10 recommended software for OBD II scanner

This is the golden age of motoring and drivers have the best technologically advanced cars that are better than ever. So wonderfully self-contained platforms of technology that practically lets you get in and drive without a hitch.

Would you believe that a modern car is composed of car area networks (CAN) that are interconnected? It integrates all decisions via the electronic control unit (ECU) or electronic control module (ECM) that carries out all inputs from cans to make everything run smoothly!

Drivers can remember the acronym “OBD 2” or onboard diagnostics that relay codes and errors in the resident ECU program. Anyone one with a little googling can figure this out whether it’s understood or not! Having an OBD 2 will allow drivers to avoid expensive scanning in dealerships for a particular complaint.

When a problem is detected, then it flashes an error code that can be removed on some OBD 2’s but not all of them! The important factor is compatibility which can be corrected with Bluetooth or a wireless connection

A rundown of all OBD 2 software that can be bought in local online stores or Amazon. Below is the list of popular software for OBD II scanner, recommended by Philkotse.com 

1. Best iOS applications

OBD Fusion

Get this software that allows both DIYers and professionals to check for errors with compliance with OBD 1 And 2.  Checking and clearing errors is easy with diagnostics and other multiple sensor data that are provided for because it isn’t a free service.

Its multiple features are an advantage despite paying for it. Gets the job done with more than 150 PIDs that works for a range of car brands.

OBD Fusion is compliance with OBD 1 And 2

Engine Link

Use this software that can be linked via Bluetooth or an adapter that connects via a mobile device. Easily linkable to multiple adaptors but get Car WIFI OBD2 Adapter for it to make sure of better results.

Like most OBD 2 apps which reads mostly than corrects errors. For casual driver’s this will help spend less on costlier diagnostics at specialists or dealerships. Not a technician grade OBD 2 reader that takes a record of your engines stats and related performance too.

DashCommand

If some just read codes and doesn’t correct errors then get this OBD 2 app that allows monitoring acceleration, brake performance, reading and clearing DTC codes for problems detected by it.

This keeps a record of all scans for references such as data logging. This enhanced program will map out the torque, engine pressure and analyze fuel mileages as an extra function. Get good results with customer support when opting for this amazing OBD 2 app.

DashCommand keeps a record of all scans for references

BlueDriver

Another combo that does scanning and clearing error codes compared to scanning only for some. Get all the data and live data that shows real-time performance. Even codes that pertain to airbags, transmission, and ABS that are important to safety concerns.

>>> Related post: Top 7 modern driver assist features in cars today

Other functions to read engine light codes, and even smog testing for carbon pollution. The database has an estimated 6.6 million solutions for most trouble codes.

A combo of BlueDriver OBD 2 Scanner and software

Carista OBD2

This app is OBD 2 and comes in free with a paid version that has all basic OBD 2 tasks accessible without paying for it. Get the premium functions that is autolocking doors, TPMS, customizing, coding, ECU, EPB, ABS/airbag by paying for it.

Still a sweet buy even with the free package but better with a fully paid app that is very helpful for DIYers and enthusiasts. 

Carista OBD2 are supported  for Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda (VAG), Mini, BMW, Toyota, Scion, and Lexus

>>> Read more: Top 6 must-have apps for Filipino drivers 

2. Best Android OBD II apps

Scan Master for ELM327 OBD2 ScanTool

If you get the paid version that allows a select number of features to be used. Unlock all the features by opting to get a paid version of it. Get functions like VIN codes, read, clear and store codes, freeze frame data, live stream and MIL status. Mostly a basic OBD 2 that can be used for specific adapters.

HobDrive

An OBD 2 app that is usable on PCs, laptops, Android phones, and tablets. One drawback is that it only reads the codes and nothing more. Unlike other OBD 2 apps, this is on the limited side because it measures the distance of trips.

HobDrive only reads the codes, nothing more

OBD Car Doctor Pro

More of a scanner than clearing codes which is good because it monitors the cars real-time functions and warns or possible problems to correct. If you are satisfied with a stand-alone scanner, this will do quite fine. Very compatible with most adaptors and with a full scanner suite that is very useful too.

Torque Pro OBD2 App

A paid app that will read all data pertaining to horsepower, dynamometer, emissions that will be recorded by the app. It gives a real-time assessment of the engine condition and warns of any trouble with the car.

Take note that this does not clear codes because it just reads the data. This is compatible with most adapters too.

Torque Pro OBD2 App is compatible with most adapters

Car Scanner ELM OBD2

Downloading this OBD 2 app is free with many superb functions that come included. Great to use because it has all these functions like check faults of the engine and sensors in every scan.

Get to add any custom OBD-II PIDs (On-board diagnostics Parameter IDs), DTC codes, live tests, and emissions as well. There are some bonus features for Toyota, Nissan, Chevrolet, KIA, Mazda, GM, and Mitsubishi that might come in handy!

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is free for Android

Car owners will benefit knowing the best 10 diagnostic software for any OBD II reader they have in hand. These software programs are available for both Android OS and Apple iOS to be paired via a Bluetooth connection or adaptor.

Take note that more expensive OBD 2 scanner combos may come with proprietary software that is already provided. See if the software will support all car brands and both OBD 1 and OBD 2 compliant cars as a key feature.

Check if the codes included will be compatible with most cars, including yours. Most of the software will be free, but Apple iOS may not be free compared to Android OS. Getting the OBD 2 app only or one that can correct codes should be paired with the right scanner for the best results. The OBD 2 is an important modern aid that Philkotse recognizes as a vital tool too!

>>> Check out more car tips and advice on Philkotse.com