Fortunately, a very large number of developers have created software for use with our OBD integrated circuits. We list just a sampling of what is available here, to get you started. They are grouped based on the operating system:
- Windows
- Mac OS X
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
- Other Software
- Remote Connections
BlueDriver OBD2 Bluetooth for iOS & Android. Despite the fact that the Blue Driver is the most. FIXD OBD2 Scan Tool App. For Operating Systems: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android. Best Compatible.
Windows Software
The following are just a few of the programs that are available for the Windows platform:
AutoScan OBD2
Autosafe Diagnostics offers the AutoScan OBD2 software for the PC. You can download a free trial before you buy.
Com Port Terminal
This is a bare bones (but free) terminal program from WGSoft. Works well for communicating with the ELM327.
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EngineCheck
Gendan’s EngineCheck for ELM-based tools.
FORScan
As the web site says, FORScan is a software scanner for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, designed to work over ELM327 and compatible OBD2 to RS232 interpreters.
freediag
A SourceForge project that provides a command line interface for controlling OBDII interfaces (with some support for ELM327 devices). Versions available for Windows, and Linux too.
iMechatronics.com
…keeps a list of (mostly) Windows software that you might find convenient.
LapLogger
LapLogger.com offers software and interface packages for a variety of platforms.
OBD 2007
GLM Software offers a Lite (free) version OBD 2007 program, in addition to the full one.
OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
OBD2Spy
Offers software for Elm and mOByDic based interfaces.
OBD Logger
A basic software package for reading trouble codes, and real-time data. Available for Windows and Unix/Linux.
openOBD
A SourceForge project that provides a GUI for controlling ELM327 devices. Versions available for Windows and Linux.
PC Scan Tool
Some assorted bits of OBD info, and a link to a freeware PC scan tool. It is no longer supported, but is still useful.
PCMSCAN
This software is full-featured and works with a large number of interfaces.
RealTerm
Is another great free terminal application, that is certainly worth a try.
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Scanclic
Most of the OBD software available is in English, but if you prefer Italian, one company (Informaticlaclic) offers Windows and Android software packages that may be of interest to you.
ScanMaster-ELM
WGSoft has been offering the full-featured ScanMaster software for a number of years. They offer great support, and a very reasonable price, considering all the features.
ScanTool.net open source software
ScanTool.net started an open-source project several years ago. It is still available on the SourceForge site:
http://sourceforge.net/projects/scantool/
ScanXL Pro
In addition to the PCMSCAN software, Palmer Performance also offers ScanXL. If you purchase the vehicle-specific versions, ScanXL will provide access to a great deal more than just the standard OBD information.
SynchroScan
The eurOBDiag group in France brings us this software.
Tera Term Pro
By T. Teranishi, this is yet another free terminal program. It hasn’t been updated for some time, but should still work well on many systems. If you are interested in this program, be sure to also look at the Tera Term project at SourceForge.
Terminal 1.9b
Bray++ has offered several versions of this program since 1997. It’s a good way of directly ‘talking’ to your ELM327 circuit (and the vehicle), made even easier with the macro and scripting capability. It’s donation-ware, so don’t forget to send him something if you use it.
Termite
This is a bare bones (but free) terminal program from CompuPhase. It has a nice, simple interface, and offers a large number of features.
TouchScan
OCTech offers this complete Windows based (Vista SP2 or later) system for obtaining and displaying vehicle info. If you wish to go into more detail, they also have a reasonably priced add-on package.
WinALDL
A 160 baud ALDL reader (that’s pre OBDII) for those vehicles that use it. The software is 32 bit Windows only.
Macintosh OS X Software
There aren’t as many titles available for the Macintosh, but these will get you started:
EOBD-Facile
The people that brought us the iOS version of EOBD-Facile now offer a Mac OSX version. The free download allows you to read trouble codes, while the paid version offers full functionality. See the Outils OBD Facile YouTube page for additional info.
goSerial
Andreas Mayer offers a great little program for directly ‘talking’ to your ELM327 circuit. It’s donation-ware, so if you like it, consider sending something his way.
Movi and Movi Pro
Only for the Mac, there are two versions of this software. The standard version provides all the basic OBD functions, while Movi Pro adds more bells and whistles. If you just want to try it out, the download will operate in demo mode.
OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
OBD GPS Logger
Useful for logging both GPS and OBD data, if you should wish to compare vehicle data and location. Exports data in a few useful ways. Available for Mac OSX and Linux.
LapLogger
LapLogger.com offers software and interface packages for a variety of platforms.
ZTerm
Dave Alverson provides terminal software too. Even though the site does not say so, we have had no trouble using it with Mavericks.
Linux Software
Here are a few Linux apps:
CuteCom
Alexander Neundorf offers this graphical serial terminal program. Note that there are no precompiled versions at this link – you will have to make your own.
Obd2 Bluetooth For Macbook Pro
freediag
A SourceForge project that provides a command line interface for controlling OBDII interfaces (with some support for ELM327 devices). Versions available for Windows and Linux.
minicom
This link takes you to the nixCraft site for info on installing and setting up minicom. Very DOS-like, but it gets the job done.
OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
OBD GPS Logger
Useful for logging both GPS and OBD data, if you should wish to compare vehicle data and location. Exports data in a few useful ways. Available for Mac OSX and Linux.
OBD Logger
A basic software package for reading trouble codes, and real-time data. Available for Windows and Unix/Linux.
openOBD
A SourceForge project that provides a GUI for controlling ELM327 devices. Versions available for Windows and Linux.
Perl OBD-II Logger
Open source software for logging OBD-II PID data. The sampling periods/rates can be customized for each PID. Runs primarily on Linux, but also on Windows if you install a Perl interpreter. Includes SYSV init scripts for running on the Raspberry Pi in dedicated “headless” mode.
picocom
A very minimal terminal emulation program that runs on Linux.
pyOBD
Python-based interface for use with Elm devices, now maintained by SECONS Ltd.
Note that there are several versions of this program available, so check around if you are discouraged with this package (see pyOBD-II and roflson/pyobd).
pyOBD-II
As the description says, pyOBD-II (a.k.a. “pyobd2”) is a Python library for communicating with OBD-II vehicles. Its goal is to make writing programs for vehicle diagnostics and monitoring vehicle data as easy as possible. Relies on pySerial to communicate with ELM scanners.
roflson/pyobd
Python-based interface that offers several improvements over the original pyOBD.
ScanTool.net open source software
ScanTool.net started as an open-source project several years ago, for use with the Windows OS. Apparently it’s quite usable on the Linux platform too – install it from the Ubuntu Software Center, or if you wish, by following this excellent Sam Hobbs tutorial.
Serialclient
A simple bit of software for communicating with a serial port from the command line.
iOS Software
The iPhone, iPad , and iPod continue to be very popular ways of interfacing to the ELM327.
A word of caution – the Bluetooth that Apple uses in iOS devices does not currently support the Serial Port Protocol (SPP). As such, iOS devices can not connect to ELM327 modules with Bluetooth – you must use WiFi with your device*.
AutoProPlus
AutoProPlus is a free app for monitoring your vehicle with an iPhone. A little difficult to figure out as the Owner’s Manual and web site are both very minimal.
BT1
Another bit of software that works using Bluetooth, but only if you also purchase the GoPoint Technology BT1 interface module.
DashCommand
Palmer Performance are here with another app for ELM327s and compatibles. DashCommand is a reasonable price considering what you get. You can also purchase enhancements that allow more than just generic data for many vehicles.
Engine Link
This app continuously monitors several engine parameters, but it’s not clear how you can modify (or stop) them. It does allow you to define custom PIDs though, which might be handy (depending on just what you are using the scan tool for).
EOBD Facile
The basic version of this app is free, and works well. It provides some vehicle information, and will read trouble codes, but you can not clear them unless you buy the full package. Once you’ve got to that point, you will know how you like the software, and the decision should be easy. Well worth a try.
ezOBD
Up and Running have a free app that may be just what you’re looking for. The reviews aren’t in on it yet, but it is being updated regularly.
FORScan Lite
Lite version of the popular Windows software. Requires a WiFi ELM327 (or compatible) device.
iOBD2
This software offers free support for their iOBD2 hardware, but you must pay in order to connect to an ELM327 device.
NovaScan – The OBD Total Solution
ubiqCOM offers this software for the iPad or iPhone. Unfortunately, the free demo version will not connect to a vehicle, so you can not really try it before you buy it.
OBD Car Doctor
A great little bit of free software. Provides all the basics, and works quite well.
OBD Fusion
A full-featured interface from OCTech that sells for a reasonable price. Does just about everything that you would want and now even offers support for the Apple Watch.
* We are aware that older iOS devices have serial data available at the 30 pin connector, but do not know of any software that you could use to take advantage of it.
topAndroid Software
There’s a large number of Android Apps for talking to the ELM327. We’ve had to pare it down to a few of the most popular:
Car Gauge Pro
OBD Scantech’s app provides all the basics, as well as enhanced diagnostic data for many vehicles. The price is quite reasonable too.
CarSys Scan
OBD High Tech offers a free app that provides all the basics. For use with Bluetooth scan tools.
DashCommand
Palmer Performance also supports the ELM327 (and compatibles) on Android. This app only allows 30 minutes of (limited) use before you have to make your decision whether to buy.
eCar PRO
This software reads your OBD information through Bluetooth, but does more than just read trouble codes. You can see and compare sensor data, set alarms, display times, and calculate torque and horsepower.
EOBD Facile
The basic version of this app is free, and works well. It provides some vehicle information, and will read trouble codes, but you can not clear them unless you buy the full package. Once you’ve got to that point, you will know how you like the software, can decide whether to purchase the ‘Premium Access’ package. Well worth a try.
ELM327 Terminal
Designed to send pre-defined AT and OBD commands for you. It’s a free app that may be right for you.
Elm Basic
This is terminal program for sending commands to an ELM327 interface and receiving replies. Just what you may need if you want to stay in complete control.
FordSys Scan Free
Another app by OBD High Tech. This one caters to Ford vehicles, providing information from several vehicle modules as well as the OBDII diagnostics. For use with Bluetooth scan tools.
Honda Database
Need Honda trouble code or ECU info, or engine or transmission specs? If so, this handy app is certainly worth a look.
Kwik OBD Terminal
Another terminal program for sending commands to an ELM327 interface and receiving replies. Just what you may need if you want to stay in complete control.
Leaf Spy Pro
Owners of the Nissan Leaf will be interested in this Android app. There’s also a free version (Leaf Spy Lite) that will give battery info. The Leaf Spy Pro page on the Electric Vehicle Wiki is a must-visit too.
OBD Auto Doctor
This one is very similar to the iOS version, and it remains a free app too. A great little bit of software that provides all the basics and works well.
OBD Car Doctor
This one is very similar to the iOS version, and it remains a free app too. A great little bit of free software. Provides all the basics and works well.
OBD Trouble Codes Lite
Get trouble code descriptions on your phone or tablet. The free version of this app (ad sponsored) contains the generic trouble codes (from P0001 to P099F) in its database. The full (paid) version contains almost 20000 codes.
Piston (OBD2 & ELM327)
Marcin Gierlicki’s ‘Piston’ seems to be well designed, and worked well in testing. A free offering that should be one of the first to try.
RaceChrono
A popular lap timer app that logs both gps information and OBD data. The free version is time-limited, so if you find it useful, you will want to upgrade to the pro version.
ScanMaster for ELM327
A great free app from WGSoft.de, makers of the other ScanMaster programs. Should be one of the first apps that you try. Has in-app purchases.
Scanclic
Most of the OBD software available is in English, but if you prefer Italian, one company (Informaticlaclic) offers Windows and Android software packages that may be of interest to you.
ScanMyOpel Lite
This app is only for Opel/Vauxhall diagnostics, but that is exactly what many users are looking for. Try this Lite (limited) version before you decide whether to buy the full one.
Torque Lite
Free version of the popular app offers a lot for no cost.
Torque Pro
Is the full version of the app, which offers more features, supports more vehicles, and does not have ads.
TouchScan
This modestly priced app is getting fairly good reviews. If you’re looking for an app with a gauge type interface, this one is worth considering.
Note that most Android software requires that you already be paired with a Bluetooth device. We are often asked about pairing codes and while we can never know exactly what code would apply to your interface, we can say that most use either 0000 or 1234.
topOther Software
Some items that don’t fit into the above categories:
Electric Vehicle Wiki
Interest in electric vehicles continues to grow. If your interest is with them, you may find this Wiki helpful.
Engine Link
Use ELM327 Bluetooth adapters with your Windows Phone.
Nokia N800 and Carman
If anyone is still using a Nokia N800 internet tablet, they may wish to have a look at the Carman software. Looks like version 0.6.3 was the last one produced.
OBD Auto Doctor
OBD Auto Doctor is also available for the Windows Phone.
OBD Gauge
Dana Peters provides this software for the Palm or Pocket PC platforms. There’s even some Windows software for plotting the captured data.
opengauge
This is an open source project for interfacing the Arduino to OBD.
ptelnet
By Marcio Migueletto de Andrade is free and works well with Palm hand-held devices (if you are still using one). Besides basic communications, it allows macros to be defined, which is handy.
Raspberry Pi
If you’re experimenting with a Raspberry Pi board, then you are actually using a Linux system, so should refer to the section above for suggestions. There is one Pi-specific article that we’ve come across that you may find useful though. It’s called: Raspberry Pi Reading Car Diagnostics (OBD-II) Data.
Remote Connections
Occasionally we are asked about connecting to an ELM327 / OBD monitor from a remote location. There are a number of solutions for this. The following lists only a few:
HW VSP3 – Virtual Serial Port
This software adds a COM port to your computer that connects to a virtual serial port over a TCP/IP network (typically ethernet or WiFi). Windows only.
B&B Electronics’ VESP211 Serial Converters
A hardware/software solution for providing a serial port in a remote location. Requires a wired network connection to the module. Windows only.
Eltima Software’s FlexiHub
FlexiHub is another option for providing remote access to USB and COM devices over the internet or local network. It provides several options (including data encryption), but most appealing is the support for Windows, Mac, Linux and Android devices. See the FlexiHub Car diagnostic – remote car monitoring page for info on OBD monitoring.
FabulaTech’s Serial Port Redirector
An alternative for creating a virtual serial port over a TCP/IP network. It’s a little pricey for the experimenter, but it does provide a few features including SSL support. Windows only.
Tactical Software’s Serial/IP COM Port Redirector
Another alternative for creating a virtual serial port over a TCP/IP network. Windows only.
OBD2 scanners are the recent technological devices for vehicles which has made life very easy and convenient as well. In case you own a vehicle, this scanner is going to offer you some enhanced access to different systems as well as mechanisms which work in your car to inform you whether the car is in a good state. This is consequently going to help the user identify this issue and take the necessary steps without much hassle. We understand you have come here in search of the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners and we promise to give you exactly that. The reviews below comprise of the best OBD2 scanner you will like. Before you proceed, it is good to go through the buying guide below.
Table of ContentsObd2 Bluetooth Adapter For Android
#10. Amtake OBD2 Scanner for iPhone, iPad, and Android
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Kicking off this list of the best Bluetooth OBD2 scanners is the Amtake scanner which has quality features. It has the ability to provide information in a real-time manner. Besides, it is compatible with Android and iPhone devices for your convenience. It has a detailed user manual to guarantee that you will have an easy time interacting with the scanner.
Features:
- Backed with a warranty of one year
- Compatible with iPhone & Android Devices
- Comes with a detailed user manual
- Real-time provision of information
Pros
- Friendly customer support
- Wide compatibility
- Easy to use
Cons
- Durability is not guaranteed
#9. Veepeak OBD2 Bluetooth 4.0 Scanner for iOS & Android
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This is a scanner which works with several operating systems and besides, it is compatible with every vehicle. Apart from that, it provides information in a real-time manner allowing you to take the necessary precautions. Dragon 5 for mac. What’s more, it has been covered with a warranty of one year together with good customer support.
Features:
- It comes with a warranty of one year
- Universal car compatibility
- Better connection to WiFi
- Compatible with iOS, Android & Windows
Pros
- Easy to use
- Offers data in real time
- Universal compatibility
Cons
- Causes battery drainage in certain areas
#8. BlueDriver Bluetooth OBDII Scanner for iPhone, iPad, and Android
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This is the master of diagnostics and repair as well. It is going to provide you with accurate as well as detailed data in the car’s system. It comes in a lightweight and compact design which is highly portable. Despite its user-friendly nature, you will appreciate the fact that it comes from a reputable brand.
Features:
- Comes from a trusted brand
- Easy to use
- Universal compatibility
- It has been certified by auto mechanics
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Fast and efficient
- Compatible with phones and tablets
Cons
- Not compatible with windows
#7. OHP WiFi OBD2 Scanner iPhone & iPad
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The OHP scanner features great craftsmanship which makes it unique from the rest in the market. To add on this, it is compatible with many vehicles and works great. The seller is very responsive which gives you the morale to purchase from them another time. Additionally, it has a very affordable price.
Features:
- Compatible with Forscan and other software
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Guaranteed customer satisfaction
- Wide vehicle compatibility
Pros
- Responsive seller
- Affordably priced
- Works great
Cons
- Gets a bit warm
#6. TONWON WiFi OBD 2 Code Reader for iOS and Android
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This scanner comes in a small and compact design which makes it light and easy to carry. You will also appreciate its ease of use and installation as well. Apart from this, it has good customer support. This brand assures you a money-back guarantee in case of any failures after purchasing.
Features:
- Small & compact design
- Clear check for the engine
- Easy fitment
- Money-back guarantee
Pros
- Good customer support
- Easy to install
- Portable design
Cons
- Connectivity issues
#5. PLX Kiwi 3 Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner for Android, Apple, and Windows
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This is another Bluetooth OBD2 scanner which is award winning due to its amazing qualities. It similarly features GPS mapping to provide real-time data. To add on this, it has good vehicle compatibility not forgetting that it has low power consumption. It is four times faster than the conventional scanners for convenience.
Features:
- App compatibility
- It is compatible with many vehicles
- 4 times faster than the conventional scanners
- Real-time data provision
Pros
- Low power consumption
- Good vehicle compatibility
- Proper fuel efficiency
Cons
- A bit pricey
#4. OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Scanner for iPhone, iPad, and Android
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This is another design of the OBD2 scanner which has all the features you would like to see in an OBD2 scanner. It is associated with some real-time performance and comes with user-friendly design for convenience. The scanner similarly features a sleep mode which helps in saving the battery power.
Features:
- Real-time performance
- Professional-grade scanner
- Battery-save sleep mode
- It has been backed with a 3 years warranty
Pros
- Very quick data
- More coverage
- It is more secure
Cons
- A bit pricey
#3. TT TOPDON Bluetooth 4.0 OBD2 Scanner
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One thing you will appreciate about this scanner is its great compatibility with several cars. It also offers a good way of monitoring your vehicle. The manufacturer has provided a warranty of one year on this device to guarantee its quality.
Features:
- One year warranty
- Professional grade tool
- Convenient to monitor
- Compatible with several cars
Pros
- Live data stream
- Convenient to use
- Good customer support
Cons
- It does not last
#2. Vgate WiFi OBDII Code Reader for iOS and Android PC
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If you are looking for a professional scanner which will be easy to install, this is going to be the best option for you. It comes with an auto sleep feature which helps in saving the battery power. It comes with a warranty of 1 year not forgetting about its affordable price.
Features:
- Auto sleep feature
- Backed with a warranty of one year
- Real-time data reading
- Great compatibility
Pros
- Compact design
- Professional customer service
- Battery-saving design
Cons
- Poor Wi-Fi connection
Obd2 Bluetooth For Torque App
#1. Kitbest WiFi OBD2 Scanner for iPhone, iPad & Android
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Coming to the conclusion of these reviews, we present the Kit best scanner which has amazing qualities. It has good compatibility with all vehicles for your convenience. To add on that, it provides real-time data not forgetting that it has been backed with a warranty of 5 years. You will also get to appreciate its excellent customer services.
Features:
- Good compatibility
- Excellent services
- Real-time sensor data
- Backed with a warranty of 5 years
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Good vehicle compatibility
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- It does not work for long
Buying Guide
Brand
OBD2 scanners are very important vehicle accessories and as such, the brand quality has a role to play. You ought to do your research to know which brands have a good reputation. In doing so, you will never regret making your decision due to their proven track record.
Obd2 Bluetooth Software
On-screen information
Obd2 Bluetooth For Mac Windows 10
The quality of this information is going to determine how effectively one uses the scanner. You need to select those designs where codes are very clear such that you will not be struggling to view. As such, you will be able to keep an eye on the scanner to stay alert.
Data storage
This is a very important factor you also need to consider when making your selection. You need to determine the method through which your scanner uses to store the data. In case you need to monitor several cars at a go, it is vital to take this factor into consideration before you can order.
Conclusion
Having your vehicle performing at its best capacity is definitely something everyone would like to hear. The good news is that this can be achieved effortlessly through the help of the OBD2 scanners. These are special types of scanners which monitor all the systems in your vehicle to alert you when there is a problem. Above we majored in the Bluetooth OBD2 scanners which give you the convenience of receiving alerts in your Bluetooth enabled device which maybe the phone or your PC. For those who were new to these scanners, we hope we have shed light on the same. We also believe that the selection task for these scanners will be simpler. Ensure to go through the reviews and the buying guide and later select the scanner of your choice.