Smart phone app review for OBDII – ELM327

[Matt Allen]

Hey fellow dirty muckers – I recently did a bunch of research on purchasing a phone app to interface with my Elm327 OBDII Bluetooth reader. has anyone here ever done a review? I was thinking of doing something and sharing if others thought it would be valuable. Let me know your thoughts.

Thanks in advance

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[EricTheCarGuy]

I’ve done a couple of reviews on readers of this type. They work pretty good but I prefer a dedicated scanner over a smart phone app. Not that the smart phone apps aren’t good, I just prefer working with a larger interface.

[James O’Hara]

I haven’t done a review but, I have used this BAFX Products – Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool – For check engine light & diagnostics – Android ONLY I have used this on a large variety of vehicles using a windows xp netbook and it provided me with a good amount of information. It will never replace a professional scan tool like a Snap-On Verus, Modis, etc or a manufacturer specific one. But for the regular DIY it works well.

[Justin Easley]

I personally use an application called Torque. I find it to be useful… Would look forward to reading a review on other applications/hardware.

[Scott Osborne]

I second the use of Torque Pro. It supports the widest variety of PIDS of any android scan tool. Its gauge interface is very customizable and allows you to setup a group of PID gauges specific to your diagnostic needs. It’s nice when doing diag to have just the monitors that you need feeding you telemetry

If you run an iPhone you should switch to ELM327 Wifi adapter. The iPhone works best with wifi adapter while android seems to like Bluetooth. The best app for iOS that I’ve found is Dash Boss(awesome app that has standalone sensors that let you monitor true fuel pressure and egt’s). It can be a touch pricey so if you want a budget app you can look at Dash Command

The app based stuff is getting good but it isn’t at the point where it replaces a good bidirectional scan tool.

[Frank Gonzalez]

I use my 327 with the OBD CAR DOCTOR app. It has a lot of pids from Engine temp, RPM, O2 voltage, APP, throttle position and MAF readings. It’s a good app for the diy person but its not as good as vehicle specific scanners or the Snap On Verus or Modus.

[Author]

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