If you want to run diagnostics on your vehicle but don’t fancy shelling out for a dedicated OBD2 (on-board diagnostics) scan tool, then an app-based car scanner could be exactly what you’re looking for. Read on to find out more about what the best OBD2 apps for Android and iOs can do, how they can help you with your automotive care, and how you can decide which one is right for you.
Contents
- 1 Review Criteria: How We Evaluated Each Auto Diagnostics App
- 2 Best OBD2 App Comparison Chart: Our Top 3 Picks of 2023
- 3 Reviews: Our 10 Favorite OBD2 Scanner Apps of 2023
- 4 FAQs
Review Criteria: How We Evaluated Each Auto Diagnostics App
Key features – We considered the key features and functionalities of each app and ranked them based on overall value and utility.
User-friendliness – Some apps are more convenient than others, with an intuitive design and options for customization. We made sure to call out the overall user-friendliness of each app.
Compatibility – Some apps are compatible with a range of devices, while some are designed with a specific adapter in mind. We made sure to specify which apps have a wide compatibility range, and which are best used with a specific device, and we list the best operating systems and adapters for each.
Updatability – An iOS/Android OBD2 app that issues regular, free updates is much more valuable than an app that doesn’t. To make sure you get the best value for your money, we made sure that every app on this list has free updates.
Best OBD2 App Comparison Chart: Our Top 3 Picks of 2023
| Best of the Best for iPhone & Android | Best Cheap for iOS | Runner-up for Android & iOS | |
 FIXD |  BAFX |  VEEPEAK OBDCheck BLE |
|
| Our Rating |  5 / 5 |  4.5 / 5 |  4.4 / 5 |
| Price |  | | |
| Product Dimensions | 1.5" x 0.5" x 1.75" | 4.3" x 3.2" x 1.4" | 1.6" x 2" x 0.9" |
| Item Weight | 0.96oz | 3.2oz | 2.4oz |
| iPhone, iPad | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Android | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Windows | -- | ✔ | -- |
| Free download | ✔ | -- | Some may require separate purchase |
| CEL | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Freeze frame/live data | ✔ | -- | ✔ |
| ABS, airbag, transmission | ✔ | -- | -- |
Reviews: Our 10 Favorite OBD2 Scanner Apps of 2023
With so many OBD2 apps for Android and iOS available on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. We’ve picked out 10 of our favorites below that we’d highly recommend to anyone interested in vehicle diagnostics.
Whether you just need something to turn off the check engine light or want to run more advanced functions, you’ll be able to find the perfect tool for you on this list.
This list includes:
- FIXD OBD2 Scan Tool App
- Carista OBD2 App
- OBDLink
- DashCommand
- OBD Fusion
- Car Scanner ELM OBD2
- OBD Auto Doctor
- inCarDoc Pro
- Dash – Drive Smart
- Torque Pro
1. FIXD OBD2 Scan Tool App
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: FIXD OBD2 Scanner for iPhone / Android
FIXD OBD2 is a free diagnostic scanning OBD2 app that is available across iOS and Android devices. The app has to be paired up with a FIXD adapter that slots straight into your vehicle’s OBD2 port. The FIXD adapter is bought separately but carries a very affordable price tag.
Features
The FIXD is a professional OBD2 scan tool app that easily completes all the basic functions that you’d expect from a dedicated car scanner. These include turning off the check engine light, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and displaying the engine RPM.
This device also has additional fault code reading capabilities that help it stand out from the crowd. Every time your FIXD tool reads a new trouble code, it will provide information about the severity of the issue, and the impact that continued driving will have on the vehicle.
FIXD also allows the user to view real-time data from across different vehicle systems. This means they can see exactly how their car responds to various vehicle inputs. Real-time data is one of the most used tools in a professional workshop and can help identify problems very quickly, so it can be the best OBD iOS/Android for an expert.
Compatible Adapter
The FIXD OBD2 app is designed to work best with the FIXD OBD adapter. The app connects wirelessly to the adapter via Bluetooth and immediately starts reading the vehicle’s VIN number in order to identify the make and model.
This process is remarkably fast for a Bluetooth OBD2 app and you can be reading trouble codes in a matter of seconds. The connection is also strong and extremely unlikely to disconnect as you walk around the vehicle.
The adapter comes nicely packaged with a well-designed travel case. This is perfect for anyone who’s heading out on a long road trip and would like to diagnose any problems they run into on their journey.
It also makes the scan tool the best OBD2 iOS or Android app for professional mechanics who need an easy-to-use diagnostic scanner to take on call-outs.
Pros
- Free updates.
- Connects to iOS & Android Devices automatically using Bluetooth.
- Lets you export .pdf reports.
- Global compatibility.
- Real time cost estimates.
- 24/7 car health monitoring.
- Under $100
- Up to 50% discount available at the official website.
Cons
- Sells out regularly.
- Can’t read ABS or airbag codes
Compatible Adapter
5 / 52. Carista OBD2 App
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iPhone, iPad & Android
The next option on our list of the best Android and iOS OBD2 apps is from Carista. Carista is known across the industry for producing fantastic car diagnostic products and their OBD2 app is no different.
The app can be paired up with a range of different OBD2 adapters, but it works best with Carista’s own Bluetooth transmitter.
Features
Like most of the tools on this list, the Carista OBD2 app completes all basic OBD functions without any problems. The app immediately begins scanning for trouble codes as soon as a connection is made with the adapter and displays useful information about each one.
However, this OBD2 app actually includes a few different advanced features that you’d usually only expect to see on much more expensive diagnostic tools. An example of this is the inclusion of ECU coding, which allows the user to alter parts of their vehicle’s CPU and customize it to their requirements.
The app can also run a smog test. Smog tests are extremely useful as they can quickly determine whether or not a car is likely to pass an external emissions test. This is a brilliant feature and means that a car owner never has to waste money on an expensive emissions test only for the vehicle to fail.
This OBD2 Android/iOS app supports nearly all vehicle makes and models, making the tool viable even for professional workshops that have to deal with many different cars every single day.
Compatible Adapter
As we mentioned earlier, the Carista OBD2 Android/iOS app works best when paired up with the Carista adapter. You can still pair it up with other adapters, but you might not get the same impressive response and ease of use.
The app itself is free to download and use. However, if you want to use advanced features such as ECU coding, you’ll have to join Carista’s subscription program. Considering you’d usually have to buy an expensive dedicated OBD2 tool to access these features, we think it’s a pretty sweet deal.
Pros
- Access to a range of advanced features
- Accurate smog tests
- Free month trial for the subscription service
- Vehicle customization options
Cons
- Subscription necessary to access full potential.
Compatible Adapter
4.2 / 53. OBDLink
- For Operating Systems: Windows, Android, iOS (iPhone, iPad)
- Best Compatible Adapter: OBDLink MX Bluetooth OBD2 Adapter for Windows and Android
OBDLink is one of the most well-known, and best Android/iOS OBD2 apps around. The app has thousands of reviews on the iOS and Android app stores and many people have enjoyed the features it has on offer.
The app hooks up with the OBDLink MX Bluetooth adapter for the best results and most accurate readings but can be paired with a wide range of third-party transmitters.
Features
The OBDLink might be the best OBD2 app out there if you’re looking for something that is simple and easy to use. All the app’s features are accessed via the intuitive menu system and each one feels extremely responsive.
One of the nicest features of this OBD2 app is the Dashboard. The Dashboard displays key vehicle data, represented by various dials and gauges. This system is visually appealing and makes it easy to take in all the data. This is in contrast to some other OBD2 tools that display their readings in a confusing list of numbers.
With the OBDLink, you also gain access to your vehicle’s logs and trip information. This allows the user to see exactly how their car has been performing over time and whether or not standards are starting to slip.
Additionally, the OBDLink has a freeze-frame data function, allowing the user to take snapshots of car data at a specific moment in time. For example, you could take a freeze-frame data shot at the moment the accelerator is pressed, to see whether the engine RPM is responding as expected
Compatible Adapter
The OBDLink MX Bluetooth adapter has clearly been designed to work seamlessly with the OBDLink OBD2 app. A strong wireless connection is made in a matter of seconds to an iOS, Windows, or Android device.
If you want to get the most out of your OBDLink scan tool app, then we’d definitely recommend picking up the MX Bluetooth adapter to go with it. The adapter is pretty affordable, especially when compared to the price of a dedicated scan tool.
Pros
- Very attractive app design
- Access car logs and trip information
- Excellent freeze-frame data function
Cons
- The MX Bluetooth transmitter can be hard to get hold of due to its popularity
Compatible Adapter
4.5 / 54. DashCommand
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: PLX Devices Kiwi 3 Bluetooth Adapter for iPhone Android Windows
Another option for you on this list of the best OBD2 apps for Android and iOS is the DashCommand diagnostic tool. This app is available across all iOS and Android devices and can connect up to nearly any wireless adapter. DashCommand is definitely one of the most versatile OBD2 apps around.
Features
DashCommand displays all the information it gathers in easy to read gauges. This is similar to OBDLink’s Dashboard feature, and it is implemented just as well here. There’s nothing worse than being faced with a jumble of seemingly random numbers and DashCommand solves this problem with attractive designs.
The basic gauges represent fuel consumption and mileage. Although you can usually see this information on your vehicle’s display, DashCommand can be used as a more accurate measure and to check that the physical fuel gauge is working correctly.
DashCommand also displays refined data about a vehicle’s past trips, data logs, and overall performance. If you drive long distances in your car or van, then using DashCommand would be a great way to investigate how your vehicle has been holding up.
This auto diagnostics app also has a decent trouble code reading capability and can quickly uncover problems with a vehicle’s engine, fuel system, and much more. Reading trouble codes is an essential function for any respectable scan tool and DashCommand does this easily.
Compatible Adapter
DashCommand is compatible with a wide range of third-party adapters, but we’d recommend going for the PLX Devices Kiwi 3. This adapter connects quickly to the DashCommand app and hardly ever disconnects or has issues.
The PLX Devices Kiwi 3 can also be linked up with other Android/iOS OBD2 apps if you’d like to explore other options that offer different capabilities to DashCommand.
Pros
- Can be paired with nearly all third-party adapters
- Fantastic gauge design
- Rapid reading of trouble codes
- One of the best OBD2 Android/iOS apps for looking at fuel consumption and fuel economy
Cons
- Can’t run on very old iOS devices (8.0 and lower)
Compatible adapter
4 / 55. OBD Fusion
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: BAFX Products 8523900508 for for iPhone iPad
OBD Fusion is yet another great choice for anyone who wants to look into their car diagnostics. OBD Fusion is compatible with all devices from across the iOS and Android spectrums and can pair up with loads of different third-party adapters.
Features
If you want to take a deep-dive into the performance of your engine, then OBD Fusion might be the best OBD2 Android/iOS app for you. It can access a wide range of engine sensors built into the car and provide accurate readings for them all.
The engine information displays in the form of a graph or gauge for easy consumption. Being able to access the engine PIDs in the way that OBD Fusion does is something that we’d only typically expect to see on much more expensive scan tools.
Aside from running engine diagnostics, OBD Fusion can also investigate the fuel system and provide sophisticated feedback. Knowing how efficiently your fuel system is operating is essential if you want to keep your vehicle running at a sensible price.
The final feature we love is OBD Fusion’s ability to locate and track your vehicle. If you’re someone who regularly forgets where they’ve parked their car, then you can simply head to OBD Fusion and it will guide you straight there. As long as your Bluetooth transmitter is plugged in, you’ll never lose your car again.
Although this OBD2 app can pair up with most adapters available on the market, we’d recommend buying the BAFX Products transmitter. This adapter works extremely well and holds a strong connection even as the user walks around and away from the car.
Pros
- Fantastic engine diagnostics
- In-depth fuel system reporting
- Compatible with a range of devices
- Cheap
Cons
- Some of the more advanced features require in-app purchases
Compatible Adapter
One of the adapters that OBD Fusion is compatible with is the BAFX Wi-Fi OBD2 adapter. This particular adapter is compatible with Android or IOS devices. It is a great adapter similar to other ELM327 devices, and works with Wifi or Bluetooth. A great tool to help connect with the OBD Fusion application and get quick vehicle reads.
4.4 / 56. Car Scanner ELM OBD2
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: Vgate iCar2 OBD2 Wifi Code Reader for iPhone iPad Android PC
Here we have the Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app. This is yet another scan tool that has seen booming popularity on digital app stores thanks to its great set of features and free initial download. There’s no dedicated adapter to pair it up with but there are tons of third-party options available.
Features
The Car Scanner ELM OBD2 tool goes a few layers deeper than some of the other scan apps on this list. If you’re someone who has a decent knowledge of how OBD2 systems function, then this could be one of the best options for you.
Having said that, the app is still pretty easy to use and could still be a great choice for someone just getting into car diagnostics. Car Scanner ELM reads trouble codes with ease and even gives the user some in-depth feedback about the source of the issue and repair suggestions.
This OBD2 app for Android and iOS also makes use of a variety of sensors located in a vehicle’s engine, fuel, and emission systems to give the user an in-depth rundown of how these various systems are performing. All car owners would definitely be able to benefit from being able to see these statistics.
The smog test feature is also very useful and can save a vehicle owner from sending their car for repeated failed emissions tests. Simply use the app to check how efficiently your emissions system is operating and then decide whether or not it is likely to pass the test.
The best compatible adapter for this OBD2 app is the iCar 2 from Vgate. This can be connected to the app either via WiFi or Bluetooth and always connects with ease. The WiFi connection is probably the fastest and most responsive option but the Bluetooth system also works well.
The adapter is clearly built to a high standard that matches Vgate’s solid reputation in the industry. It’s extremely rugged and you’ll have no problem chucking it in the glovebox to take out on road trips or a call-out.
Pros
- Great for in-depth investigation
- Pairs easily with third-party OBD2 adapters
- Impressive smog test feature
Cons
- There are some knock-off versions of the Vgate adapter floating around, so be careful!
Compatible Adapter
The CarScanner ELM OBD2 application works with any adapter that is ELM 327 based. Therefore, there are a few Bluetooth or Wifi based adapters that work well and are affordable. Any adapter with ELM 327 is basically a small computer that can connect with your vehicle and give full information reads.
That being said, the best adapter choice is any ELM327 based device that has version 1.4 or 2.1. Users should beware of cheap knock-off devices before purchase. Many users have complained about devices that are not compatible or a knock-off device. A noteworthy tip: cheaper devices do not promise good quality results.
4 / 57. OBD Auto Doctor
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: PLX Devices Kiwi 4 Bluetooth Scanner for iOS Android
OBD Auto Doctor is an effective OBD2 app for Android and iOS devices that ensures your vehicle stays fit and healthy throughout its lifespan. It is available in nearly every region around the world.
Features
OBD Auto Doctor completes all the basic functions that we’ve come to expect from capable OBD2 apps. It can turn off the check engine light following a repair and can read most trouble codes almost instantly.
Aside from being able to turn off the check engine light, OBD Auto Doctor also lets users dabble in more advanced diagnostics. For example, you can watch real-time data unfold as you perform vehicle functions, and combine this with freeze-frame data for great analysis opportunities.
Additionally, you can access parts of a vehicle’s CPU to really get a sense of how the car is performing. You probably won’t be able to perform any in-depth ECU re-coding using OBD Auto Doctor, but just being able to see what your computer is up to is a good feature.
As soon as you connect the app to the Bluetooth transmitter, the adapter reads your vehicle’s VIN information and instantly lets the app know the make and model.
Not only does this allow the app to tailor its functions correctly, but this could also be a useful feature for anyone buying a new car who wants to check that the vehicle is exactly what the seller is claiming it is.
Our favorite adapter to use with OBD Auto Doctor is the PLX Devices Kiwi 4.
This is a very capable transmitter that has never let us down and works well with the Auto Doctor’s real-time data functions. Having said that, the OBD Auto Doctor can be paired with most third-party adapters if you’d prefer to use something else.
Pros
- Reads vehicle identification numbers (VIN) instantly
- Displays sensor information in graphs
- Family sharing options (up to 6 people can use the app)
- Diagnostic reports via email
- Read and organize sensor data
Cons
- Not suitable for iOS devices with firmware 9.0 or lower
Compatible Adapter
3.6 / 58. inCarDoc Pro
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iPhone, iPad & Android
Next up, inCarDoc Pro (sometimes referred to as OBD Car Doctor Pro) is another OBD2 app that we highly recommend if you’d like to run quick and easy diagnostics on your vehicles.
OBD Car Doctor Pro is perfect for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use interface, but also offers in-depth functionality for those with more expertise.
Features
If you want to see real-time data reporting for your vehicle, then ODB Car Doctor might well be the best OBD2 scanner app for you. The real-time data options included on this device are very impressive, and you can watch live statistics from across all vehicle systems.
It doesn’t matter if you’d like to see how the engine responds as you press the accelerator, or see how the emission levels change over time, with real-time data you can do all this with a touch of a button. This real-time information can also be displayed graphically for analysis afterward.
OBD Car Doctor also has other features included such as advanced fault code reading. You can easily access fault codes from across every vehicle system, and importantly, clear them once you’ve completed a repair.
Despite all of these features, OBD Car Doctor is extremely easy to use and anyone would be able to get a lot out of the app. Even professional mechanics would be happy to use OBD Car Doctor daily in their workshops.
Although OBD Car Doctor doesn’t have a dedicated OBD2 adapter, it can pair up with almost every third-party adapter on the market. Having said that, we’d recommend the Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter. Carista makes consistently high-quality diagnostic products and this OBD2 Bluetooth adapter lives up to their reputation.
Pros
- Supports GPS.
- Lets you read multiple parameters.
- Shows real-time data in charts.
- Quick when it comes to using.
Cons
- It might disrupt the WiFi connection on the phone.
- Might not support cheaper OBD2 scanners.
- Stability problems with the Bluetooth connection.
It can be the best OBD Android/iOS app for beginners because it doesn’t support advanced features.
Compatible Adapter
4.2 / 5READ MORE: 9 Best OBD2 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanners Review 2021 for Android and iOS
9. Dash – Drive Smart
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: Veepeak OBDCheck BLE OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for iOS Android
The motto behind the Dash application is being the smart driving assistant. That means you can rest assured with Dash being your vehicle’s partner. The Dash application works as a partner to make your vehicle into a smart car. With Dash, you can unlock enhanced vehicle performances as well as find cost savings tips for your vehicle. What makes the Dash application unique is that you do not need any device to pair with this smart application.
Therefore, from your smartphone, you will have access to gas prices, vehicle prices, engine light alerts and more. If you do have an OBD device, simply plug it into your vehicle’s OBD2 port and connect with the application. From there, you can wirelessly connect with Bluetooth to get key features onto your smart device.
Dash was created for the US market and is compatible with most OBD2 friendly devices built after 1996. Users should note that this application and tool are not compatible with international models at the moment. International users can check their vehicle compatibility before purchase.
Pros
- Vehicle Information- On your smart device, you can use Dash to get clear vehicle diagnostics.
- Car Location- Using real-time map locators, the Dash application can find your car no matter where it may be.
- Unique Device- Use Dash with or without an OBD scan tool.
- Check-Engine Alerts- Be alerted about a check-engine potential problem before it becomes an issue.
Cons
- Not International-Compatible- Dash application and tool does not work for all vehicles outside the US.
- Not for all users- International drivers should check their vehicle before purchasing Dash.
- Subscription based use- Monthly fees are included to use Dash which may defer some users.
Compatible Adapter
With the Dash application there are a variety of devices that are compatible. Users should decide which adapter is best for them depending on if they are working with an IOS or Android device. CellAssist works with both Android and IOS, but is one of the higher priced scan tools. Others on the list are OBDLink LX, Kiwi 3, VeePeak or other generic, lower priced tools.
4.3 / 510. Torque Pro
- For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android
- Best Compatible Adapter: Foseal OBD2 Wifi Scanner for iOS Android
The final OBD2 Android/iOS app we have for you is Torque Pro. Torque Pro version is another popular choice and boasts thousands of users around the world. This app is compatible with practically any OBD2 adapter, so it’s definitely worth giving a try.
Features
Torque Pro is a highly customizable OBD2 tool that you’ll be able to use with almost all vehicles built after 1996. This makes Torque Pro a valid choice for professional mechanics as well as car owners who want to monitor performance.
Torque Pro automatically reads a vehicle’s VIN number as soon as it makes a connection with the transmitter. This allows the app to easily tailor its functions to best suit the car it’s being used with.
Once you’re connected up and the VIN number has been recognized, you’ll have a range of features and tools to make use of. The first of these is code reading, which instantly understands trouble codes from all vehicle systems, and gives the user an idea of what the problem could be.
Torque Pro can also be used as a custom dashboard to provide more accurate data about your speed, fuel consumption, and engine health whilst you are driving. When operating in this mode, the app can be set up to alert you as soon as it detects any sign of an error code or problem.
We think that the best transmitter for Torque Pro is the Foseal OBD2 Scanner. We’ve never had any problems with this device and it always seems to function exactly as you’d expect. You can use iOS or Android devices with it as well.
Pros
- Dashboard dock system
- Highly customizable
- Easily view horsepower, dynamometer, and emission information
- Effective code reader and clearer
- Gives warnings for bad car performance like high coolant temperature
- Great free version
Cons
- Not always compatible with HTC devices
This app supports all OBD2 vehicles and supports Android version 2.0 and above. It has a user-friendly interface and tons of built-in functions.
Compatible Adapter
4 / 5FAQs
Since there are so many great OBD2 apps available on the market today, it can be very hard to say which app is the absolute best. Having said that, FIXD is the number one pick of mechanics across the globe. Click here to see a full FIXD review.
For example, some OBD2 tools will be excellent code readers, able to uncover all the problems in your car in a matter of seconds, whilst others will be geared towards customization and ECU re-coding.
It’s important that you don’t get carried away by the number of features an app offers – it’s always best to choose one that is specialized to your needs.
All the OBD2 apps on the list are fantastic options and we’d highly recommend that you try out as many as you can to find the one that’s best for you. Most of them are compatible with third-party transmitters so you won’t need a new one for each app.
There are plenty of free OBD2 apps for Android and iOS available but if you want to access some of the most advanced OBD2 functions, then you’ll probably have to pay for the service. This is often in the form of a monthly or yearly subscription plan, but sometimes you can make a one-off payment.
FIXD app offers an impressive range of features and can act as a driver’s main source of vehicle support and information. It goes way beyond just being able to disable the check engine light and even has features such as ECU coding.
There are many other paid options available and we talked about quite a few of them in our rundown. It’s worth remembering that you’ll also have to pay for a Bluetooth transmitter to link up to your app, so make sure to factor this in when you’re working out the true cost of any OBD app you choose.
Most of the best OBD2 apps for Android and iOS will be compatible with all OBD2 compliant vehicles. An OBD2 compliant vehicle is one that was built after 1996. If you want to run diagnostics on a car that was made before 1996, then you’ll need an OBD1 tool.
If you want to confirm whether an app or transmitter is compatible with your car before you buy, then you should head on over to their respective app store and product pages. Most companies will usually list the car brands that their software works with.
If you can’t find this information easily, then don’t be afraid to get in touch with their customer service teams. All of them are very friendly and would be glad to help you make a more informed choice about your purchase.
You can also check out customer reviews and OBD2 forums to see if anyone else has used the product you’re looking at.
Most auto diagnostic apps will actually be compatible with any third-party wireless transmitter. This is particularly true for those apps that don’t have their own dedicated transmitter available, such as the Torque Pro app featured on our list.
However, if you want to get the most out of your diagnostic app, then we’d advise you to go with FIXD recommendations on our list. Some OBD2 apps just work better with certain adapters and you should definitely choose one that works in harmony if you have the option.
OBD2 is a diagnostic system on all vehicles built after 1996. Some cars made before 1996 did have a diagnostic system built-in, but it wasn’t a requirement by law. Reading the diagnostics of a car built before 1996 usually requires a separate OBD1 tool.
OBD2 systems can quickly recognize when there are things going wrong within the vehicle’s systems. When this happens, the computer produces OBD2 error codes and deciphers them with an OBD2 diagnostic tool or app.
OBD2 also allows mechanics to gain access to advanced information about vehicle performance. By using vehicle sensors spread across a car’s systems, an OBD2 tool can quickly gather information and report it back to the mechanic.
This is why you’ll be able to find an OBD tool in nearly every workshop across the globe – they allow mechanics to save loads of time, money, and resources.
If you’re looking for a great OBD2 app for Android, then you’re in luck. There are loads of options available to Android users and every one of them offers its own unique benefits.
There are some high-quality free code readers and there are some expensive subscription apps – which you choose all depends on what you need the app to do.
Having said that, out of all the options on our list FIXD is the best, so if you’re looking for the best OBD2 app for Android, that’s a good place to start. We included a range of options that this device does.
The Android operating system works on thousands of different devices around the world. If you own a phone or tablet that isn’t iOS-based, then it’s highly likely that you are able to download OBD2 apps from the Android store. We’d probably say that it’s best to own an Android device if you want to run car diagnostics.