In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) and innovative Obd2 Gauge Apps. These powerful mobile applications leverage the data from your car’s computer to display real-time performance metrics, essentially turning your smartphone or tablet into a sophisticated digital gauge cluster. Forget cryptic warning lights; with the right OBD2 gauge app, you can gain deep insights into your engine’s operation, track vital signs, and even diagnose potential issues before they escalate.
The market is flooded with options, making the search for the best OBD2 gauge app for your Android or iOS device overwhelming. Sorting through countless apps to find one that truly delivers accurate data and a user-friendly gauge interface can be time-consuming and frustrating. You want an app that provides genuine value, not just another piece of software cluttering your phone.
This article cuts through the noise and reviews 17 of the top OBD2 gauge apps available. Each of these apps offers a unique approach to displaying vehicle data, ensuring you can find the perfect digital gauge solution to monitor your car’s performance and keep you informed on the road.
Let’s dive into the best OBD2 gauge apps that can transform how you interact with your vehicle.
Best OBD2 Gauge Apps for Android and iOS
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro is a highly acclaimed OBD2 Bluetooth app, often cited as the best OBD2 gauge app for Android, with over 1,000,000 downloads. For around $5 on the Play Store, you unlock a robust tool that transforms your phone into a customizable digital gauge dashboard.
Torque Pro excels as an OBD2 gauge app by allowing you to visualize your car’s real-time data on a beautifully designed and fully customizable dashboard. You can select from a vast array of gauges to display parameters like speed, RPM, temperature, pressure, and more, tailoring the display to your specific monitoring needs. The app also supports data logging to servers or email, enabling later analysis of your vehicle’s performance data.
Pros
- Customizable Gauge Dashboards: Offers multiple themes to personalize the look and feel of your digital gauges.
- Data Sharing: Supports screenshot sharing to social media and email, perfect for sharing performance or diagnostic information.
- Integrated Compass: Includes a GPS-based compass directly on your gauge display.
- Data Logging and Export: Graph data, car dock support, and CO2 emission readouts with data export capabilities.
- Track Recording: Features a track recorder to create video overlays of your journey with gauge data.
- Performance Alerts: Configurable alarms and warnings for out-of-range parameters, like high coolant temperature.
- Wide Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, including 2.0.
Cons
- Paid App: Requires upfront purchase.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users report Bluetooth pairing bugs, potentially solvable with updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many car diagnostic apps, but its strength as an OBD2 gauge app lies in its real-time data monitoring and customizable displays. Compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, it tracks critical vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, presenting them as clear and informative gauges.
OBD Auto Doctor allows simultaneous monitoring of multiple control units, such as engine and transmission, providing a comprehensive view of your vehicle’s health through its gauge interface. The app’s fuel consumption monitoring gauge is particularly useful for optimizing driving efficiency and saving money on fuel.
Pros
- Real-Time Gauge Data: Displays live data on screen, enabling immediate insights into your car’s condition.
- Visual Data Representation: Supports both numerical and graphical display of sensor data in gauge format.
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles.
- GPS Support: Includes GPS features for tracking location and speed data alongside engine parameters.
- Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer service.
- Advanced Customization: Provides extensive customization options for gauge displays and app settings.
- Unit Flexibility: Supports both imperial and metric units.
- Extensive Trouble Codes: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes.
- Emission Readiness: Tracks readiness status for emission testing, displayed through intuitive gauges.
Cons
- In-App Purchases: Additional features require in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade.
- Connection Issues: Some users may experience connection problems or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro, previously recognized as a top OBD2 Android app, remains a strong contender as a feature-rich OBD2 gauge app. Its clean and user-friendly interface presents high-level car scanning and diagnostic information in an easily digestible format, perfect for real-time gauge monitoring.
Before committing to the paid version (under $5), a free version allows you to verify adapter and vehicle compatibility. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices. Its overlay feature is particularly useful, allowing gauge data to be displayed over other running applications.
Pros
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website.
- Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Reads engine and vehicle parameters and displays them as live gauges.
- Overlay Mode: Displays economy data in the background or overlaid on other apps.
- Fuel Economy Gauges: Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for performance monitoring.
- GPS Integration: GPS support for location-based data logging.
- Cloud Reporting: Uploads reporting data to cloud storage for access and analysis.
- Data Sharing: Allows data sharing via email for professional assistance.
Cons
- Android Version Requirement: Supports Android 4.0.3 and up.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Potential Bluetooth connection issues reported by some users.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App excels as a free car diagnostic tool and a highly capable OBD2 gauge app. It allows you to monitor virtually every parameter read by your car’s ECU, displaying them on customizable digital gauges.
This app empowers users to understand potential vehicle issues proactively. Knowing fault codes and their meanings, combined with real-time gauge data, enables users to address minor problems independently and determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary. Its cross-platform availability (Android, iOS, Windows PC/mobile) and high user rating (4.7) solidify its position as a top OBD2 gauge app.
Pros
- Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Adapter Versatility: Works with most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
- Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Offers a customizable dashboard to display preferred parameters as gauges.
- Fuel Consumption Gauges: Provides fuel consumption statistics for efficiency tracking.
- Settings Backup: Settings backup and restore functionality.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons
- Android Version Limitation: Only supports Android 4.3 and above.
- In-App Purchases: Optimal performance may require in-app purchases.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a user-friendly OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, functioning effectively as an OBD2 gauge app. It supports ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, allowing you to monitor essential vehicle parameters presented as clear digital gauges.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display gauges for vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake, and more. With over 1 million installs on Google Play Store, EOBD Facile has proven its reliability and user appeal as an OBD2 gauge app solution.
Pros
- Real-Time Gauge Display: Live display of vehicle sensor data on digital gauges.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Over 11,000 fault codes and definitions.
- Fault Code Clearing: Ability to delete fault codes and address check engine light issues.
- Trip Recording: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Route Planning: Includes route planning features, helpful for long journeys.
Cons
- Experience Recommended: May require some prior OBD2 app experience to maximize its features.
- No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is a premium OBD2 app for Android, also functioning as a sophisticated OBD2 gauge app. While pricier than many other options, it offers advanced car tracking and gauge features that justify the cost for serious car enthusiasts.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with both OBD2 compliant vehicles and certain Non-OBD2 vehicles like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. It also provides seamless access across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS, expanding its utility as a versatile OBD2 gauge solution.
Pros
- Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Highly customizable dashboard for displaying preferred parameters as gauges.
- Adapter Compatibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters.
- Advanced Monitoring: Tracks overheating and suspicious fuel trims.
- MIL Code Explanation: Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes.
- Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings.
- MPG Calculation: Calculates MPG for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- Pro Version Features: Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced visualization.
Cons
- Payment Issues: Some users report difficulties with in-app payments in certain locations.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven stands out from other OBD2 apps with its “One Click App” feature, enhancing its functionality beyond a standard OBD2 gauge app. While it provides a clear view of ECU parameters as gauges, it also allows users to control car options with a single tap, offering unique customization and control.
OBDeleven requires a network connection for its “One Click App” feature. A Premium upgrade unlocks more advanced car tracking tools, further expanding its capabilities beyond basic gauge monitoring. Used by enthusiasts and mechanics, OBDeleven is a powerful tool for vehicle diagnostics and customization, with robust gauge functionality.
Pros
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages.
- Active Community: Features an active social media community for user support and discussions.
- Battery Analyzer: Offers a car battery analyzer, a feature not found in all OBD2 apps.
- DIY Manuals: Includes manuals for DIY car fixes.
- History Retrieval: Retrieves history for connected cars.
- 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 until upgraded to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash Drive Smart is a versatile car tracking app and OBD2 gauge app, compatible with OBDeleven software and many smart car analysis tools. It delivers real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, providing broad vehicle support for gauge monitoring.
Dash aims to improve driving experience and vehicle maintenance by providing insights through its OBD2 gauge functions and smart features. It can even operate without continuous device connection, enhancing convenience for gauge monitoring and data logging.
Pros
- Customizable Gauge Dashboard: Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that works in background mode.
- Driver Performance Scoring: Provides a Driver score and leaderboard to compare driving performance.
- Multi-Vehicle Support: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic VIN decoding.
- GPS Tracking: GPS tracking tool to locate parked vehicles.
- Gas Price Comparison: Nearby gas price comparison feature for fuel cost savings.
Cons
- Battery Drain: Some users report app battery drain on mobile devices.
- Compass Glitches: Compass feature may be occasionally glitchy.
- Network Issues: Network connection issues reported by some users.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is an iOS-exclusive car diagnostic app, similar to Torque Pro, and serves as a dedicated OBD2 gauge app for Apple devices. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, although recent user feedback indicates potential issues with WiFi connectivity.
Despite some connectivity concerns, Engine Link remains a top-tier OBD2 gauge app for iOS. Available for a small fee on iTunes, it offers comprehensive car monitoring and control through its customizable gauge displays.
Pros
- Customizable Gauge Dashboard: One-stop customizable dashboard to display only desired parameters as gauges.
- Emission and Fuel Monitoring: Controls emission rates and fuel consumption, displayed as gauges.
- Fault Code Management: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-Up Display: Heads-up dashboard display option for gauge projection.
- No In-App Purchases: No in-app purchases or subscription fees after initial purchase.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports over 20 languages.
- Torque Custom PID Support: Latest update supports Torque Custom PID File for advanced customization.
Cons
- Connectivity Issues: Some users report connection without ECU data reading.
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another valuable car monitoring tool and OBD2 gauge app for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While less widely known than some competitors, it maintains a solid user rating and offers reliable real-time vehicle performance monitoring through its gauge interface.
With ScanMaster, users gain clear insights into their car’s performance and accurate fault code readings, reducing the risk of overpaying for unnecessary mechanic services. The free Lite version provides access to essential parameters, while the Pro version unlocks full features, including extensive fault code descriptions and comprehensive gauge displays.
Pros
- Free Version Features: Offers a range of tracking parameters in the free Lite version.
- Language Support: Supports German and English languages.
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate.
- Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters.
- Data Recording: Data recording capabilities for performance analysis.
- Graphical Data Representation: Clear graphical representation of data on gauges for easier analysis.
Cons
- Customer Support: Ineffective customer support team reported by some users.
- Device Compatibility: Some device incompatibility issues reported.
- Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand is a premium OBD2 scanner app for iOS, positioned as the ultimate tool to transform your mobile device into an advanced engine data display and OBD2 gauge app. It has received industry recognition, winning the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014.
While one of the pricier iOS OBD2 apps, DashCommand delivers top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy gauges, engine gauges, and emission testing features. User reviews consistently highlight its value and robust OBD2 gauge functionality.
Pros
- Ease of Use: User-friendly and intuitive interface.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track specific data.
- Inclinometer: Includes an inclinometer to display roll angle and vehicle pitch for off-road driving.
- Data Logging and Playback: Supports data logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Trip Computer: Sophisticated trip computer maintaining stats for up to five trips.
- Graphical Data Display: Graphical representation of collected data on gauges for visual clarity.
Cons
- iPhone X Incompatibility: Not compatible with iPhone X.
- Haltech Compatibility Issues: Compatibility issues with Haltech elite 2599 reported.
- In-App Purchases: Contains in-app purchases for certain car models or advanced features.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a highly-rated OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android, also functioning effectively as a free OBD2 gauge app. With a strong user rating and millions of downloads, BlueDriver is recognized for its comprehensive features and free access to core OBD2 gauge functionalities.
BlueDriver allows users to monitor critical ECU parameters, scan and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share data via email, all within its free OBD2 gauge app framework. Its inclusion of features often found in paid apps makes it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- Wireless Connection: Wireless Bluetooth connection to your vehicle.
- Smog Readiness Check: Supports smog readiness checks.
- Cost Savings: Reduces potential travel and repair costs through proactive diagnostics.
- Free Updates: Free and regular app updates.
- On-Board Monitoring Tests: Displays on-board monitoring test results.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more.
- Repair Reports: Allows generation and sharing of repair reports.
Cons
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above.
- iPhone XR Issues: Minor issues with iPhone XR reported, potentially resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR is a performance-focused car diagnostic device and OBD2 gauge app combination. It monitors vehicle health, tracks mileage, and is compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters, offering a comprehensive vehicle management solution with gauge monitoring capabilities.
GoFAR’s IRS compliance and focus on fuel savings make it a financially advantageous option, potentially reducing travel costs and offering tax benefits. Its high user rating reflects its reliability and global appeal as a car tracking and OBD2 gauge solution.
Pros
- Easy Installation and Use: Simple to install and operate.
- Warranty Included: Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase.
- Plain English Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English for easy understanding.
- Mechanic Platform: Platform for hiring nearby mechanics if needed.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Over 3000 fault codes and descriptions.
- Driver Leaderboard: Global driver leaderboard based on cost savings.
- Maintenance Alerts: Sends alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration.
- No Subscription Fees: No ongoing subscription or usage fees.
Cons
- Upfront Purchase Required: Requires an initial purchase of the GoFAR device.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD is designed for simplicity and user-friendliness as a car diagnostic app and OBD2 gauge app. It translates fault codes into easily understandable terms, making it accessible even for users new to OBD2 technology and gauge monitoring.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance and gauge accuracy. Available on Android via Google Play Store, it maintains a strong user rating, highlighting its ease of use and reliable OBD2 gauge features.
Pros
- Quick Setup: Installs and starts working within minutes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Suitable for users with no prior OBD2 app experience.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders.
- Part Wear Alerts: Alerts for worn-out car parts needing replacement.
- Easy Onboarding: Simple and straightforward user onboarding process.
- In-App Parts Purchase: Option to buy car parts directly through the app.
- Customer Support: Helpful customer support team.
Cons
- Bug Reports: Bugs reported in older app versions.
- Adapter Dependency: Works optimally with FIXD adapters.
- In-App Purchases: Offers in-app purchases for additional features.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app tailored for BMW owners, also functioning as a high-performance OBD2 gauge app for BMW vehicles. It requires adapters provided by Carly for full functionality and optimized gauge readings.
Whether you’re a novice or experienced BMW driver, Carly provides real-time viewing of vital car parameters and comprehensive diagnostics through its OBD2 gauge features. The Android app includes standard OBD features, but compatibility testing with the Lite version is recommended before purchase.
Pros
- BMW Health Checks: Thorough health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Used Car Check: Used car check feature for pre-purchase inspection.
- One-Click Parking Brake Control: One-click control for electric parking brake.
- Premium Adapters and Support: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and lifetime warranty.
- DIY Battery Registration: DIY battery registration support.
- Customer Service: Excellent customer service team.
Cons
- Adapter Cost: Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited Fault Codes: Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 solution and gauge app, supported by a range of car brands including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. It combines ease of use with customizable features for gauge display and vehicle settings.
A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option, allowing users to access and modify various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealership technicians. This customization, combined with its gauge monitoring capabilities, makes Carista a powerful tool for car enthusiasts.
Pros
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth connection.
- Compact Design: Compact OBD2 adapter.
- Customizable Settings: Highly customizable vehicle settings and gauge displays.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Seamless phone integration with OBD2 scanner.
- Free Trial: 1-month free trial period.
- Cross-Platform Support: iOS and Android support.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic information and gauge readings.
Cons
- In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases for full feature access after the trial.
17) OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular OBD2 app and gauge app known for its ease of use and comprehensive diagnostic reporting. Paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, it provides a complete vehicle diagnostic and real-time gauge monitoring solution.
OBD Fusion is designed for both novice and professional users, offering customizable dashboards to display desired engine functions as gauges. This customizability allows users to focus on the most relevant data for their monitoring needs.
Pros
- Customizable Dashboards: Highly customizable gauge dashboards.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features alongside gauge data.
- Emission Monitoring: Emission monitoring gauges.
- Extensive Data Logging: Comprehensive data logging capabilities for performance analysis.
Cons
- Expansion Packs: Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- No Data Sharing: Lacks direct diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive list of the best OBD2 gauge apps for iOS and Android, you are well-equipped to choose the perfect app to monitor your car’s performance in real-time.
Before making a purchase, always verify app compatibility with your specific vehicle. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions to test compatibility and gauge functionality before committing to a paid version. Experiment with free versions to find the OBD2 gauge app that best suits your needs and driving style.
Top Picks:
Best Android OBD2 Gauge App: Torque Pro – A paid app offering excellent features and broad vehicle compatibility, renowned for its customizable gauges.
Best iOS OBD2 Gauge App: OBD Fusion – A paid app that is user-friendly, tracks vital parameters effectively, and provides a clear and customizable gauge interface for iOS users.
