Many car owners do onboard diagnostics (OBD) with a computer in the DIY way. That’s the process of pinpointing problems in a vehicle and taking steps to fix those problems. You can do the same provided you have a reliable OBD2 software.Traditionally (and ideally) vehicle diagnosis is performed with an OBD scanner. Unfortunately, the best scanners are quite costly. That makes OBD software arguably the second best thing for DIY and professional auto diagnosis.These pieces of software install on a computer and allow you to turn that computer into a powerful diagnostic device. With the best OBD software, you will be able to perform almost the same range of functions that are offered by OBD scanners.That includes reading and clearing codes, monitoring sensors, displaying live data, graphing data, resetting warning lights and in some cases programming or coding. The exact number of functions depends on the OBD2 software for PC you choose.

1. Obd2 Software For Pc Pc Scan Tool

Table of Contents.Difference Between OBD2 Software And OBD2 AppAnother way of running OBD is by using an OBD application (or OBD app for short). While an OBD2 software package typically installs on a computer, an OBD app is for smartphones. You can install the app on your phone and bring OBD to your fingertips.Functionally, OBD2 software and OBD2 apps are similar. As is the case with software, the app you choose will determine the range of functions you will get. There’s the small matter of size.When it comes to monitoring a vehicle’s health as you drive it, a phone is more convenient because of its small size. In the case of an OBD2 software system, you will have to use a laptop or desktop PC.A laptop is relatively small, but it will still need a full seat. A desktop, on its part, can’t even set up inside a car because of its power needs.

In other words, you can’t drive around while performing OBD with a desktop.In summary, apps and software are equally good functionally. However, if you want something that can enhance your mobility and allow you to perform on-road vehicle monitoring, then an app (and phone) is better.That said, OBD2 software packages for PC are still reliable options if you have a workstation that doesn’t require a lot of driving and movement. Those that connect wirelessly will let you move around your workstation with a laptop in your hand. You can even drive around with the computer on one of the car seats, as long as it can retain power for as long as you need.And with that in mind, which OBD2 software is worth your consideration. We have a list of the top 21. Our review contains some of the best OBD2 free software as well as paid versions.

So, buckle up and let’s get the ball rolling, shall we? RecommendationChoosing one OBD2 software from a list of 21 is not a simple task. Even with the above review, you might still be wondering which software suits you best. Here’s a summarized recommendation:. For Windows –This OBD2 software works on all OBD2-compliant vehicles.

It allows car owners to diagnose the engine, read codes, erase codes, reset the MIL and view live data. For Mac – LapLoggerMost pieces of OBD2 software for PC don’t diagnose other systems besides the engine. Goes beyond that and covers transmission as well as ABS. For Linux – FreediagIf you pick the best OBD2 adapter, you will get the best features of. That includes full-system diagnosis and live data from sensors.OBD2 Software Packages for Windows Mac Linux Review OBD2 Software Pieces For Windows 1. TOAD is the best OBD2 Software for Windows today.Operating System: WindowsIt’s hard to come across an OBD2 software review that doesn’t have Toad Pro as one of the best OBD2 software for PC. That mainly boils down to the software’s ability to diagnose both the engine and transmission.For that reason, you can use Toad Pro to turn off the Check Engine Light and reset transmission-related warning lights.

Besides, this OBD2 software for Windows can monitor live sensor data, display freeze frame data, examine fuel economy and support ECU map editing.The wide range of features is why some people consider Toad Pro a professional automotive diagnostic software. Can read and clear engine as well as transmission codes. Compatible with all OBD2-compliant vehicles. Tests vehicle for emission readiness. Supports several OBD2 protocols, including CAN (Bus), CAN (11-bit and 94-bit), ISO-9141, ISO-14230, ISO-15765 and ELM327. Supports nine modes of data, including Mode 1 (Analog Digital Gauges), Mode 1 (List View), Mode 2 (Freeze Frame Data), Mode 3 (Current Faults), Mode A (stored DTCs) and Mode 4 all through Mode 9.

Can be optimized for touchscreens. Customizable dashboard. Can display live data and monitor fuel economy.

TOAD is a professional automotive diagnostic software meant for enthusiasts, DIY, and auto mechanics. Its impressive range of functions proves that.Check TOAD Price 2. TouchScanOperating System: WindowsThe makers of TouchScan call it a simple and powerful OBD2 software for PC. It works with all types of computers, from laptops to desktops and even car PCs. The only problem is that it’s strictly a Windows software.Regarding functionality, you can use TouchScan to read and erase engine codes. It can test emission readiness and monitor fuel economy.

Perhaps where this OBD2 software excels most is in data delivery.With it, you can view live sensor data for over 90 sensors. You can choose to display that data either as text or graphs. Additionally, TouchScan allows you to record and save diagnostic data. You can play it back at a later time when you are offline.

Compatible with ALL OBD2 vehicles. Those are cars and light trucks made and sold in the US since 1996. Capable of reading and erasing engine codes.

As such, TouchScan can tell you why the Check Engine Light is on and even reset that light. Has customizable dashboards.

You can choose the type of data you want to view and whether you want it as text or graphs. Monitors fuel economy. The software can display the total fuel economy in MPG or KM/L and provide statistical data for a trip. Tests vehicle for emissions readiness. Real-time monitoring or sensor data. Comes with free software updates.

Who is TouchScan made for?An software for Windows, is excellent for ordinary car owners who use Windows computers. It’s affordable and has a simple-to-use interface.

OBDwizOperating System: WindowsThe people who develop TouchScan makes OBDwiz. As you would expect, the two are similar in functionality. OBDwiz can read and erase engine codes, test emissions readiness, monitor fuel economy and display live sensor data.Whether you want your data as text or graphs, this OBD2 software for Windows will deliver. Plus it can record and save the data. That may come in handy when you need to analyze the data later on. Who is OBDwiz made for?Like the TouchScan, is most suitable for ordinary car owners.

It’s simple enough and doesn’t cost a lot. AutoEnginuity SoftwareOperating System: WindowsAutoEnginuity’s software is a bundled product that comes with the company’s Giotto scan tool. AutoEnginuity refers to this software as a professional-level diagnostic software for PC.That’s not far from an accurate description considering it offers some pretty powerful features.

With it, you can access engine, airbag, ABS, instrument cluster, body, and chassis systems.Besides, it allows you to perform some bidirectional tests, reset systems, relearn sensors, view live data, and log data. In short, it’s safe to say that AutoEnginuity Software is one of the most potent OBD2 programming software.

Who is AutoEnginuity made for?Since it’s a professional automotive diagnostic software, is most suitable for professional mechanics and auto repair shops. PCMSCANOperating System: WindowsPCMSCAN is a diagnostic software package that works on all OBD2-compliant vehicles. Alpine skiing dryland training program free.

Built to be compatible with generic OBD2 hardware interfaces, this software installs on most versions of Windows, starting from Windows 95 all through Windows 8.Unfortunately, there’s no version for Mac or Linux systems. Also, if your version of Windows is newer than Windows 8, there’s a chance this OBD2 software won’t be able to install.Regardless, it features highly customizable dashboards & gauges, Drag Strip & Dyno, data logging, DTCs and so much more. Reads and clears engine trouble codes.

As such, PCMSCAN can tell you why the Check Engine Light is on. And you can use it to reset the light. Displays live sensor data from over 220 sensors. Supports data logging. You can record and playback diagnostic data. You can also print the data.

Obd2 Software For Pc Pc Scan Tool

Can display the status of monitored tests (both continuous and non-continuous tests). Has built-in alert systems to notify you when a condition has been achieved. You can modify the terms to whatever you want. E.g., you can let the software inform you when a new code is recorded. Drag Strip has a timer and countdown that measure launch and reaction times. Dyno measures the horsepower and torque of aftermarket parts.

Who is PCMSCAN made for?PCMSCAN is designed for ordinary car owners. It’s simple to use and installs on almost all versions of Windows.Read more: 6.

Engine CheckOperating System: WindowsIf you are in the market for an OBD2 software that can reset the Check Engine Light, then Engine Check is worth your consideration. Compatible with OBD2 vehicles, this software is also capable of displaying live engine data, freeze frame data, fuel system status and so much more. Who is Engine Check made for?Like most other OBD2 software on our list, is designed for the ordinary car owner.

Although it’s a premium product, you can try it for free. FORScanOperating System: WindowsFORScan is arguably more popular as an app than a computer-based software. Functionally, it’s just as good on a computer as it is on a smartphone. It allows you to read and erase DTCs from all available systems.In addition to that, this software can display live sensor data, test status, and service procedures.

Its most significant consideration comes in vehicle compatibility. Although it’s an OBD2 software, FORScan only works on Ford, Lincoln, Mazda and Mercury vehicles. Can read and clear engine codes. As already mentioned, a software that does that also allows you to reset the Check Engine Light.

Gives you access to codes from other systems like transmission, ABS and SRS. As such, you can use FORScan to reset warning lights for those systems. Displays live sensor data. Can display the status of onboard tests and also run test diagnostic procedures. Runs service procedures. Supports multiple hardware adapters, including ELM327, J2534, CANtieCAR, OBDLink SX/MX and ELS27 (STN1170). Who is FORScan made for?is for DIYers and enthusiasts who need deep access to onboard systems.

It offers significantly more than entry-level software. Car Scanner ELM OBD2Operating System: WindowsCar Scanner ELM OBD2 is a free piece of software for reading and erasing engine DTCs. Codes come with definitions to help you understand the problem and how to fix it.An OBD2 software for Windows, Car Scanner ELM has a highly customizable dashboard. It can read live data as well as freeze frame data.

Besides, the software displays plenty of information like MPG, brake distance, speed timings, custom PIDs, etc. Who is made for?This OBD2 free software full version is designed for ordinary car owners. It’s simple enough to understand and comes free of charge. EasyOBDII Premium SoftwareOperating System: WindowsEasyOBDII Premium offers the standard features that come with a typical entry-level OBD2 software for PC. It can read and clear engine codes, display I/M monitoring tests, show freeze frame data and live sensor data to name a few.The software has a simple and straightforward interface that can go to full screen. In addition to that, EasyOBDII supports data logging.

You can configure it to save the data automatically. Who is EasyOBDII made for?Like most of the other software on this list, is ideal for ordinary car owners. It’s perfect for those who want to reset the Check Engine Light and monitor some sensors. OBD2SpyOperating System: WindowsThe next OBD2 software for Windows on our list is OBD2Spy. An OBD2-compatible program, the software supports all 9 OBD2 protocols.

That’s why it works with ALL OBD2-compliant vehicles.The other best thing about OBD2Spy is that it provides a wide range of live data. You can view parameters such as engine RPM, calculated load value, intake manifold pressure, air flow rate and many more. During diagnostics, OBD2Spy delivers data in high baud speeds of up to 2Mbps. Supports diagnostic interfaces that use Bluetooth, USB, and serial connections. Can read and erase engine codes. The software is capable of resetting the Check Engine Light. Displays live sensor data and can graph up to 90 PIDs.

You can view as many as 16 PIDs at a time. Monitors various parameters ranging from engine efficiency parameters to fuel economy and even emission status. Can read and delete freeze frame data.

Displays continuous and non-continuous O2 sensor test results. Generates diagnostic reports and can also do data logging. Who is OBD2Spy made for?is ideal for car owners who need to check why the MIL is on. It also helps them monitor live data from sensors and monitors. ScanclicOperating System: WindowsMost pieces of OBD2 software come with English as the default language.

But if you prefer yours in Italian, then Scanclic is probably your best pick. The software is entirely in Italian and has no alternative ones.Regardless, Scanclic is designed to read and erase engine trouble codes. Designed based on the SAE J1979 standard, this software is compatible with virtually all OBD2 vehicles. Who is Scanclic made for?is for car owners who are comfortable with Italian more than any other language. ScanMaster ELMOperating System: WindowsJust as Scanclic is in Italian, ScanMaster ELM is by default in German.

The good news is that you can change the language. Your options include English, Spanish, French, Polish, Turkish, Danish, etc.An OBD2 software for Windows PCs, ScanMaster ELM, is designed to work correctly with ELM327 devices. It’s based on the SAE J1979 standard and supports all 10 OBD2 diagnostic modes.

Who is ScanMaster ELM made for?The is for enthusiasts and hobbyists. It packs an impressive range of features, including live data, DTCs, fuel economy parameters, engine performance gauges and many more. ScanXL ProOperating System: WindowsScanXL Pro is in the same family of software as PCMSCAN. The same company makes both programs, and they offer almost similar diagnostic functions. The most significant difference is that while PCMSCAN can only pull engine codes, ScanXL Pro gives you access to more systems, including ABS and airbag.It also features a highly customizable dashboard with gauges that you can personalize.

As is the case with PCMSCAN, ScanXL Pro doesn’t have a Linux or Mac version. Reads and clears engine, ABS and airbag trouble codes. As such, ScanXL can tell you why the Check Engine Light, ABS or airbag light is on. You can use it to reset those lights. Displays live sensor data from over 220 sensors. Supports data logging.

You can record and playback diagnostic data. You can also print the data. Can display the status of monitored tests (both continuous and non-continuous tests). Has built-in alert systems to notify you when a condition has been achieved.

You can modify the terms to whatever you want. E.g., you can let the software inform you when a new code is recorded. Drag Strip has a timer and countdown that measure launch and reaction times. Dyno measures the horsepower and torque of aftermarket parts. Who is ScanXL Pro made for?is most suitable for enthusiasts and hobbyists. It offers slightly more than PCMSCAN regarding access to onboard systems. OBD2 Software Packages For Mac Mac supports a lot of OBD2 software packages.Credit: pixabay.com1.

Movi ProOperating System: MacMovi Pro is one of the few OBD2 software for Mac. With it, you can check why your Check Engine Light is on. Plus it helps you view live sensor data and monitor performance such as engine efficiency and fuel economy.Designed for OBD2-compliant vehicles, Movi Pro works with most generic OBD2 hardware interfaces. It’s compatible with both gasoline and diesel vehicles. Reads and clears engine codes. By doing so, Movi Pro allows you to reset the Check Engine Light. Allows you to view and clear freeze frame data.

Displays live data. It can help you pinpoint faulty sensors. Live data comes either as text or graph. You can compare as many as four charts simultaneously.

Can monitor fuel economy as well as car charging system and battery health. Checks for emission readiness. Built-in alert system to notify you of new diagnostic information. Can measure horsepower and torque. Who is Movi Pro made for?is an OBD2 software for the ordinary car owner. It is simple and has a reasonably low price tag. That makes it ideal for checking why the MIL is on.

EOBD FacileOperating System: MacEOBD Facile is an OBD2 free software for Mac-based computers. Despite being free, it offers much more than some of the premium OBD2 software for PC. For instance, it can display engine and gearbox trouble codes.In some car brands (like BMW, Citroen, Fiat, Renault, Peugeot, Opel, Ford, Audi, and VW) EOBD Facile shows not only generic codes but also manufacturer-specific ones.Additionally, the software allows you to view live sensor data. Featuring a built-in GPS, the software can record your journey and log your GPS data. Who is EOBD Facile made for?is simple enough for the ordinary car owner. However, if you feel like its functions are limited, you can opt for the EOBD Facile Plus.

The latter works on Windows as well and supports a broader range of features. OBD2 Software Pieces For Windows And Mac 1. OBD Auto DoctorOperating System: Windows and MacMany car owners and mechanics are familiar with the app version of OBD Auto Doctor.

Its software version is just as sophisticated and clean. It allows you to communicate directly with a car’s OBD2 system.With the ability to read and clear engine codes, this OBD2 software for Mac and Windows can reset the Check Engine Light. It can read stored, pending as well as permanent trouble codes. Besides, this OBD2 software is capable of reading freeze frame data as well as monitoring parameters like fuel economy, fuel pressure, etc. Who is OBD Auto Doctor for?is ideal for DIY enthusiasts who use Windows or Mac systems. It’s perfect for real-time monitoring and checking why the Check Engine Light is on. LapLoggerOperating System: Windows and MacLapLogger is excellent for monitoring sensors, live data, vehicle performance, and efficiency.

In addition to that, this OBD2 software for Mac and Windows can pull and reset engine trouble codes. You can, therefore, use it to turn off the Check Engine Light.With a straightforward interface, the program features a dashboard with gauges. Each gauge displays appropriate diagnostic data like MPG, fuel pressure, engine boost, etc. Although Linux is a less-used system, there are some obd2 software packages supported for it.Credit: flickr.com 1. FreediagOperating System: Windows and LinuxThe unique thing about Freediag is that it is open-source software. That means anyone with skills in software development can add features to this OBD2 software for Linux and Windows.It supports six main vehicle protocols.

The 6 are ISO 9141, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230, SAE J1850, SAE J2818 and Mercedes Gearbox. All those are OBD2 protocols, and depending on the diagnostic hardware interface you have, you may be able to perform a series of functions.It should be noted that the freeDiag software does not support ISO 15765-4 CAN, (SAE J2480), which is probably the most common protocol used with ELM327 adapters in modern, (2008+), cars.

Who is Freediag made for?is for enthusiasts and mechanics who love open-source software. But you must be familiar with command line computing to use it effectively.2. OpenOBDOperating System: Windows and LinuxOpenOBD is a lot like Freediag. They are both open-source software, and they both support Windows and Linux. However, contrary to Freediag, openOBD doesn’t have many diagnostic features.It’s a software for reading codes, clearing codes and viewing live engine data. That makes it ideal for engine monitoring and resetting engine codes.

Who is openOBD made for?is for car owners who enjoy using open-source software. It doesn’t have many features to make it a professional software, but it can diagnose the engine nonetheless. OBD2 Software Packages For Windows, Mac, And Linux 1. PyOBDOperating System: Windows, Mac, and LinuxpyOBD was developed using Python (a programming language). It’s one of the most stable and reliable programs on the market today. Perhaps surprisingly, it is offered entirely free of charge.But there’s nothing cheap about this OBD2 free software full version.

For starters, you can use it to reset the Check Engine Light. Additionally, it displays the status of tests and provides live ECU data.

IMAGEPRODUCTTOP PICK!1. TOAD. Works on all makes and models. Free updates for life. Program and update your car’s ECU systems. Real-time data streamingBUDGET PICK!2.

FORScan. Complete list of Ford codes. Run diagnostics and performance checks. Compatible with mobile devices. Easy to find codes3. Palmer Performance PCMSCAN. Comfortable handheld design.

Rugged rubber housing. Easy to read backlit screen. Contains all Honda’s codes, including manufacturer-specific ones4. OBD Auto Doctor. Works on all computers or mobile devices. Compatible with almost any OBD2 scanner.

Real-time data logging. User-friendly interface5.

Autoenginuity. Easy to use software. Works on most car brands.

Run systems tests as well as OBD2 scanning. Record data for multiple vehicles. Integrated Scan ToolSince we’re focusing on OBD2 scan software, most of the programs on this list won’t come with their own scanners. TOAD, however, does.This makes it much easier to get started because you don’t have to worry about finding a scanner that is compatible with the system.Also, many generic scanners can be less than high-quality, meaning that you may encounter issues when trying to diagnose a problem.TOAD not only allows you to connect to your vehicle immediately, but it also has a Bluetooth option for wireless monitoring.Complete Code List. One issue with most OBD2 scanners is that they only work with the top makes and models. Thus, if you have a European or Asian vehicle that isn’t covered, you’re out of luck.TOAD standard for Total Onboard Auto Diagnostics, and it’s not hyperbole.

All cars, trucks, and SUVs around the world are included with this system.To make it even better, you get free updates for life. Other software programs require annual renewals to stay current with codes, but TOAD has you covered forever. You’ll never miss out with this system.ECU Scanning/Programming If your car has an ECU system on board, then you can do even more with TOAD. This software allows you to make adjustments to your vehicle’s performance, all from your laptop.You can study data in real time and see how your changes make it operate more smoothly. Whether you’re trying to get better gas mileage or you want to extend the life of your car, this capability can help you achieve those goals. Multiple Download TypesOne thing that’s nice about this system is that it will work on both your computer or a mobile device.

Compatible With Mac, PC, and MobileWe like OBD2 scan software that works across devices, so it’s nice to know that you can deploy the OBD Auto Doctor on any computer or mobile phone.Downloading and setting it up is a breeze, and as long as you have a scan tool, you should be ready to go in minutes.Real-Time ScanningFor some auto enthusiasts, it’s enough to check the OBD2 codes whenever the check engine light comes on. However, if you want to make sure that your vehicle is operating in pristine condition, you need to run some tests. One issue that you may come across when using an OBD2 scanner is that you may not have access to the proprietary codes listed by some auto manufacturers.While most are universal, some companies have their own systems, meaning that you need access to them if you want to be sure that you’re diagnosing the right problem.If you have a, Mazda, Lincoln or Mercury car, then FORscan is the best option for you. If you don’t, then you want to avoid this system because it won’t help with any other brands.That being said, if you have one of these vehicles, let’s see how it works. Designed for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercury VehiclesOverall, we know that many people have foreign makes and models, such as Honda or Toyota.

Even other domestic brands like GM and Dodge are not included, meaning that this tool is severely limited.However, if you fall into one of these parameters, you will have access to a full list of codes offered by the manufacturer. In this case, FORscan is much better than using a generic scanner that may not have all of these tools.Mobile CompatibleWhen it comes to reading and diagnosing a problem, we like convenience. The fact that FORscan has a mobile app means that you can troubleshoot like a champ, even if you’re out on the road.That being said, don’t monitor your car while you’re driving for safety reasons.Real-Time Data Streaming​When you have your vehicle in a safe area, you can run a variety of tests that help you get a complete picture of how it’s behaving.These diagnostics will ensure that you can perform preventative maintenance and upgrades on your car so that it’s operating in peak condition at all times.

Also, save and compare this data to see how it changes over time. Store Info for Fleet VehiclesAlthough you may only use it for your personal car, it’s nice to know that it’s built for fleets as well. You can monitor every vehicle in the household, as well as compare cars that you may get over time.Save all of the data for recall later and set up different accounts so that you get a clear picture of each car you’re working on at any given time.Run Real-Time DataDo more than see what’s causing the check engine light to come on. Run tests on your vehicles to see how they’re performing. Use this information to perform maintenance and upgrades as you see fit.Covers Most Makes and Models​Almost every domestic brand is covered here, as well as most popular foreign models. Although the list isn’t comprehensive, it should cover you with no problems.

Also, having fewer brands to sift through can make it easier to find what you need.