Back in 2015, smartphone OBD2 apps were rapidly changing how car owners approached vehicle diagnostics. For those looking to understand their car’s performance and health, apps like Torque Pro were emerging as powerful, accessible tools. These applications, when paired with a compatible OBD2 adapter, offered a wealth of real-time data directly to your mobile device, putting engine management information at your fingertips.
Torque Pro, for example, was considered a standout option for enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. It provided a comprehensive platform for monitoring various engine parameters. Users could access crucial data such as Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT), Catalyst Temperature (CAT), and boost pressure. One user reported using PID 78 to monitor pre-turbo EGT, observing quick reactions to throttle input and temperature climbs up to 1300F at Wide Open Throttle (WOT). For monitoring catalytic converter temperature, specifically downstream of the DPF, the app displayed slower temperature changes, generally staying below 1000F, except during regeneration cycles where it could fluctuate between 1000F and 1300F. This real-time monitoring allowed drivers to be alerted to regeneration processes or potential issues when towing heavy loads uphill.
Boost readings were another key feature. Users noted a slight discrepancy in Torque Pro’s initial boost calculation but found they could easily apply a correction factor to achieve accurate readings. After correction, boost levels during WOT runs were reported to be in the expected 21-23 psig range. Oil temperature monitoring in Torque Pro closely mirrored the vehicle’s EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center) readings, with a minor delay likely due to data buffering for smoother display. Coolant temperature monitoring was also effective, confirming that the car’s cluster gauge tended to read slightly on the hotter side of actual temperatures.
While apps like Torque Pro in 2015 already offered a robust set of features, users were continually seeking more parameters to monitor, such as fuel rail pressure, oil pressure, injector duty cycle, and transmission temperature. Even when some data was available on the EVIC, having it consolidated and customizable within an OBD2 app provided significant value for detailed vehicle analysis and performance tracking. The “Best Obd2 App 2015” contenders like Torque Pro empowered drivers with data-driven insights into their vehicle’s operation, paving the way for even more advanced diagnostic tools in the years to come.
