While the requirements of commuting from one place to the other are enhancing in a rapid way, the prerequisites of Onboard diagnostics or the best obd2 app for the cars are rising. Breakdown of your vehicle in the middle of the road is certainly one of the worst things that may waste your precious time.
So you’re looking for the best obd2 app for your vehicle and don’t know where to start. Fortunately, we’re here to help.
But before we get onto our review, there are some things you have to consider before getting your first OBD II app.
- What model and year is my car?
- Does my car have an OBD or an OBD II port that I can connect
- Does my car have Bluetooth compatibility?
- Do I have an Android or iPhone?
Asking these questions will help you determine which obd 2 app will work for you. And when you find one, it’s always a safe bet to try out the Lite version first. This will help you perform a litmus test to see if the app works with your vehicle. Once you’ve gotten used to the Lite version, and it works with your vehicle, then you can switch to the Pro version to fully utilize the app.
The Best OBD2 Apps in 2023
1. OBDeleven
OBDeleven is the best app on the market because of its responsiveness and functionality. The OBDeleven communicates via Bluetooth to an Android phone. This allows you to do what most users will be able to do with a back comp system.
As a result, you can benefit from this app because you don’t need to stick your laptop in the car in order for it to work (who places their laptops in the car anyway?). To use it, place the device near the OBD port of your car found in the driver’s seat. Download the app and create an account to sign up. Then, connect the app to the Bluetooth of the car. Once the device is connected, you’ll start to see diagnostics of the vehicle.
And we’ll tell you the difference between both the Basic and PRO edition right here. If you have a non V11 and you want to check up on basic faults for your car. But, if you need an app that’s for live data and for manual coding, then you should get the PRO edition.
Features:
- Automatic all analyzing and scanning
- Multi-language database
- Car battery analyzer
- Information about the car
- Diagnostic trouble codes from every control units that are placed in your car.
Another important thing to remember is that you can update to the PRO version once you’ve have gotten used to the Basic edition.
Some shoppers complained that while the app is inexpensive, they have to pay for its usage by watching ads or buying credits. However, that is not the case. Users can still use the OBDeleven’s app for convenience.
Note: You can buy credits separately in both BASIC or PRO version. That means you do not get credits when you purchase PRO, they are not related. Credits let you activate cool features with one click apps. Credits can be purchased or you can watch Ads and get free credits every day (1 free credit for login and 5 free credits for watching Ads/day). 10 credits cost 1.5 EUR and 10 credits are enough to activate the main functions.
Basically, the OBDeleven is the best car diagnostic for people needing quick information about their car. It saves you time by giving you a detailed analysis of your vehicle faster than going to the mechanics. So if you’re looking for an obd2 app that’s worth your money, you should definitely look at this one!
2. Carista OBD2
Carista OBD2 is a pro scan tool that most car aficionados swear by. It allows you to diagnose your vehicle for existing faults and tests the car’s emissions. It comes with an OBD II adapter that’s fitted into the car’s OBD II port. Once the Carista app is plugged in, it will tell you if your car is struck and provide extra information about the vehicle.
For those who want an obd2 app that alerts them on their car’s performance, the Carista OBD2 is one of your best options. It allows you to control the temperature of your car and respond if it overheats. The app runs in the background and will send an alarm to alert you that the temperature is at an unsafe level.
Features:
- Checks engine lights
- Engine Overheating Alerts
- Compatible with vehicles made after 2000
- Gives advanced diagnostics such as the ABS, airbag, and navigation
Also, Carista OBD2 allows you to customize the way how your car behaves. For instance, the app can set the car’s headlights to automatically turn on when someone starts the engine, lock the doors when the car starts moving, or change the back parking sensor sounds. Because of this, you’ll be able to fully utilize your car and improve its lifespan.
Thus, this application is the best obd2 app for android. Not only does it help you customize your vehicle, but it gives you the information needed to make repairs or change its engine in an emergency. So try to get this app while you can!
3. Torque PRO
Third on our list is the Torque Pro. This app is one of the most popular apps in Android’s Play Store because of its reliability and overall functionality.
Consumers like this app because of its numerous detectors and features supported with it. It has enough plugins and widgets to help you monitor your car’s health effectively. With the application’s widgets, you can customize the dashboard of your vehicle. And, the Torque OBD app has a GPS feature that logs with your car’s OBD engine to see how it’s acting at any given time. It then shows a CEL/DTC fault code scanner which can view your car and spot out any issues. When using Torque Pro, you’ll be able to spot out difficulties immediately. The only issue that users have with this app is that is has a high battery consumption. To solve this, we suggest that you have your phone fully charged before running it. Doing this will allow you to utilize the device and have time to recharge it if the battery runs below 30%.
Features:
- Shows Temperature transmissions
- Helps in minimizing costs and repairing your car
- Uses color schemes to show your car’s condition
- GPS geo-tracking to help show your car’s location at a certain time
Still, the Torque Pro is a useful app if you’re trying to monitor the performance of your vehicle. All you have to do is plug it inside your car, and you’ll find out detailed information on how to keep it up and running.
4. HobDrive
Hobdrive is one of the most underrated apps in Google Play Store. The app acts as an OBD2 Diagnostic Software and a Trip Advisor. Because of this, users find it easier to drive for extended periods of time.
We like the app because it allows users to receive diagnostics on their total travel time. For example, Hobdrive shows the fuel level, fuel economy, intake air, total time traveled and other important specs about your car throughout the duration of your drive. Some consumers found fault with the application because of its small design issues. They complained that they had to continue re-logging in their information each time they turned the app on. While this may be a minor inconvenience, just uninstall the app and reinstall it if it continues to give you this problem.
Features:
- Graphical measures
- Service and fueling records
- Continuous Error tracking
- KWP protocol diagnostics
- Trip recording computer
Basically, if you want the best obd2 android app 2023, then look no further. The Hobdrive gives users MPG tracking errors tracking, and engine diagnostics to help the user get to their destination safely. So give this app a look if you want a handy tool with you on your long drives and road trips!
5. inCarDoc OBD2 ELM327
Fifth on the list is the OBD Car Doctor Pro. This application is known by customers because of its real-time statistics.
Once plugged in, the app can spot certain deficiencies and has custom configurations for non-standard protocols and parameters.
You’ll like this app because it has real sensors and monitors attached to it. You’ll be able to quickly find out the fuel economy, gas consumption, etc., just by logging on with your account and pressing a few buttons.
Thus, making this app a great choice for new drivers who want an accessory that’s usually suspended. But, some consumers did not like that app’s tendency to disrupt the Wi-Fi connection. When turned on, some users will notice their Wi-Fi connection turning completely off and the app’s inability to read all the codes. If this happens, it’s best to get a new adapter or restart the app.
Features:
- GPS Supported
- Chart drawing with realistic data
- Vehicle Indicators; car speed, temperature, pressure, the angle of rotation, etc
- Fuel Economy parameters
- Allows to share and store DTC data
The OBD Car Doctor Pro is one of the best obd apps due to its utility, responsiveness, and the accuracy of its car diagnostics. So, get this app if you want to stay updated on your car’s performance so that you can treat certain issues effectively.
6. OBD Auto Doctor
Next up is the OBD Auto Doctor. With this simple to use OBD-II Software, you can connect to your vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostic system and turn your mobile phone or computer to an automotive scanner.
The OBD Auto Doctor is a must-have tool for people that want to know their cars better.
Whether you want to reset the “check engine” light or monitor your data in real-time, this is the only piece of software you need.
Features:
- Send diagnostic data via email
- Choose between metric or imperial units
- MIL, Freeze Frames, DTCs
- OBD II Indicators help detect anomalies
- Supports data of transmission, engine, etc
For those that are interested in using this car diagnostics software, we suggest that you start with the Lite version first. If the free version of this device works, then you can opt for the pro version. This version has more advanced features (real-time scanning, built-in DTC database, etc.) to help you fully understand what’s right or wrong with your vehicle.
Some consumers found fault with the device’s low Bluetooth connection. If you do have any issues with the device, please check some of the following:
- Is your car OBD II compatible?
- Is your car’s key placed in the ON position?
- Is your scan tool’s adapter compatible with the device?
Overall, When using this device, it will display information such as the speed, pressure, angle of rotation, temperature, as well as sensor data that are supported by your vehicle. So if you want to utilize your car’s OBD system easily, keep this device in mind!
7. EOBD Facile: OBD 2 Car Scanner
The EOBD Facile is the best obd2 app for iPhone. It allows you to check on the engine’s fault codes in order to determine their meaning. This comes in handy when you’ve been driving for hours and need statistics in your car in a real-time manner.
What makes this application different is its ability to record and save your trip recording. When using the app, it can record the entirety of the trip on your iPhone/iPad and can be recovered via the EOBD Facil app. Also, it allows users to receive records of GPS data on their vehicle. This makes it easier for them to find their location and reach their destination.
Features:
- Monitor manufacturer error codes
- View and create records of GPS data
- Records and views trip and can be saved on your iPhone/iPad
- Displays: Speed, Torque, inlet air quantity, engine speed, spark timing, etc
Get this device if you are seeking real-time information on your car’s geolocation and performance. On the other hand, there has been some concern about the app. For instance, it the free version is non-functional, and there are some periodic problems with the device’s connectivity. If these issues are present, then you should get a replacement immediately.
You can’t go wrong with the EOBD Facile if you have an iOS phone. The app gives a lot of utility when you’re out on the road as it gives you detailed reports on the health of your car. So try this app if you’re willing to take care of your car.
8. Engine Link – OBD II diagnosis
Last on our list is the Engine Link II – OBD II Diagnosis app. You can connect it to your vehicle using either a Bluetooth connection or an adapter.
This app is useful in the way that it helps users monitor their fuel consumption.
The display will show a percentage level of how much fuel your car is using and send you an alert once it needs to be fixed.
Features:
- Fuel tank, RPM, load and coolant, speed
- Checks vehicle emissions
- Customized dashboards
- ECU support
- HUD mode for night driving
You can choose what data is displayed when using this app. The Engine Link II- OBD II app will show the horsepower, acceleration, torque, engine RPM, etc. and gives you the freedom to choose which data is necessary according to your situation. However, there have been some issues with the app’s language support and its incompatibility. You have limited to ELM-compatible devices or low-energy adapters for it to work correctly. So make sure to check your device to ensure that it works properly.
Obdeleven reviews state that the Engine Link II – OBD II Diagnosis app is a life saver for car enthusiasts. It gives you enough information to spot the errors of your vehicle so that you can either repair or replace the defective parts. Give this app a chance if you need extra support and diagnostics for your vehicle!
Updated Section on the Best OBD2 Apps for 2023:
Adding to our list of top OBD2 apps, we have some new entries that have gained popularity and new features:
1. FIXD OBD2 Scan Tool App
Operating Systems: iOS, Android
Features: Provides basic functions like turning off the check engine light, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and displaying engine RPM. Unique for its additional fault code reading capabilities, FIXD also offers information on the severity of issues and their impact on the vehicle. It allows real-time data monitoring from various vehicle systems, making it a professional-grade tool for vehicle diagnostics.
Adapter Compatibility: Best with FIXD OBD2 Scanner for iPhone / Android.
Notable Aspect: Quick and reliable Bluetooth connectivity, making it user-friendly and efficient for diagnosing vehicle issues.
2. Carista OBD2 App [Updated]
Operating Systems: iOS, Android
Features: Known for advanced capabilities like ECU coding and smog tests. Carista completes all basic OBD functions and also allows users to customize parts of their vehicle’s CPU. The app supports nearly all vehicle makes and models and includes a valuable smog test feature, helping to avoid unnecessary emissions test failures.
Adapter Compatibility: Best with Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter.
Subscription Requirement: Advanced features accessible through Carista’s subscription program.
Notable Aspect: Versatility and advanced features usually found in more expensive diagnostic tools.
3. OBDLink App
Operating Systems: Windows, Android, iOS
Features: Known for its user-friendly interface, OBDLink offers a Dashboard that displays key vehicle data through various dials and gauges. It allows access to vehicle logs, trip information, and has a freeze-frame data function.
Adapter Compatibility: Best with OBDLink MX Bluetooth Adapter.
Notable Aspect: Combines simplicity with advanced features, making it suitable for both casual and professional use.
4. DashCommand App
Operating Systems: iOS, Android
Features: Offers versatile connectivity with nearly any wireless adapter. DashCommand displays data through attractive gauges, covering fuel consumption, mileage, and more. It also provides insights into vehicle performance over past trips.
Adapter Compatibility: Best with PLX Devices Kiwi 3 Bluetooth Adapter.
Notable Aspect: Its attractive design and comprehensive data presentation make it a favorite among users who value aesthetics and functionality.
5. OBD Fusion App
Operating Systems: iOS, Android
Features: Allows deep-dive into engine performance, accessing a wide range of engine sensors. It also provides sophisticated feedback on the fuel system and can locate and track your vehicle.
Adapter Compatibility: Best with BAFX Products 8523900508 for iPhone iPad.
Notable Aspect: Its ability to access and display engine PIDs in an advanced manner typically expected in more expensive scan tools.
These additional apps, with their advanced features and diverse compatibility, offer a range of options for both enthusiasts and professionals in vehicle diagnostics.
The landscape of OBD2 apps has evolved significantly, offering more features and compatibility. Whether you need basic diagnostics or advanced vehicle monitoring, the range of apps available in 2023 ensures that there’s something for every type of user. Remember to consider your vehicle’s make, model, and compatibility requirements when choosing an OBD2 app.
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