In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to Mobile Obd2 apps. These innovative applications leverage the power of your smartphone to tap into your car’s onboard diagnostics system (OBD2), providing real-time insights into engine performance, potential issues, and overall vehicle condition. Forget expensive trips to the mechanic for basic check-ups; with the right mobile OBD2 app, you can become your own car diagnostician, saving time, money, and potential headaches down the road.
Mobile OBD2 apps connect to your car’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard, using a small Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapter. Once connected, these apps can display a wealth of information, from engine speed and temperature to fuel consumption and fault codes. This data empowers you to monitor your car’s vital signs, understand what’s happening under the hood, and make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.
With a vast array of mobile OBD2 apps available for both Android and iOS, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top mobile OBD2 apps, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you find the perfect match for your needs and vehicle. We’ve sifted through the app market to bring you only the best, ensuring you avoid wasting time and money on subpar options.
This article will guide you through 17 of the leading mobile OBD2 apps, each offering unique capabilities to enhance your car ownership experience. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time car owner, you’ll find valuable tools here to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.
Let’s dive into the world of mobile OBD2 and explore the best apps to keep you informed and in control!
Best Mobile OBD2 Apps for Android and iOS
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro stands out as a highly acclaimed mobile OBD2 app for Android, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and rave reviews from users. For a one-time payment of around $5 on the Play Store, you unlock a powerful diagnostic tool that many consider the best in its class.
Alt text: Torque Pro mobile OBD2 app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle data, a popular choice for Android users.
Torque Pro transforms your smartphone into a customizable dashboard, displaying real-time data from your car in an easy-to-understand format. You can personalize the layout to show the parameters most important to you. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro allows you to export data to its servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers multiple themes to personalize the look and feel of your data display.
- Data Sharing: Enables screenshot sharing to social media and email for easy communication and record-keeping.
- Integrated GPS Compass: Includes a built-in GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging.
- Advanced Data Support: Supports graph data, car dock integration, and CO2 emission readouts for comprehensive analysis.
- Journey Recording: Features a track recorder to capture video footage of your drives, useful for performance analysis or incident documentation.
- Performance Alerts: Provides alarms and warnings for suboptimal car performance, such as high coolant temperature.
- Wide Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, including 2.0, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of devices.
Cons:
- Paid App: Requires upfront purchase from the Google Play Store.
- Bluetooth Bug: Some users report Bluetooth pairing issues, although these are often resolved with app updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many other mobile OBD2 apps, offering comprehensive car diagnostics. Compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, it monitors crucial vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time.
Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor mobile OBD2 app interface showing real-time sensor data and vehicle diagnostics, known for fuel consumption monitoring.
This app allows you to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission, providing a holistic view of your vehicle’s health. Data can be exported in CSV format via email for further analysis or sharing. A standout feature of OBD Auto Doctor is its optimized fuel consumption monitoring, potentially saving you money on fuel costs.
Pros:
- Real-Time Data: Displays live sensor data to facilitate informed decisions about your car’s maintenance.
- Data Display Options: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data for different user preferences.
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring wide usability.
- GPS Support: Includes GPS functionality for tracking and data logging.
- Responsive Customer Service: Offers 24/7 customer support for user assistance.
- Extensive Customization: Provides advanced customization options to tailor the app to your needs.
- Units Flexibility: Supports both imperial and metric units for user convenience.
- Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Emission Readiness Tracking: Tracks readiness status to indicate when your car is ready for emissions testing.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to unlock all features.
- Connection Issues: Some users may experience connection problems or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top mobile OBD2 app, earning accolades in car review circles for years. Its user-friendly interface and powerful diagnostic capabilities make it a leading choice for car owners.
Alt text: InCarDoc Pro mobile OBD2 app dashboard, praised for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive car scanning features.
Before committing to the paid version (under $5), you can download a free version to verify adapter and car compatibility. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website.
- Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Reads engine and vehicle parameters in real time.
- Overlay Mode: Offers an overlay feature to display economy data in the background or over other running apps.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Includes widgets for quick access to fuel economy and acceleration data.
- GPS Integration: Supports GPS for tracking and data logging.
- Cloud Data Upload: Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage for secure backup and access.
- Data Sharing for Professional Help: Enables data sharing via email to facilitate professional assistance with car repairs.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users may encounter errors during Bluetooth connection.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a free mobile OBD2 app that empowers you to understand your car’s electronic control unit (ECU) and monitor a wide range of parameters.
Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 mobile OBD2 app displaying vehicle diagnostics, a highly-rated free option with customizable dashboards.
By providing insights into potential problems before they escalate, this app can help you proactively maintain your vehicle. If you’re familiar with fault codes, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 allows you to diagnose and potentially resolve minor issues yourself, saving on mechanic costs.
With over 2 million installs across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is a popular and highly-rated choice, boasting a 4.7 rating, the highest among the apps listed here.
Pros:
- Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Adapter Versatility: Works with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
- Customizable Dashboard: Allows users to personalize the dashboard to track preferred parameters.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides fuel consumption statistics for economy monitoring.
- Settings Backup and Restore: Offers settings backup and restore functionality for convenience.
- Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.3 and above.
- In-App Purchases: Offers in-app purchases for optimal performance and access to advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a versatile mobile OBD2 car diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS. It supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, transforming your mobile device into a comprehensive vehicle monitoring tool.
Alt text: EOBD Facile mobile OBD2 app dashboard displaying essential vehicle parameters, known for its trip recording and fault code database.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display a wide range of gauges, 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 is a trusted choice for mobile car diagnostics.
Pros:
- Real-Time Sensor Display: Provides a live view of vehicle sensors for immediate insights.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Fault Code Clearing: Allows users to delete fault codes and address engine light issues.
- Trip Recording: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Route Planning: Offers route planning features, beneficial for long journeys.
Cons:
- Requires OBD2 Experience: May be more suitable for users with some prior experience with OBD2 apps.
- No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is a premium mobile OBD2 app for Android, offering advanced car tracking features. While it’s one of the more expensive options on the Google Play Store, its robust capabilities justify the investment for serious car enthusiasts.
Alt text: HobDrive mobile OBD2 app interface, a premium option for Android users with support for both OBD2 and non-OBD2 vehicles.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with both OBD2 and some non-OBD2 vehicles, expanding its usability beyond standard OBD2 compliant cars. It also offers seamless access across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Features a customizable dashboard to display key parameters from your car’s ECU.
- Adapter Compatibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters.
- Advanced Monitoring: Tracks overheating and suspicious fuel trims for proactive maintenance.
- MIL Code Explanation: Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes.
- Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings.
- MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- Pro Version Features: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization.
Cons:
- Payment Issues: Some users may experience difficulties with in-app payments in certain locations.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven takes mobile OBD2 app development to the next level with its “One Click App” feature. Beyond standard parameter monitoring, OBDeleven allows you to control various car options with a single tap, offering a unique level of vehicle customization.
Alt text: OBDeleven mobile OBD2 app interface, known for its “One Click App” feature and advanced customization options, popular among car enthusiasts.
To fully utilize the “One Click App” functionality, a stable network connection is recommended. A Premium upgrade unlocks even more advanced car tracking and customization tools. OBDeleven is popular among car enthusiasts and mechanics for its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface.
Pros:
- Diagnostic Trouble Code Management: Supports reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU.
- Multilingual Support: Offers support for multiple languages.
- Active Community: Maintains an active social media community for user support and interaction.
- Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not found in all OBD2 apps.
- DIY Car Fix Manuals: Provides manuals with DIY car fix guides.
- Connected Car History: Retrieves history for connected cars for data tracking over time.
- Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit reset functionality.
Cons:
- Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for “One Click Apps.”
- Advertisements: Contains ads in the free version; upgrading to Premium removes ads.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a mobile OBD2 app that integrates with OBDeleven software and other smart car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models.
Alt text: Dash – Drive Smart mobile OBD2 app dashboard, focused on improving driving experience and performance with driver scoring and fuel efficiency features.
Dash aims to enhance your driving experience and vehicle performance by providing insights into your driving habits and car health. It can even be used without constantly carrying a device, making it a convenient option for everyday use.
Pros:
- Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Features a customizable parameter dashboard that operates in background mode.
- Driver Scoring and Leaderboard: Provides a driver score and leaderboard to compare your driving performance with others.
- Multi-Vehicle Support: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic vehicle identification number (VIN) decoding.
- GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help you find your parked car.
- Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Offers nearby gas price comparison features to save money on fuel.
Cons:
- Battery Drain Complaints: Some users report that the app drains mobile device battery.
- Glitchy Compass: The compass feature may be unreliable but is often addressed in updates.
- Network Connection Issues: Some users experience network connection problems.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is a mobile OBD2 app specifically designed for iOS devices, similar in functionality to Torque Pro on Android. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, although recent user feedback indicates potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity.
Alt text: Engine Link mobile OBD2 app interface, an iOS-exclusive option offering customizable dashboards and emissions monitoring for Apple users.
Despite some connectivity concerns, Engine Link remains a popular and capable car tracking application on iOS. Available for a one-time purchase on iTunes, it provides comprehensive car monitoring and control.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers a customizable dashboard to focus on essential parameters.
- Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Tracks emission rates and fuel consumption for eco-conscious driving.
- Extensive Fault Code Management: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Includes a heads-up display option for safer driving by projecting data onto the windshield.
- No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: Offers all features with the initial purchase, no additional costs.
- Multilingual Support: Supports over 20 languages.
- Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update includes support for Torque Custom PID files for advanced customization.
Cons:
- ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users report app connection without successful ECU data retrieval.
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another effective mobile OBD2 tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters on Android. While not as widely known as some other apps, it maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs.
Alt text: ScanMaster mobile OBD2 app interface, a reliable Android option with a free version offering essential parameters and data recording capabilities.
ScanMaster provides a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and accurately reads fault codes, helping you avoid overpaying for mechanic services. The app offers both a free Lite version and a paid Pro version.
Pros:
- Free Version Features: The Lite version provides access to essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status.
- Multilingual Support: Supports German and English languages.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Easy to navigate and use.
- Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters.
- Data Recording: Offers data recording functionality for analysis.
- Graphical Data Representation: Presents data graphically for easier interpretation.
Cons:
- Ineffective Customer Support: Customer support may be lacking.
- Device Compatibility Issues: Some devices may not be supported.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand for iOS positions itself as a premium mobile OBD2 app, transforming your iPhone into an advanced engine data display. It has earned industry recognition, winning the SEMA Show’s best mobile electronic product award in 2014.
Alt text: DashCommand mobile OBD2 app interface, a premium iOS option known for performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, and emission testing capabilities.
While priced higher than some competitors on iTunes, DashCommand delivers on its promise with top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy monitoring, engine gauges, and emission testing for up to five trips. User reviews consistently praise its value and features.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: User-friendly and intuitive interface.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows customization of performance gauges to track specific data points.
- Inclinometer: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch for off-roading.
- Data Logging and Playback: Supports data logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a trip computer that tracks stats for up to five trips.
- Graphical Data Display: Presents collected data in graphical format for easy understanding.
Cons:
- iPhone X Incompatibility: Not fully compatible with iPhone X models.
- Haltech Compatibility Issues: Compatibility issues reported with Haltech Elite 2500 ECUs.
- In-App Purchases: Contains in-app purchases for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a versatile mobile OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android. It stands out as a highly-rated free car diagnostic tool, boasting a 4.6 rating on iTunes with millions of downloads.
Alt text: BlueDriver mobile OBD2 app interface, a highly-rated free option for both iOS and Android, offering wireless connection and advanced diagnostics.
BlueDriver provides wireless connectivity to your car, allowing you to monitor critical ECU parameters, scan and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share data via email. It includes features often found in paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless Connection: Connects wirelessly to your car for convenience.
- Smog Readiness Check: Supports smog readiness checks for emissions compliance.
- Cost Savings: Reduces travel costs associated with mechanic visits.
- Free Regular Updates: Provides free and regular updates to enhance functionality and compatibility.
- On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems.
- Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generating and sharing repair reports for efficient communication.
Cons:
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above.
- iPhone XR Issues: Some issues reported with iPhone XR, potentially resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR offers a comprehensive mobile OBD2 solution that combines a dedicated car tracking device with a mobile app. It monitors car health, tracks mileage, and is compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.
Alt text: GoFAR mobile OBD2 device and app, a comprehensive solution focusing on car health monitoring, mileage tracking, and fuel savings.
A key selling point of GoFAR is its IRS compliance, potentially offering tax savings for business use. It also emphasizes fuel efficiency, aiming to reduce fuel costs by 10-30%. The GoFAR app maintains a high 4.7 rating on both Android and iOS platforms.
Pros:
- Ease of Installation and Use: Simple to install and user-friendly.
- Warranty Included: Offers a one-year warranty on the initial device purchase.
- Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English for easy understanding.
- Mechanic Platform Integration: Includes a platform for finding and hiring nearby mechanics.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Contains 3000+ fault codes and descriptions.
- Driver Leaderboard: Features a global leaderboard to compete with other drivers based on cost savings.
- Maintenance and Insurance Alerts: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration.
- No Subscription Fees: No ongoing subscription or fees required after device purchase.
Cons:
- Initial Device Purchase: Requires upfront purchase of the GoFAR device.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD provides a simplified mobile OBD2 experience without sacrificing functionality. It translates fault codes into easy-to-understand terms, making car diagnostics accessible to users of all technical levels.
Alt text: FIXD mobile OBD2 app interface, emphasizing simplicity and ease of use with user-friendly fault code translations and maintenance reminders.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimized app performance. The app is available on Android and boasts a solid 4.5 rating from users.
Pros:
- Quick and Easy Setup: Installs in minutes and is immediately usable.
- Beginner-Friendly: Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders to keep your car in top condition.
- Worn Part Alerts: Alerts you to worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement.
- Easy Onboarding: Simple and guided onboarding process.
- In-App Parts Purchase: Enables buying car parts directly through the app.
- Helpful Customer Support: Offers responsive customer support.
Cons:
- Older Version Bugs: Some bugs reported in older app versions.
- FIXD Adapter Requirement: Primarily designed to work with FIXD adapters.
- In-App Purchases: Offers in-app purchases for additional features.
15. Carly for BMW
Carly for BMW is a specialized mobile OBD2 app designed specifically for BMW vehicles. It’s compatible with adapters provided by Carly and offers in-depth diagnostics and customization options for BMW owners.
Alt text: Carly for BMW mobile OBD2 app interface, a specialized option for BMW owners with in-depth diagnostics and customization features.
Whether you’re a new or experienced BMW driver, Carly provides real-time access to vital car gauges and parameters. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, allowing you to test compatibility with the Lite version before purchasing.
Pros:
- Comprehensive BMW Health Check: Performs thorough health checks of your BMW’s electronic components.
- Used Car Check Feature: Offers a used car check feature to assess the condition of a pre-owned BMW.
- One-Click Parking Brake Control: Provides one-click control for the electric parking brake.
- Premium Adapter and Support: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY Battery Registration: Supports DIY battery registration for BMWs.
- Excellent Customer Service: Known for its helpful customer service team.
Cons:
- Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are pricier compared to generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited Fault Codes for Specific Models: May have limited fault code coverage for certain BMW models like the 2 Series F45/F46.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is another versatile mobile OBD2 option, utilizing a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug. It offers strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
Alt text: Carista OBD2 app interface, offering customizable ECU options and broad vehicle brand support, including Toyota, BMW, and VW.
A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option, allowing you to access and modify various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealership technicians.
Pros:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connection.
- Compact Adapter: Features a compact OBD2 adapter.
- Customizable Settings: Offers customizable ECU settings for vehicle personalization.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Seamless integration between smartphone and OBD2 scanner.
- Free Trial: Offers a 1-month free trial period.
- Cross-Platform Support: Supports both iOS and Android devices.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic information.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases for full functionality.
17. OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular mobile OBD2 app known for its ease of use and comprehensive diagnostic reports. When paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, it provides detailed insights into your car’s health.
Alt text: OBD Fusion mobile OBD2 app dashboard, praised for its ease of use, customizable dashboards, and GPS navigation features for both novice and professional users.
OBD Fusion is designed to be user-friendly for both beginners and experienced users. Its customizable dashboards allow you to display the specific information you need, providing a focused view of critical engine functions.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features for added convenience.
- Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive Data Logging: Supports extensive data logging for in-depth analysis.
Cons:
- Expansion Packs Required for Features: Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- No Diagnostic Data Sharing: Lacks diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
With this extensive list of the best mobile OBD2 apps for iOS and Android, you’re well-equipped to choose the perfect tool for your car. Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to verify app compatibility with your specific vehicle. Many developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others require purchasing the paid version upfront. Take advantage of free trials or lite versions to ensure the app meets your needs and works seamlessly with your car.
To help you narrow down your choices, here are our top recommendations:
Best Android Mobile OBD2 App:
Torque Pro: A paid service that offers excellent features and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for Android users.
Best iOS Mobile OBD2 App:
OBD Fusion: A paid service that is user-friendly, tracks vital parameters effectively, and provides a strong mobile OBD2 experience on iOS.
By leveraging the power of mobile OBD2 technology, you can gain valuable insights into your vehicle’s health, proactively address potential issues, and enjoy a more informed and confident car ownership experience.
