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Do you want to have peace of mind when it comes to your car? Do you want to be able to diagnose and fix trouble codes in your vehicle without having an expensive mechanic do it for you? If so, we've compiled a list of the best car diagnostic software with their standout features below.
Comparison of the Best Car Diagnostic Software
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|
 Best Overall |
InCarDoc Car Diagnostic Software |
|
Most User-Recommended |
Torque Car Diagnostic Software |
|
Best Professional |
CarMD ProScan Car Diagnostic Software |
|
Best Overall:
InCarDoc Car Diagnostic Software
InCarDoc has an intuitive user interface that supports various OBD2 protocols, 9 to be exact, so you don't have to worry much about vehicle compatibility. Even with the free version, you can get many parameters, unlike other car diagnostic tools.
While the pro version is an excellent car diagnostic tool, we don't recommend getting it outright. Try the free version for a month until you are comfortable using it before committing to a paid version.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One user, admittedly not a mechanic, appreciates how this car scanner app helps an average car owner diagnose error codes from their Android or iOS mobile devices. Another user loves the responsive community for Pro users to consult or talk about code definitions and readings on their cars. It saves them lots of money by limiting their visits to the auto repair shop.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Both the free and Pro versions support Bluetooth, WiFi, and KWE 3 adapters and read various parameters in real-time, including engine RPM, motor load, coolant temperature, and many others. It also has logbook notes, even in the free version, but you can create more in the Pro version.
A few features available in the Pro version are real-time recording of car parameters, recording of multiple car parameters, and recording parameters in the background mode. Even when you don't turn on the car diagnostic tool, you can still retrieve these data when you need them.
Another excellent feature of the Pro version is the economizer that tracks your car's fuel economy consumption daily for every trip taken. However, this feature is limited by the appropriate OBD2 economy parameters that your vehicle supports.
Word of warning, though: some OBD2 ELM327 adapters do not work, not because of issues with the app, but the inferior make of these clone adapters (usually marked as version 2.1). Buy your adapters from authorized buyers only.
Who Will Use This Most
We recommend this OBD2 car scan tool as the best diagnostic tool not only for drivers but for everyone who needs professional car diagnostic tools. A professional mechanic or a garage owner will appreciate having this app in their auto repair shop.
OBDeleven Car Diagnostics
OBDeleven is an automotive diagnostics software available for iOS and Android devices, downloadable free from App Store or Google Play Store.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One user, admittedly not a mechanic, appreciates how this car scanner app helps an average car owner diagnose error codes from their Android or iOS mobile devices. Another user loves the responsive community for Pro users to consult or talk about code definitions and readings on their cars. It saves them lots of money by limiting their visits to the auto repair shop.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Both the free and Pro versions support Bluetooth, WiFi, and KWE 3 adapters and read various parameters in real-time, including engine RPM, motor load, coolant temperature, and many others. It also has logbook notes, even in the free version, but you can create more in the Pro version.
A few features available in the Pro version are real-time recording of car parameters, recording of multiple car parameters, and recording parameters in the background mode. Even when you don't turn on the car diagnostic tool, you can still retrieve these data when you need them.
Another excellent feature of the Pro version is the economizer that tracks your car's fuel economy consumption daily for every trip taken. However, this feature is limited by the appropriate OBD2 economy parameters that your vehicle supports.
Word of warning, though: some OBD2 ELM327 adapters do not work, not because of issues with the app, but the inferior make of these clone adapters (usually marked as version 2.1). Buy your adapters from authorized buyers only.
Who Will Use This Most
We recommend this OBD2 car scan tool as the best diagnostic tool not only for drivers but 0for everyone who needs professional car diagnostic tools. A professional mechanic or a garage owner will appreciate having this app in their auto repair shop.
OBD Arny is one of the car diagnostic tools with a very high approval rating on Google Play. It supports both Bluetooth and WiFi adapters to read your car's error codes and other parameters.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Some users work well with minor issues after the recent update after restarting the mobile phone. Users also listed diagnosing their cars, including an E36 BMW, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot ECU, and even a '98 Toyota!
Why It Stands Out to Us
We love it because it is a very trustworthy device that is simple to use yet very effective in detecting and clearing error codes without any frills. You have limited access to engine trouble codes in the free version, though you can access everything if you go on a paid subscription.
Instead of three live data parameters in the free version, you can upgrade up to 10 in the free version, depending on your vehicle make. You can also retrieve freeze frame data and other similar features.
You can also use it on several devices that support a Bluetooth connection, including using an Android emulator on Windows PCs and laptops, Blackberry, and even on Kindle and Mac.
Who Will Use This Most
This app is best for drivers who use Android phones or use Nox/Bluestacks Android emulators on their laptops and desktop PCs.
The OBD Auto Doctor app is available for Android and iOS mobile devices. It is an excellent app to check engine lights with just a WiFi or Bluetooth connection and determine the source of the error code before bringing your car to the auto repair shop.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One user recommends this app for every professional mechanic because it is straightforward to set up and use. It has an intuitive interface that lets you read diagnostic codes with a basic scan. One driver was glad he didn't get the expensive car code reader and got this app instead since it works well on mobile devices.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The key features of this car diagnostic tool are reading readiness motor status, error codes, freeze frame, and live sensor data. Though the free version supports only the engine control module and transmission control module, the paid version supports all the other vehicle systems.
When subscribed to the paid version, you can send diagnostic data through email in .csv format. It also reads vehicle identification numbers and calibration verification numbers, so you don't need to input them into your OBD2 scanner.
It also carries an extensive built-in database of 18,000 error codes, including vehicle manufacturer-specific codes not available in other car diagnostic tools. You can access these codes even without having to go online.
Who Will Use This Most
The OBD Auto Doctor is the best diagnostic tool for owners of EU-registered cars from 2001 for gasoline vehicles and 2004 for diesel vehicles.
OBD Fusion is one of the few car diagnostic apps that rate well on the App Store, though we cannot say the same with the app version for Android devices, though. It works with Apple devices, including the Apple Watch.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One user who said he's not comfortable using modern technology still found this app very easy to use. He said it beats his old plug-in car scan tool. Another user is delighted with the prompt developer response when he complained when logging into the app.
Why It Stands Out to Us
OBD Fusion works differently on the iPad and iPhone, but it has additional features exclusive to an Apple Watch. What stands out best for us, though, is its advanced features like its ability to set parking meter time and check the time remaining on the parking meter, so you save yourself from parking meter penalties.
Though recommended for Ford and GM users, it also works with other car brands. It also has 150 stored PIDs in its system, making it more extensive than other apps. It also does GPS tracking, though, be forewarned that connecting to GPS affects battery life drastically.
It also supports various diagnostic tool adapters, including WiFi ELM327 compatible adapter, Veepeak BLE/BLE+ 4.0 adapter, Carista BLE adapter, OBDLink MX+, Tonwon BLE adapter, LELink BLE adapter, Viecar BLE adapter, Lonauto adapter, Vgate iCar Bluetooth 4.0, BAST BLE adapter, Kiwi 3 or 4, or compatible ELM327 Bluetooth LE adapter to use this app.
Who Will Use This Most
The OBD Fusion app and its companion adapter is the best car diagnostic tool that an iOS user who drives a Ford or GM car can have.
Most User-Recommended:
Torque Car Diagnostic Software
Torque is a car performance and diagnostic tool that uses an OBD2 Bluetooth adapter to connect. It can provide tracker logs with engine logging to see what was happening at any point in time. Torque also helps fix your car by giving data like sensor readings, OEM error codes, or even resetting the Check Engine light. It is available on Google Play Store and the App Store.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users recommend backing up your layouts so that the same works on your new device without any issues. Some users said they had to uninstall and reinstall it after getting free updates to keep it going again. Overall, it's a great scan tool.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Torque app and its companion diagnostic tool reads and clears check engine light codes, shows engine performance, logs data functions, and has a customizable dashboard that supports dashboard setup of the gauges and dials you prefer.
The pro version works for cars made in the US, Europe, and the Far East, including Ford, GM, Vauxhall, Chrysler, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Audi, Jaguar, Citroen, Opel, Peugeot, Skoda, Renault, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Honda, Hyundai, BMW, Toyota, Seat, Dodge, Jeep, Pontiac, Kia, Mazda, Lexus, Daewoo, and Subaru.
The pro version also works on Motorola Xoom, Dell Streak, Samsung Galaxy Tab, and Nook.
Who Will Use This Most
Torque is the best car diagnostic tool since it works seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices. Someone who drives any of the brands mentioned above but has little knowledge about their cars will appreciate having this OBD2 scanner on his vehicle.
DashCommand makes it easy to monitor and data log engine performance, fuel economy, and vehicle check engine lights. Instantly read or clear troublesome warning signals for a safe drive home with this app. Dash Command also features professional race tracks that visually map out your location as you complete laps around the track.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
While the engine codes and other codes are not the easiest to understand for an average car owner without prior knowledge of automotive diagnostics, the app helps you verify your mechanic's diagnosis.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The DashCommand app is free to download on Google Play Store and the App Store and works with Bluetooth, WiFi, and BLE adapters like AutoMeter DashLink, PLX Kiwi 3, and Kiwi 4, OBDLink MX+, ELM compatible WiFi, and GoPoint BT1.
It is beneficial to professional car drivers and those who drive on steep inclines because of the location map and inclinometer that helps you control your car better.
Who Will Use This Most
The DashCommand is the perfect car scan tool for professional race car drivers because of its map feature.
ScanMaster turns your Android smartphone or iPhone into diagnostic tools to help you identify and fix problems with the car. It has all of the essential OBD-2 features, but not every part is available in ScanMaster Pro that you can get via In-App Billing). You'll need to buy a Bluetooth/WiFi scanning tool to connect with your car's OBD port, but it's all systems go from
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Several users report that it's an excellent scan tool that can perform diagnostic tests, while another said it's the best car diagnostic tool he has ever tried. Manufacturer-specific codes are available for in-app purchases in the Pro version. Of course, users would appreciate it if they come free.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The ScanMaster works with UniCarScan UCSI-2000, APOS BT OBD 327, ElmCanII Bluetooth and WiFi, OBDLink MX, OBDLink LX, OBDLink Bluetooth and WiFI, ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi, and Pearl Lescars Bluetooth and WiFi.
The app performs OBD status scans, reads vehicle information, reads and clears trouble codes, performs I/M readiness monitoring tests, displays freeze frame data and live data streaming. You can also readily see your check engine light status, the number of saved trouble codes, fuel system status, and other relevant information about your vehicle.
When you buy the pro version through the in-app billing function, you get more access to manufacturer-specific codes, and more advanced codes are available for separate purchases in the app.
Who Will Use This Most
ScanMaster is one of the diagnostic tools that a professional driver should invest in for safer travels.
BlueDriver is a diagnostic tool professional mechanics use to check vehicle functions and their operation. Everyday drivers and professionals in the automotive industry who want to make sure their cars work efficiently should get a scan tool like Blue Driver. You can use it on your Android phone or iOS device.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
What a time and money saver, according to a user. Since he downloaded the scan tool, he used it to scan three different vehicles without any issues. Another one fixed his car by referring to the scan tool to fix one small problem without taking it to a mechanic or spending anything on part replacements.
Why It Stands Out to Us
BlueDriver, a free app to install over Google Play or the App Store, is a professional diagnostic scan tool. It also packs more than 30 million reported fixes for trouble codes from experienced mechanics.
BlueDriver is the world's only comprehensive auto diagnostic and repair reporting service. This unique system will save you time, money, and hassle by providing a detailed report that tells you what repairs you need for your vehicle. You can find out about problems such as engine malfunctions or airbag errors with just one scan of your car's onboard computer.
It is compatible with cars manufactured by GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Mercedes (2005 models and newer), Mitsubishi (2008 models and newer), Hyundai, Kia (2012 models and more recent), BMW/Mini, Honda, Acura, Volkswagen, Audi, and Subaru.
Who Will Use This Most
One delighted user urged everyone who owns a car to get Blue Driver, and we can't find a better recommendation than that.
ThinkCar Pro is a wireless Bluetooth diagnostic tool that allows you to diagnose any car with just a click. Beyond the primary OBD2 function, it supports full system diagnostics for every module in your vehicle, so you're always up-to-date on what's going on inside your ride. Goodbye old school dongle! It supports Android and iOS systems.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A mobile mechanic appreciates the ease of cost-effectiveness of this app since a single manufacturer software covers different other manufacturers except for sensitive manufacturer-specific codes. Though others may consider it a downside to pay for the app's pro version, the peace of mind and convenience are the added values you can get that no amount of money can buy.
Why It Stands Out to Us
ThinkPro app sends you personalized in-app messages to notify you of the latest updates and upgrades, promos, and the points you earned from using the app. It supports the following OBD2 protocols: ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000), IOS 15765-4 (CAN), ISO 9141-2 (IOS), ISO14229 (UDS), and SAEJ 1850 (VPW & PWM).
ThinkCar Pro is the affordable, portable automotive troubleshooting tool for DIYers and small workshops. It supports full system diagnostics, including reading the version information, vehicle information, and data streaming from your car's computer systems to a laptop or PC. You can also get basic functions and intelligent diagnosis of problems with your car's engine relay circuits by downloading these as well.
Who Will Use This Most
We recommend this scan tool to professional mechanics because of its wide range of car brands and the professional reporting format.
OBDwiz is a professional scan tool that works on Windows PC. Its diagnostic functions are beneficial for experienced mechanics and owners of auto repair shops because it works on US, European, and Japanese cars.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users claim that it is the best car diagnostic tool that auto repair shops should have. Aside from the live data recorded in real-time, the app also records advanced functions like statistical calculations and data logging.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Although the OBDwiz works only on brand-specific car diagnostic tools, they are still a powerful tool you can use to correct check engine light errors.
The OBD console sends commands directly to the vehicle, records real-time data, and checks engine light fault codes, including other advanced functions. It also includes unlimited free updates of the same version number, so you don't have to worry about buggy updates that you get from other automotive scan tools.
Who Will Use This Most
The OBDwiz app and the car diagnostic scanners that work with it are an excellent addition to a professional mechanic's repair shop to help you identify fault codes in the car you're servicing. However, it works only on Windows operating systems, so you might need to find another diagnostic tool to use if you're on Mac OS.
The CarMD ProScan is the best car diagnostic tool for a professional mechanic to get his business off the ground. One CarMD ProScan user boasted an all-time high in car diagnostics and worked done in a week with this scan tool.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Some professional mechanics and auto repair shop owners reported increased revenue since they started using ProScan because it shortens their time on diagnosis and accurately assesses the trouble codes. They can focus on fixing the car instead of trying to guess what is wrong with it.
Why It Stands Out to Us
The software comes in two monthly payment plans of Gold ($99) and Platinum ($149). With 250 reports generated a month for the Gold plan, this is a reasonable investment for starter-up shops. You can always upgrade or cancel your subscription as you see fit.
The company maintains an updated website that you can check for references regarding your car's health index. It conducts a comprehensive vehicle health index that will tell you if your car has problems, including the extra expense you may incur if you leave issues unchecked for a long time.
For example, suppose you ignore your check engine light notice. In that case, it may increase gas consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, ultimately resulting in compounded problems and possible accidents on the road.
You can also create a customizable report and integrate coupons to show your appreciation to your clients using the drag-and-drop template of ProScan.
Who Will Use This Most
Because of its stiff price, we recommend this app for professional mechanics and owners of auto repair shops who have the means to invest and a client base who can afford their services.
Best Car Diagnostic Software Buying Guide
Compatibility
Be sure to double-check on the compatibility of your scan tool with your vehicle, especially if buying online: Some of the things you should check for compatibility:
- OBD2 compliance
- Make and year
- OBD2 protocols used in the model
- App and hardware compatibility
- Spend time researching the compatibility of the device you plan to use with the existing car.
Technical capacity
The app works well and is compatible with your hardware, but how about your technical capacity to use it. If you're a newbie, we recommend getting a straightforward app that will guide you instead of getting an advanced app meant for professionals.
You may know how to fix a car, but you can't understand the trouble codes on your OBD2 scan tool. Another is that you may understand the code after spending hours on Google, but do you know how to remove and replace a spark plug or change a fuel cap?
Budget
Budget factors in your choice of getting a scan tool for your car. Although considering the second criteria, even if you have the budget, we still won't recommend an expensive scan tool if it will only sit in your garage. Buy one that will give you the best value for your money.
People Also Ask
What is OBD2 software?
On-Board Diagnostics, or OBD for short, is a computer-based system built into modern passenger cars that monitor emission-related controls and the engine's performance. It detects malfunctions by checking various sensors within your vehicle to inform you if something goes wrong with one of them.
How do I connect my OBD to my computer?
To connect your OBD to your computer, follow these steps:
- Connect the OBD2 scan tool to your car. Follow manufacturer's recommendations or check here on how to connect your Bluetooth/WiFi adapter.
- Pair the Bluetooth device with your computer, or if it has a QR code, you can scan that to connect with your device. Enter the pairing code to complete the setup.
- Find the files of your newly paired device and configure them to access the data from your OBD.
Are Car Diagnostic Scanners Universal?
The OBD system is an essential part of every modern car and is standard across all makes and models of vehicles manufactured from 1996 and later.
However, the same cannot be said about car diagnostic tools since they differ from one app to another. Some OBD apps are elementary and do not carry a massive database to check your error codes, even if you get a paid version.
Later versions of the scanners, though, are much improved than their predecessors in an attempt to surpass its competitor's features.
Can you diagnose a car with a laptop?
Yes. There are OBD2 scan apps that work with Windows and Mac operating systems. Again, check the compatibility of your app and your operating system. ProScan by CarMD and OBDwiz is a diagnostic scan tool you can use to diagnose your car with laptops.
How do I use OBD on Android?
To use your OBD scanner on your Android device, be sure that the OBD adapter is compatible with your downloaded OBD software. Always do thorough research before buying an app.
- Connect your OBD2 scan tool to the data connector link on your car. Wait for the light to go on to see it's successfully connected.
- Open your downloaded app on your smartphone, configure the settings and turn on the Bluetooth to pair your scan tool with your app.
- Enter the default password (1234 or 0000). Once paired, you can now use it.
Conclusion
If you want to save money on car repairs, diagnose and fix trouble codes, you need excellent diagnostic software to do the hard work. For this review, we urge you to try InCarDoc as the best overall car diagnostic software because of its outstanding features, real-time engine and vehicle parameters, and storage and sharing of car diagnostic data to the online cloud for easier access.
Torque gets the users’ vote as their favorite app that works for almost all ELM adapters. The Pro version has a customizable dashboard, reads and clears error codes efficiently, and can export map log files for easier tracking.
For professional mechanics, we love the CarMD ProScan for its easy-to-use dashboard, gives detailed information about your car, and predicts vehicle maintenance in the next 12 months so you can prepare before it comes.
Whether it's OBD2 code reader tools or just simple generic ones like DTC Scanner Tool, we hope this article has helped point you in the right direction!
