In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. As a car repair expert at obd2global.com, I’ve seen firsthand how these apps, fueled by advancements in mobile app development, empower drivers with real-time insights into their car’s engine and performance. Forget guesswork and roadside surprises; OBD2 apps are like having a direct line of communication with your vehicle.
These apps connect to your car’s computer, often via a small Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapter, and translate complex data into understandable information right on your Android device. You gain access to crucial parameters such as speed, engine temperature, pressure readings, and much more.
However, with a plethora of options available on the app market, choosing the best OBD2 app for Android can feel overwhelming. Many drivers, seeking detailed car reviews and diagnostic capabilities, find themselves lost in a sea of apps, some of which unfortunately fall short of expectations. We’ve all heard stories of users purchasing apps only to be disappointed by limited functionality or misleading promises.
To prevent you from wasting time and money, and to ensure you equip yourself with a truly valuable tool, I’ve compiled a list of the top OBD2 apps for Android. This expert-selected guide dives deep into 17 of the most reputable and effective apps currently available. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a daily driver wanting to stay informed, this list will help you pinpoint the perfect OBD2 app to optimize your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Let’s get started and explore the best OBD2 apps for your Android device!
Top OBD2 Apps for Android: Expert Reviews
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently earns high praise from vehicle owners, frequently cited as a leading contender and arguably the best OBD2 app for Android. With over a million downloads on the Google Play Store, its popularity speaks volumes. While it’s a paid app, typically around $5, user reviews and expert opinions suggest it’s a worthwhile investment.
Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a customizable dashboard displaying real-time vehicle data. Imagine monitoring your engine’s vitals, performance metrics, and sensor readings all laid out clearly on your phone or tablet screen. Beyond real-time monitoring, Torque Pro allows you to export collected data to its servers or via email, enabling in-depth analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Personalize the app’s appearance with multiple themes to match your preferences.
- Data Sharing: Easily share screenshots of your dashboard on social media or via email for collaboration or record-keeping.
- Integrated GPS Compass: Includes a built-in GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging.
- Data Graphing and Car Dock Support: Visualize data trends through graphs and seamlessly integrate with car docks for convenient display.
- CO2 Emission Readouts: Monitor your vehicle’s carbon dioxide emissions.
- Track Recorder: Capture video footage of your journeys synchronized with OBD2 data.
- Customizable Alarms and Warnings: Set up alerts for critical parameters, such as coolant temperature exceeding safe limits.
- Wide Android Compatibility: Supports older Android versions, including 2.0 and above.
Cons:
- Paid App: Requires upfront purchase from the Google Play Store.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users report occasional Bluetooth pairing bugs, which can often be resolved with app updates or device adjustments.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many other diagnostic apps, providing comprehensive vehicle monitoring. It’s compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters, allowing it to track essential vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time.
This app empowers you to monitor multiple control units within your vehicle, including engine and transmission systems. OBD Auto Doctor also supports data export in CSV format via email, making it easy to analyze data or share it with mechanics. A particularly useful feature is its optimized fuel consumption monitoring, which can help you save money on fuel costs over time.
Pros:
- Real-time Data Display: Provides instantaneous data on your Android screen for informed decision-making about your car’s health.
- Numerical and Graphical Data Presentation: Displays sensor data in both numerical and graphical formats for easy interpretation.
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring wide usability.
- GPS Support: Integrates GPS functionality for location-based data logging and tracking.
- Responsive Customer Support: Offers 24/7 customer service to assist with any questions or issues.
- Extensive Customization: Provides advanced customization options to tailor the app to your needs.
- Imperial and Metric Unit Support: Supports both imperial and metric units for user convenience.
- Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitors over 18,000 diagnostic trouble codes for comprehensive issue detection.
- Readiness Status Monitoring: Tracks emissions readiness status, indicating when your car is ready for emissions testing.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases and Premium Upgrade: Additional features and functionalities are locked behind in-app purchases or a premium upgrade.
- Potential Connection and Reading Issues: Some users have reported occasional connection problems or inaccurate data readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a top OBD2 app for Android, earning accolades in car review circles for several years. Its strengths lie in its advanced car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented within a clean and user-friendly interface.
Before committing to the paid version (typically under $5), you can download a free version of InCarDoc Pro to verify adapter and vehicle compatibility. The Pro version supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Wide OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their official website.
- Real-time Parameter Monitoring: Displays real-time engine and vehicle parameters for comprehensive insights.
- Overlay Mode: Allows displaying fuel economy data in the background or overlaid on other running applications.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Provides dedicated widgets for monitoring fuel efficiency and acceleration performance.
- GPS Integration: Includes GPS support for location tracking and data logging.
- Cloud Data Reporting: Enables uploading reporting data to cloud storage for backup and accessibility.
- Data Sharing for Professional Assistance: Allows sharing data via email for remote car repair assistance.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with older devices.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users have reported occasional errors during Bluetooth connection attempts.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
For those seeking comprehensive vehicle knowledge and parameter monitoring, the free Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a powerful tool. It allows you to tap into your car’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and decipher a wide range of data points.
This app can help you proactively identify potential problems and, if you understand fault codes, even address minor issues yourself, saving on mechanic visits. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 boasts broad compatibility across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile platforms. With over 2 million installs across these platforms and a high user rating (4.7 stars), it’s a highly regarded and effective OBD2 scanner.
Pros:
- Universal OBD2 Vehicle Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
- Adapter Compatibility: Works with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters for flexible connectivity.
- Customizable Dashboard: Allows users to personalize the dashboard to track their preferred parameters.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provides detailed fuel consumption data for efficiency monitoring.
- Settings Backup and Restore: Offers backup and restore functionality for app settings.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.3 and above, potentially excluding older devices.
- In-App Purchases for Full Functionality: Optimal performance and access to all features may require in-app purchases.
5. EOBD Facile
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 array of essential vehicle gauges and parameters needed for informed car maintenance decisions.
Depending on your car’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display parameters such as vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake, and numerous other gauges directly on your Android device. With over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile has established itself as a popular and reliable OBD2 app.
Pros:
- Real-time Sensor Data: Displays vehicle sensor readings in real-time for immediate insights.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Fault Code Clearing: Allows users to clear fault codes and address engine light issues directly.
- Trip Record Storage: Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Route Planning Feature: Offers route planning functionality, beneficial for long journeys.
Cons:
- Requires OBD2 App Experience: May be better suited for users with some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its features.
- No USB Adapter Support: Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive stands out as a feature-rich OBD2 app for Android, although it comes with a higher price tag compared to many others on the Google Play Store. Its premium features and advanced car tracking capabilities justify the cost for users seeking comprehensive diagnostics.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its broad vehicle compatibility. It supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles as well as select non-OBD2 vehicles, expanding its usability. HobDrive also offers cross-platform accessibility, working seamlessly with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS devices.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offers a highly customizable dashboard to display preferred parameters from your car’s ECU.
- Adapter Compatibility: Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters.
- Advanced Monitoring: Tracks potential issues like overheating and unusual fuel trim levels.
- MIL Code Explanations: Provides clear explanations of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) codes for better understanding.
- Odometer Estimation: Estimates car odometer readings.
- MPG Calculation for Diesel Vehicles: Calculates MPG for diesel vehicles without relying on battery assistance.
- Pro Version with Enhanced Gauges: The Pro version includes extended graphical gauges for detailed data visualization.
Cons:
- Payment Issues in Some Regions: Some users have reported difficulties completing in-app payments depending on their location.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
When considering Android app development and feature richness, OBDeleven distinguishes itself from many other OBD2 apps. Beyond standard parameter displays, OBDeleven incorporates “One-Click Apps” that enable users to control various car functions with a single tap.
To fully utilize the “One-Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. A Premium upgrade unlocks even more advanced car tracking tools. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven is a valuable tool for car diagnostics and customization, popular among both enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Handling: Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from all vehicle ECUs.
- Multi-Language Support: Offers support for multiple languages.
- Active Social Media Community: Benefits from an active user community for support and information sharing.
- Car Battery Analyzer: Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not always found in other OBD2 apps.
- DIY Car Fix Manuals: Provides manuals for DIY car repairs.
- Connected Car History Retrieval: Allows retrieving the history of connected vehicles.
- Control Unit Reset Support: Supports control unit resets for certain functions.
Cons:
- Network Dependency for Full Performance: Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for “One-Click Apps.”
- Advertisements in Free Version: Contains advertisements until users upgrade to the Premium version.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a car tracking app that integrates with OBDeleven software and offers a range of intelligent car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models.
Dash aims to enhance your driving experience and car maintenance decisions by providing comprehensive insights into vehicle performance and driver behavior. The app can even function independently without requiring a constant device connection.
Pros:
- Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Offers a customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in the background.
- Driver Score and Leaderboard: Provides a driver score and leaderboard to compare your driving performance with others.
- Multi-Vehicle Support with VIN Decoding: Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding.
- GPS Parking Locator: Includes a GPS-tracking tool to help you locate your parked car.
- Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Features nearby gas price comparison to help save money on fuel.
Cons:
- Battery Drain Concerns: Some users have reported concerns about the app draining their mobile device’s battery.
- Glitchy Compass Feature: The compass feature may experience glitches, although updates may address this.
- Network Connection Issues: Some users have encountered network connection problems.
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is a car diagnostic app similar in functionality to Torque Pro, but exclusively available for iOS devices. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. However, recent user feedback indicates potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity.
Despite the reported Wi-Fi connection issues, Engine Link remains a highly regarded car tracking application on iOS. Available for a one-time purchase on iTunes, it offers comprehensive car monitoring capabilities.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboard: Provides a customizable dashboard to display only the parameters you wish to track.
- Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption for efficiency analysis.
- OBD2 Fault Code Handling: Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
- Heads-Up Display Option: Offers a heads-up display mode for projecting data onto the windshield.
- No In-App Purchases or Subscriptions: No additional costs beyond the initial app purchase.
- Extensive Language Support: Supports over 20 languages.
- Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update includes support for Torque Custom PID files.
Cons:
- ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data.
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8.0 or later.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another capable car monitoring tool designed for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely known as some other scanners, the Android app maintains a solid user rating on the Google Play Store.
With ScanMaster, you gain a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and accurate fault code readings, potentially preventing overcharging by mechanics. The app offers a free Lite version with essential parameters, while the Pro version unlocks full features, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions.
Pros:
- Free Version with Essential Parameters: Offers a range of tracking parameters even in the free Lite version.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports German and English languages.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Easy to navigate and use.
- Broad Adapter Compatibility: Compatible with most ELM327 adapters.
- Data Recording Capability: Supports data recording for later analysis.
- Graphical Data Representation: Provides clear graphical representations of data for easier interpretation.
Cons:
- Ineffective Customer Support: Users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness.
- Device Compatibility Issues: Some users have encountered compatibility issues with certain devices.
- Android Version Requirement: Requires Android 4.0 and above.
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand positions itself as a premium solution for transforming your iOS device into an advanced engine data display. It has earned industry recognition, winning the SEMA Show award for best mobile electronic product.
As one of the more expensive iOS OBD2 scanner apps on iTunes, DashCommand delivers high-performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emissions testing for up to five trips. User reviews generally indicate that the app provides excellent value for its price.
Pros:
- Ease of Use: User-friendly and straightforward to operate.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track specific data points.
- Inclinometer: Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch during off-road driving.
- Data Logging, Recording, and Playback: Supports comprehensive data logging, recording, and playback functionalities.
- Sophisticated Trip Computer: Features a trip computer that maintains statistics for up to five trips.
- Graphical Data Representation: Presents collected data in graphical formats for easy analysis.
Cons:
- iPhone X Incompatibility: Not compatible with iPhone X models.
- Haltech Elite 2500 Compatibility Issues: Reported compatibility problems with Haltech Elite 2500.
- In-App Purchases for Certain Car Models: May require in-app purchases for specific car models.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a highly-rated OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android platforms. It’s recognized as a top free car diagnostic tool, reflected in its high user rating and significant download numbers.
BlueDriver enables monitoring of critical ECU parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data access, and data sharing via email. Its feature set rivals some paid apps, making it a popular choice among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless Car Connection: Connects wirelessly to your vehicle for convenience.
- Smog Readiness Check: Includes a smog readiness check feature.
- Cost Savings Potential: Helps reduce car maintenance and repair costs.
- Free and Regular Updates: Receives free and regular updates for ongoing improvement.
- On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displays on-board monitoring test results.
- Enhanced Diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, etc.: Provides improved diagnostics for systems beyond the engine.
- Repair Report Generation and Sharing: Allows generating and sharing repair reports.
Cons:
- iOS Version Requirement: Requires iOS 8 and above.
- iPhone XR Issues: Some users reported issues with iPhone XR, potentially resolvable with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR is a car diagnostic device and app system designed for comprehensive vehicle health monitoring and mileage tracking. It’s compatible with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.
A notable feature of GoFAR is its IRS compliance, potentially offering tax savings for business or mileage tracking purposes. It also emphasizes fuel efficiency, aiming to reduce fuel costs significantly. The GoFAR app enjoys high user ratings on both Android and iOS.
Pros:
- Easy Installation and Use: Simple to set up and operate.
- Warranty Included: Offers a one-year warranty on initial device purchase.
- Plain English Error Alerts: Sends clear alerts in plain English when vehicle errors occur.
- Mechanic Finder Platform: Provides a platform for finding nearby mechanics.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Includes a large database of fault codes with descriptions.
- Driver Leaderboard: Features a global driver leaderboard based on cost savings.
- Maintenance and Alert Reminders: Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance, and registration.
- No Subscription Fees: No ongoing subscription or usage fees.
Cons:
- Device Purchase Required: Requires purchasing the GoFAR device upfront.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD is an OBD2 app and adapter system focusing on simplicity and user-friendliness without sacrificing diagnostic quality. Fault codes are translated into easily understandable terms within the FIXD app.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance. The Android app has a strong user rating on the Google Play Store.
Pros:
- Quick and Easy Setup: Installs and is ready to use within minutes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allows scheduling maintenance reminders.
- Worn Part Alerts: Alerts users to worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement.
- Easy Onboarding Process: Simple and guided onboarding experience.
- Integrated Parts Purchasing: Enables purchasing car parts directly through the app.
- Helpful Customer Support: Offers responsive customer support.
Cons:
- Past App Bugs: Older app versions may have contained bugs.
- FIXD Adapter Dependency: Primarily designed to work with FIXD adapters.
- In-App Purchases: Includes in-app purchases for certain features or functionalities.
15. Carly for BMW
Carly for BMW is a specialized OBD2 app designed specifically for BMW vehicles and compatible with Carly’s proprietary adapters.
Whether you are new to BMW ownership or a seasoned driver, Carly provides real-time access to vital car gauges and parameters. The Android app supports standard OBD2 features, with compatibility testing available in the free Lite version.
Pros:
- Comprehensive BMW Health Checks: Provides thorough health checks of BMW electronic components.
- Used Car Check Feature: Offers a used car check function before purchasing a BMW.
- One-Click Parking Brake Control: Includes one-click control for the electric parking brake.
- Carly Adapter Support and Warranty: Carly adapters come with customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY Battery Registration Support: Supports DIY battery registration for BMWs.
- Responsive Customer Service: Offers excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Expensive Carly Adapters: Carly adapters are generally more expensive than generic OBD2 adapters.
- Limited Fault Codes for Certain BMW Models: May have limited fault code coverage for specific BMW models like the 2 Series F45/F46.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is another Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 solution, accompanied by its dedicated OBD2 plug. Carista offers strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.
A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option, allowing users to access and modify numerous ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships.
Pros:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth for wireless connection.
- Compact Adapter Design: Features a compact OBD2 adapter.
- Customizable Settings: Offers extensive customizable vehicle settings.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Streamlines phone-based OBD2 interaction.
- Free Trial Period: Offers a 1-month free trial.
- Cross-Platform Support: Supports both iOS and Android devices.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Provides detailed vehicle diagnostics.
Cons:
- In-App Purchases: Includes in-app purchases for full feature access.
17. OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion is a popular OBD2 app designed to provide complete vehicle diagnostic reports when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner.
OBD Fusion is known for its ease of use, appealing to both beginners and experienced users. Its customizable dashboard is a key selling point, allowing users to display and closely monitor desired engine functions.
Pros:
- Customizable Dashboards: Offers highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Navigation Features: Includes GPS navigation features.
- Emission Monitoring: Provides emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive Data Logging: Offers extensive data logging functionalities.
Cons:
- Features Behind Expansion Packs: Some features are locked behind expansion packs requiring additional purchases.
- No Diagnostic Data Sharing: Lacks diagnostic data sharing features.
Conclusion
This comprehensive list provides a strong starting point for choosing the best OBD2 app for Android to suit your specific needs and vehicle.
Before making a purchase or committing to a particular app, remember to verify compatibility with your car. Functional testing is crucial to ensure seamless integration. Many OBD2 app developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility checks, while others may require purchasing the full version upfront. Take advantage of free trials or compatibility checks whenever possible to make an informed decision.
To help narrow down your choices, here are our top recommendations:
Best Android OBD2 App:
Torque Pro – A paid app offering a rich feature set and broad vehicle compatibility, consistently praised by users and experts alike.
Best iOS OBD2 App:
OBD Fusion – A paid app known for its user-friendliness, comprehensive tracking of vital parameters, and cross-platform availability.
By exploring these top OBD2 apps, you can unlock a deeper understanding of your vehicle’s performance and health, empowering you to make informed decisions about maintenance and driving habits.
