In 2017, the landscape of vehicle diagnostics was rapidly evolving, with smartphone technology playing an increasingly central role. For car owners and enthusiasts looking to understand their vehicle’s health, On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps for Android emerged as indispensable tools. These applications, paired with affordable OBD2 adapters, offered unprecedented access to real-time engine data, fault codes, and performance metrics, right on your Android device. Navigating the burgeoning app market to find the most effective and reliable OBD2 app for your needs in 2017 was crucial. This article revisits the top OBD2 Android apps of 2017, highlighting their features, benefits, and why they were considered the best in their class for keeping your car running smoothly.
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car) – The Customizable Powerhouse
Torque Pro was widely celebrated in 2017 as a leading OBD2 app for Android, boasting over a million downloads and consistently high user ratings. For a modest price around $5 on the Google Play Store, users gained access to a wealth of diagnostic features. What set Torque Pro apart in 2017 was its highly customizable dashboard, allowing users to monitor real-time vehicle data exactly as they preferred. The ability to export data to servers or via email added a layer of utility for in-depth analysis and record-keeping.
Pros in 2017:
- Highly Customizable Dashboard: Tailor the app interface to display the most relevant vehicle parameters.
- Data Export Capabilities: Compile and export data for later review or sharing.
- GPS Integration: Incorporates a GPS-based compass for enhanced data logging and tracking.
- Advanced Data Visualization: Graph data for easier trend analysis and car dock support for safer viewing while driving.
- Emission Monitoring: Provides CO2 emission readouts, an increasingly important feature for environmentally conscious drivers in 2017.
- Journey Recording: Track recorder to capture video of your drives, potentially useful for diagnostics and documentation.
- Performance Alerts: Configurable alarms and warnings for out-of-spec vehicle performance, such as high coolant temperature.
- Broad Android Compatibility: Supported older Android versions, including 2.0, making it accessible to a wider range of users in 2017.
Cons in 2017:
- Paid App: Required upfront purchase, which might deter some users looking for free options in 2017.
- Bluetooth Pairing Issues: Some users reported Bluetooth pairing bugs, though often resolvable with updates, which was a common concern for Bluetooth-reliant apps in 2017.
2. OBD Auto Doctor – The Comprehensive Diagnostic Tool
OBD Auto Doctor stood out in 2017 as a versatile OBD2 app, offering functionality comparable to many premium diagnostic tools. Compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, it provided real-time monitoring of crucial vehicle sensors and parameters. A key strength in 2017 was its fuel consumption monitoring, helping users optimize driving habits and save on fuel costs, a significant benefit given fluctuating fuel prices.
Pros in 2017:
- Real-Time Data Display: Clear, immediate access to vehicle sensor data for informed decision-making.
- Versatile Data Presentation: Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data, catering to different user preferences in data interpretation.
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: Worked with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability in 2017.
- GPS Support: Enhanced functionality with GPS integration for location-based data logging.
- Responsive Customer Support: Reportedly helpful customer service, offering assistance when needed.
- Customization Options: Allowed for advanced customization to tailor the app to individual needs.
- Metric and Imperial Units: Supported both unit systems, accommodating a global user base in 2017.
- Extensive Trouble Code Database: Monitored over 18,000 trouble codes, providing comprehensive diagnostic coverage.
- Emission Readiness Monitoring: Tracked readiness status for emission testing, a crucial feature for vehicle owners needing to pass inspections.
Cons in 2017:
- In-App Purchases: Additional features required in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade, potentially increasing the overall cost.
- Connection Reliability: Some users experienced connection issues or reported occasional incorrect readings, typical challenges for OBD2 apps relying on adapter connectivity in 2017.
3. InCarDoc Pro – The Feature-Rich Car Scanner
InCarDoc Pro was recognized as a top OBD2 Android app in 2017 and 2018, known for its robust car scanning and diagnostic capabilities presented through a user-friendly interface. Its ability to offer high-level diagnostics in an accessible manner made it a popular choice for both casual users and more technically inclined car enthusiasts in 2017. The availability of a free version for compatibility testing was a significant advantage, allowing users to ensure the app worked with their vehicle and adapter before committing to a purchase.
Pros in 2017:
- Broad Vehicle Compatibility: Supported all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website, providing clarity on compatibility.
- Comprehensive Real-Time Data: Displayed a wide range of real-time engine and vehicle parameters for thorough monitoring.
- Overlay Mode: Offered an overlay feature to display economy data over other running applications, useful for real-time fuel efficiency monitoring while using navigation or other apps.
- Fuel Economy and Acceleration Widgets: Provided dedicated widgets for quick access to fuel economy and acceleration data.
- GPS Integration: Included GPS support for enhanced tracking and data logging.
- Cloud Data Backup: Allowed uploading of reporting data to cloud storage for data security and accessibility.
- Data Sharing for Professional Assistance: Enabled data sharing via email, facilitating remote diagnostics and professional repair advice.
Cons in 2017:
- Android Version Requirement: Supported Android 4.0.3 and up, potentially excluding users with older devices in 2017.
- Bluetooth Connection Errors: Some users reported issues with Bluetooth connections, a common challenge faced by many Bluetooth-based OBD2 apps of the time.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App – The Highly-Rated Free Option
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App distinguished itself in 2017 as a highly-rated, free car diagnostic tool. With over 2 million installs across various platforms, it demonstrated its popularity and reliability. Its impressive 4.7-star rating across app stores highlighted user satisfaction, making it a standout free option for OBD2 diagnostics on Android in 2017. The app’s compatibility across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms further broadened its appeal.
Pros in 2017:
- Universal OBD2 Compatibility: Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Adapter Versatility: Supported most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, giving users flexibility in hardware choices.
- Customizable Dashboard: Allowed users to personalize the dashboard to track their preferred parameters.
- Fuel Consumption Statistics: Provided fuel consumption statistics to help users monitor and improve fuel efficiency.
- Settings Backup and Restore: Offered settings backup and restore functionality for user convenience.
- Multilingual Support: Supported multiple languages, including English and Russian, expanding its accessibility in 2017.
Cons in 2017:
- Android Version Requirement: Required Android 4.3 and above, excluding users with older Android devices.
- In-App Purchases for Full Functionality: Optimal performance and access to all features required in-app purchases, common for “freemium” apps in 2017.
5. EOBD Facile – The User-Friendly Diagnostic Interface
EOBD Facile was a notable OBD2 car diagnostic app for both Android and iOS in 2017, supporting ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. With over a million installs on the Google Play Store, it had established itself as a reliable tool for accessing essential vehicle parameters. Its strength in 2017 was its straightforward display of key gauges and parameters, making it user-friendly for drivers seeking quick and easy vehicle health checks.
Pros in 2017:
- Real-Time Sensor Display: Provided immediate display of vehicle sensor readings.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Included definitions for over 11,000 fault codes, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
- Fault Code Clearing: Enabled users to clear fault codes and address engine light issues directly from their device.
- Trip Record Storage: Supported storing trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, useful for detailed trip analysis.
- Route Planning Feature: Offered route planning capabilities, a helpful addition for long journeys.
Cons in 2017:
- Requires OBD2 Experience: Best utilized by users with some prior experience with OBD2 apps, potentially less intuitive for complete beginners in 2017.
- No USB Adapter Support: Did not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options.
6. HobDrive – The Advanced and Versatile Tracker
HobDrive, while being one of the more expensive OBD2 apps on the Google Play Store in 2017, was recognized for its advanced and premium car tracking features. Its higher price point reflected its broader compatibility, supporting not only all OBD2 compliant vehicles but also some Non-OBD2 vehicles. This wider vehicle support, along with compatibility across multiple platforms including CarPCs and Windows Phone, made HobDrive a versatile choice for users with diverse needs in 2017.
Pros in 2017:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offered a dashboard that could be tailored to display a wide array of parameters from the vehicle’s ECU.
- Adapter and Platform Versatility: Supported GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters, and worked seamlessly across Android, CarPCs, Windows CE, and Windows Phone.
- Advanced Monitoring Features: Tracked overheating and suspicious fuel trims, providing deeper insights into vehicle health.
- Clear MIL Code Explanations: Offered clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes, helping users understand and address issues.
- Odometer Estimation: Estimated car odometer readings, potentially useful for vehicle maintenance tracking.
- Fuel Efficiency Calculation: Calculated MPG for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
- Pro Version Enhancements: The Pro version included extended graphical gauges for more detailed data visualization.
Cons in 2017:
- Payment Issues: Some users reported difficulty with in-app payments in certain locations.
- Android Version Requirement: Required Android version 3 and above, which, while relatively broad for 2017, still excluded older devices.
7. OBDeleven – The Feature-Rich App with One-Click Functionality
OBDeleven stood out in 2017 due to its “One Click App” feature, setting it apart from many other OBD2 apps. This innovative functionality allowed users to control various car options with a single tap, streamlining vehicle customization and control. While requiring a network connection for optimal performance and offering premium features through an upgrade, OBDeleven was popular among car enthusiasts and mechanics for its advanced capabilities in 2017.
Pros in 2017:
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Code Handling: Supported reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes from the ECU.
- Multilingual Support: Offered support for multiple languages, increasing its accessibility.
- Active Social Media Community: Benefited from an active social media community, providing user support and information sharing.
- Car Battery Analyzer: Included a car battery analyzer, a feature not commonly found in all OBD2 apps in 2017.
- DIY Repair Manuals: Provided manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users to perform basic repairs themselves.
- Connected Car History: Retrieved history for connected cars, useful for tracking vehicle diagnostics over time.
- Control Unit Reset: Supported control unit reset functionality, offering advanced diagnostic and maintenance options.
Cons in 2017:
- Network Dependency: Required a network connection for high performance, particularly for the One Click App feature.
- Advertisements in Free Version: Displayed ads until users upgraded to the Premium version, which could be disruptive to user experience.
8. Dash – Drive Smart – The Intelligent Driving Assistant
Dash – Drive Smart positioned itself in 2017 as more than just an OBD2 app, aiming to be an intelligent driving assistant. Claiming compatibility with cars dating back to 1996, it offered broad vehicle support. Dash focused on providing insights to improve driving habits and vehicle health, and uniquely, it could function even without a device constantly connected, adding to its convenience.
Pros in 2017:
- Optimized Customizable Dashboard: Offered a customizable dashboard that could run in the background, providing continuous monitoring.
- Driver Performance Scoring: Provided a Driver Score and leaderboard, gamifying driving performance and encouraging improvement.
- Multi-Vehicle Support: Supported multiple vehicles with automatic VIN decoding, useful for households with more than one car.
- GPS Parking Locator: Included a GPS-tracking tool to help users find their parked car.
- Nearby Gas Price Comparison: Featured nearby gas price comparison to help users save money on fuel.
Cons in 2017:
- Battery Drain Concerns: Some users reported the app draining their mobile device’s battery, a common concern for apps running in the background.
- Compass Glitches: The compass feature was reported to be occasionally glitchy, though potentially correctable with updates.
- Network Connection Issues: Some users experienced network connection problems, which could affect real-time data accuracy.
9. Engine Link (IOS) – The iOS Alternative to Torque Pro
Engine Link served as a strong iOS counterpart to the popular Android app Torque Pro in 2017. Exclusively available for iOS devices, it offered similar functionalities, connecting with ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. Despite some user reports of WiFi connectivity issues emerging around 2017, it remained a highly regarded car tracking application on iOS, priced affordably around $6 on iTunes.
Pros in 2017:
- Customizable Dashboard: Offered a one-stop customizable dashboard, allowing users to focus on essential parameters.
- Emission and Fuel Consumption Monitoring: Tracked emission rates and fuel consumption, providing valuable environmental and economic insights.
- Extensive Fault Code Support: Read and cleared thousands of OBD2 fault codes, aiding in comprehensive diagnostics.
- Heads-Up Display Mode: Featured a heads-up dashboard display option for safer driving and data viewing.
- No In-App Purchases: Offered all features for a one-time purchase price, without in-app purchases or subscription fees, a benefit in 2017.
- Multilingual Support: Supported over 20 languages, catering to a diverse user base.
- Torque Custom PID File Support: The latest update in 2017 included support for Torque Custom PID Files, enhancing customization for advanced users.
Cons in 2017:
- ECU Data Reading Issues: Some users reported instances where the app connected but failed to read ECU data, indicating potential reliability concerns.
- iOS Version Requirement: Required iOS 8.0 or later, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices in 2017.
10. ScanMaster – The Accurate Fault Code Reader
ScanMaster was another noteworthy car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters in 2017. While not as widely recognized as some other apps, it maintained a solid 4.0 rating with over a million installs, indicating consistent user satisfaction. Its strength in 2017 was its accurate fault code reading, helping users avoid being overcharged by mechanics by providing reliable diagnostic information. The app’s free “Lite” version offered a valuable entry point, providing essential parameters without upfront cost.
Pros in 2017:
- Free Version Availability: Offered a free “Lite” version with essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status.
- Multilingual Support: Supported German and English languages, catering to key European and international markets in 2017.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Described as easy to navigate, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Broad Adapter Compatibility: Supported most ELM327 adapters, providing hardware flexibility.
- Data Recording Capability: Included data recording functionality for in-depth analysis.
- Graphical Data Representation: Presented data graphically for easier interpretation and trend analysis.
Cons in 2017:
- Ineffective Customer Support: Reportedly had an ineffective customer support team, potentially problematic for users needing assistance.
- Device Compatibility Issues: Some users reported compatibility issues with certain devices.
- Android Version Requirement: Compatible with Android 4.0 and above, excluding older Android devices.
11. DashCommand (IOS) – The Award-Winning Performance Dashboard
DashCommand for iOS distinguished itself in 2017 as an award-winning OBD2 app, having won the SEMA Show best mobile electronic product award in 2014. Positioned as a premium app, priced at $14.99 on iTunes, it delivered on its promise of turning an iPhone into an advanced engine data display. Its key strengths in 2017 included sophisticated performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine monitoring, and emission testing, making it a top choice for iOS users seeking comprehensive vehicle data.
Pros in 2017:
- Ease of Use: Designed for user-friendliness, making advanced features accessible.
- Customizable Performance Gauges: Allowed extensive customization of performance gauges to track specific data points.
- Inclinometer Feature: Included an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-road driving data.
- Data Logging and Playback: Supported data-logging, recording, and playback for detailed performance analysis.
- Advanced Trip Computer: Featured a sophisticated trip computer maintaining stats for up to five trips.
- Graphical Data Display: Presented collected data graphically for easier understanding and analysis.
Cons in 2017:
- iPhone X Incompatibility: Reportedly not compatible with iPhone X at the time, a limitation for users with the latest iPhone model in 2017.
- Haltech Elite Compatibility Issues: Experienced compatibility issues with Haltech elite 2599 systems.
- In-App Purchases for Some Models: Contained in-app purchases for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost.
12. BlueDriver – The Free and Feature-Rich Diagnostic Tool
BlueDriver stood out in 2017 as a highly-rated and feature-rich OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android. With a 4.6-star rating on iTunes and 2 million downloads, it demonstrated its popularity and user satisfaction. Despite being a free app, BlueDriver offered a comprehensive suite of diagnostic features, often found in paid apps, making it a favorite among mechanics and car enthusiasts in 2017. Its wireless connection and advanced diagnostic capabilities for systems beyond just the engine set it apart.
Pros in 2017:
- Wireless Connectivity: Offered wireless connection to the vehicle, enhancing ease of use.
- Smog Readiness Check: Included a smog readiness check, crucial for vehicle emission compliance.
- Cost Savings Potential: Helped reduce traveling costs by enabling proactive vehicle maintenance.
- Free and Regular Updates: Provided free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing improvement and feature enhancements.
- On-Board Monitoring Test Results: Displayed on-board monitoring test results for detailed diagnostics.
- Enhanced System Diagnostics: Improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more, beyond basic engine codes.
- Repair Report Generation: Allowed generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record-keeping.
Cons in 2017:
- iOS Version Requirement: Required iOS 8 and above, limiting compatibility with older iOS devices.
- iPhone XR Issues: Some initial issues reported with iPhone XR, though likely addressed with updates.
13. GoFAR – The Mileage and Health Tracker with Tax Benefits
GoFAR was unique in 2017 as an OBD2 device and app system that focused on both car health and mileage tracking, with the added benefit of IRS compliance for potential tax savings. Its emphasis on fuel savings and proactive vehicle health monitoring, combined with potential tax advantages, made it an appealing option for cost-conscious drivers in 2017. The high ratings on both Android and iOS app stores reflected positive user experiences with the GoFAR system.
Pros in 2017:
- Easy Installation and Use: Designed for simple setup and intuitive operation.
- Warranty Included: Offered a one-year warranty on the initial purchase, providing buyer confidence.
- Plain English Error Alerts: Sent error alerts in plain English, making diagnostics accessible to non-technical users.
- Mechanic Platform Integration: Included a platform for hiring nearby mechanics, streamlining the repair process.
- Extensive Fault Code Database: Provided over 3000 fault codes and descriptions.
- Driver Competition Leaderboard: Offered a global leaderboard to compare fuel saving performance with other drivers, adding a competitive element.
- Maintenance and Insurance Alerts: Sent alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance, and registration renewals, promoting proactive vehicle management.
- No Subscription Fees: Required a one-time purchase with no ongoing subscription fees.
Cons in 2017:
- Upfront Purchase Required: Needed to be purchased upfront at $99, a higher initial cost compared to app-only solutions.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor – The Simple and Understandable Diagnostic Tool
FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor differentiated itself in 2017 by prioritizing simplicity and ease of understanding, making OBD2 diagnostics accessible to a wider audience. Its key feature was translating fault codes into plain, understandable terms, removing the technical jargon typically associated with vehicle diagnostics. FIXD offered its own OBD2 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal performance, and the app enjoyed a strong 4.5 rating on the Google Play Store.
Pros in 2017:
- Quick and Easy Setup: Designed for installation and immediate use within minutes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Particularly suitable for users new to OBD2 apps, with a focus on simplicity.
- Maintenance Reminders: Allowed scheduling of maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
- Worn Parts Alerts: Alerted users to worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement.
- Easy Onboarding: Streamlined onboarding process for new users.
- In-App Parts Purchase: Integrated the ability to buy car parts directly within the app, simplifying the repair process.
- Helpful Customer Support: Reportedly offered a helpful customer support team.
Cons in 2017:
- Earlier Version Bugs: Some bugs reported in older app versions, suggesting potential for ongoing improvements.
- FIXD Adapter Dependency: Worked optimally with FIXD adapters, limiting hardware choice.
- In-App Purchases: Offered in-app purchases, potentially for advanced features or services.
15. Carly For BMW – The BMW-Specific Diagnostic Solution
Carly For BMW stood out in 2017 as a specialized OBD2 app designed specifically for BMW vehicles. Targeting BMW owners, from novices to experienced drivers, it offered access to vital car data in real-time. While primarily focused on BMWs, the Android app also supported standard OBD features, allowing BMW owners to leverage both brand-specific and general diagnostic capabilities. Compatibility testing with a Lite version before purchase was recommended.
Pros in 2017:
- BMW-Specific Diagnostics: Offered thorough health checks of BMW-specific electronic components.
- Used Car Check Feature: Included a used car check feature, useful for pre-purchase inspections of BMWs.
- One-Click Parking Brake Control: Offered one-click control for the electric parking brake, a BMW-specific function.
- Premium Adapter Support: Carly adapters came with premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
- DIY Battery Registration: Supported DIY battery registration, a common BMW maintenance task.
- Excellent Customer Service: Reportedly provided excellent customer service.
Cons in 2017:
- Expensive Adapters: Carly adapters were more expensive compared to generic OBD2 adapters on the market.
- Limited Fault Codes for Certain BMW Models: Reportedly had limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models.
16. Carista OBD2 App – The Customizable Car Settings Tool
Carista OBD2 App in 2017 was notable for its customization features, particularly for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. Beyond standard OBD2 diagnostics, Carista allowed users to customize ECU options typically only accessible by dealers, offering a unique level of vehicle personalization. Its Bluetooth connectivity and compact adapter design added to its appeal.
Pros in 2017:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Enabled wireless connection via Bluetooth.
- Compact Adapter Design: Featured a compact OBD2 plug.
- Customizable Settings: Allowed users to customize various ECU settings.
- Phone-to-OBD2 Innovation: Integrated smartphone convenience with OBD2 scanning.
- Free Trial Period: Offered a 1-month free trial.
- Cross-Platform Support: Supported both iOS and Android.
- Detailed Diagnostics: Provided comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
Cons in 2017:
- In-App Purchases: Required in-app purchases for full access to customization and advanced features.
17) OBD Fusion – The User-Friendly and Customizable Option
OBD Fusion, developed by OCTech, was recognized in 2017 as a popular and user-friendly OBD2 app, suitable for both novice and professional users. Its selling point was its ease of use and highly customizable dashboard, allowing users to tailor the displayed information to their specific needs. Cross-platform compatibility with both iOS and Android devices further broadened its user base.
Pros in 2017:
- Customizable Dashboards: Offered highly customizable dashboards to display preferred parameters.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supported both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Navigation Features: Included GPS navigation features, adding extra utility.
- Emission Monitoring: Provided emission monitoring capabilities.
- Extensive Data Logging: Offered extensive data logging for detailed analysis.
Cons in 2017:
- Feature Expansion Packs: Some features were locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases for full functionality.
- No Data Sharing Features: Lacked diagnostic data sharing features, limiting collaborative diagnostics.
Conclusion
The year 2017 was a pivotal time for OBD2 Android apps, with a diverse range of options available to car owners seeking to understand and maintain their vehicles. Choosing the “best” app depended heavily on individual needs, technical expertise, and budget. Compatibility was also a crucial factor, as not all apps and adapters worked seamlessly with every vehicle. As highlighted, many app developers offered “Lite” or free versions to test compatibility before committing to a paid purchase.
Top Android OBD2 App Picks for 2017:
- For Comprehensive Features and Customization: Torque Pro remained a top choice for its extensive features and highly customizable interface, despite being a paid app.
- For User-Friendliness and Broad Functionality: OBD Fusion offered a balance of ease of use and comprehensive features, making it a strong contender for a wide range of users in 2017.
Ultimately, the best OBD2 Android app in 2017 was the one that best met your specific vehicle diagnostic needs and user preferences. Exploring the features and considering the pros and cons of each app, as outlined above, would guide you to the right choice for keeping your car in top condition.
