What Is The Best Free OBD2 Application For Android?

The best free OBD2 application for Android offers real-time vehicle diagnostics and performance monitoring, helping you understand your car’s health and potential issues effortlessly through MERCEDES-DIAGNOSTIC-TOOL.EDU.VN. This enables proactive maintenance and cost savings. Enhance your diagnostic experience with features like fault code reading, live data streaming, and performance tracking, all essential for modern vehicle management; explore advanced diagnostic tools, custom vehicle settings, and ECU information to optimize vehicle performance.

1. Best OBD2 Apps For Android/IOS

Here’s a detailed look at some of the top OBD2 apps for Android and iOS:

2. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)

Torque Pro is a highly-rated OBD2 Bluetooth app, considered by many vehicle owners as one of the best for Android, with over 1,000,000 downloads. It’s available on the Play Store for around $5.

Torque Pro Customizable Dashboard

With Torque Pro, you can monitor your car’s real-time performance through a customizable dashboard on your mobile screen. You can also export compiled data to Torque Pro servers or email for later use.

2.1 Pros of Torque Pro

• Offers multiple themes to customize the dashboard’s look.
• Supports screenshot sharing to social media and email.
• Includes an in-built GPS-based compass.
• Provides graph data and car dock support.
• Offers CO2 emission readouts.
• Includes a track recorder for video coverage of your journey.
• Provides alarms and warnings for subpar car performance, such as when the coolant temperature exceeds 120°C.
• Supports older Android versions, including 2.0.

2.2 Cons of Torque Pro

• Requires upfront payment.
• May have Bluetooth pairing issues, which can be resolved with an update.

3. OBD Auto Doctor

OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many car diagnostic apps, compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi adapters, tracking crucial vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time.

OBD Auto Doctor Real-Time Data Display

It allows you to monitor multiple control units, such as the engine and transmission, and supports exporting collected data via email in CSV format. The optimized fuel consumption monitoring feature can save you money on trips.

3.1 Pros of OBD Auto Doctor

• Provides real-time data on the screen to help you make informed decisions about your car’s health.
• Supports numerical and graphical display of sensor data.
• Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles.
• Offers GPS support.
• Provides helpful customer service available 24/7.
• Includes advanced customization options.
• Tracks imperial and metric units in English.
• Monitors over 18,000 trouble codes.
• Tracks readiness status to indicate when a car is ready for emission testing.

3.2 Cons of OBD Auto Doctor

• Requires in-app purchases and a Premium upgrade to access additional features.
• May experience connection issues or incorrect readings.

4. InCarDoc Pro

InCarDoc Pro was a top OBD2 Android app for car reviews in 2017/2018 and is likely to remain a leading app. It supports high-level car scanning and diagnostics, presented on a clean home screen.

InCarDoc Pro Car Scanning and Diagnostic

You can download a free version to check adapter and car compatibility before purchasing the app for less than $5. It supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and Wifi adapters and works on most new Android devices.

4.1 Pros of InCarDoc Pro

• Compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles listed on their site.
• Reads real-time engine and vehicle parameters.
• Offers an overlay to display economy data in the background or over a running application.
• Includes fuel economy and acceleration widgets.
• Offers GPS support.
• Allows uploading reporting data to cloud storage.
• Enables sharing data via email for professional car repair assistance.

4.2 Cons of InCarDoc Pro

• Supports Android 4.0.3 and up.
• May experience errors while attempting a Bluetooth connection.

5. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

This free car diagnostic app allows you to learn everything about your car and monitor parameters read by the car’s ECU.

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 Customizable Dashboard

You can identify problems before they escalate. Knowing fault codes and their meanings allows you to fix minor issues and decide when to hire a professional mechanic. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is arguably the best monitoring tool, considering the number of compatible devices. Versions are available across Android, IOS, Windows PC, or mobile. With over 2 million installs across platforms, this car scanner is worth considering.

5.1 Pros of Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

• Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles.
• Compatible with most Wifi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters.
• Offers a customizable dashboard to track preferred parameters.
• Provides fuel consumption statistics.
• Includes settings backup and restore.
• Supports multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Polish.

5.2 Cons of Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App

• Supports only Android 4.3 and above.
• Requires in-app purchases for optimal performance.

6. EOBD Facile

EOBD Facile is an OBD2 Car Diagnostic app for Android and iOS that supports all ELM327 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters. It allows you to track essential gauges and parameters to make informed decisions about your car.

EOBD Facile Real-Time Vehicle Sensors Display

Depending on your car’s ECU, you can display vehicle speed, engine RPM, engine temperature, ignition timing, engine torque, air intake, and other gauges on the app dashboard. EOBD Facile has recorded over 1 million installs since its launch on the Google Play Store.

6.1 Pros of EOBD Facile

• Offers real-time display of vehicle sensors.
• Includes over 11,000 fault codes and definitions.
• Allows deleting fault codes and resolving engine light issues.
• Supports storing trip records on an SD card for later review on the EOBD-Facile PC/Mac software.
• Supports route planning, which is helpful for long trips.

6.2 Cons of EOBD Facile

• Requires prior OBD2 app experience to maximize its potential.
• Does not support USB adapters.

7. HobDrive

HobDrive is a top OBD2 app for Android and the most expensive on the Google Play Store, priced around $10. Its advanced premium car tracking features provide value for your money.

HobDrive Customizable Dashboard

HobDrive supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles and some Non-OBD2 vehicles like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch. It is also accessible while using CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS.

7.1 Pros of HobDrive

• Offers a customizable dashboard that displays parameters provided by your car’s ECU.
• Supports GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and Wifi-adapters.
• Tracks overheating and suspicious fuel trims.
• Provides a clear explanation of MIL codes.
• Estimates car odometer.
• Calculates MPG for diesel vehicles without battery assistance.
• The Pro-version includes extended graphical gauges.

7.2 Cons of HobDrive

• May have difficulty completing in-app payments in some locations.
• Runs only on Android version 3 and above.

8. OBDeleven

OBDeleven has an edge over other OBD2 apps due to its “One Click App” feature, which controls multiple car options with a single button click.

OBDeleven Diagnostic Trouble Codes Reading

You need a good network connection to enjoy the One Click App feature and a Premium upgrade to access more car tracking tools. Despite these barriers, it is a helpful tool for car reviews, used by enthusiasts and mechanics.

8.1 Pros of OBDeleven

• Supports reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes from your ECU.
• Offers multiple language support.
• Has an active social media community.
• Offers a car battery analyzer, unlike some apps.
• Provides manuals containing DIY car fixes.
• Retrieves history for connected cars.
• Supports control unit reset.

8.2 Cons of OBDeleven

• Requires a network connection for high performance.
• Contains ads until you upgrade to Premium.

9. Dash – Drive Smart

Dash Drive Smart supports OBDeleven software and many smart car analysis tools, providing real-time data and working on cars from 1996 models onward.

Dash – Drive Smart Parameter Dashboard

Dash provides insights to improve your driving experience and make informed decisions about your car’s health. It can be used without carrying a device at all times.

9.1 Pros of Dash – Drive Smart

• Offers an optimized and customizable parameter dashboard that works in background mode.
• Provides a driver score and leaderboard to compare your performance with other drivers.
• Supports multiple vehicles with automatic Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoding.
• Includes a GPS-tracking tool to locate where you parked.
• Features nearby gas comparison to save money on fuel.

9.2 Cons of Dash – Drive Smart

• Complaints about the app draining the mobile device’s battery.
• The compass feature may be glitchy but can be corrected with an update.
• Some users face issues with the network connection.

10. Engine Link (IOS)

Engine Link is a car diagnostic app similar to Torque Pro, but only for iOS devices. It connects seamlessly with compatible ELM327 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters, though some users have reported issues with the Wifi connection.

Engine Link Heads-Up Dashboard Display

Available for $6 on iTunes, Engine Link can solve your car monitoring needs and keep you in charge.

10.1 Pros of Engine Link

• Offers a customizable dashboard to track parameters you need.
• Controls emission rates and fuel consumption.
• Reads and clears thousands of OBD2 fault codes.
• Offers a heads-up dashboard display option.
• No in-app purchases or subscription fees.
• Supports 20+ languages.
• The latest update supports Torque Custom Pid File.

10.2 Cons of Engine Link

• Users reported the app connects without reading ECU data.
• Requires iOS 8.0 or later to run.

11. ScanMaster

ScanMaster is another car monitoring tool for ELM327 OBD2 adapters. The Android application maintains a 4.0 rating with over 1 million installs.

ScanMaster Graphical Representation of Data

With ScanMaster, you can get a clear overview of your car’s real-time performance and accurately read fault codes. The Lite version (free) offers essential car parameters, such as VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. The pro-version includes thousands of fault codes and descriptions.

11.1 Pros of ScanMaster

• Offers a handful of tracking parameters on the free version.
• Supports German and English languages.
• Easy to navigate.
• Supports most ELM327 adapters.
• Supports data recording.
• Offers clear graphical representation of data for easier analysis.

11.2 Cons of ScanMaster

• Has an ineffective customer support team.
• Some devices may not be supported.
• Compatible with only Android 4.0 and above.

12. DashCommand (IOS)

DashCommand turns your mobile into an advanced display for engine data and won the SEMA Show best mobile electronic product award in 2014.

DashCommand Performance Gauges

DashCommand is one of the most expensive iOS OBD2 scanner apps (available for $14.99) on iTunes but features the best performance gauges, fuel economy gauges, engine gauges, and emission testing for up to five trips.

12.1 Pros of DashCommand

• Easy to use.
• Allows customization of performance gauges to track your preferred data.
• Includes an inclinometer to display rolling angle and vehicle pitch while off-road.
• Supports data-logging, recording, and playback.
• A sophisticated trip computer maintains stats for up to five trips.
• Offers graphical representation of collected data.

12.2 Cons of DashCommand

• Not compatible with iPhone X.
• Compatibility issues with Haltech elite 2599.
• Contains in-app purchases for some car models.

13. BlueDriver

The BlueDriver OBD2 scanner app is available on iOS and Android and is one of the best free car diagnostic tools, with a 4.6 rating on iTunes and 2 million downloads.

BlueDriver Wireless Connection

BlueDriver allows you to monitor critical parameters from your car’s ECU, scan for and clear trouble codes, freeze frame data, and share collected data via email. It includes features not available on some paid car tracking apps and is used by professional mechanics and auto enthusiasts.

13.1 Pros of BlueDriver

• Offers a wireless connection with your car.
• Supports smog readiness check.
• Reduces traveling costs.
• Provides free and regular updates.
• Displays on-board monitoring test results.
• Offers improved diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, and more.
• Allows generation and sharing of repair reports.

13.2 Cons of BlueDriver

• Requires iOS 8 and above.
• May have issues with iPhone XR, which can be solved with an update.

14. GoFAR

GoFAR monitors car health and tracks mileage while maintaining compatibility with most OBD2 compliant car adapters.

GoFAR Error Alert Display

GoFar car tracking device is IRS-compliant, helping you save on taxes, and focuses on fuel savings, cutting travel costs by 10-30%. The Android and iOS applications maintain a 4.7 rating.

14.1 Pros of GoFAR

• Easy to install and use.
• Offers a one-year warranty on initial purchase.
• Sends alerts in plain English when an error occurs.
• Provides a platform for hiring nearby mechanics.
• Includes 3000+ fault codes and descriptions.
• Allows competition with other drivers on a global leaderboard based on costs saved.
• Sends alerts for checking tire pressure, insurance, and registration.
• No subscription or ongoing fees required.

14.2 Cons of GoFAR

• Must be purchased for $99.

15. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor

FIXD offers simplicity without compromising quality. Fault codes are translated into easy-to-understand terms, allowing immediate action when something goes wrong.

FIXD Vehicle Health Monitor Fault Codes Translation

FIXD offers OBD2 Wifi and Bluetooth adapters for optimal app performance and gauge monitoring. The app is available on Android via Google Play Store and has a 4.5 rating by users.

15.1 Pros of FIXD

• Installs in minutes and can be used immediately.
• Suitable for first-time OBD2 app users.
• Allows scheduling maintenance reminders.
• Alerts for worn-out car parts needing repair or replacement.
• Easy onboarding.
• Allows buying car parts directly on the app.
• Offers a helpful customer support team.

15.2 Cons of FIXD

• May have bugs in older app versions.
• Works only with FIXD adapters.
• Offers in-app purchases.

16. Carly For BMW

Carly For BMW is for BMW owners and is compatible with adapters provided by Carly.

Carly For BMW Car's Electronic Components Check

Whether you’re a newbie or seasoned BMW driver, few apps allow you to view vital car gauges and parameters in real-time, and Carly is one of them. The Android App supports standard OBD features, but you’ll have to test for compatibility with the Lite version before purchasing.

16.1 Pros of Carly For BMW

• Offers a thorough health check of your car’s electronic components.
• Used car check before driving your new car off that lot.
• One-click control for the electric parking brake.
• Carly adapters feature premium customer support and a lifetime warranty.
• DIY battery registration support.
• An excellent customer service team.

16.2 Cons of Carly For BMW

• Carly adapters are expensive compared to others in the market.
• Limited fault codes for BMW 2 series F45/F46.

17. Carista OBD2 App

Carista is a Bluetooth-enabled OBD2 plug with an accompanying app. It is supported by car brands such as Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus.

Carista OBD2 App Bluetooth Connectivity

One of the most interesting features of Carista is that once plugged in, the ‘Customize’ option lets you access and change many different ECU options normally only accessible by the dealer.

17.1 Pros of Carista OBD2 App

• Bluetooth Connectivity.
• Compact.
• Customizable settings.
• Phone to OBD2 Scanner Innovation.
• 1-month free trial.
• iOS and Android support.
• Detailed Diagnostics.

17.2 Cons of Carista OBD2 App

• In-app Purchase.

18. OBD Fusion

Developed by OCTech, the OBD Fusion app, along with a compatible OBD2 vehicle scanner, gives you a complete diagnostic report of your vehicle. It is popular for vehicle diagnostics due to its ease of use.

OBD Fusion Emission Monitoring

The app is great for both newbies and professionals, with customizable dashboards to view the desired information and closely monitor engine functions.

18.1 Pros of OBD Fusion

• Customizable Dashboards.
• Compatible with Both iOS And Android.
• GPS Navigation Features.
• Emission Monitoring.
• Extensive Data Logging.

18.2 Cons of OBD Fusion

• Features Locked Behind Expansion Packs.
• No Diagnostic Data Sharing Features.

19. How Do I Choose the Right OBD2 App?

Choosing the right OBD2 app can be simplified by considering these factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure the app is compatible with your car model and operating system (Android or iOS).
• Features: Look for essential features like real-time data, fault code reading, and customizable dashboards.
• User Reviews: Check user reviews for insights on reliability and performance.
• Cost: Decide between free apps with basic features or paid apps with advanced capabilities.
• Connectivity: Verify it supports your preferred adapter type (Bluetooth or Wi-Fi).

20. Key Features to Look For In An OBD2 App

When selecting an OBD2 app, prioritize these key features:

• Real-Time Data: Ability to monitor parameters like engine temperature and speed.
• Fault Code Reading: Quick identification of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
• Customizable Dashboard: Tailor the app’s display to your specific needs.
• Data Logging: Record and analyze data over time.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy navigation and clear information presentation.
• Vehicle Compatibility: Broad support for different car models and makes.
• Connectivity Options: Compatible with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapters.

21. What Are The Benefits of Using an OBD2 App?

• Cost Savings: Identifies minor issues before they become major repairs, reducing expenses.
• Preventative Maintenance: Helps maintain vehicle health with timely reminders and diagnostics.
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: Monitors driving habits and provides insights for better mileage.
• Enhanced Performance: Tracks real-time data to optimize engine performance.
• Informed Decisions: Provides accurate data to make informed repair and maintenance choices.
• Convenience: Offers quick and easy access to vehicle diagnostics via a smartphone.
• Customization: Allows personalized tracking of specific vehicle parameters.

22. FAQ About Best Free OBD2 Application For Android

22.1 What Is an OBD2 App?

An OBD2 app is a software application designed to interface with your car’s On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system, allowing you to read and interpret data about your vehicle’s performance and health.

22.2 How Does an OBD2 App Work?

OBD2 apps work by connecting to your car’s OBD2 port, usually via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapter. The app then translates the data from your car’s sensors into readable information, such as engine temperature, speed, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

22.3 Are OBD2 Apps Safe to Use?

Yes, OBD2 apps are generally safe to use, provided they are from reputable developers. Ensure the app has good reviews and doesn’t request unnecessary permissions on your device. Always use a secure connection when transmitting data.

22.4 Do I Need a Special Adapter to Use an OBD2 App?

Yes, you typically need an OBD2 adapter that plugs into your car’s OBD2 port and communicates with your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Ensure the adapter is compatible with your car and the OBD2 app you intend to use.

22.5 Can an OBD2 App Clear Error Codes?

Yes, many OBD2 apps have the capability to clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or error codes. However, clearing a code doesn’t fix the underlying issue; it only turns off the check engine light. It’s essential to diagnose and repair the problem first.

22.6 What Kind of Information Can I Get From an OBD2 App?

An OBD2 app can provide a wide range of information, including:

• Engine temperature
• Vehicle speed
• Fuel consumption
• Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
• Oxygen sensor readings
• Real-time sensor data

22.7 Are There Any Free OBD2 Apps That Are Worth Using?

Yes, there are several free OBD2 apps that offer valuable features. Some popular free options include:

• Car Scanner ELM OBD2
• EOBD Facile
• BlueDriver

22.8 Can an OBD2 App Help Me Improve My Fuel Efficiency?

Yes, many OBD2 apps provide data on fuel consumption, allowing you to monitor your driving habits and make adjustments to improve fuel efficiency. Some apps also offer tips and suggestions for more economical driving.

22.9 Will an OBD2 App Drain My Car Battery?

If the OBD2 adapter remains plugged into your car’s OBD2 port while the engine is off, it can drain your car battery over time. It’s recommended to unplug the adapter when the car is not in use, especially for extended periods.

22.10 How Do I Connect an OBD2 Adapter to My Phone?

To connect an OBD2 adapter to your phone:

1. Plug the adapter into your car’s OBD2 port.
2. Turn on your car’s ignition.
3. Enable Bluetooth or Wi-Fi on your phone.
4. Pair your phone with the OBD2 adapter.
5. Open the OBD2 app and follow the in-app instructions to connect to the adapter.

23. Conclusion

With numerous OBD2 apps available for iOS and Android, confirming compatibility with your car is essential before purchasing. Many developers offer a free lite version for this purpose. Find the app that works best for you.

Looking for a comprehensive solution? Consider Torque Pro for Android, a paid service with excellent features and broad compatibility, or OBD Fusion for iOS, an easy-to-use paid service that tracks vital parameters.

For expert advice on selecting the right diagnostic tools and services for your Mercedes, contact us at MERCEDES-DIAGNOSTIC-TOOL.EDU.VN. Our team can guide you in choosing the perfect OBD2 app and provide expert assistance with advanced diagnostics, ECU programming, and unlocking hidden features. Contact us today at 789 Oak Avenue, Miami, FL 33101, United States, or via WhatsApp at +1 (641) 206-8880. Visit our website at MERCEDES-DIAGNOSTIC-TOOL.EDU.VN for more information.

Take control of your Mercedes-Benz maintenance and performance now. Contact us to explore our range of diagnostic tools and services.