In today’s automotive landscape, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. With the rise of mobile app technology, numerous companies have developed applications designed to tap into your car’s computer, providing real-time diagnostic information directly to your smartphone. For car owners and enthusiasts alike, these apps offer an invaluable way to monitor vehicle performance, preempt potential issues, and ultimately save time and money on maintenance.
OBD2 apps function by connecting to your car’s OBD2 port, typically located under the dashboard. Once connected via a compatible OBD2 scanner (usually Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled), these apps can access a wealth of data from your vehicle’s engine and other systems. This data often includes parameters like speed, engine RPM, sensor readings, and temperature, presented in an easy-to-understand format on your mobile device.
However, the sheer volume of OBD2 apps available can make choosing the right one a daunting task. The app market is saturated with options, and not all of them deliver on their promises. Many users have unfortunately experienced the frustration of purchasing or downloading OBD2 apps that are unreliable or lack essential features.
To prevent you from wasting time and money on subpar tools, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the Best App Based Obd2 Scanners. This curated list features top-performing apps for both Android and iOS, ensuring you can find the perfect solution to monitor your vehicle’s health effectively. We’ve rigorously evaluated these apps based on features, user reviews, compatibility, and overall performance to bring you only the cream of the crop.
Let’s dive into the top contenders in the world of app based OBD2 scanners!
Top App Based OBD2 Scanners for Comprehensive Vehicle Diagnostics
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car): The Android Powerhouse
Torque Pro consistently ranks as a top choice among Android users seeking a robust OBD2 app. With over a million downloads and overwhelmingly positive reviews, this paid app (around $5 on the Google Play Store) is considered by many to be the best OBD2 app for Android, offering professional-grade diagnostics in a user-friendly package.
Alt text: Torque Pro app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle diagnostic data with customizable gauges.
Torque Pro provides a highly customizable dashboard, allowing you to visualize real-time data from your car in a way that suits your needs. You can monitor a wide range of parameters, customize the dashboard’s appearance with multiple themes, and even export data for later analysis or sharing.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard with multiple themes.
- Data export capabilities for analysis and sharing via email or to Torque Pro servers.
- Integrated GPS compass.
- Graph data display and car dock support.
- CO2 emission readings.
- Track recorder for video logging of journeys.
- Configurable alarms and warnings for performance issues.
- Broad Android compatibility, including older versions (Android 2.0+).
Cons:
- Paid app (initial purchase required).
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues (often resolved with updates).
2. OBD Auto Doctor: Versatile and User-Friendly
OBD Auto Doctor is a versatile OBD2 app compatible with both ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters. It mirrors the functionality of many leading car diagnostic apps, providing real-time monitoring of crucial vehicle sensors and parameters.
Alt text: OBD Auto Doctor app showing live sensor data in both numerical and graphical formats.
This app excels in its ability to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission, and offers fuel consumption tracking to help you save money on fuel costs. Data can be exported in CSV format for convenient analysis.
Pros:
- Real-time data display for informed decision-making about vehicle maintenance.
- Supports both numerical and graphical data visualization.
- Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles.
- GPS support for location-based features.
- Responsive and helpful 24/7 customer service.
- Advanced customization options to tailor the app to your preferences.
- Supports both imperial and metric units.
- Extensive database of over 18,000 trouble codes.
- Readiness status monitoring for emission testing preparation.
Cons:
- In-app purchases and premium upgrades required for full feature access.
- Some users report occasional connection issues or inaccurate readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro: Advanced Diagnostics at Your Fingertips
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a leading OBD2 app, known for its advanced scanning and diagnostic capabilities presented in a clean and intuitive interface.
Alt text: InCarDoc Pro app home screen with quick access to vehicle diagnostics and performance monitoring features.
A free version is available to test compatibility before purchasing the full app for a nominal fee (under $5). InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Wide compatibility with OBD2 compliant vehicles (check their website for specific models).
- Real-time engine and vehicle parameter monitoring.
- Overlay mode to display economy data over other running apps.
- Fuel economy and acceleration widgets for performance analysis.
- GPS support for tracking and data logging.
- Cloud storage for report data backup.
- Data sharing via email for professional mechanic consultation.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.0.3 or later.
- Some users have reported Bluetooth connection errors.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App: Feature-Rich and Highly Rated
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App stands out as a free car diagnostic tool packed with features and boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating, the highest among the apps on this list. With over 2 million installs across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, it’s a popular choice for vehicle monitoring.
Alt text: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app customizable dashboard displaying various vehicle parameters and gauges.
This app allows you to delve deep into your car’s ECU data, understand potential issues, and even clear minor fault codes yourself. Its broad compatibility and user-friendly interface make it a top contender.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ELM327 OBD2 adapters.
- Customizable dashboard for personalized parameter tracking.
- Fuel consumption statistics for efficiency monitoring.
- Settings backup and restore functionality.
- Multilingual support (including English, Russian, and Polish).
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 or later.
- In-app purchases are needed to unlock optimal performance and features.
5. EOBD Facile: Comprehensive Diagnostics for Android and iOS
EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 car diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS. It supports ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, providing access to a wide range of essential vehicle parameters.
Alt text: EOBD Facile app displaying real-time engine parameters such as speed, RPM, and temperature.
With over a million installs on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile is a trusted tool for monitoring vehicle speed, engine RPM, temperature, and other critical data points, depending on your car’s ECU capabilities.
Pros:
- Real-time display of vehicle sensor data.
- Extensive fault code database with over 11,000 codes and definitions.
- Fault code clearing capability to resolve engine light issues.
- Trip record storage on SD card for later review via PC/Mac software.
- Route planning feature for long journeys.
Cons:
- May require some prior OBD2 app experience to fully utilize its features.
- USB adapter support is not available.
6. HobDrive: Premium Features for Serious Car Enthusiasts
HobDrive stands out as a premium OBD2 app for Android, offering advanced car tracking features and support for both OBD2 and some non-OBD2 vehicles. While it’s one of the pricier options on the Play Store (around $10), its comprehensive capabilities justify the cost for serious car enthusiasts.
Alt text: HobDrive app customizable dashboard showcasing a variety of vehicle performance metrics.
HobDrive is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone, and iOS, offering cross-platform accessibility.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard displaying a wide array of ECU parameters.
- Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters.
- Tracks overheating and fuel trim anomalies.
- Clear explanations of MIL codes for easy troubleshooting.
- Car odometer estimation.
- MPG calculation for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for enhanced visualization.
Cons:
- In-app payment issues reported in some regions.
- Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven: Advanced Control and Customization
OBDeleven elevates the OBD2 app experience by incorporating “One-Click Apps” that allow users to control various car functions with a single tap. This app goes beyond basic diagnostics, offering customization options typically found only at dealerships.
Alt text: OBDeleven app interface highlighting the “One-Click Apps” feature for vehicle customization and control.
While a network connection is needed for the One-Click App feature, OBDeleven is a powerful tool for car enthusiasts and mechanics seeking advanced control and customization. A Premium upgrade unlocks even more features.
Pros:
- Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from all vehicle ECUs.
- Multilingual support for global users.
- Active and engaged social media community for support and information sharing.
- Car battery analyzer functionality.
- DIY car fix manuals integrated into the app.
- History retrieval for connected vehicles.
- Control unit reset capabilities.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for One-Click Apps.
- Advertisements in the free version can be intrusive until upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart: Intelligent Driving Insights
Dash – Drive Smart is designed to provide intelligent insights into your driving habits and vehicle performance. Compatible with OBDeleven software and other smart car analysis tools, Dash provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996.
Alt text: Dash Drive Smart app interface showing driver score, vehicle parameters, and fuel efficiency information.
Dash aims to improve your driving experience and vehicle health by providing driver scores, fuel efficiency tracking, and vehicle location features.
Pros:
- Customizable parameter dashboard that operates in the background.
- Driver score and leaderboard to compare driving performance.
- Multi-vehicle support with automatic VIN decoding.
- GPS tracking for parked car location.
- Nearby gas price comparison feature for fuel savings.
Cons:
- Battery drain complaints from some users.
- Compass feature may be occasionally unreliable.
- Network connection issues reported by some users.
9. Engine Link (iOS): Torque Pro for the Apple Ecosystem
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app specifically designed for iOS devices, often compared to Torque Pro for its feature set. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, although recent user feedback suggests potential Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
Alt text: Engine Link iOS app dashboard displaying real-time vehicle data and customizable gauges.
Despite recent ratings fluctuations, Engine Link remains a powerful car tracking application for iOS users, offering comprehensive monitoring for a one-time purchase of around $6 on iTunes.
Pros:
- Customizable dashboard to tailor parameter tracking.
- Emission and fuel consumption monitoring.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-up display (HUD) option for dashboard projection.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees.
- Supports over 20 languages.
- Latest updates include Torque Custom PID file support.
Cons:
- Some users report connection issues with ECU data retrieval.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster: Accurate Fault Code Diagnostics
ScanMaster is a reliable car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters, maintaining a solid 4.0 rating with over a million installs on Android. While less widely known than some competitors, ScanMaster excels in providing accurate real-time vehicle performance data and fault code readings.
Alt text: ScanMaster app displaying vehicle fault codes and real-time engine data in a clear format.
The app offers a free Lite version with essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status, while the Pro version unlocks the full feature set, including an extensive fault code database with detailed descriptions.
Pros:
- Free version provides access to key parameters.
- Supports both German and English languages.
- User-friendly and easy to navigate.
- Compatible with most ELM327 adapters.
- Data recording capabilities.
- Clear graphical data representation for analysis.
Cons:
- Customer support responsiveness may be lacking.
- Device compatibility issues reported by some users.
- Requires Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS): Award-Winning Performance and Data Logging
DashCommand for iOS is a highly acclaimed OBD2 app, recognized with the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014. This app transforms your iPhone into an advanced engine data display, offering robust performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, and emission testing.
Alt text: DashCommand app with customizable performance gauges displaying speed, RPM, and other vehicle metrics.
Priced at $14.99 on iTunes, DashCommand is a premium option, but user reviews consistently highlight its exceptional performance and value.
Pros:
- Intuitive and easy to use interface.
- Highly customizable performance gauges for personalized data tracking.
- Inclinometer to measure vehicle roll and pitch angles for off-roading.
- Data logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Sophisticated trip computer with stats for up to five trips.
- Graphical data representation for clear visualization.
Cons:
- Compatibility issues reported with iPhone X.
- Haltech Elite 2599 compatibility issues.
- In-app purchases for certain car models may be required.
12. BlueDriver: Free Features and Professional-Grade Diagnostics
BlueDriver stands out as a free OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android. Despite being free, it offers a comprehensive suite of features, earning a 4.6-star rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.
Alt text: BlueDriver app interface on iPad showing diagnostic trouble codes and vehicle system status.
BlueDriver provides real-time parameter monitoring, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing capabilities, often exceeding the features found in paid apps. Its robust functionality makes it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless connection to your vehicle.
- Smog readiness check for emissions compliance.
- Reduces unnecessary trips to mechanics for diagnostics.
- Free and regular updates.
- On-board monitoring test results display.
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems.
- Repair report generation and sharing.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above.
- Minor issues reported with iPhone XR, generally resolved with updates.
13. GoFAR: Mileage Tracking and Tax Savings
GoFAR is more than just a diagnostic tool; it’s a comprehensive car health and mileage tracker. Compatible with most OBD2 compliant adapters, GoFAR focuses on vehicle health monitoring and fuel efficiency, with the added benefit of IRS-compliant mileage tracking for potential tax savings.
Alt text: GoFAR OBD2 device plugged into a car’s OBD2 port, paired with the GoFAR mobile app.
With a 4.7-star rating, GoFAR is recognized for its ease of use, fuel-saving potential (10-30%), and proactive vehicle health alerts.
Pros:
- Easy installation and user-friendly interface.
- One-year warranty included with purchase.
- Plain English alerts for vehicle system errors.
- Platform for connecting with nearby mechanics.
- Extensive fault code database with over 3000 codes and descriptions.
- Global driver leaderboard based on fuel savings.
- Alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration reminders.
- No subscription or ongoing fees after initial purchase.
Cons:
- Requires upfront purchase of the GoFAR device (around $99).
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor: Simplicity and Ease of Use
FIXD emphasizes simplicity and user-friendliness without sacrificing diagnostic quality. Fault codes are translated into easily understandable terms, making it accessible even for users new to OBD2 apps.
Alt text: FIXD app displaying vehicle health alerts in plain English, making diagnostics accessible to non-experts.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal performance, and the app boasts a 4.5-star rating on the Google Play Store.
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup, ready to use in minutes.
- Ideal for first-time OBD2 app users.
- Maintenance schedule reminders.
- Alerts for worn-out parts needing repair or replacement.
- Streamlined onboarding process.
- In-app car parts purchasing functionality.
- Helpful customer support team.
Cons:
- Older app versions may have had bugs.
- Primarily designed for use with FIXD adapters.
- In-app purchases are available.
15. Carly For BMW: BMW-Specific Diagnostics and Customization
Carly For BMW is tailored specifically for BMW owners, offering in-depth diagnostics and customization options for BMW vehicles. While compatible with Carly adapters, the app also supports standard OBD2 features (compatibility should be tested with the Lite version).
Alt text: Carly for BMW app interface offering BMW-specific diagnostics and vehicle health checks.
Carly provides real-time data, thorough health checks, used car inspections, and BMW-specific features like one-click electric parking brake control.
Pros:
- Comprehensive health checks for BMW electronic components.
- Used car check feature for pre-purchase inspections.
- One-click control for electric parking brake (BMW-specific).
- Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY battery registration support for BMWs.
- Excellent customer service team.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App: Customization for Toyota, BMW, and More
Carista OBD2 App is another versatile option, particularly strong in customization features for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. Paired with a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug, Carista allows users to access and modify ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships.
Alt text: Carista OBD2 app showcasing customization options for vehicle ECU settings.
Pros:
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless convenience.
- Compact and portable OBD2 adapter.
- Extensive customizable settings for supported car brands.
- Phone-to-OBD2 scanner innovation.
- 1-month free trial to test features.
- iOS and Android compatibility.
- Detailed diagnostics capabilities.
Cons:
- In-app purchases for full feature access.
17. OBD Fusion: User-Friendly and Highly Customizable
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular OBD2 app known for its ease of use and customization. Compatible with various OBD2 scanners, OBD Fusion is suitable for both novice and experienced users seeking comprehensive vehicle diagnostics.
Alt text: OBD Fusion app customizable dashboard displaying a variety of vehicle parameters and gauges in a user-friendly layout.
The app’s customizable dashboards allow users to prioritize the data they want to see, providing a personalized vehicle monitoring experience.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to display desired parameters.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.
- GPS navigation features integrated into the app.
- Emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive data logging for in-depth analysis.
Cons:
- Advanced features are locked behind expansion packs (in-app purchases).
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best App Based OBD2 Scanner for You
With this comprehensive list of the best app based OBD2 scanners, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision for your vehicle. However, before committing to a purchase or download, it’s crucial to verify the compatibility of the app and scanner with your specific car model.
Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others may require purchasing the full version upfront. Take advantage of free trials or lite versions to ensure your chosen app and scanner work seamlessly with your vehicle’s OBD2 system.
To help you narrow down your choices, here are our top recommendations:
Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A feature-rich paid app with broad vehicle compatibility and excellent performance.
Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A user-friendly paid app that tracks essential vehicle parameters effectively and is easy to navigate.
By selecting the right app based OBD2 scanner, you can gain valuable insights into your vehicle’s health, proactively address potential issues, and enjoy greater peace of mind on the road.
