In today’s tech-driven world, understanding your car’s health and capabilities is easier than ever, thanks to onboard diagnostics II (OBD2) apps. These innovative mobile applications, born from advancements in mobile app development, provide a direct line to your vehicle’s engine data. While initially focused on diagnostics, many of these apps have evolved, offering users the power to customize their car’s features – essentially turning your smartphone into a powerful car coding tool. Forget expensive dealership visits for simple customizations; with the Best Car Coding App, you can personalize your driving experience and gain deeper insights into your vehicle’s performance.
While traditional OBD2 apps excel at providing real-time data on engine parameters like speed, rotation angle, pressure, and temperature, the new generation is stepping into the realm of car coding. This means beyond just reading data, you can now modify certain vehicle settings, unlock hidden features, and tailor your car to your preferences.
However, navigating the app market to find the best car coding app for your Android or iOS device can be overwhelming. The sheer number of OBD2 apps available makes it difficult to distinguish between genuine coding tools and those that fall short. You want an app that not only diagnoses but also empowers you to personalize your car.
Unfortunately, some drivers have invested in OBD2 apps expecting advanced coding capabilities, only to be disappointed. To prevent this from happening to you, we’ve curated a list of 17 top OBD2 apps that stand out, some of which offer impressive car coding functionalities. These apps can be excellent resources for both diagnostics and unlocking customization options within your vehicle.
Let’s explore these top OBD2 apps and discover which ones offer the best car coding capabilities!
Top OBD2 Apps with Car Coding Features for Android/iOS
1. Torque Pro (OBD2 & Car)
Torque Pro is a highly acclaimed OBD2 Bluetooth app for Android, boasting over 1,000,000 downloads and consistently praised as a top-tier OBD2 app. For around $5 on the Play Store, users gain access to a wealth of diagnostic features and some basic customization options, making it a valuable, though perhaps not the most advanced, car coding app.
Torque Pro presents real-time car data on a customizable dashboard displayed directly on your mobile screen. Users can also export data to Torque Pro servers or via email for later analysis. While not primarily a car coding app, its customizable dashboards and data access lay the groundwork for understanding vehicle parameters, a necessary step for more advanced coding.
Pros
- Customizable dashboard themes
- Screenshot sharing to social media and email
- Built-in GPS compass
- Data graphing and car dock support
- CO2 emission readouts
- Track recorder for video logging journeys
- Performance alarms (e.g., coolant temperature warnings)
- Support for older Android versions (2.0+)
Cons
- Paid app (initial purchase)
- Potential Bluetooth pairing issues (may require updates)
2. OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor functions similarly to many car diagnostic apps, compatible with ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters. It monitors essential vehicle sensors and parameters in real-time. While primarily diagnostic, its robust data monitoring capabilities are essential for users interested in understanding their car’s systems before attempting any coding.
OBD Auto Doctor monitors engine and transmission control units and allows data export via email in CSV format. Its fuel consumption monitoring feature can also help save money on fuel. While not advertised as a car coding app, its comprehensive diagnostic features provide a solid foundation for users exploring vehicle customization.
Pros
- Real-time data display for informed car health decisions
- Numerical and graphical sensor data display
- Compatibility with all OBD2 compliant vehicles
- GPS support
- 24/7 customer service
- Advanced customization options for display
- Imperial and metric unit tracking
- Monitoring over 18,000 trouble codes
- Readiness status tracking for emission testing
Cons
- In-app purchases and Premium upgrade for full features
- Potential connection issues or inaccurate readings
3. InCarDoc Pro
InCarDoc Pro, recognized as a leading OBD2 app in previous years, continues to be a strong contender. It offers advanced car scanning and diagnostics with a user-friendly interface. Although its coding features are limited, its diagnostic prowess is valuable for anyone wanting to understand their vehicle better before considering modifications.
A free version is available to check adapter and car compatibility before purchasing the full app for under $5. InCarDoc Pro supports ELM327 USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi adapters and is compatible with most modern Android devices. While not explicitly a car coding app, its detailed diagnostics are a crucial precursor to safe and effective vehicle coding.
Pros
- Compatibility with OBD2 compliant vehicles (listed on their site)
- Real-time engine and vehicle parameter readings
- Overlay display for economy data over other apps
- Fuel economy and acceleration widgets
- GPS support
- Cloud data upload for reporting
- Data sharing via email for professional repair assistance
Cons
- Requires Android 4.0.3 and up
- Potential Bluetooth connection errors
4. Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App
For comprehensive car knowledge and access to your car’s ECU parameters, the free Car Scanner ELM OBD2 App is a powerful tool. It allows users to understand potential issues and, with fault code knowledge, potentially address minor problems independently. While not a dedicated car coding app, its deep diagnostic capabilities empower informed decisions about vehicle customization.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2 stands out for its broad device compatibility across Android, iOS, Windows PC, and mobile. With over 2 million installs and a high rating (4.7), it’s a popular choice. While primarily a diagnostic tool, its extensive data access can be beneficial for users interested in understanding their vehicle’s systems before exploring coding.
Pros
- Compatible with all OBD2 standard vehicles
- Compatible with most WiFi or Bluetooth OBD2 ELM327 adapters
- Customizable dashboard for preferred parameter tracking
- Fuel consumption statistics
- Settings backup and restore
- Multiple language support (including English, Russian, Polish)
Cons
- Requires Android 4.3 and above
- In-app purchases for optimal performance
5. EOBD Facile
EOBD Facile is an OBD2 car diagnostic app for both Android and iOS, supporting ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters. It provides access to essential vehicle gauges and parameters, enabling informed decisions about car maintenance. While not focused on coding, its diagnostic features are a valuable starting point for users interested in vehicle modification.
Depending on your car’s ECU, EOBD Facile displays vehicle speed, engine RPM, temperature, ignition timing, torque, air intake, and more. With over 1 million Google Play Store installs, it’s a widely used diagnostic tool. While not a car coding app itself, its robust diagnostic data is crucial for understanding your car’s systems before attempting any coding.
Pros
- Real-time vehicle sensor display
- Over 11,000 fault codes and definitions
- Fault code clearing and engine light issue resolution
- Trip record storage on SD card (for PC/Mac software review)
- Route planning for long trips
Cons
- Best suited for users with prior OBD2 app experience
- No USB adapter support
6. HobDrive
HobDrive is a premium OBD2 app for Android, offering advanced car tracking features. While it’s among the more expensive options, its comprehensive capabilities make it a potentially worthwhile investment for serious car enthusiasts. While not primarily a car coding app, its in-depth vehicle monitoring is valuable for users interested in understanding their car’s behavior for future modifications.
HobDrive supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles and some non-OBD2 vehicles like Delphi mr240 (Chevrolet) and Bosch. It also works seamlessly with CarPCs (Windows/Linux), car audio (Windows CE), Windows Phone 8/10, and iOS. While not advertised as a car coding app, its advanced monitoring capabilities are valuable for users interested in optimizing their vehicle’s performance, which can sometimes involve coding.
Pros
- Customizable dashboard displaying ECU parameters
- GPS and ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapter support
- Overheating and suspicious fuel trim tracking
- Clear MIL code explanations
- Car odometer estimation
- MPG calculation for diesel vehicles (without battery assistance)
- Pro version with extended graphical gauges
Cons
- Payment issues in some locations
- Requires Android version 3 and above
7. OBDeleven
OBDeleven stands out with its “One Click App” feature, going beyond standard OBD2 diagnostics to offer user-friendly car customization options. This feature allows users to control various car settings with a simple click, making it a more direct “car coding app” compared to others on this list.
OBDeleven requires a network connection for its “One Click App” functionality and a Premium upgrade for full access. Despite these requirements, it’s a popular tool among car enthusiasts and mechanics for both diagnostics and basic car coding. It’s one of the apps on this list that leans more directly into the “car coding app” category due to its customization features.
Pros
- Diagnostic trouble code reading and clearing from ECU
- Multiple language support
- Active social media community
- Car battery analyzer
- DIY car fix manuals
- Retrieved history for connected cars
- Control unit reset support
Cons
- Network dependency for optimal performance
- Ads in the free version (Premium upgrade removes ads)
8. Dash – Drive Smart
Dash Drive Smart supports OBDeleven software and other smart car analysis tools, providing real-time data and compatibility with cars dating back to 1996. It focuses on improving driving experience and car health, with some features that indirectly relate to car customization by optimizing performance.
Dash provides insights to enhance driving and long-term car health. It can even be used without a dedicated device in some cases. While not a direct car coding app, its performance optimization and data analysis features can inform users interested in vehicle customization.
Pros
- Customizable parameter dashboard (background mode)
- Driver score and leaderboard for performance comparison
- Multi-vehicle support with VIN decoding
- GPS tracking for parked car location
- Nearby gas price comparison for fuel savings
Cons
- Battery drain complaints
- Glitchy compass feature (potential updates may fix)
- Network connection issues reported by some users
9. Engine Link (iOS)
Engine Link is an iOS diagnostic app similar to Torque Pro. It connects with ELM327 WiFi and Bluetooth adapters, though recent user reports mention issues with WiFi connectivity. Despite this, it remains a valuable car tracking app on iOS, though its car coding capabilities are limited.
Available for a small fee on iTunes, Engine Link offers car monitoring and control. While primarily diagnostic, its parameter tracking is a foundational step for users interested in more advanced car coding.
Pros
- Customizable dashboard for parameter selection
- Emission rate and fuel consumption control
- OBD2 fault code reading and clearing
- Heads-up dashboard display option
- No in-app purchases or subscription fees
- Support for 20+ languages
- Torque Custom PID File support (latest update)
Cons
- Reports of connection without ECU data reading
- Requires iOS 8.0 or later
10. ScanMaster
ScanMaster is another OBD2 app for ELM327 adapters. While less popular than some others, it maintains a solid rating and provides real-time car performance overviews and accurate fault code reading. Its car coding features are limited, but its strong diagnostic capabilities are essential for anyone working on their vehicle.
ScanMaster offers a free “Lite” version with basic parameters like VIN, CVN, fault codes, and MIL status. The Pro version unlocks full features, including extensive fault code definitions. While not a car coding app, its diagnostic accuracy is crucial for users considering vehicle modifications.
Pros
- Tracking parameters in the free version
- German and English language support
- User-friendly navigation
- Support for most ELM327 adapters
- Data recording capabilities
- Clear graphical data representation
Cons
- Ineffective customer support
- Device compatibility issues reported
- Requires Android 4.0 and above
11. DashCommand (iOS)
DashCommand for iOS is presented as a premium engine data display app, winning awards for its mobile electronic product capabilities. It offers performance gauges, fuel economy tracking, engine metrics, and emission testing. While not a car coding app, its advanced data display and analysis are valuable for performance-focused users who might eventually explore coding.
DashCommand is a more expensive iOS OBD2 app but provides extensive performance and diagnostic data. Its sophisticated trip computer and data logging features are useful for users deeply invested in their vehicle’s performance, which sometimes overlaps with car coding interests.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Customizable performance gauges
- Inclinometer for off-road driving data
- Data logging, recording, and playback
- Trip computer for up to five trips
- Graphical data representation
Cons
- Not compatible with iPhone X
- Compatibility issues with Haltech elite 2599
- In-app purchases for certain car models
12. BlueDriver
BlueDriver is a free OBD2 scanner app for iOS and Android, highly rated and widely downloaded. It offers essential diagnostic features and some advanced capabilities typically found in paid apps, making it a strong contender in the OBD2 app market, though its car coding features are minimal.
BlueDriver allows wireless connection, monitors critical parameters, scans and clears codes, and shares data via email. Its free updates and advanced diagnostic features, including ABS, Airbag, and Transmission diagnostics, make it a valuable tool for car owners, even if not directly for car coding.
Pros
- Wireless car connection
- Smog readiness check
- Reduced travel costs (through self-diagnosis)
- Free and regular updates
- On-board monitoring test results
- Enhanced diagnostics for ABS, Airbag, Transmission, etc.
- Repair report generation and sharing
Cons
- Requires iOS 8 and above
- Minor issues with iPhone XR (potential update fix)
13. GoFAR
GoFAR is a car diagnostic device and app focused on car health and mileage tracking. It emphasizes fuel savings and IRS compliance for tax benefits. While not a car coding app, its focus on vehicle efficiency and health aligns with the goals of some car customization efforts.
GoFAR alerts users to vehicle errors in plain English and offers mechanic hiring platforms. Its focus on fuel efficiency and vehicle health can be seen as complementary to car customization, as both aim to improve the vehicle experience.
Pros
- Easy installation and use
- One-year warranty
- Plain English error alerts
- Mechanic hiring platform
- 3000+ fault codes and descriptions
- Driver leaderboard based on fuel savings
- Alerts for tire pressure, insurance, and registration
- No subscription fees
Cons
- Initial device purchase required
14. FIXD – Vehicle Health Monitor
FIXD simplifies car diagnostics with easy-to-understand fault code translations. It emphasizes user-friendliness, making it suitable for OBD2 app beginners. While not a car coding app, its ease of use makes vehicle diagnostics more accessible to a wider audience, including those curious about car customization.
FIXD offers its own OBD2 adapters for optimal performance and provides maintenance reminders and alerts for worn-out parts. Its user-friendly approach to diagnostics can encourage more car owners to understand their vehicles, potentially leading to interest in car customization.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup
- Beginner-friendly OBD2 app
- Maintenance schedule reminders
- Worn car part alerts
- Easy onboarding
- In-app car part purchasing
- Helpful customer support
Cons
- Bugs in older app versions
- Works only with FIXD adapters
- In-app purchases
15. Carly For BMW
Carly For BMW is specifically designed for BMW owners, offering real-time data and specialized features for BMW vehicles. While primarily diagnostic, it includes some coding capabilities specific to BMWs, making it a more specialized “car coding app” for this brand.
Carly offers thorough health checks, used car inspections, and “One-Click” control for features like the electric parking brake. Its BMW-specific coding features, along with diagnostics, make it a valuable tool for BMW enthusiasts looking to personalize and maintain their vehicles.
Pros
- Comprehensive BMW electronic component health check
- Used car check feature
- One-click electric parking brake control
- Premium customer support and lifetime warranty on Carly adapters
- DIY battery registration support
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Carly adapters are relatively expensive
- Limited fault codes for BMW 2 series F45/F46
16. Carista OBD2 App
Carista OBD2 App is compatible with various car brands, including Toyota, BMW, Subaru, Mini, Audi, VW, and Lexus. Its “Customize” option allows users to modify ECU settings typically only accessible by dealers, making it a more direct “car coding app” for supported brands.
Carista’s customization features, combined with diagnostic capabilities, make it a strong contender for users looking for both diagnostics and basic car coding functionalities, especially for supported brands.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Compact OBD2 plug
- Customizable settings
- Phone-to-OBD2 scanner innovation
- 1-month free trial
- iOS and Android support
- Detailed diagnostics
Cons
- In-app purchases
17. OBD Fusion
OBD Fusion is known for its ease of use and customizable dashboards, appealing to both beginners and professionals. It provides comprehensive diagnostic reports and allows users to focus on desired engine functions. While not explicitly a car coding app, its user-friendliness and data accessibility make it a good starting point for users exploring vehicle modification.
OBD Fusion’s customizability and ease of use make it a popular choice for vehicle diagnostics. For users interested in car coding, understanding vehicle data through user-friendly apps like OBD Fusion is a valuable first step.
Pros
- Customizable dashboards
- iOS and Android compatibility
- GPS navigation features
- Emission monitoring
- Extensive data logging
Cons
- Features locked behind expansion packs
- No diagnostic data sharing features
Conclusion
With this list of top OBD2 apps for iOS/Android, you’re ready to explore the world of vehicle diagnostics and, in some cases, basic car coding.
Before investing in any app, remember to confirm compatibility with your specific car model. Many developers offer free “lite” versions for compatibility testing. Choose the app that best suits your needs and vehicle, and start unlocking your car’s hidden potential!
For Android users seeking a robust OBD2 app, Torque Pro remains a top pick for its features and broad compatibility.
For iOS users, OBD Fusion offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive tracking of vital parameters.
Explore these options and discover the best car coding app (or OBD2 app with coding features) for your vehicle!
