Elm327 Bluetooth Software
- Elm327 Bluetooth Software Mac
- Elm327 Software For Windows
- Free Obd2 Software Elm327
- Professional Obd2 Software For Laptop
- Elm327 Mini Bluetooth Software Free Download
- Elm327 Bluetooth Software Android Torque
Tzadok's Tech ELM 327 V1.5 Interface Works On Android Torque CAN-Bus Elm327 Bluetooth OBD2/OBD II Car Diagnostic Scanner Scanning Tool. Because as long as the red Power light is lit on the ELM327 Bluetooth device, it means it's physically working, and MUST be detected. WORD OF CAUTION: Any attempt to detect ELM327 Bluetooth after pairing it for the FIRST time — may NOT show inside 'Add a Device' anymore. In this case, it's found inside 'Show Bluetooth Devices'. 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).
- Car Scanner ELM OBD2
- OBD Auto Doctor
- Torque Pro
- Dash
- OBD Car Doctor
There are a lot of applications compatible with ELM327 Interfaces. Here is just few of them: Brand Specific ELM 327 Apps: JeepWJ - Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD engine and transmission fault codes reader an erase software. Multiecuscan - is a vehicle diagnostic software with advanced.
Need to know which software to download to use your wireless OBD2 scanner?
Skip to the good stuff:
- Best ELM327 Software for Windows Smartphones
- ELM327 Bluetooth Software for Android
- ELM327 WiFi Software for iOS Apple Devices
Let me guess. You’re here looking for the best ELM327 free downloadable software, right? If that’s the case, you have come to the right place.
Hi, Matt here.
I worked on a lot of cars, and I really mean a LOT! I started tinkering with cars in high school. My experience allowed me to test drive and diagnosis a multitude of makes and models, including prestigious German cars.
I became particularly fond of the OBD2 system on modern cars. If your vehicle is 1996 or newer, you have an OBD2-compatible car. Without the OBD2 diagnostic system, it will be extremely hard to pinpoint the nuances in your car’s engine. When something goes wrong, it will all turn into a time-consuming guessing game.
The type of ELM327 software will all depend on the make and model of your vehicle. The ELM327 microchip is primarily designed to work with modern vehicles that utilize the CAN OBD2 protocol (ISO 15765-4). However, the chip is also compatible with the following OBD2 protocols:
- SAE J1850 PWM (41.6 kbit/s) and VPW (10.4 kbit/s)
- ISO 9141-2
- ISO 14230-4 KWP
- ISO 15765-4 CAN
- SAE J1939 (250 kbit/s and 500kbit/s)
If you have an older car, you will need to verify the OBD2 protocol of your vehicle. This will ensure that your scanner and ELM327 software is compatible with your vehicle.
Before reading on, we recommend watching this video from ChrisFix to get a crash course in using one of these wireless OBD2 scanners.
How to Get Rid of the Check Engine Light
If you previously bought an OBD2 ELM327 scan tool, they you are probably dealing with a check engine light on the console.
But in order for the scan tool to work, you also need to download a paid or free version of ELM327 software. Depending on the scan tool, the ELM327 or OBD2 software will basically communicate with the scan tool to show you the specific vehicle parameters, i.e. reading and showing the meaning of the check engine light on the dash.
Related: OBD2 App for Android, iPhone, and Windows
So, if you are using a Windows laptop or PC, you need an ELM327 software designed for Windows. But if you are using a wireless Wi-Fi OBD2 scan tool such as the Foseal or the Bluedriver, you need to download a compatible ELM327 software. Since both of the aforementioned scanners are also designed to work wirelessly with Android devices, all you have to do is download a compatible app on Google Play and you’re ready to work.
When everything is complete, here are the things you need to do:
- Step 1: Download the ELM327 software and install in your device. Do not launch the program/software. Wait until step 3.
- Step 2: Hook up the ELM327 OBD2 scanner or Bluetooth interface in the OBD2 port of your vehicle. If you are using a USB scanner, simply connect the USB interface to your laptop.
- Step 3: Turn on the car ignition but don’t start the engine! At this point, you can launch the ELM327 software. It will automatically detect the OBD2 reader and the vehicle ECU.
That’s it! You can go ahead and play with the features and settings of the ELM327 software.
Of course, if the primary reason is to diagnose the source of the check engine light, you can proceed to do that as well.
Allow me to issue a stern reminder: if your vehicle has a check engine light and you erase the trouble code using your OBD2 scanner, the code will resurface and the check engine light will illuminate once more if the trouble was not fixed. This may mean cleaning or replacing engine sensors and certain vehicle components like fuel filters or catalytic converters.
So which ELM327 compatible software should I get for my Windows, Android, iOS device?
For the sake of clarity, I will present the best free ELM327-compatible software for Windows, Android, and iOS devices.
Best ELM327 Software for Windows Smartphones
Please note, if you’re looking for OBD2 software for Windows Laptop/PC, these will not work. You’ll need to look into some software like PCMScan or AutoEnginuity if you want to use a USB ELM327 with your laptop.
With that noted, let’s talk about 2 apps for Windows smartphones that pair well with wireless OBD2 adapters:
1. Car Scanner ELM OBD2
The Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app is FREE to download. It is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8.2, Windows 10 Mobile, and Windows Phone 8.1. This app was inspired by Android OBD2 apps such as OBD Car Doctor and Torque.
While the Car Scanner ELM ODB2 is still in Beta version as I speak, it managed to work very well in our Windows laptop and smartphone. We were able to diagnose the OBD2 fault codes and read the sensor data in our fleet of test vehicles without encountering unusual errors.
But since Car Scanner ELM OBD2 is still in Beta, you can expect a couple of bugs upon first use. If you are downloading this software on a Windows mobile device, make sure the default install location is set to phone memory. The latest Windows Mobile 10 Update has a bug that makes it tricky to download and install the software on the SD card of your device but it should be fixed soon.
You can download the Car Scanner Free ELM OBD2 software at this link.
2. OBD Auto Doctor
You can download a FREE version of OBD Auto Doctor at the Microsoft Store here. In my opinion, the free version is good enough for average users. But if you demand more features such as monitoring real-time fuel economy, clearing trouble codes, or reading sensor data, you will need the paid version of OBD Auto Doctor.
However, there’s a minor caveat. If you are using a Windows laptop or PC, the paid version of the software is a bit costly. OBD Auto Doctor is offering the Express plan for $39.95 and the Standard plan for $59.95. If you fix cars for a living, you need the Business plan which will cost you $199.95.
But for mobile devices, OBD Auto Doctor is compatible with Windows 10 Mobile, Windows Phone 8.1, and Windows Phone 8. You will need to download the free version of the app and upgrade to the Pro version for around $9.99 via an in-app purchase.
When it comes the best ELM327 free software for Windows, OBD Auto Doctor remains a stellar choice.
ELM327 Bluetooth Software for Android
1. Torque Pro
Don’t get me wrong about Torque Lite. The free version of Torque is good enough for basic applications but it had trouble reading the trouble codes on some Nissan and Subaru vehicles.
Torque Lite also contains a fair share of advertisements within the app which some users might find annoying. Torque Lite still remains one of the best free ELM327 software you can download today, but power users can download the more powerful Torque Pro for approximately $5.
The great thing about Torque Pro is the built-in dyno feature. This will allow you to measure the horsepower and torque ratings of your vehicle without paying huge money at the tuning shop. The app can also measure the 0 to 60 mph time of your vehicle if you’re interested in that kind of thing.
But the thing I like most about Torque Pro is the Track Recorder. You can think of it as a ‘vehicle black box’ that stores all your driving data. This is great for high-performance or racing applications.
If you don’t want to spend $5 for Torque Pro, Torque Lite is one of the best choices for Android devices.
2. Dash
You can drive smarter with the Dash ELM327 app for Android. This is a free OBD2 app that you can download on the Google Play Store. What I really like about Dash is the enriched user experience. Did you know you can still use the Dash app in your Android smartphone or tablet even without a separate ELM327 code reader?
That’s right. You can still use Dash to view and monitor gas prices, engine light alert lookups, and vehicle maintenance procedures. But if you hook up an OBD2 scanner, you can diagnose and read engine fault codes and monitor the I/M readiness of your vehicle.
I did encounter some problems with Dash on my old Samsung phone. The app will sometimes freeze or crash after connecting via Bluetooth. But on newer Samsung devices with updated versions of Android, the operation was smooth and seamless.
You can download the free version of Dash here.
ELM327 WiFi Software for iOS Apple Devices
1. OBD Auto Doctor
If you have an Apple or iOS device, you can’t go wrong with OBD Auto Doctor. This is one of the smoothest and most accurate free ELM327 software for Apple tablets and smartphones.
The free version of OBD Car Doctor can be downloaded here. It can scan, read, and diagnose engine trouble codes so you can determine the source of the check engine light.
Elm327 Bluetooth Software Mac
However, the PRO version of OBD Car Doctor can be yours for only $3.99 and contains a full suite of features including real-time recording of engine parameters, GPS support, and a fuel economy screen. If you are a professional user or if you like installing go-fast mods to your ride, OBD Car Doctor PRO is the best choice for you.
Conclusion
You don’t need to search long and hard for free ELM327 software. With our list of the best downloadable OBD2 apps, you can begin working on your vehicle without spending more money in the process.
Hey there! My name is Matt. I helped create ScannerAnswers with my buddies Vince and Mike. I write about OBD2 tools, cars, trucks, and anything else that I find interesting.
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
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.
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.
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.
Elm327 Software For Windows
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.
Filmora9 provides more than 110 overlays including frame overlay, bokeh blurs overlay, lens flares, old film, damaged film, TV static, and view finder overlays.5. Add effects to videos free trial.
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.
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.
Free Obd2 Software Elm327
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.
topProfessional Obd2 Software For Laptop
Other Software
Elm327 Mini Bluetooth Software Free Download
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.
Elm327 Bluetooth Software Android Torque
Tactical Software’s Serial/IP COM Port Redirector
Another alternative for creating a virtual serial port over a TCP/IP network. Windows only.