Top OBD2 Dashboard Apps for Real-Time Vehicle Monitoring

In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is no longer a mystery. Thanks to advancements in automotive technology and mobile app development, a plethora of On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) dashboard apps have emerged, placing real-time vehicle data right at your fingertips. These innovative tools act as a direct line of communication with your car, providing insights into engine performance, potential issues, and overall vehicle status. For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, an Obd2 Dashboard App is an invaluable asset for proactive maintenance and informed driving.

Imagine having a customizable dashboard on your smartphone that displays crucial parameters like engine speed, coolant temperature, fuel efficiency, and even potential trouble codes. This is the power of an OBD2 app. By connecting a small OBD2 adapter to your car’s diagnostic port and pairing it with an app on your Android or iOS device, you gain access to a wealth of information previously only available to mechanics with specialized equipment.

However, with a vast array of OBD2 apps flooding the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Many users have unfortunately experienced subpar apps, leading to wasted time and money. To prevent this, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the best OBD2 dashboard apps available, ensuring you select a tool that truly enhances your driving experience and vehicle maintenance.

This article dives into 17 of the top OBD2 apps, carefully evaluating their features, usability, compatibility, and value. Whether you’re seeking a free basic scanner or a professional-grade diagnostic tool, our detailed reviews will guide you to the perfect OBD2 dashboard app for your needs.

Let’s explore the world of OBD2 apps and unlock the hidden insights within your vehicle!

Best OBD2 Apps for Android and iOS: Detailed Reviews

1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)

Torque Pro stands out as a highly acclaimed OBD2 dashboard app for Android users, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and consistently positive reviews. For a reasonable price of around $5 on the Google Play Store, users gain access to a robust suite of diagnostic and monitoring features. Vehicle owners frequently praise Torque Pro as a top-tier OBD2 app for Android, appreciating its comprehensive capabilities and user-friendly interface.

Torque Pro excels in providing a real-time OBD2 dashboard experience. Users can customize the display to showcase the parameters most relevant to them, presented in an aesthetically pleasing and easily understandable format. Beyond real-time monitoring, the app offers data logging capabilities, allowing users to export compiled data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis and record-keeping.

Pros:

• Highly Customizable OBD2 Dashboard: Offers multiple themes to personalize the dashboard’s appearance, ensuring a visual experience tailored to user preferences.
• Data Sharing and Export: Supports screenshot sharing directly to social media and email, simplifying the process of sharing diagnostic information.
• Integrated GPS Features: Includes a built-in GPS-based compass for enhanced navigation and location-based data.
• Advanced Data Display: Provides graph data visualization and car dock support, facilitating in-depth data analysis and convenient in-car usage.
• Emissions Monitoring: Offers CO2 emission readouts, contributing to environmentally conscious driving habits.
• Journey Recording: Features a track recorder to capture video footage of your drives, useful for documentation or analysis.
• Performance Alerts: Equipped with alarms and warnings for suboptimal car performance, such as alerts when coolant temperature exceeds safe limits (e.g., 120°C).
• Wide Compatibility: Remarkably, it supports older Android versions, including 2.0, expanding its usability across a wider range of devices.

Cons:

• Paid App: Requires upfront purchase from the Play Store, which may be a barrier for users seeking free solutions.
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: Some users have reported Bluetooth pairing bugs, although these are often resolvable with app updates or device troubleshooting.

2. OBD Auto Doctor

OBD Auto Doctor operates as a versatile car diagnostic tool, sharing functionalities with many similar apps in the market. It boasts compatibility with both ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, enabling seamless connection to a wide range of vehicles. This OBD2 dashboard app focuses on real-time tracking of critical vehicle sensors and parameters, providing users with up-to-the-minute insights into their car’s performance.

OBD Auto Doctor allows for comprehensive monitoring, supporting multiple control units such as the engine and transmission. Data logging is also a key feature, with the ability to export collected data via email in CSV format for detailed analysis or sharing with mechanics. Notably, the app includes a highly optimized fuel consumption parameter monitor, potentially leading to significant cost savings on fuel expenses.

Pros:

• Real-Time Data Display: Provides immediate data on the OBD2 dashboard, empowering users to make informed decisions regarding their car’s health.
• Versatile Data Presentation: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences for data visualization.
• Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring wide applicability across car makes and models.
• GPS Integration: Offers GPS support, potentially for tracking routes or location-based data in some functionalities.
• Dedicated Customer Support: Provides a helpful customer service team available 24/7, offering assistance and troubleshooting for users.
• Extensive Customization: Features advanced customization options, allowing users to tailor the app’s behavior and display to their specific needs.
• Language and Unit Options: Supports imperial and metric units tracking in English, along with multi-language support for a global user base.
• Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
• Emission Readiness Tracking: Tracks readiness status, informing users when their car is prepared for emission testing, saving time and potential failures.

Cons:

• In-App Purchases and Premium Upgrade: Requires in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to unlock the full spectrum of features, potentially incurring additional costs.
• Connectivity and Accuracy Concerns: Some users have reported potential connection issues or instances of inaccurate readings, which could affect the reliability of the data.

3. InCarDoc Pro

InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a leading OBD2 Android app for car diagnostics, earning accolades in reviews from 2017/2018 and remaining a strong contender in subsequent years. This application excels in providing advanced car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presenting information through a clean and intuitive home screen interface.

Users can explore a free version of InCarDoc Pro to confirm adapter and car compatibility before committing to the paid version, available on app stores for a modest price under $5. The Pro version supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters, ensuring broad connectivity. Furthermore, it maintains compatibility with the majority of modern Android devices.

Pros:

• Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their official website, providing assurance of broad applicability.
• Real-Time Parameter Monitoring: Enables users to read real-time engine and vehicle parameters, offering immediate insights into car performance.
• Background Data Overlay: Features an overlay mode to display economy data in the background or over other running applications, allowing for seamless multitasking and constant monitoring.
• Fuel Economy and Performance Widgets: Includes dedicated widgets for fuel economy and acceleration data, providing quick access to key performance metrics directly from the OBD2 dashboard.
• GPS Integration: Offers GPS support, potentially for tracking routes, speed, or location-based vehicle data.
• Cloud Data Reporting: Supports uploading reporting data to cloud storage services, facilitating data backup and accessibility across devices.
• Data Sharing for Professional Assistance: Allows users to share data via email, simplifying the process of seeking professional assistance with car repairs by providing mechanics with diagnostic information.

Cons:

• Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with older devices.
• Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have reported experiencing errors while attempting Bluetooth connections, which could hinder initial setup and usability.

4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App empowers users to delve deep into their vehicle’s operation, providing access to a comprehensive range of parameters read by the car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU). This free car diagnostic app facilitates proactive vehicle maintenance, enabling users to identify potential issues before they escalate. For users familiar with fault codes and their meanings, this app becomes even more powerful, allowing for self-diagnosis of minor problems and informed decisions on when professional mechanic intervention is necessary.

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is arguably a leading vehicle monitoring tool, particularly considering its extensive device compatibility. Versions are available across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms. With over 2 million installations across supported platforms, this OBD2 dashboard app has demonstrated its value and appeal to a wide user base. Notably, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 boasts an impressive 4.7 rating, the highest among the apps featured in this list, reflecting strong user satisfaction.

Pros:

• Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability across vehicle makes and models.
• Adapter Versatility: Compatible with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware selection.
• Customizable Dashboard: Features a customizable OBD2 dashboard, allowing users to track parameters most relevant to their needs and driving style.
• Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides detailed fuel consumption statistics, aiding in fuel efficiency monitoring and cost management.
• Settings Backup and Restore: Includes settings backup and restore functionality, simplifying device changes or app re-installations.
• Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a diverse international user base.

Cons:

• Android Version Limitation: Only supports Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding users with older Android devices.
• In-App Purchases for Full Functionality: Requires in-app purchases to unlock optimal performance and access all features, which may add to the overall cost.

5. EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 Car Diagnostic app available for both Android and iOS platforms. It supports a wide array of ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters, providing flexibility in hardware choices. With this app installed on your mobile device, you gain the ability to monitor nearly all essential gauges and parameters necessary for making informed decisions about your vehicle’s operation and maintenance.

Depending on the data provided by your car’s ECU, EOBD Facile can display a comprehensive set of vehicle parameters on its OBD2 dashboard. This typically includes vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake volume, and various other critical gauges. EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installations on the Google Play Store, indicating its popularity and widespread use within the car diagnostic app community.

Pros:

• Real-Time Sensor Data: Offers real-time display of vehicle sensor data, enabling immediate monitoring of car performance and potential issues.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Contains over 11,000 fault codes and definitions, providing comprehensive diagnostic information.
• Fault Code Clearing: Allows users to delete fault codes and resolve engine light issues directly from the app, potentially saving trips to a mechanic for minor problems.
• Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using the EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating detailed trip analysis.
• Route Planning Features: Includes route planning functionality, beneficial for long trips and navigation purposes.

Cons:

• Requires OBD2 App Experience: May require prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its advanced features and interpret the displayed data effectively.
• No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

6. HobDrive

HobDrive is recognized as a premium OBD2 app for Android, distinguished by its advanced car tracking features. It is also one of the more expensive options available on the Google Play Store, priced around $10. This higher price point reflects its comprehensive feature set and focus on providing users with extensive value through advanced vehicle monitoring capabilities.

A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad vehicle compatibility. It supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles as well as certain Non-OBD2 vehicles, such as Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems, expanding its usability beyond standard OBD2 protocols. HobDrive also offers cross-platform accessibility, seamlessly functioning with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS devices, providing a unified experience across various platforms.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Features a highly customizable OBD2 dashboard that displays a wide array of parameters provided by the car’s ECU, allowing users to tailor the display to their specific needs.
• Adapter and GPS Support: Supports both GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, offering versatile connectivity options and location-based features.
• Advanced Monitoring Features: Tracks critical parameters such as overheating and suspicious fuel trims, providing early warnings of potential engine issues.
• Clear MIL Code Explanations: Offers clear and understandable explanations of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) codes, simplifying diagnostics for users.
• Odometer Estimation: Estimates the car’s odometer reading, potentially useful for tracking mileage and maintenance intervals.
• Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance, providing accurate fuel economy data.
• Pro Version with Enhanced Gauges: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges, offering visually richer data representation for in-depth analysis.

Cons:

• Payment Issues in Some Regions: Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments depending on their geographical location.
• Android Version Requirement: The app is compatible with Android version 3 and above, potentially excluding users with older devices.

7. OBDeleven

When examining the android app development principles behind OBD2 apps, OBDeleven stands out due to its innovative “One Click App” feature. Beyond providing a clear view of parameters from your car’s ECU, OBDeleven goes a step further by integrating pre-programmed functions that allow users to control various car options with a single tap. This unique feature sets it apart from many standard OBD2 dashboard apps.

To fully leverage OBDeleven’s “One Click App” functionality, a stable network connection is recommended. Additionally, a Premium upgrade unlocks access to a broader range of advanced car tracking tools. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven remains a valuable tool for car diagnostics and customization, favored by both car enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Support: Supports reading and clearing all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your car’s ECU, providing complete diagnostic control.
• Multi-Language Support: Offers support for multiple languages, catering to a global user base and enhancing accessibility.
• Active Community Support: Maintains an active social media community, providing a platform for user interaction, support, and knowledge sharing.
• Car Battery Analyzer: Offers a car battery analyzer feature, a function not commonly found in all OBD2 apps, providing insights into battery health.
• DIY Repair Manuals: Includes manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs and maintenance tasks themselves.
• Connected Car History Retrieval: Allows users to retrieve the history of connected cars, useful for tracking vehicle diagnostics and maintenance records over time.
• Control Unit Reset Support: Supports control unit reset functionality, enabling advanced troubleshooting and system recalibration.

Cons:

• Network Dependency for Full Performance: Requires a network connection to fully utilize high-performance features like “One Click Apps,” potentially limiting functionality in areas with poor connectivity.
• Advertisements in Free Version: Displays ads in the free version, which can be intrusive and may necessitate upgrading to Premium for an ad-free experience.

8. Dash – Drive Smart

Dash – Drive Smart is a car tracking app that not only supports OBDeleven software but also integrates various intelligent car analysis tools. It provides real-time data monitoring and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, offering broad vehicle coverage.

Dash aims to deliver comprehensive insights to enhance driving experience and performance, while also aiding in making informed decisions for long-term vehicle health. Remarkably, the app can function even without continuous device connection, offering flexibility in usage.

Pros:

• Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Features an optimized and customizable parameter OBD2 dashboard that operates in background mode, allowing for continuous monitoring without active app usage.
• Driver Performance Scoring: Provides a Driver score and leaderboard, enabling users to compare their driving performance against other Dash users, potentially promoting safer and more efficient driving habits.
• Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding, simplifying vehicle management within the app.
• GPS Tracking for Parking Location: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help users locate their parked car, a convenient feature in busy areas.
• Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Offers nearby gas price comparison features, helping users save money on fuel purchases by identifying the most affordable gas stations.

Cons:

• Battery Drain Concerns: Users have reported concerns about the app potentially draining the mobile device’s battery, especially with continuous background operation.
• Compass Feature Glitches: The compass feature has been reported as occasionally glitchy, although this may be addressed in future updates.
• Network Connection Issues: Some users have experienced network connection issues, which could affect real-time data updates and feature reliability.

9. Engine Link (iOS)

Engine Link is a car diagnostic app similar in functionality to Torque Pro, but specifically designed for iOS devices. This OBD2 dashboard app for iOS seamlessly connects with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. However, recent user feedback indicates potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, leading to lower ratings despite its overall capabilities.

Despite the reported Wi-Fi connection concerns, Engine Link remains a powerful car tracking application on iOS. Available for a one-time purchase of around $6 on the iTunes App Store, it offers a comprehensive set of features for vehicle monitoring and control.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboard: Offers a one-stop customizable OBD2 dashboard that allows users to selectively track parameters of interest, streamlining data display.
• Emissions and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Provides control over emission rates and fuel consumption monitoring, contributing to eco-conscious driving and fuel efficiency.
• Extensive Fault Code Support: Enables reading and clearing thousands of OBD2 fault codes, facilitating user-level diagnostics and issue resolution.
• Heads-Up Display (HUD) Option: Features a heads-up dashboard display option, projecting crucial data onto the windshield for enhanced driver visibility and safety.
• No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: Available for a single upfront price with no additional in-app purchases or subscription fees, offering cost transparency.
• Multi-Language Support: Supports over 20 languages, catering to a diverse global user base.
• Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest updates include support for Torque Custom PID (Parameter IDs) files, enhancing customization and data integration capabilities.

Cons:

• ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects to the adapter but fails to read ECU data, hindering diagnostic functionality.
• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later to run, potentially excluding users with older iOS devices.

10. ScanMaster

ScanMaster is another notable car monitoring tool designed for use with ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely recognized as some other scanners, this Android application maintains a respectable 4.0 rating with over 1 million installations.

Using the ScanMaster app on your mobile device provides a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and accurately reads fault codes. This accuracy empowers users to understand potential issues and avoid unnecessary expenses at mechanic shops.

ScanMaster adopts a freemium model, offering a Lite (free) version that provides access to essential car parameters such as VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, unlocking the full suite of features, including an extensive database of fault codes and detailed error descriptions, requires purchasing the Pro version.

Pros:

• Free Version with Core Features: Offers a range of tracking parameters even in the free version, providing basic diagnostic capabilities without initial cost.
• Multi-Language Support: Supports both German and English languages, catering to a bilingual user base.
• User-Friendly Navigation: Features an easy-to-navigate interface, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
• Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supports most ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware selection.
• Data Recording Capabilities: Includes data recording functionality, enabling users to log and analyze vehicle data over time.
• Graphical Data Representation: Presents data in clear graphical formats, facilitating easier data analysis and interpretation.

Cons:

• Ineffective Customer Support: Users have reported issues with the effectiveness of the customer support team, potentially hindering issue resolution.
• Device Compatibility Issues: A few cases of device incompatibility have been reported, suggesting limited support for certain mobile devices.
• Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, excluding users with older Android devices.

11. DashCommand (iOS)

DashCommand positions itself as a premium solution for transforming your mobile device into an advanced engine data display, and it has largely lived up to this claim. The app received the prestigious SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product in 2014, attesting to its innovation and quality.

DashCommand is among the more expensive OBD2 scanner apps for iOS, priced at $14.99 on iTunes. However, this investment provides access to top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy metrics, engine monitoring tools, and emission testing capabilities for up to five trips. Customer reviews generally indicate that the app delivers substantial value for its price.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Designed for user-friendliness, making it accessible even to users with limited technical expertise.
• Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges, enabling users to track data points most relevant to their driving preferences and vehicle type on their OBD2 dashboard.
• Inclinometer for Off-Road Driving: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, particularly useful for off-road driving scenarios.
• Data Logging and Playback: Supports data-logging, recording, and playback functionalities, facilitating detailed analysis of vehicle performance over time.
• Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features an advanced trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips, providing comprehensive trip data tracking.
• Graphical Data Representation: Presents collected data graphically, enhancing data visualization and interpretation.

Cons:

• iPhone X Compatibility Issues: Reportedly not fully compatible with iPhone X models, potentially limiting usability for some iOS users.
• Haltech Elite 2599 Compatibility Issues: Compatibility concerns have been raised regarding Haltech elite 2599 systems, suggesting potential limitations with certain aftermarket ECUs.
• In-App Purchases for Specific Car Models: Contains in-app purchases for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost depending on vehicle compatibility and desired features.

12. BlueDriver

BlueDriver is an OBD2 scanner app available for both iOS and Android platforms. It is recognized as a leading free car diagnostic tool, reflected in its high 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.

Whether used on Android or iOS, BlueDriver allows users to monitor critical parameters from their car’s ECU, scan for and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share collected data via email. Remarkably, BlueDriver incorporates features not always found in paid car tracking apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Wireless Connection: Offers wireless connection to your car, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
• Smog Readiness Check: Supports smog readiness checks, helping users ensure their vehicles meet emission standards.
• Reduced Travel Costs: Potentially reduces travel costs by enabling users to diagnose and resolve minor issues themselves, avoiding unnecessary mechanic visits.
• Free and Regular Updates: Provides free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing improvements and feature enhancements.
• On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results, providing detailed diagnostic information.
• Enhanced Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission: Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other crucial vehicle systems, expanding diagnostic scope beyond basic engine codes.
• Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows users to generate and share repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and documenting maintenance history.

Cons:

• iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above, excluding users with older iOS devices.
• iPhone XR Issues (Potentially Resolved): Some initial issues were reported with iPhone XR compatibility, but these may have been resolved through subsequent updates.

13. GoFAR

If you prioritize comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and long-term car health management, GoFAR is a compelling option. This system combines a dedicated car diagnostic device with a companion app to monitor car health and track mileage, maintaining compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.

A key advantage of GoFAR is its IRS-compliant mileage tracking, which can potentially lead to tax savings for business or mileage-based deductions. Furthermore, GoFAR emphasizes fuel efficiency, aiming to reduce travel costs by 10-30% through driving behavior analysis and fuel consumption monitoring. The Android and iOS applications have a strong 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences globally.

Pros:

• Ease of Installation and Use: Designed for straightforward installation and user-friendly operation, making it accessible to users of all technical levels.
• Warranty Included: Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase, providing peace of mind and product support.
• Plain English Error Alerts: Sends error alerts in plain English, simplifying diagnostics and making it easier for users to understand vehicle issues.
• Mechanic Locator Platform: Includes a platform for hiring nearby mechanics, connecting users with local repair services when needed.
• Extensive Fault Code Database: Contains over 3000 fault codes and descriptions, providing comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
• Driver Leaderboard and Gamification: Features a global leaderboard based on cost savings, potentially encouraging fuel-efficient driving through friendly competition.
• Maintenance Reminders: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewals, and registration reminders, promoting proactive vehicle maintenance.
• No Subscription Fees: Requires a one-time purchase with no ongoing subscription or hidden fees, offering long-term cost savings.

Cons:

• Upfront Purchase Required: Requires an initial purchase of the GoFAR device, priced around $99, which is a higher upfront cost compared to app-only solutions.

14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor

FIXD aims to simplify car diagnostics without compromising functionality. This system translates complex fault codes into easy-to-understand terms, enabling users to promptly address car issues. The FIXD app and dedicated OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters are designed to work together for optimal performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on Android via the Google Play Store and has a solid 4.5 user rating.

Pros:

• Quick and Easy Setup: Installs in minutes and is immediately usable, making it ideal for users new to OBD2 apps.
• Beginner-Friendly: Suitable for first-time OBD2 app users due to its simplified interface and clear explanations.
• Maintenance Scheduling: Allows users to schedule maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
• Worn Part Alerts: Provides alerts for worn-out car parts that need repair or replacement, preventing potential breakdowns.
• Easy Onboarding Process: Features a streamlined onboarding process, simplifying initial setup and app navigation.
• In-App Parts Purchase: Enables users to buy car parts directly through the app, simplifying the repair process.
• Responsive Customer Support: Offers a helpful customer support team, providing assistance and issue resolution.

Cons:

• Older Version Bugs: Some users have reported bugs in older app versions, suggesting the importance of using the latest app update for optimal performance.
• FIXD Adapter Dependency: Primarily works with FIXD adapters, limiting adapter compatibility to their proprietary hardware.
• In-App Purchases: Offers in-app purchases, potentially adding to the overall cost for advanced features or functionalities.

15. Carly For BMW

Carly For BMW is a specialized OBD2 app tailored specifically for BMW vehicles and compatible with Carly-branded adapters. Whether you are a novice or experienced BMW owner, Carly provides real-time access to essential car gauges and parameters. The Android app also supports standard OBD features, but users should test compatibility with the Lite version before purchasing the full app.

Pros:

• Comprehensive BMW Vehicle Health Check: Offers thorough health checks of BMW vehicle electronic components, providing in-depth diagnostics.
• Used Car Check Feature: Includes a used car check feature, beneficial for inspecting a pre-owned BMW before purchase.
• One-Click Parking Brake Control: Provides one-click control for the electric parking brake, adding convenience for BMW owners.
• Premium Adapter Support: Carly adapters include premium customer support and a lifetime warranty, offering long-term product assurance.
• DIY Battery Registration Support: Supports DIY battery registration, empowering users to perform this maintenance task themselves.
• Excellent Customer Service: Provides a highly rated customer service team dedicated to BMW-specific support.

Cons:

• Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters, increasing the initial investment.
• Limited Fault Codes for Specific BMW Models: May have limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models, potentially restricting diagnostic capabilities for these specific vehicles.

16. Carista OBD2 App

Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug-in device accompanied by a dedicated app. The Carista scanner offers strong support for brands including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.

A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option within the app. Once plugged in, users can access and modify a wide range of ECU options, typically accessible only through dealership equipment, offering significant customization potential.

Pros:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth connectivity for wireless communication between the adapter and mobile device.
• Compact Design: Features a compact adapter design, making it discreet and easy to store.
• Customizable Settings: Offers customizable settings, allowing users to tailor vehicle functionalities and parameters.
• Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Represents a streamlined phone-to-OBD2 scanner approach, simplifying vehicle diagnostics and customization.
• Free Trial Period: Includes a 1-month free trial period, allowing users to test the app and device before committing to a purchase.
• Cross-Platform Support: Supports both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring wide device compatibility.
• Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed diagnostic capabilities, offering in-depth vehicle health insights.

Cons:

• In-App Purchases: Relies on in-app purchases to unlock full functionality, potentially adding to the overall cost.

17. OBD Fusion

Developed by OCTech, the OBD Fusion app, when paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, delivers comprehensive diagnostic reports. It is a popular choice for vehicle diagnostics, known for its user-friendliness and robust features.

OBD Fusion’s selling point is its ease of use, making it suitable for both novice and professional users. The app’s customizable OBD2 dashboard is a key highlight, allowing users to display and closely monitor engine functions and data points most relevant to their needs.

Pros:

• Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards, enabling users to personalize data display and prioritize relevant parameters.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring broad device support.
• GPS Navigation Features: Integrates GPS navigation features, potentially for route tracking or location-based vehicle data.
• Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities, helping users track and manage vehicle emissions.
• Extensive Data Logging: Supports extensive data logging, allowing for detailed recording and analysis of vehicle performance over time.

Cons:

• Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases to unlock full functionality.
• No Diagnostic Data Sharing Features: Lacks built-in diagnostic data sharing features, potentially limiting collaboration with mechanics or data sharing capabilities.

Conclusion

With this detailed list of the best OBD2 dashboard apps for iOS and Android, you are now equipped to choose a tool that aligns with your vehicle and diagnostic needs.

However, before making a purchase, remember to verify app compatibility with your specific car model through functional testing. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing, while others require upfront purchase. Experiment with different options to find the OBD2 dashboard app that best serves your requirements.

Our Top Picks:

Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A paid app with exceptional features and broad vehicle compatibility.

Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – A paid app known for its user-friendliness and comprehensive tracking of vital vehicle parameters.