a strong reputation for stability and continuous development based on deep understanding of automotive protocols, sensors, and PIDs. It is compatible with any standard ELM327 hardware.
A standout feature of ProScan, less prominent in other software, is its accurate 0-60mph (100km) timing performance measurement. This allows for live, precise measurements of speed and torque gains after ECU adjustments, or for testing performance improvements after aftermarket modifications.
Benefits of ProScan:
- Fuel Economy Adjustment: Can optimize fuel economy based on driving habits.
- Vehicle Connection Manager: Features a user-friendly interface for program launch and vehicle connection.
- Freeze Frame Data Display: Monitors data from previous time periods.
- Oxygen Sensor Tests: Displays results of oxygen sensor tests, identifying malfunctioning sensors.
- One-Button Diagnostic Report Generator: Simplifies report generation for vehicle diagnostics.
- Readiness Monitor Status: Shows the status of vehicle readiness monitors for emissions compliance.
- Oxygen Sensor Location: Displays the number and location of oxygen sensors on the vehicle.
- Oxygen Sensor Functionality Test: Verifies the correct operation of oxygen sensors.
- Data Recording and Playback: Records and replays diagnostic data.
- Instantaneous Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculates and displays real-time fuel efficiency (mpg/liters per km) for MAF-based vehicles.
- Trip Cost Calculation: Calculates real-time trip cost based on distance and average fuel efficiency.
- Performance Statistics: Calculates performance metrics like 0-60 mph, 1/4 mile time and trap speed, 1/8 mile, etc.
- Horsepower and Torque Estimation: Estimates horsepower and torque curves and generates dyno charts.
- Printable Diagnostic Reports: Generates printable diagnostic reports for vehicles.
- Unit Conversion: Converts between English and metric units.
Learn more at ProScan website…
OBD Auto Doctor
OBD II Auto Doctor is a highly sophisticated and user-friendly OBD2 car diagnostic tool. We consider it the best OBD software for the Mac OS X platform. This software allows users to check and reset codes and communicate directly with the vehicle’s OBD2 system.
While incredibly powerful, it might be considered “too advanced” for casual car owners. For users seeking a simpler yet reliable “repair-shop” caliber solution, Movi software (reviewed below) is also worth considering.
Overall, OBDII Auto Doctor is exceptionally resourceful in terms of data extraction, making it ideal for serious car enthusiasts who want a deep understanding of their vehicles.
Benefits of OBD II Auto Doctor:
- DTCs, Freeze Frame, MIL: Reads and manages Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Freeze Frame data, and Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light).
- Fuel Emission and Consumption Data: Provides insights into fuel emission and fuel consumption metrics.
- Real-time OBD2 Indicators: Displays real-time OBD2 parameters.
- Numerical and Graphical Views: Offers data visualization in both numerical and graphical formats.
- Data Sharing via Email: Allows data sharing through email.
- VIN and Calibration ID Reading: Reads Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and ECU calibration ID.
- Extensive DTC Database: Includes a built-in database of over 14,000 alarm codes.
Learn more at OBD II Auto Doctor website…
Movi and Movi Pro
Movi/ Movi Pro excels at reading information from a vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) with minimal setup complexity on Mac computers. For users prioritizing simplicity without sacrificing reliability in retrieving car faults and precise live PID parameter reports, this is an excellent OBD app. We find it more intuitive and less overwhelming than OBD II Auto Doctor for many users.
The free version is sufficient for most general car owners, but clearing DTC fault codes requires the paid version.
The software can extract all historical vehicle failures (DTCs) and clear the ‘check engine light’ as it addresses problematic trouble codes.
Benefits of Movi and Movi Pro:
- Real-time Data Viewing: Provides real-time data to aid in diagnosing engine issues.
- DTC Management: Reads and clears Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- Freeze Frame Data Handling: Views and clears freeze frame data.
- Fuel Data Monitoring: Monitors fuel consumption and fuel economy.
- Virtual Horsepower and Torque: Tracks virtual horsepower and torque.
- Multi-Indicator Graphs: Graphs up to 4 engine indicators simultaneously.
EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile OBD software is known for its simplicity in setup and connection between car and computer via an ELM327 interface on Mac computers. It’s readily available in the App Store. We consider it comparable to Movi in terms of user-friendliness. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference in GUI interface.
Once connected, users can diagnose issues, view real-time results, access vehicle information, and monitor car sensor readings.
Benefits of EOBD Facile:
- Check Engine Light Control: Clears the check engine light.
- Engine Code Diagnostics: Identifies engine codes and provides their meanings.
- Manufacturer Error Codes: Monitors manufacturer-specific error codes.
- GPS Data Logging: Maintains a backlog of GPS data records.
Learn more at EOBD Facile website…
When selecting car diagnostic software, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. Some users may prioritize advanced features like real-time visual monitoring of various engine data parameters, while others may only require basic engine health and safety checks.
These are our top recommendations for the best OBD software, based on years of experience with various car diagnostic tools.
7 Best OBD2 Software in 2024 and Beyond: Reviewed and Tested
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