In today’s tech-driven world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. These clever applications, fuelled by advancements in mobile app development, provide a direct line to your car’s engine data. Forget guesswork and potential roadside headaches – with the right OBD2 app, you can listen to what your car is telling you and proactively address issues.
OBD2 apps offer a virtual window into your vehicle’s engine, delivering real-time data on crucial parameters. From speed and rotation angles to pressure and temperature, these apps decode the complex language of your car’s computer.
However, navigating the crowded app market to find the best OBD2 app for your Android device in the UK, especially if you’re looking back to 2018-era recommendations, can be overwhelming. Many apps promise the world but fall short, leaving users frustrated and out of pocket. We understand the desire to avoid time-wasting and ineffective tools.
This article dives deep into the world of OBD2 Android apps, focusing on top contenders that were highly regarded in 2018 and remain relevant, or have evolved into even better options for today’s UK drivers. We’ve curated a list that balances performance, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring you get the best tool to monitor your car’s health right from your Android phone.
Let’s explore the best OBD2 Android apps that were making waves in 2018 in the UK and see how they stack up today!
Top OBD2 Android Apps for UK Drivers (Focusing on 2018 & Beyond)
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car): The Veteran Performer
Torque Pro consistently ranks as a top choice and was undoubtedly a leading OBD2 Android app in 2018 in the UK and globally. With over a million downloads on the Play Store, it’s clear this paid app (around £5 in the UK) has earned its reputation. User reviews consistently praise its comprehensive features and reliable performance.
Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a customizable dashboard, displaying real-time data from your car’s engine. The layout is clean, intuitive, and fully adaptable to your preferences. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro allows you to export data to its servers or via email, enabling in-depth analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Highly Customizable Dashboard: Personalize the app’s appearance with multiple themes and configure the gauges to display the parameters most important to you.
- Data Export and Sharing: Easily share screenshots on social media or email exported data for further analysis or professional consultation.
- Integrated GPS Compass: A built-in GPS compass adds extra utility, especially for off-road or navigation enthusiasts.
- Data Logging and Graphing: Visualize data trends with graphs and utilize car dock support for convenient in-car use.
- CO2 Emission Readouts: Monitor your vehicle’s environmental impact with CO2 emission data.
- Track Recording: Record video of your journeys, overlaying OBD2 data for a comprehensive driving analysis.
- Configurable Alarms and Warnings: Set custom alerts for critical parameters like coolant temperature, ensuring timely intervention for potential issues.
- Broad Android Compatibility: Remarkably, Torque Pro supports older Android versions, including 2.0, making it accessible to users with a wide range of devices.
Cons:
- Initial Purchase Required: Unlike some free options, Torque Pro requires an upfront payment. However, many users consider it a worthwhile investment for its feature set.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues (Potentially Resolved): Some older reviews mentioned Bluetooth pairing bugs. These were largely addressed through subsequent updates, but it’s always worth checking for the latest version to ensure smooth connectivity.
2. OBD Auto Doctor: The Feature-Rich All-Rounder
OBD Auto Doctor operates on similar principles to many diagnostic apps, offering robust vehicle monitoring. It’s compatible with popular ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, providing real-time tracking of vital sensors and parameters. This app was a solid contender in 2018 and continues to be a strong choice.
OBD Auto Doctor excels in monitoring multiple control units, including engine and transmission systems. Its data export functionality via CSV format makes it easy to analyze driving data externally. UK drivers will appreciate the fuel consumption monitoring feature, helping to optimize driving habits and save money on petrol.
Pros:
- Real-Time Data Display: Provides immediate insights into your car’s condition, enabling proactive maintenance and informed driving decisions.
- Numerical and Graphical Data Presentation: Offers both numerical readouts and graphical displays of sensor data for easy interpretation.
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Works with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, covering the vast majority of cars on UK roads.
- GPS Support: Integrates GPS functionality for tracking location and potentially correlating driving data with location.
- Responsive Customer Support: A 24/7 customer service team is available to assist with any queries or technical issues.
- Extensive Customization Options: Tailor the app’s settings and display to your specific needs and preferences.
- Imperial and Metric Units: Supports both imperial and metric units, catering to UK drivers’ preferences.
- Large Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
- Emission Readiness Status: Tracks emission readiness status, which is particularly useful for UK drivers preparing for MOT tests.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases and Premium Upgrade: While the base app offers good functionality, accessing advanced features often requires in-app purchases or a premium upgrade.
- Potential Connection Issues: Like many Bluetooth-based OBD2 apps, some users may occasionally experience connection glitches or inaccurate readings. Ensuring adapter compatibility and app updates can mitigate these issues.
3. InCarDoc Pro: The User-Friendly Diagnostic Tool
InCarDoc Pro was recognized as a top OBD2 Android app around 2017/2018 and remained a relevant option in the UK market. It prioritizes user-friendliness with a clean and uncluttered interface, making advanced car diagnostics accessible to a wider audience.
A free version is available, allowing UK users to test adapter and car compatibility before committing to the paid version (typically under £5). InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Broad OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Officially supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website, ensuring wide applicability in the UK.
- Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Provides live data on engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
- Overlay Mode: Allows displaying economy data in the background or overlaid on other running apps, useful for real-time fuel efficiency monitoring during navigation.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Offers dedicated widgets for quick access to fuel economy and acceleration metrics.
- GPS Integration: Includes GPS support for location-based data logging and tracking.
- Cloud Data Upload: Enables uploading reporting data to cloud storage for backup and accessibility across devices.
- Data Sharing via Email: Facilitates easy data sharing with mechanics or for remote diagnostics assistance.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, which might exclude users with very old devices, although most UK Android users will have compatible devices.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have reported occasional errors when establishing Bluetooth connections, which might require troubleshooting steps.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App: The Highly-Rated Free Option
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App stands out as a robust free car diagnostic tool and was gaining significant traction in 2018. Its compatibility across multiple platforms and high user ratings make it a compelling choice, especially for users seeking a free yet powerful OBD2 app in the UK.
This app empowers users to understand their car’s ECU data, potentially identifying issues before they escalate. For users familiar with fault codes, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App can facilitate DIY repairs and help determine when professional mechanic intervention is necessary, potentially saving UK drivers money on unnecessary garage visits. With over 2 million installs across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, its popularity speaks volumes. Notably, it often boasts top ratings among OBD2 apps.
Pros:
- Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability for UK car owners.
- Adapter Versatility: Works with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware choices.
- Customizable Dashboard: Allows users to tailor the dashboard to display their preferred parameters, focusing on relevant data.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides insights into fuel usage patterns, aiding in fuel efficiency improvements.
- Settings Backup and Restore: Offers convenient backup and restore functionality for app settings, useful when switching devices or reinstalling the app.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, catering to a diverse UK user base.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding users with older Android devices.
- In-App Purchases for Full Functionality: While the base app is free, optimal performance and access to all features may require in-app purchases.
5. EOBD Facile: The Trip Recording Specialist
EOBD Facile is a well-regarded OBD2 car diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, compatible with ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. It was a solid contender in 2018 and remains a useful tool for UK drivers. This app focuses on providing essential gauges and parameters for informed car maintenance.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile displays crucial information like vehicle speed, engine RPM, temperature, ignition timing, and air intake. With over a million installs on Google Play Store, it has a substantial user base. A key feature for UK drivers who undertake long journeys is its trip recording capability.
Pros:
- Real-Time Sensor Data: Provides immediate display of vehicle sensor readings for live monitoring.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes with definitions, aiding in accurate diagnostics.
- Fault Code Clearing: Enables users to clear fault codes and potentially resolve engine light issues independently.
- Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, ideal for business mileage tracking or personal driving logs in the UK.
- Route Planning Feature: Includes route planning functionality, beneficial for long journeys and potentially integrating with driving data.
Cons:
- Requires OBD2 App Experience: May be better suited for users with some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully leverage its features.
- No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
6. HobDrive: The Premium and Versatile Option
HobDrive is a premium OBD2 Android app, often priced higher than many alternatives. While potentially more expensive, it offers advanced car tracking features and broader vehicle compatibility, making it a worthwhile investment for serious car enthusiasts in the UK. It was a respected app in 2018 and continues to offer a comprehensive suite of features.
A significant advantage of HobDrive is its support for both OBD2 compliant vehicles and some Non-OBD2 vehicles, including specific models like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. Its cross-platform compatibility extends to CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone, and iOS, offering versatility for users with diverse tech ecosystems.
Pros:
- Highly Customizable Dashboard: Allows extensive customization of the dashboard to display preferred parameters from the car’s ECU.
- GPS and ELM327 Adapter Support: Compatible with GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, providing flexible connectivity.
- Overheating and Fuel Trim Monitoring: Tracks critical parameters like overheating and suspicious fuel trims, aiding in preventative maintenance.
- Clear MIL Code Explanations: Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light) codes, enhancing diagnostic understanding.
- Estimated Odometer Calculation: Estimates car odometer readings, potentially useful for tracking mileage and maintenance intervals.
- MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Accurately calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles even without battery assistance.
- Pro Version with Extended Gauges: The Pro version offers enhanced graphical gauges for more detailed data visualization.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Is one of the more expensive OBD2 apps available on Google Play Store.
- Payment Issues in Some Regions: Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments depending on their location, although this may not be a widespread issue in the UK.
- Android Version Requirement: Runs on Android version 3 and above, which covers the vast majority of Android devices but might exclude very old ones.
7. OBDeleven: The “One-Click App” Innovator
OBDeleven stands out for its innovative “One-Click App” feature, going beyond standard OBD2 diagnostics. While it provides comprehensive ECU data, it also allows users to control various car functions with a single tap, setting it apart from many other OBD2 apps available in 2018 and beyond.
A key consideration for UK users is that the “One-Click App” functionality relies on a stable network connection. A Premium upgrade is also required to unlock the full suite of advanced car tracking and control tools. Despite these requirements, OBDeleven is popular among car enthusiasts and mechanics for its advanced features and control capabilities.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Handling: Supports reading and clearing all diagnostic trouble codes from the car’s ECU.
- Multi-Language Support: Offers support for multiple languages, catering to a diverse user base.
- Active Social Media Community: Benefits from an active social media community, providing user support and knowledge sharing.
- Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in all OBD2 apps.
- DIY Car Fix Manuals: Provides manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs.
- Retrieved Car History: Allows retrieval of history for connected cars, useful for vehicle maintenance records.
- Control Unit Reset: Supports control unit reset functionality for advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Cons:
- Network Dependency: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for the “One-Click App” feature.
- Advertisements in Free Version: The free version contains advertisements, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart: The Driver Performance Analyzer
Dash – Drive Smart is an OBD2 app that not only provides car diagnostics but also focuses on analyzing driving performance. It works with OBDeleven software and other smart car analysis tools, offering real-time data and compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models – a significant advantage for users with older vehicles in the UK.
Dash aims to improve driving habits and long-term car health by providing insights and performance metrics. It can even function without requiring a device to be constantly connected, offering flexibility in usage.
Pros:
- Customizable Background Dashboard: Offers an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in background mode, allowing continuous monitoring.
- Driver Score and Leaderboard: Provides a driver score and leaderboard to compare driving performance with other users, potentially encouraging safer and more efficient driving.
- Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles and automatically decodes Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) for easy setup.
- GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help users find their parked car, a useful feature in busy UK cities.
- Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Features nearby gas price comparison to help users save money on fuel purchases in the UK.
Cons:
- Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported concerns about the app draining mobile device batteries, especially with continuous background operation.
- Glitchy Compass Feature: The compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, although updates may address this.
- Network Connection Issues: Some users have experienced network connection problems, potentially affecting real-time data and features.
9. Engine Link (iOS): The iOS Torque Pro Alternative
Engine Link is an OBD2 car diagnostic app specifically designed for iOS devices. It functions similarly to Torque Pro but is tailored for the Apple ecosystem. It connects with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. While it faced some user complaints regarding Wi-Fi connectivity in more recent times, it remained a strong iOS option in 2018 and is still considered a leading car tracking application on the platform.
Available for a one-time purchase on iTunes, Engine Link offers a comprehensive car monitoring solution for iOS users in the UK, providing control over vehicle diagnostics directly on their iPhones or iPads.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers a one-stop customizable dashboard, allowing users to focus on tracking only the parameters they deem essential.
- Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption, providing valuable data for environmentally conscious and budget-minded drivers.
- OBD2 Fault Code Handling: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, enabling user-level diagnostics and issue resolution.
- Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Includes a heads-up dashboard display option, projecting data onto the windshield for safer and more convenient viewing while driving.
- No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: A single purchase grants access to all features, avoiding recurring subscription fees or additional costs.
- Extensive Language Support: Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base, including UK English speakers.
- Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest updates include support for Torque Custom PID files, expanding customization and data handling capabilities.
Cons:
- Reported ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data, potentially requiring troubleshooting.
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later, which might exclude users with very old iOS devices, although most UK iPhone users will have compatible devices.
10. ScanMaster: The Accurate Fault Code Reader
ScanMaster is another reputable car monitoring tool designed for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While perhaps not as widely known as some other apps, it maintains a solid user rating and a substantial number of installs. It offered reliable performance in 2018 and continues to be a valuable tool for car diagnostics.
ScanMaster provides a clear overview of car performance in real-time and is known for its accurate fault code reading, potentially preventing UK drivers from being overcharged by mechanics due to misdiagnosis. A free “Lite” version offers basic functionality, while the Pro version unlocks advanced features.
Pros:
- Free Version Functionality: The Lite version offers a selection of essential car parameters, including VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status, providing a free trial experience.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports both German and English languages, catering to a European user base including the UK.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Designed for easy navigation and intuitive operation.
- Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters, offering hardware flexibility.
- Data Recording Capability: Allows data recording for later analysis and review.
- Graphical Data Representation: Presents data graphically for easier interpretation and trend analysis.
Cons:
- Ineffective Customer Support: Some users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness.
- Device Compatibility Issues: A few users have encountered issues with certain devices not being fully supported.
- Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, potentially excluding users with very old Android devices.
11. DashCommand (iOS): The Award-Winning Performance Gauge
DashCommand is a premium OBD2 scanner app for iOS, positioning itself as a high-end solution for advanced engine data display. It received the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, highlighting its innovative features. While it’s one of the more expensive iOS OBD2 apps, its performance and features justify the cost for serious car enthusiasts in the UK.
DashCommand offers a wide range of performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing capabilities. User reviews consistently praise its performance and feature set, making it a top-tier choice for iOS users seeking comprehensive OBD2 functionality.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: Designed for user-friendliness despite its advanced features.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track specific data points of interest.
- Inclinometer Feature: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving enthusiasts in the UK.
- Data Logging, Recording, and Playback: Supports comprehensive data logging, recording, and playback for detailed analysis.
- Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a sophisticated trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips, useful for business or personal mileage tracking.
- Graphical Data Representation: Presents collected data in graphical formats for easier understanding.
Cons:
- iPhone X Compatibility Issues: Reported to have compatibility issues with iPhone X models, although this may have been addressed in later updates.
- Haltech Elite 2599 Compatibility: Compatibility issues with Haltech Elite 2599 systems have been reported.
- In-App Purchases for Car Models: May contain in-app purchases for specific car models, potentially adding to the overall cost depending on vehicle type.
12. BlueDriver: The Feature-Rich Free Diagnostic Tool
BlueDriver is a popular OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android. It stands out as a feature-rich free car diagnostic tool, earning high user ratings and a large number of downloads. It was a highly regarded free option in 2018 and remains a strong contender in the UK market.
BlueDriver provides access to critical ECU parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data, and data sharing via email, all within a free app. It even includes features typically found in paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts in the UK.
Pros:
- Wireless Connection: Connects wirelessly to your car, eliminating cable clutter.
- Smog Readiness Check: Supports smog readiness checks, useful for UK MOT testing preparation.
- Reduced Travel Costs: Potentially reduces travel costs by enabling users to diagnose and address minor car issues themselves.
- Free and Regular Updates: Benefits from free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing functionality and feature enhancements.
- On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Improved Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission: Offers enhanced diagnostic capabilities for ABS, Airbag, and Transmission systems, going beyond basic engine diagnostics.
- Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record-keeping.
Cons:
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above, potentially excluding users with very old iOS devices.
- iPhone XR Issues (Potentially Resolved): Some initial issues with iPhone XR were reported, but these may have been resolved through updates.
13. GoFAR: The Tax-Saving Mileage Tracker
GoFAR is more than just an OBD2 app; it’s a comprehensive car health monitoring and mileage tracking system. It requires a dedicated GoFAR device and app, offering a holistic approach to vehicle management. Its IRS compliance and fuel-saving focus make it particularly attractive for UK users who drive for business or want to optimize fuel efficiency.
GoFAR focuses on fuel savings and tax compliance, potentially cutting travel costs significantly. The Android and iOS apps have high user ratings, reflecting the quality and functionality of the GoFAR system.
Pros:
- Easy Installation and Use: Designed for straightforward installation and user-friendly operation.
- One-Year Warranty: Offers a one-year warranty on the initial device purchase, providing peace of mind.
- Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English, making diagnostics accessible to non-technical users.
- Mechanic Finder Platform: Includes a platform for finding and hiring nearby mechanics, useful for users who need professional assistance in the UK.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Provides over 3000 fault codes with descriptions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Global Driver Leaderboard: Features a global leaderboard based on cost savings, adding a gamified element to fuel efficiency.
- Maintenance and Insurance Alerts: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and vehicle registration, helping users stay on top of car maintenance.
- No Subscription Fees: Requires a one-time device purchase but no ongoing subscription fees.
Cons:
- Initial Device Purchase Required: Requires purchasing the GoFAR device upfront, adding to the initial cost compared to app-only solutions.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor: The Simple and Understandable Option
FIXD emphasizes simplicity and ease of use in car diagnostics. While offering core OBD2 functionality, it focuses on translating complex fault codes into easy-to-understand language, making car diagnostics accessible to users with no prior experience. It was a user-friendly option in 2018 and continues to cater to beginners.
FIXD promotes its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance. The Android app has a strong user rating, reflecting its user-friendliness and reliable performance.
Pros:
- Quick Installation and Setup: Installs and sets up rapidly, allowing users to start using it quickly.
- Beginner-Friendly: Specifically designed for users with no prior OBD2 app experience.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders, helping users stay on top of car maintenance schedules.
- Worn Part Alerts: Alerts users to worn-out car parts that require repair or replacement, promoting preventative maintenance.
- Easy Onboarding Process: Offers a smooth and straightforward onboarding experience for new users.
- In-App Parts Purchase: Allows users to buy car parts directly through the app, streamlining the repair process.
- Helpful Customer Support: Provides access to a helpful customer support team.
Cons:
- Older Version Bugs: Some older app versions had reported bugs, suggesting users should ensure they are using the latest version.
- FIXD Adapter Requirement: Optimized for use with FIXD adapters, potentially limiting compatibility with other adapters.
- In-App Purchases: Contains in-app purchases, although the extent of these and their impact on functionality is not fully detailed.
15. Carly for BMW: The BMW Specialist
Carly for BMW is a specialized OBD2 app tailored specifically for BMW vehicles. It requires a Carly adapter and offers in-depth diagnostics and control features for BMWs. While niche, it’s a powerful tool for BMW owners in the UK who want advanced diagnostics and customization options.
Carly for BMW provides real-time data, in-depth health checks, used car checks, and even “one-click” control features for certain BMW functions. It’s a premium option for BMW owners seeking specialized diagnostics and control.
Pros:
- Thorough BMW Health Checks: Offers comprehensive health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Used Car Check Feature: Includes a used car check feature to assess the condition of a BMW before purchase.
- One-Click Parking Brake Control: Provides one-click control for the electric parking brake on compatible BMW models.
- Premium Adapter and Support: Carly adapters come with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, reflecting their higher price point.
- DIY Battery Registration: Supports DIY battery registration, a task often requiring specialist tools on modern BMWs.
- Excellent Customer Service: Praised for its excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Carly Adapter Cost: Carly adapters are more expensive than generic ELM327 adapters.
- Limited Fault Codes for Specific BMW Models: May have limited fault code coverage for certain BMW models, such as the 2 Series F45/F46.
16. Carista OBD2 App: The Customization King
Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 solution, supported by a range of car brands including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. It emphasizes customization, allowing users to access and modify ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships. This feature set made it stand out in 2018 and continues to be a key selling point.
Carista’s customization features are a major draw, enabling users to personalize their car’s settings and access advanced ECU options.
Pros:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Uses Bluetooth for wireless connection.
- Compact Adapter: Features a compact OBD2 adapter.
- Customizable Settings: Offers extensive customization options for supported car brands.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Focuses on seamless phone-to-OBD2 integration.
- 1-Month Free Trial: Provides a 1-month free trial period to test the app’s features.
- iOS and Android Support: Available for both iOS and Android platforms.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Offers detailed diagnostic capabilities for supported brands.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases: Requires in-app purchases to unlock full customization and diagnostic features after the trial period.
17. OBD Fusion: The User-Friendly Data Logger
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, is a popular OBD2 app known for its ease of use and comprehensive diagnostic reporting. It’s considered user-friendly for both beginners and professionals and was a strong contender in 2018, remaining a popular choice today.
OBD Fusion prioritizes customizability, allowing users to create personalized dashboards and focus on the engine functions they want to monitor closely. Its ease of use and data logging capabilities make it a versatile OBD2 app for UK drivers.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards to display desired parameters.
- iOS and Android Compatibility: Available for both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device support.
- GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features, potentially integrating driving data with location.
- Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities, useful for tracking vehicle emissions.
- Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging for in-depth analysis of vehicle performance.
Cons:
- Expansion Packs for Features: Some features are locked behind expansion packs, potentially adding to the overall cost.
- No Diagnostic Data Sharing: Lacks direct diagnostic data sharing features within the app itself.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best OBD2 Android App for You in the UK (2018 & Beyond)
With a wide array of OBD2 apps available for Android in the UK, selecting the “best” one depends on your individual needs and car. While this list highlights top contenders that were prominent in 2018 and remain relevant, compatibility testing is crucial.
Before committing to a paid app, utilize free “Lite” versions or compatibility checkers offered by many developers. This ensures the app works seamlessly with your specific vehicle and OBD2 adapter.
Our Top Picks (Considering 2018 Context and Current Relevance):
Best Android OBD2 App (Paid): Torque Pro. Its extensive features, customizability, and broad vehicle compatibility made it a top choice in 2018 and it remains a powerful and versatile option for UK users.
Best Android OBD2 App (Free): Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App. For a free option that offers substantial functionality and a high user rating, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is an excellent choice.
Best iOS OBD2 App (Paid – Android Equivalent Consideration): OBD Fusion. While technically for iOS, OBD Fusion offers a similar level of user-friendliness and comprehensive tracking to the top Android contenders, making it a strong consideration for iOS users seeking comparable functionality to the best Android apps of 2018.
Ultimately, the ideal OBD2 app for you will be the one that best aligns with your car, technical expertise, and diagnostic needs. Explore the free versions, read user reviews, and choose the app that empowers you to understand and maintain your vehicle effectively in the UK.
