10 best programs for car diagnostics – rating 2022

1. OBD-II and ELM 327
2. Programs for OBD-II adapters for mobile devices
3. OpenDiag
4. FORScan
5. KWP_D
6. ScanMaster-ELM
7. ScanXL
8. Programs for OBD-II adapters for mobile devices

Any car equipped with an electronic control unit (ECU) has a special OBD-II port (OBD-2, OBD2) for connecting a diagnostic scanner (tester), which is used to read technical data of various car systems. Devices that connect to a computer via a USB or RS-232 port are often used as such scanners. And to display data from these devices, special software is required, i.e. programs for OBD-II adapters.

Why do you need car diagnostics?

To put it as simply as possible - in order to understand why the alarming yellow or, even worse, red light on the instrument panel came on. Namely, an indicator indicating a sudden breakdown or malfunction of the engine, transmission, fuel supply system, ignition, gas distribution, air conditioning, etc.

All these processes in the car are controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). It collects data from several dozen sensors, processes it and transmits commands to executive nodes. In case of malfunctions, it is signaled by an indicator, for example, Check Engine.

To understand which component or unit is damaged, the car is diagnosed using an Android application or a computer program. This service is successfully performed at any service station, but you can also do it yourself. Save a few thousand rubles, at a minimum.

In our opinion, it is possible to use Android or IOS based applications for car diagnostics. However, if the scan produces serious error codes (a malfunction in the engine or transmission), it is advisable to repeat the procedure with professional technicians.

For scanning, you can also use special devices, for example, an inexpensive multi-brand Rokodil ScanX scanner.

The main advantages of this particular adapter are its compatibility with most cars produced in 1993 and accurate diagnostics of all components and assemblies. It is also worth noting the presence of Bluetooth version 4.2, which will allow you to connect the device not only to Windows or Android, but also to iOS

Flaws

One of the disadvantages of the ELM327 is the lack of protocols for Japanese-made machines. Unfortunately, owners of these cars have to use other diagnostic devices. Also, some car owners noted that the device is only capable of scanning systems; it is impossible to make changes using it.

Also, after purchasing the device, you will have to figure out its settings yourself, since the kit does not include instructions. However, this nuance can hardly be considered a disadvantage, because installing an auto scanner is intuitive.

How to use such programs?

In defense of programs for reading car errors for Android, we emphasize that they are much easier to use than software for a PC. How is the scan carried out?

• Make sure that your smartphone has a Bluetooth module;

• Download the car diagnostics application for Android in Russian (below we provide a list of the best);
• Scanning is carried out using a special connector (scanner, adapter), which is connected to the car via the OBD 2 connector. The output is designed to transfer data from the car’s on-board computer to software for reading error codes (a program on a PC or a smartphone with Android). The scanner is connected to the operating system of the head unit via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (the first is preferable). The adapter is quite inexpensive - about 1500-3000 rubles, you can also order it for $10 from Aliexpress. Scanners with the elm327 chip are very popular; they integrate perfectly with programs for car diagnostics via Android.

• So, the adapter is connected to the OBD2 port. The connector is most often located under the steering wheel, but can be moved to another sector. The shape is trapezoidal, with 16 contacts (difficult to confuse with something else).
• After connecting the scanner to the connector, you should synchronize it with Android. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and start searching for devices. Once the OBD2 module is detected, connect to it. If prompted for a password, enter 0000 or 1234 (or look for the password in the scanner instructions);
• Now start the car;
• Launch the car diagnostic program for Android in Russian;
• Further actions depend on the program, but, in general, all you need to do is run the diagnostics and wait for its results;

• The latter are issued in the form of codes. To check errors, you need to decipher them using tables from the Internet or in the program itself.

What it is?

Today, such devices are installed in almost every modern car. OBD-2 connects directly to the car’s on-board control system, after which it is paired with a number of components, including all kinds of smartphones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets, using Bluetooth, USB or Wi-Fi connection.

At the same time, few people understand that to carry out full-fledged electronic diagnostics of a car, it is not enough just to have such a device. You will also need to install a specialized program that can work with OBD-2 devices and will allow you to diagnose the electronics of your vehicle at any time. Such utilities today can easily be found on the Internet in the public domain, while the vast majority of manufacturers can also independently provide their own programs. However, as practice shows, all of them are often extremely inconvenient for the average user, as they are difficult to learn, confusing, and lack support for the Russian language.

It is for this reason that quite often modern users begin to intensively search for a program that is most convenient for diagnosing equipment on a car. Today you can find almost any utility that allows you to work with every modern operating system. And in order to understand the countless offers as easily as possible, as well as choose the best option, you need to know the advantages and operating features of each individual utility.

TOP Android applications for car diagnostics

Well, we come to the most interesting part - a review of the best programs for car diagnostics on Android.

Carista Obd2

The application has been operating since 2013, the last update in the Play Market was released on June 30, 2022. There is a paid version with extended functionality (1 week - $10, 1 year - $40). The developer company has its own adapter - if you buy it, a month of using the Pro version is free.

According to users, this is one of the best applications for diagnosing a car on Android, even at the level of free functionality (basic engine check, gas distribution system, exhaust toxicity analysis). Advanced scanning (no worse than in a service center) allows you to test all modules of the car - anti-lock braking system, brake system, airbags, tire pressure sensors, etc.

The program also provides additional functionality - personalizing settings, unlocking hidden functions, etc.

Hob Drive

Second place in our ranking of the best car diagnostic programs for Android goes to the Hob Drive client. The application is a triple service - an on-board computer, a gasoline consumption analyzer and a diagnostic tool via OBD2/ELM327.

Both paid and free versions are available on the Play Market. The latter allows you to perform ongoing diagnostics of vehicle errors, the former provides constant monitoring and prompt notification, as well as monitoring overheating and suspicious lags.

The on-board computer records fuel consumption and performs power measurements. The program has a built-in trip planning option - estimating driving time on the remaining tank, refueling records, route statistics, and cost calculations. The interface can be customized according to your preferences; there are many built-in themes.

InCar Doc

An Android application that performs full launch car diagnostics for a scanner with an elm327/OBD2 processor.

Performs a full scan of the vehicle, with diagnostics, monitoring and statistics logging. Recognizes the cause of the Check Engine light, deciphers error codes, and clears old codes.

There is a paid version with extended functionality. It works in real time - analyzes engine parameters, fuel consumption, records gas stations, shops, services, remembers the location of the car, etc.

Programs for auto diagnostics via laptop

Computer diagnostics is impossible without the use of special programs that provide data decoding and display information. Below we will look at the main representatives of software for scanners.

OpenDiagPro

The program is a universal solution for domestically produced cars. Suitable for cars of the brands UAZ, GAZ, VAZ, ZAZ. The best option for using the ELM327 adapter. The application is most in demand and is suitable for diagnosing modern and not so modern cars.

ScanMaster ELM 2.1

ScanMaster ELM 2.1 software is a multifunctional software that works successfully with foreign and domestic cars. This applies to both professionals at service stations and novice diagnosticians planning to do the work themselves.

ForScan

The ForScan program is designed for Mercury, Mazda, Ford and Lincoln brands. Scans the sensors that are installed in the car, ABS, airbags, alarm and braking system.

Programming and configuration functions are provided. If desired, you can do chip tuning of the car. Works with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB adapters.

TiggoDiag 1.2.0.3

The TiggoDiag 1.2.0.3 program is suitable for adapters based on ELM327. Suitable for Cherry and Great Vol cars. Suitable for some Mitsubishi brand models. Used to work with USB adapters.

PROScan

PROScan software is a universal solution for ELM327 scanners. The device has standard functionality and is capable of creating tables and graphs.

Using the software, you can receive information about errors and erase them if necessary. Typically used with USB scanners.

iPhone Application

The undisputed leader among all programs existing today is the OBD-2 iPhone Application utility, which, if necessary, can be used on devices such as iPad or iPhone. The program operates exclusively with equipment such as ELM327 or OBD-2 itself. The programs belong to the category of professional applications designed for the highest quality vehicle diagnostics, and therefore their functionality is similar to that found on standard computers.

Programs for ELM327 for Android

Many programs for ELM327 scanners are distributed in two versions: free and advanced, professional (Pro). There are applications that claim to be free, but require payment for some additional features. There are also professional products that allow the use of a greatly reduced demo version to familiarize yourself with the functionality. Most scanner programs for Android support communication with mobile devices via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Torque

One of the most popular programs for ELM327 scanners. There is a Russian version of the interface with minor inaccuracies and translation flaws. There are two software options available to users. One is completely free (Lite). The second (Pro) has advanced functionality and costs 165 rubles.

Even the free version has very good features. These include the following functions:

• Check-Engine error detection;
• resetting fault codes and storing them in a log;
• displaying information from oxygen sensors;
• fuel consumption accounting;
• monitoring of a number of parameters with display of indicators on the desktop;
• informing about the achievement of critically harmful/dangerous parameter values;
• ability to select parameters for tracking;
• customizing panels on the desktop;
• recording geolocation data.

The basic version has good functionality for diagnosing basic vehicle systems, monitoring important parameters while driving, and eliminating some errors. The Pro version is characterized by expanded functionality for diagnosing and correcting errors, including deciphering codes.

OpenDiag Mobile

The program was developed by Russian specialists and is intended to work with domestic fuel-injected cars. Among the advantages are an authentic Russian interface and a good set of free functions, as well as the ability to communicate via a USB cable (in addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth).

The application provides diagnostics of the following units and systems:

• engine control (Bosch, Itelma, January, EMS, Mikas);
• anti-theft APS systems, immobilizers;
• electrical package modules (Priora, Kalina, Granta, Vesta);
• electric power steering (KEMZ, Autoelectronics, Mando, etc.);
• airbags;
• anti-lock braking system;
• heater and climate control;
• windshield wiper control unit.

The program allows you to determine the amount of fuel required for a trip, displays information about the temperature of the coolant, air, fuel pressure, etc. All information is displayed in Russian. Users who download the free application can purchase additional paid blocks if necessary.

ELM327 programs for a computer or laptop (Windows)

These elm327 programs are designed to diagnose a car using a computer and are installed on Windows-based computers. The description of the program says what cars it is intended for, as well as what types of adapters it works with - USB, Wi Fi or bluetooth.

ScanMaster ELM 2.1

The most versatile and functional elm327 program. Works great both with foreign cars and Russian-made cars. We recommend starting diagnostics with this program.

Works with adapters: USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Download ScanMaster ELM 2.1

OpenDiag

A program for diagnosing all models of the Russian automobile industry (VAZ, GAZ, UAZ, etc.). Supports several types of adapters, including elm327. This is the most convenient program for diagnosing Russian cars. If you have a Russian car, we recommend using this particular program.

Works with adapters: USB, Bluetooth

Download OpenDiag program

FORScan

This elm 327 program was created specifically for cars of the following brands: FORD, Mazda, Lincoln and Mercury. It has enormous capabilities; it scans all car components, including airbags, ABS, etc. It is possible to configure and program parameters.

Works with adapters: USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Download FORScan program

ELMConfig

This program is also for FORD cars. It can work with all car modules, and, in addition to diagnostics, provides the ability to calibrate and configure.

Works with adapters: USB

Download ELMConfig program

ScanXL

The program works great with many brands of cars and has an excellent set of functions.

Works with adapters: USB

Download ScanXL program

PROScan

This is a universal elm327 program. It has all the necessary functions: measures parameters, builds graphs, reads and erases errors and much more. Unfortunately there is no Russian language.

Works with adapters: USB

Download PROScan program

ELM327 programs for iPhone and iPad (iOS)

Below are elm327 programs for use on iPhone and iPad, i.e. on smartphones and tablets with the iOS operating system. There are quite a few programs for these devices and, as a rule, they are all in English. But we still tried to choose good programs for you that are easy to learn and have a wide range of functions. Please note that Apple devices only support Wi-Fi adapters, so the programs do too.

DashCommand

A fairly good, with all the necessary features, elm327 program for iPhone and iPad. It is universal and suitable for diagnosing a huge number of cars. Easy to learn and intuitive despite the lack of Russian language.

Works with adapters: Wi-Fi

Download DashCommand for iOS

OBD Car Doctor

A simple and convenient program in Russian. Allows you to read engine operating parameters, and it is also possible to read and erase engine check errors.

Works with adapters: Wi-Fi

Download the OBD Car Doctor program for iOS

Torque

Today's leading utility that monitors OBD-2 errors through the Android operating system. By installing the program on your own smartphone or tablet that is controlled by this OS, you can completely independently diagnose your own car if it has an ELM327 device installed that supports Bluetooth data transfer technology. It is worth noting that this utility contains almost all the functionality that a modern car enthusiast might need.

Programs for Windows

In addition to mobile applications for phones running Android OS, you can use software applications for Windows OS for autodiagnostics.

• ScanMaster-ELM utility that works with any type of ELM327 adapters. The capabilities of this software are quite wide: a convenient and intuitive interface, monitoring the operation of the motor in real time, plotting graphs, viewing, decoding and deleting errors. Disadvantages of such applications: the need to purchase a license to use a number of functions and the requirement for Russification to simplify work.
• Diagnostic utility - PCMScan, which easily identifies faults in European, American and Asian cars, receives data from a freeze frame and removes errors in the ECU. To expand functionality, you can add third-party plugins. Pros: multifunctionality, free demo version. Cons: the need to purchase paid software to connect some options and Russification.
• Multifunctional auto diagnostic program for Windows OS – FORScan. Processes sensor data in real time, reads basic parameters and resets error codes. Pros: Possibility of obtaining data on almost all functional units and main car systems. Disadvantage: designed for diagnosing only 4 brands of cars - Ford, Mazda, Lincoln and Mercury.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the diagnostics necessary for the car can be performed independently, saving on expensive service stations. To do this, just purchase a diagnostic scanner and install specialized software on your smartphone, tablet or PC.

When choosing diagnostic software, pay attention to the functionality, the presence of a Russian-language menu, the ability to install additional functional plug-ins, the ability of applications to generate analytical reports, transmit data over the Internet, decipher and delete errors in the ECU. In principle, the free applications available on the Internet are sufficient to carry out most diagnostic operations. But even a paid program will cost much less than diagnostic services at car repair shops.

Bluetooth adapter ELM327: instructions for connecting to a PC

In order to integrate the device with a laptop computer running Windows OS, you must:

• Turn on the ignition of the vehicle and plug the diagnostic device into the appropriate connector.
• Install the ScanMaster program on your computer. Of course, you can find any other utility for working with the adapter, but this software is considered the best.
• Go to the control panel of the program and select “Bluetooth devices”.
• Add available devices and after their list is loaded, check the box next to “Ready for detection.”
• Click "Next". After this, the PC will automatically find the scanner.
• Press the “Next” button again.
• Enter the code for connecting devices into the window that appears (as in the first case, this is a standard combination of numbers).
• Click “Next” again.
• Follow the instructions of the program, which should integrate the device automatically.
• Click "Done".

After this you can start using ScanMaster. It is best if the OBD 2 program of the ELM327 Bluetooth adapter connects and makes settings automatically.

Now let's look at the main functions of the adapter. What data can be found using this auto scanner?

Programs for iPhone

Utilities for installation on iOS support Wi-Fi, which is very important when diagnosing from an iPhone. There are few such developments, but they are quite functional.

InCarDoc IPhone

Only suitable for vehicles that support OBD-II function. Works in real time.

Diagnoses parameters:

• speed;
• fuel consumption;
• revolutions;
• pressure.

Reads errors, saves parameters, clears errors. Determines the VIN number of the body, determines coordinates with GPS support. You can install the program by downloading it from the App Store.

Engine Link

One of the most popular utilities for iPhones. Works with many cars. There is a diagnostic function for diesel engine control units. Suitable for reading by ELM327 scanner (Wi-Fi version). What the program can do:

• tests emissions;
• work in real time;
• reads and resets OBD fault codes;
• displays sensor data and engine characteristics;
• MPG to calculate fuel consumption in real time;
• Full custom PID support.

Supports OBD-II and EOBD. To use the program, you need compatibility with ELM Bluetooth Low Energy (for iPhone 4 and later versions) or a Wi-Fi adapter.

EconTool ELM327 for Nissan

EconTool ELM327 for Nissan is another one of the best diagnostic programs for OBD2. Intended exclusively for petrol Nissan vehicles up to 2008 (but also works with newer vehicles). It is free, providing the same options as other similar programs, but when purchasing the PRO version it opens up an additional feature: it allows you to read and reset errors.

Attention: the utility is not suitable for diesel Nissan models!

DashCommand

It is also a fairly powerful program that provides machine diagnostics via an iPad or iPhone. It is worth noting that OBD-2 diagnostics using this utility does not have any disadvantages compared to the previous utility, but it is worth noting that this program only works with ELM327 devices that support connections via Wi-Fi.

ELMScan Toyota

If you own a Toyota or Lexus, ELMScan Toyota is a good OBD2 program in Russian. Despite the fact that the program was created specifically for the above-mentioned cars, it is also compatible with cars of other brands that have a suitable connector for connecting diagnostics. It is offered in two versions: paid and free, it has an intuitive interface, but although it is completely Russified, English terms are still found in it here and there.

ELMScan Toyota is included in the list of the best programs for obd2 diagnostics, thanks to its capabilities:

1. Reading complete information about the vehicle (model, engine size and name, VIN code and calibration id).
2. Determining errors in sensor operation.
3. Clearing fault codes.
4. Determination of motor operating parameters in real time.
5. Perform all active tests of vehicle electronic system components.
6. Display data in the form of numbers and graphs.
7. Reset ECU parameters.
8. Storing a database of fault codes.

This one of the best programs for OBD2 on Android will reveal all the secrets of the engine, transmission, cruise control, immobilizer, auxiliary security systems, suspension, electric power steering, and other vehicle sensors.

Important: in the free version of the program, support for many sensors is disabled, so for diagnostic efficiency, it is recommended to immediately purchase the full package of functions.