Today there are 138 different OBD2 apps. We spent 90 hours comparing the top 50 to find the seven best you can use to diagnose car issues like a pro mechanic.
What is the Best OBD2 App?
- TOAD — best of the best
- OBDeleven — best for pro mechanics
- BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool — best for car buyers and sellers
- Torque Pro — best for ease of use
- OBD Auto Doctor — best for fleet managers
- Autobrain — best for parents of teen drivers
- Fuelly — best for eco-conscious drivers
1. TOAD
Our Verdict — Best Of The Best
Price: $77
TOAD is an all-in-one, powerful OBD2 laptop software scanner for DIY car owners and professional mechanics. We think it’s the best because of its advanced diagnostics capabilities, comprehensive options, and user-friendly interface.
The Best Part:
Real-time customizable graphs. TOAD's unique feature of displaying live vehicle data through easy-to-understand, customizable graphs, sets it apart from other OBD2 apps, giving users an in-depth understanding of their car's performance and health.
The Worst Part:
Windows-only compatibility. TOAD currently only supports Windows operating systems, which means Mac users will need to set up a virtual machine or find alternative solutions to run the app on their devices.
Get it if you want a powerful OBD2 app that delivers comprehensive diagnostics, ECU tuning, and visually appealing graphs.
I recommend you get started by ordering TOAD’s USB adapter on Amazon ($21.95) and downloading TOAD from the official website ($77).
(1-year money-back guarantee)
Best For
TOAD is best for DIY car owners and professional mechanics who want a powerful, comprehensive OBD2 app to efficiently diagnose, optimize, and maintain their vehicles.
Top Features
Deep-dive diagnostics. TOAD offers advanced OBD2 scanning capabilities, enabling users to analyze a wealth of vehicle data beyond what typical scan tools provide.
ECU tuning. TOAD doesn’t just stop at diagnostics — it lets you optimize your vehicle's performance by editing, tuning, and reprogramming its ECU chip data.
Real-time data monitoring. With TOAD, you can keep an eye on crucial vehicle parameters like engine temperature, RPMs, speedometer values, and battery voltage levels in real time.
Extensive support for protocols. TOAD works seamlessly with many OBD1 & OBD2 protocols across different regions (North/South America, Europe, Japan), accommodating most vehicles and guaranteeing efficient diagnostics regardless of the car’s make or model.
In-depth fault code library. TOAD boasts a vast integrated database containing more than 15,000 generic and manufacturer-specific error codes, simplifying the process of pinpointing and addressing problems in your vehicle.
Pricing
TOAD offers a single pricing plan:
TOAD: $77 one-time payment, for DIY car owners and professional mechanics who want advanced OBD2 diagnostics and ECU tuning capabilities.
Try TOAD today with a one-year money-back guarantee.
2. OBDeleven
Our Verdict — Best For Pro Mechanics
Price: Starts at $52.80/year
OBDeleven offers top-notch OBD2 scanning and coding capabilities for pro mechanics. We think it’s the best for pro mechanics because of its extensive control unit scanning, real-time performance monitoring, and user-friendly one-click apps.
The Best Part:
Seamless data sharing. OBDeleven allows pro mechanics to effortlessly email comprehensive scan details, including One-Click Apps adjustments and coding changes, keeping clients in the loop and making stored history and backup data a breeze to access.
The Worst Part:
No laptop version. OBDeleven is designed as a mobile app, which means people who prefer working on laptops might find it less convenient.
Get it if you want a top-notch diagnostic tool with easy customization and data sharing capabilities — perfect for pro mechanics who love to stay ahead of the game.
I recommend you get started by ordering OBDeleven’s Ultimate Pack for $147.89/year.
(free plan)
Best For
OBDeleven is best for pro mechanics who want a user-friendly, all-in-one diagnostic tool to effortlessly diagnose and customize vehicles across various car brands while keeping clients in the loop.
Top Features
Saves on repairs. OBDeleven allows pro mechanics to perform comprehensive diagnostics on all vehicle control units, catching potential problems early and preventing costly repairs down the road.
Live data. OBDeleven provides real-time performance monitoring of various control modules, helping pros stay ahead of any problems that could lead to bigger issues.
Coding and long coding. OBDeleven enables customization of individual control units with coding features, allowing you to tailor vehicle functionalities according to your clients' needs.
One-click apps. OBDeleven simplifies the coding process with pre-made applications, letting pro mechanics easily activate, deactivate, or modify vehicle functions and access manufacturer-hidden features in a snap.
Works for most brands. OBDeleven supports most popular brands, including BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, SEAT, MINI, Lamborghini, and Skoda, making it a go-to diagnostic tool for pro mechanics working with various vehicles every day.
Pricing
OBDeleven offers three pricing plans:
- Free Plan: Free forever, for casual users and DIY enthusiasts who want access to basic features like full scans, live data, and vehicle info.
- Pro VAG: $52.80/year for pro mechanics working with mainly Volkswagen Group and BMW Group vehicles who need advanced features such as coding & long coding and SFD Unlock in addition to the free plan features.
- Ultimate VAG: $147.89/year for pro mechanics who want the most comprehensive package with everything from the Pro VAG plan, plus OCAbuilder and unlimited one-click apps for extensive customization capabilities.
Try OBDeleven today with the free plan.
3. BlueDriver
Our Verdict — Best For Car Buyers And Sellers
Price: $99.95
BlueDriver makes checking new cars for buyers and sellers a breeze. We think it’s the best for car buyers and sellers because of its user-friendly mobile app, comprehensive diagnostics capabilities, and zero subscription fees.
The Best Part:
Zero subscription fees. BlueDriver provides car buyers and sellers with comprehensive diagnostics, live data, smog checks, and more without any recurring costs.
The Worst Part:
Lacks laptop support. BlueDriver is exclusively compatible with iOS and Android devices, leaving laptop users in the cold.
Get it if you want a reliable, user-friendly OBD2 scanning tool with no subscription fees, making car buying and selling a breeze.
I recommend you get started by ordering a BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for $99.95.
(free app)
Best For
BlueDriver is best for car buyers and sellers who want a hassle-free, comprehensive OBD2 scanning experience without recurring costs.
Top Features
Ready when you need it. Car buyers and sellers can quickly access diagnostics whenever an opportunity arises, just by pulling out the Bluetooth tool and app.
Thorough code analysis. BlueDriver excels at detecting not only standard codes but also advanced ones, such as ABS, airbag, and transmission, that other scanners often overlook.
Reliable fix insights. BlueDriver lets you tap into a huge database of millions of confirmed repairs, ensuring spot-on solutions tailored to your vehicle's make and model.
Broad support. BlueDriver plays nice with enhanced diagnostics for multiple manufacturers like GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, and Nissan — offering car buyers and sellers plenty of flexibility.
Smog check. BlueDriver simplifies the process of checking if a vehicle is ready for smog or emissions tests, making it easier for car buyers and sellers to stay compliant and avoid penalties.
Pricing
BlueDriver offers a single pricing plan:
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool: $99.95 one-time payment, for car buyers and sellers seeking a comprehensive and user-friendly diagnostic tool.
Try BlueDriver today with the free app.
Our Top Three Picks
Here’s a quick summary of our top three picks:
- TOAD — best of the best
- OBDeleven — best for pro mechanics
- BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool — best for car buyers and sellers
Here’s a quick comparison of our top seven picks:
Tool | Entry Offer | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
TOAD | 1-year money-back guarantee | $77 |
OBDeleven | Free plan | Starts at $52.80/yr |
BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool | Free app | $99.95 |
Torque Pro | 2-day money-back guarantee | $4.95 |
OBD Auto Doctor | Free download | Starts at $14.99/qtr |
Autobrain | 30-day money-back guarantee | Starts at $29.97 |
Fuelly | Free plan | Custom |
Here are the top 50 OBD2 apps we considered in this review:
- TOAD
- OBDeleven
- BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool
- Torque Pro
- OBD Auto Doctor
- Autobrain
- Fuelly
- Car Scanner ELM OBD2
- ThinkDiag+
- FIXD - Vehicle Health Monitor
- DashCommand
- Infocar - OBD2 ELM Diagnostic
- Carista OBD2
- EOBD Facile: OBD 2 Car Scanner
- OBD connector
- ELM scan identifier
- DTC Fix
- Dr. Prius / Dr. Hybrid
- OBD Fusion (Car Diagnostics)
- ELMScan Adapter Validator
- OBD Scanner Elm
- EasyOBD
- JScan
- Piston - OBD2 Car Scanner
- HobDrive OBD2
- EOBD Facile
- CarSys Scan
- MotorData OBD
- ScanMaster Lite
- OBD2-ELM327 Car Diagnostics
- OBD Car Wizard
- OBDLink (OBD car diagnostics)
- Engine Link
- iOBD2
- Kiwi OBD
- AutoCodes
- RealDash
- EOBD OBD2 Trouble Codes
- Veepeak OBDCheck
- PerformanceDrive OBDII
- CarBit ELM327 OBD2
- iLC OBD2 Wireless
- MaxiAP200
- Engie - Easy Auto Repair
- Car Scanner Pro
- OBD Logger
- ScanMyOpelCAN
- GOFAR Ray
- FordSys Scan Pro
- ELM327 Terminal
What is the best OBD2 scanner app for 2023?
If you're in the market for the best OBD2 scanner app of 2023, I'd have to say TOAD tops the list. This all-in-one software solution not only provides advanced diagnostics but also has a wide range of features that cater to both DIY car owners and professional mechanics. Unlike basic OBD2 scanner apps that offer limited diagnostic features, TOAD's advanced functions extend far beyond basic check engine diagnostics. It provides real-time vehicle health monitoring, allowing you to keep tabs on crucial parameters like engine temperature and RPMs.
One unique feature that sets TOAD apart is its real-time customizable graphs. These graphs provide an intuitive interface for users to understand their vehicle systems deeply. It's a versatile OBD2 app that offers enhanced codes and even ECU tuning. The only drawback is its Windows-only compatibility, making it less ideal for Mac users. But for what it offers, it's worth setting up a virtual machine just to run this unparalleled app.
So if you're a shade tree mechanic or someone who wants to avoid frequent trips to the repair shop, TOAD’s $77 one-time payment is a pretty smart investment.
What is the best app to clear codes on OBD2?
Clearing diagnostic trouble codes is a prominent function of any reliable OBD2 scanner app. TOAD, once again, stands out in this regard. Its advanced diagnostics capabilities allow users to identify engine fault codes and other trouble codes in the vehicle systems. The app has an in-depth fault code library with more than 15,000 generic and manufacturer-specific error codes.
With this range of features, you can easily pinpoint the issues triggering your check engine light. The user interface is quite intuitive, making it easy even for users who are not technically savvy to clear the codes. If you’re working on a tight budget, you may want to consider scanner apps like Torque Lite, which provides basic functions for clearing codes but may lack some of the advanced features found in TOAD.
Can Torque Pro clear codes?
Yes, Torque Pro can definitely clear codes. The app has a primary function to not only read but also clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that trigger the check engine light. Torque Pro is particularly known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of features. It uses a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to connect to your vehicle and provides advanced service functions. The app is available on Android OBD2 app stores and offers features like real-time vehicle health monitoring and customizable dashboards. However, it might not have as comprehensive a fault code library as TOAD.
What is a good OBD code reader?
If you're looking for a dedicated scanner with a mix of features, BlueDriver is a strong contender. Priced at $99.95, it comes with a Bluetooth Adapter that connects to a free app on iOS and Android devices. Unlike some expensive scanners, BlueDriver offers zero subscription fees and provides a wide range of diagnostic features.
It excels in reading both basic and enhanced codes across multiple vehicle systems. From engine and transmission modules to steering wheel and gas pedal issues, BlueDriver has got you covered. Its user interface is designed for easy navigation, and it provides real-time vehicle health monitoring. It even supports a smog check feature, which is especially beneficial for car buyers and sellers.
Are Bluetooth OBD2 readers good?
Bluetooth OBD2 readers like the ones used in TOAD, Torque Pro, and BlueDriver are generally reliable and offer the convenience of wireless connection to your smartphone. They support a wide range of diagnostic features, from basic functions like reading and clearing check engine light codes to advanced diagnostics that cover a wide range of vehicle systems. They can pull up information on coolant and oil temperature, engine RPM, and more.
The Bluetooth OBD2 adapters are often compatible with a variety of scanner apps, giving users the flexibility to choose an app that best suits their needs. The benefit of Bluetooth OBD2 readers is their portability and ease of use, especially for those who aren't keen on spending a fortune on dedicated scanners. They may not offer dealer-level functions, but they are sufficient for most DIYers and even some professional mechanics.
So yes, Bluetooth OBD2 readers are not only good but also offer a balance of affordability and functionality, making them a go-to choice for many.
The Bottom Line
To recap, here are the best OBD2 apps to try this year:
- TOAD — best of the best
- OBDeleven — best for pro mechanics
- BlueDriver OBD2 Scan Tool — best for car buyers and sellers
- Torque Pro — best for ease of use
- OBD Auto Doctor — best for fleet managers
- Autobrain — best for parents of teen drivers
- Fuelly — best for eco-conscious drivers
