AndrOBD
An open-source Android app for OBD-II vehicle diagnostics using any ELM327 adapter.
What is AndrOBD?
AndrOBD is an open-source Android application that turns your device into a professional-grade OBD-II diagnostic tool. It connects to your car's computer via any ELM327 adapter to read fault codes, monitor real-time sensor data, and perform essential diagnostic operations. The app solves the problem of expensive proprietary diagnostic tools by providing a free, feature-rich alternative for vehicle owners and enthusiasts.
Car owners, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, and developers interested in vehicle data who want a free, open-source diagnostic tool on their Android devices.
Developers choose AndrOBD because it's completely free, open-source, and supports any ELM327 adapter over Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. Its extensible plugin system, data logging capabilities, and active community translation set it apart from limited or paid alternatives.
Overview
Android OBD diagnostics with any ELM327 adapter
Use Cases
Best For
- Reading and clearing check engine light codes on personal vehicles
- Monitoring real-time engine data like RPM, speed, and fuel economy
- Logging OBD-II sensor data for performance analysis or troubleshooting
- DIY car maintenance and diagnostic tasks without expensive tools
- Integrating vehicle data with IoT systems via MQTT plugins
- Testing OBD-II functionality without physical hardware using demo mode
Not Ideal For
- Professional mechanics needing manufacturer-specific diagnostic capabilities beyond standard OBD-II
- Users requiring iOS or cross-platform compatibility for mobile diagnostics
- Projects demanding a polished, modern user interface out-of-the-box
- Advanced data analysis requiring built-in predictive maintenance or AI features
Pros & Cons
Pros
Supports Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi for ELM327 adapters, offering flexibility for various hardware setups without locking users into a single connection type.
Includes reading/clearing fault codes, live data monitoring, freeze frames, and vehicle info, covering all essential OBD-II functions as detailed in the feature list.
Allows extensions via plugins for MQTT publishing, GPS data, and sensor integration, enabling IoT use cases and custom data handling beyond basic diagnostics.
Features extensive translation support via Weblate for app dialogs, OBD data descriptions, and fault codes, making it accessible in multiple languages through community efforts.
Completely free with no hidden costs, backed by an open codebase and active donation model, prioritizing accessibility over monetization as stated in the philosophy.
Cons
The README openly requests help for a new modern GUI (issues #104 and #126), indicating the current interface is clunky and not user-friendly compared to commercial apps.
Confined to Android devices, excluding iOS and other platforms, which severely restricts its usability for iPhone users or cross-platform projects.
Only a few plugins are available (MQTT, GPS, Sensor), suggesting limited third-party development and fewer advanced integrations compared to established alternatives.
Information is split between FAQ, Wiki, and other sources, which can make it challenging for new users to find comprehensive setup or troubleshooting guides efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
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