Top OBD2 Software for Windows 10 in 2024: Expert Reviews & Guide

Are you searching for the best OBD2 software for Windows 10 to diagnose your car’s health right from your laptop? With a plethora of automotive scan tools flooding the market, finding reliable and feature-rich software can be overwhelming. Many OBD2 scanners prioritize profit over functionality, leaving users confused and underserved.

As experienced auto repair specialists at carparteu.com, we understand the frustration of sifting through countless options. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to highlight established and trustworthy providers of OBD2 diagnostic solutions. Each software package listed below is backed by companies with a proven history in the OBD2 field, ensuring you get professional-grade diagnostics at your fingertips.

While standard OBD2 readers might seem similar at first glance, subtle yet crucial differences separate a basic “check engine light reader” from robust OBD2 software trusted by seasoned automotive technicians. This article focuses specifically on the latter, providing in-depth reviews and insights into the top OBD2 software for Windows 10 available today.

We’ve intentionally excluded mobile apps from this review for several key reasons. Firstly, the mobile app market is saturated and many apps are quickly abandoned due to intense competition. Secondly, most mobile OBD2 apps are developed by independent freelancers, not by established automotive companies with deep expertise in vehicle diagnostics. In contrast, OBD2 software for PC, particularly Windows 10, has a longer history, dating back to the early 1990s, indicating greater maturity and reliability. Furthermore, many smartphone OBD2 applications often sacrifice functionality for flashy user interfaces, whereas PC-based software tends to prioritize comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.

Having rigorously tested and used various car software over the past decade, we present our expert recommendations for 7 outstanding OBD2 diagnostic software packages for Windows 10. We encourage you to visit each provider’s website, assess their credibility, and select the software that best aligns with your specific automotive diagnostic needs.

To make your reading experience efficient, we’ve summarized each software review in bullet points, highlighting their key features and benefits.

Important Note: While all OBD2 software essentially serves the same primary function – diagnosing and reporting vehicle faults – the depth and accuracy of error detection can vary significantly. The quantity and specificity of fault codes identified are key differentiators between various software options.

Remember, OBD2 diagnostics empowers car owners to understand their vehicle’s issues like a mechanic. However, it’s crucial to understand that OBD2 software helps identify problems, but physical repairs of malfunctioning or broken components are still necessary and cannot be resolved simply by clearing fault codes within the software.

Key Features Shared by Top OBD Car Scanner Software:

• Premium, Not Free: The software options listed here are professional-grade and require purchase. For users seeking free OBD2 software (often used with ELM327 scan tools), a basic option like EasyOBD (downloadable here) is available, but lacks the advanced features of paid software.
• Windows-Centric: The automotive industry predominantly develops for Windows. While some OBD2 software for Mac exists (two decent options are reviewed below), Windows 10 remains the primary platform for professional-grade diagnostics.
• Expert-Backed Reviews: Our reviews are grounded in extensive technical and mechanical expertise, drawing upon a combined 60 years of experience in the automotive field. We’ve strived for unbiased evaluations of each software package.
• ELM327 Compatibility: All reviewed software supports ELM327 OBD2 interfaces in Bluetooth, WIFI, and USB versions. Installation instructions for ELM327 interfaces can be found here.
• Unidirectional Operation: These software packages are primarily unidirectional, meaning they read data from the vehicle. Bidirectional control, which allows for sending commands to the vehicle, typically requires higher-end OEM scan tools costing $1000+. For information on workshop-grade OBD2 scanners, search “obd2 scanner” on our blog.

Understanding OBD2 Scanners and Diagnostic Tools: A Brief Guide

The automotive industry has undergone a remarkable evolution since the inception of the gasoline-powered automobile. Cars have transformed from basic transportation to sophisticated machines equipped with advanced technology, including climate control, navigation, and even autopilot systems.

This technological advancement has led to smarter automobiles capable of collecting data for optimal route planning, adjusting vehicle systems to driving conditions, and crucially, detecting engine errors.

Most modern vehicles are equipped with an on-board diagnostics (OBD2) port, providing access to data from the engine control unit (ECU). This data allows technicians and car owners to diagnose vehicle problems and identify necessary maintenance.

Getting started with OBD2 diagnostics is straightforward:

1. Connect an ELM327 interface to your car’s OBD port.
2. Install the necessary ELM327 drivers on your Windows 10 PC.
3. Launch your chosen OBD2 software for Windows 10 and click “Connect.”

To access and interpret ECU data, a computer and specialized software are essential. This demand has driven automotive software companies to develop user-friendly OBD software for laptops and PCs, enabling car owners to access and analyze their vehicle’s ECU data directly.

Typically, OBD2 diagnostic tools consist of two components: a hardware interface (cable or adapter) to connect the vehicle’s OBD port to the computer and the OBD2 software itself to read and interpret the data. The primary goal of this technology is to facilitate vehicle maintenance and extend vehicle lifespan.

Below, we present seven exceptional car diagnostic software options from reputable companies, all compatible with Windows 10 laptops and PCs.

(Disclaimer: Please note that none of the following links are affiliate links. Our recommendations are based on our expert opinion and aim to provide genuine guidance for your diagnostic needs.)

TOAD PRO

TOAD (Total OBD & ECU Auto Diagnostics) is a powerful and comprehensive OBD2 software for Windows 10, designed for in-depth vehicle health checks. This “car-manufacturer-approved” software can diagnose over 15,000 common car problems and even offers ECU remapping capabilities for performance optimization and fuel efficiency enhancements (for advanced users).

Often utilized by professional car repair shops and manufacturers, TOAD PRO brings advanced diagnostic capabilities to both home users and professional mechanics.

Its strength lies in its broad vehicle compatibility and its ability to monitor live data through customizable visual graphs, providing real-time insights into your vehicle’s performance.

TOAD PRO is suitable for car owners seeking to save on repair costs by diagnosing and potentially fixing issues themselves, as well as for professional workshops needing cutting-edge diagnostic tools to ensure vehicle safety and performance. It is used globally by law enforcement, dealerships, car enthusiasts, and manufacturers across approximately 80 countries.

Key Benefits of TOAD PRO:

• Check Engine Light Diagnostics: Provides detailed descriptions of detected problems, enabling informed repairs.
• Advanced Fault Code Detection: Extracts “extra” OBD fault codes often missed by standard scanners.
• Cost Savings on Repairs: Identifies specific broken components, allowing for cost-effective part sourcing and negotiation with mechanics.
• Performance Optimization: Includes ECU remapping for performance tuning and fuel efficiency improvements.
• Touchscreen Optimized: Ideal for Windows 10 tablets and touchscreen laptops like Surface Pro.
• Fuel Efficiency and Engine Longevity: Helps optimize fuel consumption and extend engine lifespan.
• Real-time Data Monitoring: Displays live vehicle data in tabular and graphical formats for comprehensive analysis.
• Peace of Mind: Provides confidence in your vehicle’s condition and helps manage repair costs effectively.

Learn more at the TOAD website…

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool

AutoEnginuity’s ScanTool stands out for its brand-specific diagnostic options, covering manufacturers like BMW, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Honda, and Porsche, among others. While also compatible with iOS, its Windows 10 version is highly regarded for professional use.

This OBD2 software enables users to quickly scan for trouble codes, vehicle sensor data, and IM240 emissions readiness, facilitating efficient service decisions. ScanTool excels in its depth of vehicle system coverage, accessing ABS, airbag, transmission, instrument cluster, and numerous other controllers.

The software offers in-depth functionalities including live data streaming, bi-directional controls, adaptive resets and learning procedures, and comprehensive system tests.

The primary drawback of AutoEnginuity ScanTool is its higher price point, positioning it as a tool primarily for professional automotive workshops that handle a high volume of vehicle scans and require OEM-level bi-directional functionalities.

Key Benefits of AutoEnginuity ScanTool:

• Data Logging and Export: Logs data in XML format for browser viewing and CSV for spreadsheet analysis.
• Customizable Sensor Data Display: Allows users to customize data presentation, including sampling rates, ranges, units, and scaling.
• User-Friendly Data Presentation: Presents data in a clear and understandable format, simplifying complex diagnostic information.

Learn more at the AutoEnginuity website…

PCMScan

PCMScan is a feature-rich, generic OBD-II diagnostic software for Windows 10 that supports a wide array of OBD hardware interfaces. It offers real-time visual charting, data logging, viewing, and playback of recorded data. PCMScan also facilitates viewing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), freeze frame data, and other essential vehicle information. This universal scanner software is compatible with US, Asian, and European vehicles manufactured post-1996.

However, a significant downside of PCMScan is that it has not been updated for over 7 years. This means it lacks potentially 500+ new PIDs (sensor data) incorporated in more recently updated OBD2 software. This stagnation suggests either discontinued development or a shift in the developer’s focus.

Key Benefits of PCMScan:

• Customizable Dashboard: Users can personalize the dashboard display to their preferences.
• Performance Features: Includes Dyno and Drag functionalities for performance measurement.
• Data Logging: Records diagnostic data for later analysis.
• DTC Reading and Clearing: Reads stored and pending Diagnostic Trouble Codes and clears “Check Engine” lights.
• Freeze Frame Data: Reads and clears stored freeze frame data for historical diagnostics.
• Extensive Trouble Code Definitions: Supports thousands of vehicle trouble code definitions.

Notable Features:

• Printing and Print Preview: Full support for printing and previewing all views, including virtual dashboards.
• OBD-II Terminal: Provides an OBD-II Terminal for users with protocol knowledge to send custom commands.
• Javascripting Support: Built-in Javascript support for advanced users to perform custom calculations on OBD-II parameters.
• Configurable Alerts System: Allows setting up alerts for specific parameters, triggering sounds or bookmarks in logged data when conditions are met.
• Unit System Support: Supports both English and Metric (SI) unit systems.
• CSV Data Export: Customizable log file export to .CSV format for easy viewing in programs like Excel.
• Real-time Stamps: Exports data with real-time stamps for correlation with external data logs.
• PID Priority Assignment: Allows prioritizing PIDs to optimize data capture rates.
• Interface Compatibility: Supports a wide range of interfaces, including Autotap, VIA LDV, Multiplex Engineering, ELM320, ELM322, ELM323, ELM327, and SAE-J2534 compliant interfaces.

Learn more at the PCMScan website…

ProScan

ProScan, now part of Total Car Diagnostics since its acquisition in 2015, is a refined OBD2 software for Windows 10, continuously improved to accommodate the latest vehicle technology and sensor advancements. It is also included in the TOAD LITE package.

Recognized for its user-friendliness, ProScan has been a stable and consistently developed OBD2 solution since 2003, built on extensive expertise in automotive protocols and PIDs. It is compatible with any standard ELM327 hardware.

A standout feature of ProScan is its accurate 0-60mph (100km/h) performance timing, enabling precise measurements of speed and torque gains after ECU adjustments or aftermarket modifications. This makes it valuable for both performance enthusiasts and for assessing the impact of vehicle enhancements.

Key Benefits of ProScan:

• Fuel Economy Adjustment: Allows for fuel economy optimization based on driving habits.
• Vehicle Connection Manager: Features an intuitive interface for easy program launch and vehicle connection.
• Freeze Frame Data Display: Monitors and displays data from previous time periods.
• Oxygen Sensor Tests: Displays results of oxygen sensor tests and identifies malfunctioning sensors.
• One-Button Diagnostic Report Generator: Simplifies report generation for vehicle diagnostics.
• Emissions Readiness Monitoring: Shows the status of vehicle readiness monitors for emissions compliance.
• Oxygen Sensor Location and Count: Displays the number and location of oxygen sensors.
• Oxygen Sensor Functionality Testing: Verifies the correct operation of oxygen sensors.
• Data Recording and Playback: Records and plays back diagnostic data.
• Instantaneous Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculates and displays real-time fuel efficiency (mpg/liters per km) for MAF-based vehicles.
• Trip Cost Calculation: Calculates real-time trip costs based on distance and fuel efficiency.
• Performance Statistics: Calculates performance metrics like 0-60 mph, 1/4 mile time, trap speed, and 1/8 mile time.
• Horsepower and Torque Estimation: Estimates horsepower and torque curves and generates dyno charts.
• Printable Diagnostic Reports: Generates printable diagnostic reports.
• Unit Conversion: Converts between English and metric units.

Learn more at the ProScan website…

OBD Auto Doctor

OBD II Auto Doctor is a sophisticated and user-friendly OBD2 car diagnostic tool available for both Windows 10 and Mac OS X. Considered one of the most advanced OBD software options, it allows users to check and reset codes and communicate directly with the vehicle’s OBD2 system.

While highly resourceful, its advanced features might be overwhelming for casual users. For those seeking a balance of simplicity and professional-grade reliability, Movi software (reviewed below) is another excellent option.

OBD II Auto Doctor excels in data extraction, making it an ideal tool for serious car enthusiasts seeking in-depth understanding of their vehicles.

Key Benefits of OBD II Auto Doctor:

• Comprehensive Diagnostics: Reads DTCs, freeze frame data, and MIL status.
• Emissions and Fuel Data: Monitors fuel emission and consumption data.
• Real-time Indicators: Provides real-time OBD2 data indicators.
• Data Visualization: Offers both numerical and graphical data views.
• Data Sharing: Allows data sharing via email.
• Vehicle Information Retrieval: Reads VIN and ECU calibration ID.
• Extensive DTC Database: Includes a built-in database of over 14,000 alarm codes.

Learn more at the OBD II Auto Doctor website…

Movi and Movi Pro

Movi/ Movi Pro is designed for ease of use while providing reliable vehicle diagnostics on both Mac and Windows 10. It excels at reading information from the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) with a straightforward setup process.

For users prioritizing simplicity without compromising diagnostic reliability, Movi is an ideal choice. It is less complex than OBD II Auto Doctor while still providing accurate live PID parameter reports and fault code detection.

The free version of Movi is sufficient for basic diagnostics, but the paid Pro version is required to clear DTC fault codes.

Movi software can extract historical vehicle failures (DTCs) and clear the “check engine light” after addressing the underlying issues.

Key Benefits of Movi and Movi Pro:

• Real-time Data Viewing: Displays real-time data for engine failure analysis.
• DTC Management: Reads and clears DTCs.
• Freeze Frame Data: Views and clears freeze frame data.
• Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors fuel consumption and economy.
• Performance Metrics: Monitors virtual horsepower and torque.
• Graphical Data Display: Graphs up to 4 engine indicators simultaneously.

Learn more at the Movi website…

EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile OBD software is known for its simplicity and ease of setup on both Mac and Windows 10 systems. It connects to the vehicle’s computer via an ELM327 interface and is available through the App Store (and Windows compatible versions). EOBD Facile is comparable to Movi in terms of user-friendliness, with the preferred choice often depending on individual GUI preference.

Once connected, EOBD Facile allows users to diagnose vehicle issues, view real-time data, access vehicle information, and monitor sensor readings.

Key Benefits of EOBD Facile:

• Check Engine Light Reset: Clears the “check engine light”.
• Engine Code Diagnostics: Views engine codes and their descriptions.
• Manufacturer Error Codes: Monitors manufacturer-specific error codes.
• GPS Data Logging: Backlog of records of GPS data.

Learn more at the EOBD Facile website…

When selecting car diagnostic software, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs. Some users may prioritize advanced features like real-time data visualization, while others may only require basic engine health monitoring and safety checks.

This guide presents our expert recommendations for the best OBD software for Windows 10 based on years of experience with various car diagnostic tools. We hope this helps you find the perfect software to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.

7 Best OBD2 Software in 2024 and Beyond: Reviewed and Tested

4.2 (83.78%) 249 votes