In today’s tech-driven world, understanding your vehicle’s health is no longer confined to mechanics. Onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps are revolutionizing car maintenance, putting real-time vehicle data right at your fingertips, especially on your Android device. With the power of Obd2 Android App technology, you can effectively listen to what your car is telling you, proactively addressing issues and preventing potential roadside emergencies.
OBD2 apps essentially grant you access to your car’s engine computer, displaying crucial information like speed, rotation angles, pressure levels, and temperatures in an easily digestible format on your smartphone. However, the sheer volume of obd2 android app options available can be overwhelming. Sifting through countless tools to find the best one for your needs can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Many drivers have experienced the disappointment of investing in an obd2 android app only to discover it lacking in features or performance. We aim to prevent that from happening to you.
This article dives into 17 of the leading obd2 android app choices currently on the market. Each of these apps has the potential to be an invaluable asset for your vehicle, providing insights and control like never before.
Ready to explore the best obd2 android app solutions? Let’s get started!
Best OBD2 Apps for Android: Detailed Reviews
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro consistently ranks as a top-tier obd2 android app, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and high praise from users. For a modest price of around $5 on the Google Play Store, Torque Pro unlocks a wealth of diagnostic capabilities that many consider well worth the investment.
Torque Pro
Alt: Torque Pro app interface on an Android phone displaying real-time car diagnostics.
Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a customizable dashboard, displaying real-time vehicle data in an intuitive and visually appealing layout. Furthermore, it allows for data export to Torque Pro servers or via email, enabling later analysis and record-keeping.
Pros:
- Offers diverse dashboard themes for personalization.
- Enables screenshot sharing to social media and email for easy communication.
- Features an integrated GPS compass for enhanced navigation data.
- Supports data graphing and car dock integration for comprehensive data analysis.
- Provides CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Includes a track recorder for video documentation of journeys, useful for analysis or insurance purposes.
- Sets alarms and warnings for suboptimal car performance, such as high coolant temperature, promoting preventative maintenance.
- Compatible with older Android versions, extending usability to a wider range of devices.
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment, unlike some free alternatives.
- May encounter Bluetooth pairing issues, though typically resolvable with updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions as a robust car diagnostic tool, similar to many of the top obd2 android app options available. It seamlessly integrates with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters to monitor vital vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time, providing a comprehensive overview of your car’s condition.
OBD Auto Doctor
Alt: OBD Auto Doctor app displaying real-time engine data on an Android smartphone.
With OBD Auto Doctor, you can monitor various control units, including engine and transmission systems, gaining insights into different aspects of vehicle operation. The app also supports data export in CSV format via email, facilitating data sharing and analysis. Its optimized fuel consumption monitoring feature can contribute to significant savings on fuel costs over time.
Pros:
- Presents real-time data on your Android screen, enabling informed decisions regarding vehicle maintenance and driving habits.
- Supports both numerical and graphical data display for user preference and data interpretation.
- Compatible with all OBD2-compliant vehicles, ensuring broad applicability.
- Offers GPS support for location-based vehicle data and tracking.
- Provides readily available customer service for user assistance and troubleshooting.
- Features advanced customization options to tailor the app to individual needs.
- Supports both imperial and metric units, catering to diverse user preferences.
- Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes, providing extensive diagnostic coverage.
- Tracks readiness status for emissions testing, streamlining vehicle compliance.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to unlock the full range of features, potentially adding to the overall cost.
- Some users may experience connection issues or inaccurate readings, requiring troubleshooting or adapter adjustments.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently been recognized as a leading obd2 android app, earning accolades in car review circles for several years. Its strength lies in its high-level car scanning and diagnostic capabilities, presented through a clean and user-friendly home screen interface, making it an accessible yet powerful tool.
InCarDoc Pro
Alt: InCarDoc Pro interface on an Android device showing vehicle diagnostics information.
Before committing to a purchase (priced under $5), users can download a free version to verify adapter and vehicle compatibility, ensuring a risk-free trial. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi adapters, offering flexibility in connectivity. It is also designed to function seamlessly with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of OBD2-compliant vehicles listed on their official website, ensuring broad compatibility.
- Allows users to read real-time engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights into vehicle operation.
- Offers an overlay mode to display fuel economy data in the background or over other running applications, enabling continuous monitoring.
- Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets for quick access to key performance metrics.
- Provides GPS support for location tracking and data logging.
- Enables uploading reporting data to cloud storage for secure backup and accessibility.
- Facilitates data sharing via email, allowing users to easily seek professional assistance with car repairs or diagnostics.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.0.3 or higher, potentially excluding users with older devices.
- Some users may encounter Bluetooth connection errors, necessitating troubleshooting or adapter adjustments.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
The Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app empowers you to deeply understand your vehicle by accessing the multitude of parameters read by its electronic control unit (ECU). This free car diagnostic obd2 android app is a powerful tool for proactive car maintenance and informed decision-making.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Alt: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app dashboard on an Android phone displaying various car parameters.
By using Car Scanner ELM OBD2, you can identify potential issues before they escalate, and if you are familiar with fault codes, you can address minor problems yourself, saving time and money. Knowing fault code meanings also empowers you to determine when professional mechanic intervention is truly necessary.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 stands out as a highly versatile monitoring tool, compatible with a wide array of devices across Android, iOS, and Windows platforms. With over 2 million installations across supported platforms and a high user rating (4.7), it is a highly regarded and worthwhile obd2 android app to explore.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles, ensuring broad applicability across car makes and models.
- Works seamlessly with most Wi-Fi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, providing flexible connectivity options.
- Features a customizable dashboard to track parameters most relevant to individual users.
- Provides fuel consumption statistics for efficient driving and cost savings.
- Offers settings backup and restore functionality, ensuring data preservation and easy setup.
- Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish, catering to a global user base.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 and above, limiting compatibility with older devices.
- Optimal performance may require in-app purchases to unlock advanced features.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a versatile OBD2 car diagnostic obd2 android app also available for iOS, compatible with both ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. This app provides access to essential vehicle gauges and parameters needed for informed car maintenance and performance monitoring directly on your Android device.
EOBD Facile
Alt: EOBD Facile app interface on an Android phone displaying real-time vehicle data.
Depending on your vehicle’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display a range of gauges on its dashboard, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, and air intake volume. This comprehensive data visualization empowers users to understand their car’s operational status.
EOBD Facile has achieved over 1 million installations on the Google Play Store, demonstrating its popularity and user trust as a reliable obd2 android app.
Pros:
- Provides real-time display of vehicle sensor data for immediate feedback and analysis.
- Includes a comprehensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions, aiding in accurate diagnostics.
- Enables users to delete fault codes and address engine light issues, potentially resolving minor problems independently.
- Supports storage of trip records on an SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software, facilitating in-depth analysis.
- Offers route planning functionality, beneficial for long journeys and trip optimization.
Cons:
- May require some prior experience with OBD2 apps to fully utilize its advanced features effectively.
- Does not support USB adapters, limiting connectivity options compared to some competitors.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive stands out as a feature-rich obd2 android app and is positioned at a higher price point on the Google Play Store compared to many alternatives. While costing around $10, HobDrive justifies its price with advanced premium car tracking features and broad vehicle compatibility.
HobDrive
Alt: HobDrive app on an Android device showing a customizable dashboard with vehicle parameters.
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility with not only all OBD2-compliant vehicles but also certain non-OBD2 vehicles, such as Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems, expanding its applicability.
HobDrive’s versatility extends beyond Android, offering seamless access on CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS, providing a unified car diagnostics experience across multiple platforms.
Pros:
- Features a highly customizable dashboard that displays a wide range of parameters provided by your car’s ECU, tailored to user needs.
- Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters for flexible connectivity options.
- Tracks critical parameters like overheating and suspicious fuel trims, alerting users to potential engine issues.
- Provides clear explanations of MIL codes (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), enhancing diagnostic understanding.
- Estimates car odometer readings, offering a digital mileage tracking feature.
- Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles even without battery assistance, providing accurate fuel efficiency data.
- The Pro version unlocks extended graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization and analysis.
Cons:
- Some users in certain locations may experience difficulties with in-app payments, potentially hindering access to premium features.
- Requires Android version 3 and above, excluding very old Android devices.
7. OBDeleven
When considering obd2 android app development and feature sets, OBDeleven distinguishes itself with innovative functionalities beyond basic diagnostics. While providing a clear view of ECU parameters, OBDeleven goes further by incorporating “One-Click Apps” to control various car options with a single tap, enhancing user convenience and vehicle customization.
OBDeleven
Alt: OBDeleven app interface on an Android smartphone showing diagnostic functions and ‘One-Click Apps’.
To fully leverage OBDeleven’s “One-Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. Access to more advanced car tracking tools also requires a Premium upgrade. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven is a valuable tool for car enthusiasts and mechanics alike, providing in-depth vehicle insights and control.
Pros:
- Supports reading and clearing of all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from your car’s ECU, enabling comprehensive issue resolution.
- Offers multi-language support, catering to a diverse global user base.
- Maintains an active social media community for user support, knowledge sharing, and troubleshooting.
- Includes a car battery analyzer, providing insights into battery health, a feature not commonly found in all obd2 android app options.
- Provides access to manuals containing DIY car fixes, empowering users with repair knowledge.
- Retrieves history for connected cars, enabling tracking of vehicle diagnostics over time.
- Supports control unit reset functionality for advanced vehicle system management.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, particularly for “One-Click Apps.”
- Displays advertisements in the free version, which can be removed by upgrading to Premium.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is a car tracking obd2 android app that integrates with OBDeleven software and offers a suite of smart car analysis tools. It delivers real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, extending its reach to a wide range of vehicles.
Dash – Drive Smart
Alt: Dash – Drive Smart app interface on Android showing driving performance metrics and a map.
Dash provides the insights you need to enhance your driving experience, improve performance, and make informed decisions for your car’s long-term health. Its versatility extends to functioning even without a dedicated OBD2 device in certain modes.
Pros:
- Features an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that operates in background mode, allowing continuous monitoring.
- Provides a Driver Score and leaderboard, enabling users to compare their driving performance with others.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding, simplifying vehicle management.
- Includes a GPS-tracking tool to locate parked vehicles, a convenient feature in urban environments.
- Offers nearby gas price comparison features to save money on fuel purchases.
Cons:
- Some users report that the app can drain the mobile device’s battery, especially with prolonged use.
- The compass feature may exhibit occasional glitches, although updates may address this.
- Network connection issues have been reported by some users, potentially affecting real-time data accuracy.
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 android app alternative for Apple users connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters. However, recent user feedback suggests potential issues with Wi-Fi connectivity.
Engine Link
Alt: Engine Link app on an iPhone displaying real-time engine parameters.
Despite a slightly lower recent rating due to connectivity concerns, 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 without recurring subscriptions.
Pros:
- Provides a customizable dashboard to focus on tracking preferred parameters, reducing data clutter.
- Monitors emission rates and fuel consumption, promoting eco-conscious driving and cost savings.
- Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes, facilitating DIY diagnostics and repairs.
- Offers a heads-up dashboard display (HUD) option for safer driving information access.
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees, offering a complete feature set with the initial purchase.
- Supports over 20 languages, catering to a global user base.
- The latest update includes support for Torque Custom PID files, expanding customization options for advanced users.
Cons:
- Some users have reported instances where the app connects but fails to read ECU data, requiring troubleshooting.
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later, potentially excluding users with older Apple devices.
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another effective car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters, available as an obd2 android app. While not as widely known as some other scanners, it maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs, indicating user satisfaction and reliability.
ScanMaster
Alt: ScanMaster app interface on an Android phone showing vehicle diagnostic data.
With ScanMaster, you gain a clear real-time overview of your car’s performance and access accurate fault code readings. This information empowers you to understand your car’s issues and potentially avoid unnecessary mechanic charges.
ScanMaster offers a Lite (free) version providing essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the Pro version unlocks the full feature set, including comprehensive fault code definitions and descriptions, enhancing diagnostic depth.
Pros:
- Offers a range of tracking parameters even in the free Lite version, providing value without initial cost.
- Supports both German and English languages, catering to a multilingual user base.
- Features an easy-to-navigate user interface, making it accessible for users of varying technical levels.
- Compatible with most ELM327 adapters, ensuring broad hardware compatibility.
- Supports data recording for later analysis and historical tracking of vehicle performance.
- Provides clear graphical representations of data for easier interpretation and trend identification.
Cons:
- Customer support may be perceived as ineffective by some users, potentially hindering issue resolution.
- Compatibility issues with some devices have been reported, requiring compatibility checks before purchase.
- Compatible only with Android 4.0 and above, excluding older devices.
11. DashCommand (IOS)
DashCommand for iOS positions itself as a premium solution for transforming your iPhone into an advanced engine data display, earning industry recognition with the SEMA Show “Best Mobile Electronic Product” award in 2014. While an iOS-focused app, it is worth mentioning for users within the Apple ecosystem seeking a high-end obd2 android app alternative.
DashCommand
Alt: DashCommand app on an iPhone displaying customizable gauges and vehicle performance data.
DashCommand, priced higher on iTunes, delivers top-tier performance gauges, fuel economy metrics, engine data, and emission testing capabilities for multiple trips. User reviews generally reflect high satisfaction with its performance and feature set.
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy to navigate, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users.
- Allows extensive customization of performance gauges to track specific data points of interest.
- Includes an inclinometer to display roll angle and vehicle pitch, useful for off-roading enthusiasts.
- Supports data logging, recording, and playback for detailed performance analysis.
- Features a sophisticated trip computer maintaining statistics for up to five trips, aiding in expense tracking and analysis.
- Provides graphical representations of collected data for visual insights and trend analysis.
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhone X, limiting usability for users with this specific model.
- Compatibility issues with Haltech Elite 2500 engine management systems have been reported.
- Contains in-app purchases for certain car models, potentially adding to the overall cost for specific vehicles.
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a well-regarded OBD2 scanner app available on both iOS and Android platforms. It functions as a robust free car diagnostic tool, earning a high 4.6 rating on iTunes with millions of downloads. While not strictly an obd2 android app, its Android availability makes it a strong contender for Android users as well.
BlueDriver
Alt: BlueDriver app on an iPad displaying diagnostic information and repair reports.
BlueDriver allows monitoring of critical ECU parameters, trouble code scanning and clearing, freeze frame data access, and data sharing via email. It incorporates features often found in paid apps, making it a popular choice among mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Offers wireless connection to your car, eliminating cable clutter and enhancing convenience.
- Supports smog readiness checks, simplifying emissions testing compliance.
- Significantly reduces potential travel costs by enabling DIY diagnostics and preventative maintenance.
- Provides free and regular updates, ensuring ongoing improvements and feature enhancements.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results, offering detailed system health insights.
- Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems beyond basic engine codes.
- Allows generation and sharing of repair reports, facilitating communication with mechanics and record keeping.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 8 and above, and likely similar Android OS requirements, potentially excluding older devices.
- Minor compatibility issues with iPhone XR have been reported, potentially resolvable with updates.
13. GoFAR
GoFAR provides a comprehensive car diagnostic solution that combines hardware and software to monitor vehicle health and track mileage. While not solely an obd2 android app, its integration with Android devices and focus on car health make it relevant for Android users seeking advanced diagnostics.
GoFAR
Alt: GoFAR device plugged into a car’s OBD2 port, with the GoFAR app interface on a smartphone.
GoFAR is IRS-compliant, potentially offering tax savings for business vehicle use. Its emphasis on fuel efficiency can lead to substantial cost reductions over time. The Android and iOS apps maintain a high 4.7 rating, reflecting positive user experiences.
Pros:
- Easy to install and use, simplifying setup for users of all technical levels.
- Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase, providing peace of mind and device protection.
- Sends alerts in plain English when vehicle errors occur, enhancing understanding and prompt action.
- Provides a platform for hiring nearby mechanics, facilitating convenient repair services.
- Includes a database of 3000+ fault codes and descriptions, aiding in comprehensive diagnostics.
- Enables competition with other drivers on a global leaderboard based on fuel cost savings, gamifying efficient driving.
- Sends alerts for tire pressure checks, insurance renewal, and registration, offering proactive vehicle management.
- No subscription or ongoing fees required after the initial hardware purchase.
Cons:
- Requires an upfront purchase of the GoFAR device, adding initial cost compared to purely software-based obd2 android app solutions.
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD focuses on simplicity and ease of use while providing effective car diagnostics. This obd2 android app and its accompanying hardware translate fault codes into easily understandable terms, making car maintenance accessible to a broader audience.
FIXD
Alt: FIXD app on an Android phone showing vehicle health status in simple, understandable terms.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters for optimized performance. The Android app has a solid 4.5 rating on the Google Play Store, indicating positive user reception.
Pros:
- Installs and sets up quickly, allowing immediate use even for first-time OBD2 app users.
- Suitable for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplified interface and clear explanations.
- Allows scheduling maintenance reminders, promoting proactive vehicle care.
- Alerts users to worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement, facilitating preventative maintenance.
- Features easy onboarding and setup process, minimizing user friction.
- Enables purchasing car parts directly through the app, streamlining the repair process.
- Provides helpful customer support for user assistance and troubleshooting.
Cons:
- Older app versions may have contained bugs, although updates likely address these.
- Works primarily with FIXD adapters, limiting hardware choice compared to more universally compatible obd2 android app options.
- Offers in-app purchases, potentially adding to the overall cost for advanced features.
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is a specialized car diagnostic obd2 android app tailored for BMW owners. It is compatible with adapters provided by Carly and offers in-depth diagnostics and control specifically for BMW vehicles.
Carly For BMW
Alt: Carly for BMW app on an Android phone showing BMW-specific diagnostic and customization options.
Carly allows BMW drivers to access vital car gauges and parameters in real-time. The Android app also supports standard OBD2 features, but compatibility testing with the Lite version is recommended before purchasing.
Pros:
- Provides thorough health checks of BMW’s electronic components, offering deep diagnostic insights.
- Offers used car checks before purchase, ensuring vehicle history and condition verification.
- Enables one-click control for the electric parking brake, a convenient feature for BMW owners.
- Carly adapters feature premium customer support and lifetime warranty, providing long-term value.
- Supports DIY battery registration, simplifying maintenance for BMW owners.
- Offers excellent customer service specifically tailored to BMW users.
Cons:
- Carly adapters are more expensive compared to generic ELM327 adapters, increasing the initial investment.
- Limited fault code coverage for BMW 2 series F45/F46 models has been reported.
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App utilizes a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug and companion app, offering customization and diagnostics primarily for Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus brands. This makes it a specialized obd2 android app option for owners of these vehicle makes.
Carista OBD2 App
Alt: Carista OBD2 adapter and app interface on an Android device showing customization options.
A key feature of Carista is its “Customize” option, allowing users to access and modify various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealerships, offering a unique level of vehicle personalization.
Pros:
- Offers Bluetooth connectivity for wireless communication between adapter and Android device.
- Features a compact adapter design, minimizing OBD2 port protrusion.
- Provides customizable settings, allowing users to tailor vehicle functions to their preferences.
- Represents a phone-to-OBD2 scanner innovation, integrating smartphone convenience with car diagnostics.
- Offers a 1-month free trial to explore features before committing to purchase.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms, providing broader device compatibility.
- Delivers detailed diagnostics for supported car brands.
Cons:
- Requires in-app purchases to unlock full customization and diagnostic capabilities.
17) OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion, when paired with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, provides comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports. It is a popular obd2 android app choice known for its user-friendliness.
OBD Fusion
Alt: OBD Fusion app on an Android tablet displaying a customizable dashboard with engine data and gauges.
OBD Fusion is designed to be user-friendly for both beginners and professionals. Its customizable dashboards allow users to focus on the specific engine functions and data points most relevant to them.
Pros:
- Features highly customizable dashboards, enabling personalized data display and monitoring.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, offering broad device support.
- Includes GPS navigation features, potentially integrating navigation and vehicle diagnostics.
- Provides emission monitoring capabilities, aiding in emissions compliance checks.
- Offers extensive data logging, enabling detailed performance analysis and historical tracking.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases for full functionality.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features, potentially limiting collaboration or remote assistance.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive list of the best obd2 android app and iOS options, you’re now better equipped to choose the right tool for your car.
Before making a purchase, remember to verify app compatibility with your specific vehicle. Utilize free lite versions or compatibility checkers when available. Choosing the right obd2 android app can empower you with valuable insights into your car’s health, saving you time, money, and potential vehicle troubles.
Top Picks:
Best Android OBD2 App: Torque Pro – A feature-rich paid app compatible with numerous vehicles.
Best iOS OBD2 App: OBD Fusion – User-friendly paid service that tracks essential vehicle parameters effectively.
