In today’s connected world, understanding your vehicle’s health is easier than ever, thanks to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. With the power of your Android smartphone, you can now access real-time data from your car’s engine and systems, empowering you to diagnose issues, monitor performance, and potentially save money on repairs. The rise of mobile app technology has brought a wealth of Obdii Reader Scanner App For Android options to the market, each promising to be the best tool for your automotive needs.
But with so many choices available on the Google Play Store, finding the right OBDII reader scanner app for Android can feel overwhelming. You don’t want to waste time and money on subpar apps that don’t deliver on their promises. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the top OBDII reader scanner apps for Android, ensuring you choose the perfect companion for your car.
This article dives deep into 17 of the best OBDII reader scanner apps for Android, providing detailed reviews, highlighting their pros and cons, and ultimately helping you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a car owner looking to understand your vehicle better, there’s an app on this list for you.
Let’s explore the world of OBDII reader scanner apps for Android and find the ideal tool to keep your car running smoothly!
Best OBDII Reader Scanner Apps for Android
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro is widely recognized as a leading OBDII reader scanner app for Android, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and consistently high ratings on the Play Store. For a modest price of around $5, this app unlocks a powerful suite of diagnostic and monitoring features, making it a worthwhile investment for serious car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics.
Torque Pro app dashboard on Android showing real-time vehicle data
Torque Pro transforms your Android device into a customizable dashboard displaying real-time data from your car’s sensors. You can monitor everything from engine temperature and speed to boost pressure and fuel trims, all presented in a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. The app also allows data export to servers or email for later analysis.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard with multiple themes.
- Easy screenshot sharing to social media and email for collaboration or record-keeping.
- Integrated GPS-based compass for navigation and data logging.
- Robust data graphing and car dock support for detailed analysis and convenient viewing.
- CO2 emission readouts for environmental awareness.
- Track recorder to capture video of your journeys, potentially useful for diagnostics or driving analysis.
- Customizable alarms and warnings for abnormal car performance, such as high coolant temperature.
- Broad Android version compatibility, supporting even older devices (Android 2.0+).
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment to purchase the app.
- Occasional Bluetooth pairing issues, though often resolved with app updates.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is another strong contender in the OBDII reader scanner app for Android market. It functions similarly to other top diagnostic apps, seamlessly connecting with ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters to provide real-time tracking of vital vehicle parameters.
OBD Auto Doctor Android app interface displaying engine diagnostics
This app allows you to monitor multiple control units, including engine and transmission, giving you a comprehensive view of your vehicle’s systems. OBD Auto Doctor also excels in fuel consumption monitoring, potentially helping you save money on fuel costs. Data can be easily exported in CSV format via email for further analysis or sharing.
Pros:
- Provides crucial real-time data for informed decision-making regarding vehicle maintenance.
- Supports both numerical and graphical displays of sensor data for easy interpretation.
- Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles, ensuring broad usability.
- Integrated GPS support for location-based data logging.
- Responsive and helpful customer service team available around the clock.
- Extensive customization options to tailor the app to your specific needs.
- Supports both imperial and metric units for user preference.
- Monitors over 18,000 diagnostic trouble codes for comprehensive fault detection.
- Tracks readiness status to determine vehicle emission test readiness.
Cons:
- Additional features require in-app purchases or a Premium upgrade.
- Some users report occasional connection issues or inaccurate data readings.
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro has consistently ranked among the top OBDII reader scanner apps for Android, recognized for its high-level car scanning and diagnostic capabilities presented in a clean and intuitive interface.
InCarDoc Pro app interface on Android showcasing vehicle parameters
A free version of InCarDoc Pro is available, allowing you to test adapter and vehicle compatibility before committing to the paid version. The Pro version, available for a small fee, supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices.
Pros:
- Broad compatibility with OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their website.
- Displays real-time engine and vehicle parameters for immediate insights.
- Overlay feature to display fuel economy data in the background or over other running apps, useful for real-time fuel efficiency monitoring.
- Dedicated fuel economy and acceleration widgets for performance analysis.
- GPS support for tracking location data alongside vehicle parameters.
- Cloud storage data upload for convenient data backup and accessibility.
- Data sharing via email for professional assistance with car repairs.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.0.3 or higher.
- Some users have reported Bluetooth connection errors.
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a free car diagnostic tool that empowers you to delve deep into your car’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) and understand a wide range of parameters. This app stands out as a highly versatile monitoring tool, especially considering its broad device compatibility.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app on Android displaying vehicle diagnostics information
By providing access to fault codes and their meanings, Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App enables you to identify potential problems early on and potentially address minor issues yourself, saving time and money. With versions available for Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile, and over 2 million installs across platforms, this app is a popular choice among car owners. It also boasts an impressive 4.7 rating, the highest among the apps on this list, further solidifying its reputation as a top OBDII reader scanner app for Android.
Pros:
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles for wide-ranging use.
- Works with most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility in hardware choice.
- Customizable dashboard to focus on tracking your most important parameters.
- Fuel consumption statistics for efficiency monitoring.
- Settings backup and restore functionality for easy app management.
- Multiple language support, including English, Russian, and Polish.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.3 and above.
- Optimal performance may require in-app purchases.
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is a robust OBDII Car Diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, compatible with all ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. This app provides access to essential vehicle gauges and parameters, enabling informed decisions about your car’s maintenance and performance.
EOBD Facile app interface on Android showing real-time vehicle data gauges
Depending on your vehicle’s ECU capabilities, EOBD Facile can display a wide array of data, including vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, and air intake. With over 1 million installs on the Google Play Store, EOBD Facile is a trusted OBDII reader scanner app for Android users.
Pros:
- Real-time display of vehicle sensor data for immediate feedback.
- Extensive database of over 11,000 fault codes and definitions for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Ability to clear fault codes and address engine light issues directly from your Android device.
- Trip record storage on SD card for later review using EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
- Integrated route planning feature, beneficial for long journeys.
Cons:
- May require some prior OBD2 app experience to fully utilize its features.
- No support for USB adapters.
6. HobDrive
HobDrive stands out as a feature-rich OBDII reader scanner app for Android, albeit at a higher price point compared to many others on the Play Store. The app’s price of around $10 reflects its advanced car tracking features and broader compatibility.
HobDrive app dashboard on Android displaying vehicle performance data
A key advantage of HobDrive is its compatibility not only with all OBD2 compliant vehicles but also with some Non-OBD2 vehicles, such as Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch systems. HobDrive also offers seamless access across various platforms, including CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio systems (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboard displaying a wide range of parameters from your car’s ECU.
- Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters for versatile connectivity.
- Tracks potential issues like overheating and abnormal fuel trims.
- Provides clear explanations of MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) codes for better understanding of problems.
- Estimates car odometer readings.
- Calculates MPG (miles per gallon) for diesel vehicles even without battery assistance.
- Pro version offers expanded graphical gauges for enhanced data visualization.
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulties with in-app payments in certain locations.
- Requires Android version 3 and above.
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven takes OBDII reader scanner app for Android functionality a step further by incorporating “One-Click Apps,” differentiating itself from many competitors. Beyond standard parameter viewing, OBDeleven allows you to control various car options with a simple button press, offering advanced customization and control.
OBDeleven app interface on Android showcasing vehicle customization options
To fully utilize the “One Click App” feature, a stable network connection is recommended. While the app offers a free version, a Premium upgrade unlocks more advanced car tracking tools. Despite these considerations, OBDeleven is a valuable tool for car diagnostics and customization, popular among enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Pros:
- Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes from your car’s ECU for comprehensive diagnostics.
- Supports multiple languages, enhancing accessibility for a wider user base.
- Active social media community for user support and knowledge sharing.
- Includes a car battery analyzer, a feature not found in all OBDII apps.
- Provides DIY car fix manuals for user guidance.
- Retrieves history for connected vehicles for tracking past diagnostics.
- Supports control unit resets for advanced troubleshooting.
Cons:
- Requires a network connection for optimal performance, especially for “One-Click Apps.”
- Displays advertisements in the free version, which can be removed with a Premium upgrade.
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash – Drive Smart is an OBDII reader scanner app for Android that not only supports OBDeleven software but also integrates various smart car analysis tools. It provides real-time data and claims compatibility with cars dating back to 1996 models, offering broad vehicle support.
Dash – Drive Smart app dashboard on Android displaying driving performance metrics
Dash aims to provide comprehensive insights to improve driving habits and vehicle maintenance decisions. The app can even function without constant device connection, offering flexibility in usage.
Pros:
- Optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that can operate in the background for continuous monitoring.
- Driver score and leaderboard features to compare driving performance with other users, potentially encouraging safer and more efficient driving.
- Supports multiple vehicles with automatic VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) decoding for easy vehicle management.
- GPS-tracking tool to remember parking locations.
- Nearby gas price comparison feature to help save money on fuel.
Cons:
- Some users report battery drain on mobile devices when using the app.
- Compass feature may be occasionally unreliable but is often addressed in updates.
- Occasional network connection issues reported by some users.
9. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is a reliable OBDII reader scanner app for Android designed for use with ELM327 OBD2 adapters. While not as widely known as some other apps, ScanMaster maintains a solid 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs, indicating user satisfaction.
ScanMaster app interface on Android showing real-time vehicle parameters
With ScanMaster, you can gain a clear real-time overview of your car’s performance and accurately read fault codes. This can be particularly helpful in understanding vehicle issues and preventing potential overcharging by mechanics.
The app offers a free “Lite” version providing access to essential parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. However, the paid “Pro” version unlocks all features, including an extensive fault code database and detailed error descriptions.
Pros:
- Free “Lite” version provides access to a useful set of tracking parameters.
- Supports both German and English languages.
- User-friendly and easy to navigate interface.
- Compatible with a wide range of ELM327 adapters.
- Data recording capabilities for later analysis.
- Clear graphical data representation for easier interpretation.
Cons:
- Customer support may be less responsive compared to some other apps.
- Compatibility issues reported with a limited number of devices.
- Requires Android 4.0 and above.
10. BlueDriver
BlueDriver stands out as a highly-rated and popular OBDII reader scanner app available for both iOS and Android. It’s recognized as a top free car diagnostic tool, evidenced by its 4.6 rating on iTunes and over 2 million downloads.
BlueDriver app interface on Android displaying diagnostic report options
BlueDriver, whether used on Android or iOS, allows you to monitor critical vehicle parameters, scan and clear trouble codes, access freeze frame data, and share collected data via email. Notably, BlueDriver includes features often found only in paid apps, making it a favorite among professional mechanics and car enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Wireless connection to your car via Bluetooth.
- Supports smog readiness checks to ensure vehicle emissions compliance.
- Potential to significantly reduce car maintenance costs through proactive diagnostics.
- Free and regular updates, keeping the app current and feature-rich.
- Displays on-board monitoring test results for detailed system analysis.
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and other systems, going beyond basic engine codes.
- Allows generation and sharing of repair reports for documentation and communication.
Cons:
- Requires Android 4.4 and above.
- Minor issues reported with some devices, often resolved with app updates.
11. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD distinguishes itself as an OBDII reader scanner app for Android by prioritizing simplicity and user-friendliness without sacrificing diagnostic quality. Fault codes within the FIXD app are translated into clear, easily understandable language, enabling immediate action when vehicle issues arise.
FIXD Vehicle Health Monitor app on Android showing simplified diagnostic information
FIXD offers its own OBD2 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on the Google Play Store for Android and holds a respectable 4.5 rating from users.
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup, allowing for immediate use.
- Ideal for users new to OBD2 apps due to its simplified interface.
- Allows scheduling of maintenance reminders to keep up with vehicle servicing.
- Provides alerts for worn-out car parts requiring repair or replacement.
- Streamlined onboarding process for a smooth user experience.
- Integrated car part purchasing directly within the app for convenience.
- Helpful and responsive customer support team.
Cons:
- Some older app versions may have occasional bugs.
- Primarily designed to work with FIXD adapters.
- In-app purchases are offered for additional features.
12. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is another notable OBDII reader scanner app for Android, utilizing a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug. Carista boasts strong support for brands like Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus, making it a specialized option for owners of these vehicles.
Carista OBD2 App interface on Android displaying customization options
A standout feature of Carista is its “Customize” option. Once plugged in, this feature unlocks access to change various ECU settings typically only accessible by dealership technicians, providing advanced vehicle personalization.
Pros:
- Convenient Bluetooth connectivity.
- Compact and portable OBD2 adapter.
- Customizable vehicle settings beyond basic diagnostics.
- Seamless phone-to-OBD2 scanner integration.
- Offers a 1-month free trial to test features.
- Supports both iOS and Android platforms.
- Provides detailed diagnostic information.
Cons:
- In-app purchases for full feature access after the trial period.
13. OBD Fusion
Developed by OCTech, OBD Fusion is a popular OBDII reader scanner app for Android that, when paired with a compatible OBD2 scanner, delivers comprehensive vehicle diagnostic reports. It’s known for its user-friendliness, appealing to both novice and experienced users.
OBD Fusion app dashboard on Android showcasing customizable data displays
Customizable dashboards are a key strength of OBD Fusion, allowing users to prioritize and display the engine functions and data points most relevant to them.
Pros:
- Highly customizable dashboards to tailor data display.
- Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, offering broad device support.
- Integrated GPS navigation features for location-based data logging and tracking.
- Emission monitoring capabilities to ensure vehicle compliance.
- Extensive data logging features for detailed performance analysis.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind expansion packs, requiring additional purchases.
- Lacks diagnostic data sharing features directly within the app.
Conclusion
With this detailed list of top OBDII reader scanner apps for Android, you’re now better equipped to choose the perfect app for your needs. However, before making a purchase or committing to a specific app, it’s crucial to confirm compatibility with your vehicle.
Many OBDII reader scanner app for Android developers offer free “lite” versions specifically for compatibility testing. Take advantage of these free versions to ensure the app works seamlessly with your car’s make and model before investing in the full paid version. Experiment with a few free options to find the interface and feature set that best suits your preferences.
Ultimately, selecting the right OBDII reader scanner app for Android can empower you to understand your vehicle better, proactively address potential issues, and potentially save money on car maintenance and repair costs.
Our Top Android OBDII App Pick:
Torque Pro: A paid app offering a rich feature set and broad vehicle compatibility, making it a top choice for serious Android users.
