Best ELM327 interface for 2024 [Detailed review]

The ELM327 interface is an adapter you use to connect your phone or laptop to your car so that you can diagnose problems in your car’s on-board diagnostics system or OBDII / OBD2. With its latest improvements, an ELM327 adapter makes life easier for car owners and car professionals worldwide.

To start with, the accuracy of ELM327 is higher than any other diagnostic interfaces. Other simpler devices can only diagnose limited problems such as resetting your oil interval.

However, the ELM327 standard provides a universal diagnosis standard for all OBDII / OBD2 systems. Hence, it doesn’t matter which manufacturer your car belongs to – with an ELM327 adapter, you can keep up with various kinds of protocols.  

What functions does the ELM327 interface offer?

As mentioned above, the ELM327 interface connects your device to your car, i.e. it lets you communicate with your car’s OBDII / OBD2 system. Like all other interfaces, it enables you to read and clear trouble codes so that you can turn off your check engine light.

However, it can also provide you with other useful information including your:

• Engine’s RPM
• Coolant temperature
• Airflow
• Air temperature
• Fuel status
• Long & short term fuel trim
• Fuel pressure

What protocols are supported by the ELM327 interface?

First of all, let’s quickly review the standard OBDII / OBD2 protocols. OBDII / OBD2 systems have many different protocols. It depends on the manufacturer, model and year of your car, i.e. whether it supports a generic protocol or a manufacturer specific one.

Your vehicle may have either a Type A or Type B OBD2 connector. You can tell which one you have based on how it looks. Type A and Type B OBD2 connectors both have 16 connector pins, but differ slightly in terms of their shape, as illustrated below.

Type A: This type of OBD2 connector has the standard 16 pins altogether, with 8 pins on the upper row and 8 pins on the bottom row. Between the top and bottom rows of pins, there is a solid or uninterrupted groove (single groove) which signifies that it is a Type A connector. Type A connectors are generally found in light motor vehicles (cars) and have a power output of 12V.

Type B: This OBD2 connector also has 16 pins (with 8 pins on the top and bottom rows) but it’s a bit different from the Type A connector. The difference with the Type B connector is that it has a split groove in the center (double groove). Type B connectors are generally found in medium and heavy duty vehicles and have a power output of 24V.

The OBD2 connector pin layout depends on the communication protocol used. There are five different OBD2 communication protocols, each of which are explained further below.

These are the five most common OBDII / OBD2 protocols:

You can learn more about the different OBD2 Protocols (by vehicle make and model) here.

The ELM327 adapter supports all of these protocols. If you didn’t find your car’s protocol among the above, don’t worry. You can find the complete list of protocols ELM327 supports here.

ELM327 Apps and Software

What are the best ELM327 apps?

To use an ELM327 adapter, you have to download either an app (if using a phone to connect to the adapter) or software (if using a computer to connect to the adapter). If you are using your phone to connect to the ELM327 device, there are many app options for you on both iOS and Android.  

For iOS / Apple devices

Car Scanner ELM OBD2

While the Car Scanner ELM OBD app works for most branded adapters, this app is designed explicitly for ELM327 adapters. The Car Scanner ELM OBD app is an excellent choice for iOS users because it offers a range of unique features.

It has detailed descriptions under each trouble code in its built-in library. Hence, it’s easy to use and understand.

Not only that, it has many connector profiles, which means it will give you special features for cars such as Toyota, GM, Opel, Nissan, Hyundai, Chevrolet, etc. Not only does it allow you to turn off your check engine light, but it also tells you when your car is ready for emission tests.

Moreover, you can extend your PIDs and view information previously hidden by your manufacturer. You can also view your car’s sensor data in real time.

OBD Auto Doctor

The OBD Auto Doctor app is great for reading trouble codes. It will report back any issues immediately and let you reset the Check Engine Light. It has over 18,000 trouble codes in its built-in database. You see all the information you need to be displayed in graphs in real-time.

You can use the app for many things, including pulling up your car’s VIN, monitoring fuel consumption, and viewing your emissions testing statutes.

Also, the app lets you view the information in both Imperial and Metric units, so you don’t have to worry about converting one from the other.

Additionally, you can even use the app to send reports via email. Click on the share option to send your diagnostic issues directly to your mechanic.

The app supports all OBDII / OBD2 as well as EOBD vehicles.

DashCommand

DashCommand is very popular, and for a good reason. You have a multitude of features at your fingertips. The app will not only read and clear your codes, but it will also keep track of your engine performance, fuel economy, and transmission, among other things.

It has a wide range of gauges that display real-time, easy to interpret data. You have gauges to check your engine speed, acceleration, fuel economy, coolant temperature, fuel pressure, air/fuel ratio, torque, and so on.

The best part is that you can customize your display to your preference. Hence, if you need to keep track of your fuel economy, you can keep that widget on your home page for easy access and viewing.

For Android devices

ScanMaster

With ScanMaster’s advanced diagnostic software, you can turn your Android smartphone or tablet into an OBDII / OBD2 interface anytime and anywhere. Unlike others of its kind, this app offers a sophisticated Lite version. All essential diagnostic functions are available to you, finding and reporting the problem in record time.

The Pro version has additional features such as a more extensive library of trouble codes and more number of parameters. If you choose the Pro version, the app has an in-app billing function so you can select and pay for only the features you require.

You can keep records of your car’s data within the app. The ‘Pause’ and ‘Record’ functions lets you save the data you want, and all you need to do is scroll and zoom. Moreover, the app is available for use in English and German.

inCarDoc

Check and clear your fault codes and relevant freeze frame data with the inCarDoc app. This app is the prime choice for your ELM327 adapter. You can use other OBDII / OBD2 adapters, but for maximum functionality of the app, ELM327 is the best choice.

You can record and share your real-time data with the built-in logbook. The app offers various parameters, including car speed, engine RPM, fuel pressure, oxygen sensors, and coolant temperature. Also, the parameters are displayed in graphs and charts, so they’re easy to interpret.

Furthermore, the app has a trip computer that monitors your car’s fuel consumption so you can keep track of your fuel economy. The app also has extra features including a built-in GPS parameter and a console mode for professional repair services.     

Torque Lite

The great thing about the Torque Lite app is that it’s so user-friendly. The app offers all the essential functions, including reading and clearing codes. You can easily check your engine performance, GPS speed, RPM, transmissions, etc.

Moreover, the app lets you export all your files onto Google Earth to map your data. You can log your data and upload it on different web servers. This allows you to share it directly to any mechanic or car dealership you’re looking to for help.

You can even personalize your dashboard with the theme and widgets. So you can keep the sensors and gauges you need where you can see and easily access them.

However, for a broader diagnostic range, try out the Torque Pro app as it has additional features such as horsepower and Turbo Boost gauge support.

How about ELM327 software for PC?

Alternatively, if you’re using a laptop and not your phone, you will need to download ELM327 software. You can quickly get free software for both Windows and Mac PCs.

Here are some options.

For Windows devices

TOAD Pro

One of the best and most comprehensive OBD2 ELM327 compatible software programs available today is TOAD Pro.

TOAD Pro OBD2 scanning software provides diagnostic information in a visual format that’s easy to interpret and understand. It goes beyond standard diagnostics functions tool, with tuning and reprogramming functions for enhancing and optimizing your vehicle’s performance.

You can install TOAD Pro on any Windows device and it connects to your vehicle through any ELM327 adapter, either with a wired USB connection or wirelessly through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

TOAD Pro supports the majority of vehicles on the road today and can read codes from both the engine and transmission modules (and even some others on select manufacturers.

The TOAD Pro team also offer exceptional customer and technical support. Their technicians are extremely knowledgeable and patient, and, if needs be, are willing to stay on the phone with customers for hours to resolve their problems. That’s a level of dedication to their users that we haven’t seen offered from any other OBD software company.

FORScan

FORScan is a Windows software specific to Fords, Mazdas, Lincolns, and Mercuries. The app supports these manufacturer’s particular protocols for all these cars. For these particular manufacturers, it has a broader range of trouble codes and can detect even the smallest of blips that other OBDII / OBD2 diagnostic tools aren’t able to do.

You can use the software on all your Windows 2000/XP/Vista devices. The software is also compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1., and 10. Moreover, it doesn’t matter what kind of connection you need as it supports all USB, WiFi, Bluetooth, and COM adapters.

The app’s primary functions are to run diagnostic tests, read sensor data, and run service repairs. It can display trouble codes and PIDs that are typically hidden in OBDII / OBD2 scan tools.

However, you need to be sure that the ELM327 adapter you are using isn’t a clone because FORScan only supports the original ELM327 chip.

EngineCheck

EngineCheck Pro from Gendan is a secure software for all home and workshop users. You can test it out for a one-month free trial. The developer’s website offers details, FAQs, and video demonstrations on how to download and use the software. You can even contact them for additional support.

The software lets you see live engine data. It is up to you whether you want the data displayed in a meter or graphical form. The software can also save this data into a diagnostic report in different file formats, including CSV and jpeg.

Moreover, you can record and playback real-time sensor data. The software is compatible with all Windows XP, 2000, and Vista. You can use the software for all European petrol and diesel cars manufactured after 2001 and 2004 respectively.

Freediag

Freediag is an OBDII / OBD2 software specifically catering to Windows and Linux devices. Also, it has several manufacturer-specific protocols, including Mercedes Benz, VW, and Nissan, and it supports all Wifi, Bluetooth, and USB interface types.

The software performs all basic OBDII / OBD2 scan tool functions; it runs tests, erases codes, shows you sensor data, and so much more.

However, to help you learn, the developer’s website has a user manual and extra information about your car’s interface, which you can obtain for free.

This information includes the types of interfaces supported by Freediag, a diagram explaining the specifications on different protocols, etc. All this is to help you understand the kind of OBDII / OBD2 interface you have, how to use the various features of the software, and more.

For Mac OS devices

Movi Pro

Movi Pro is a great choice for both hobbyists and professionals as, along with reading and clearing DTCs, you can monitor your engine performance and fuel economy in real-time.

Unlike many OBD2 software programs, Movi Pro is designed specifically for iOS / Mac and its vehicle compatibility extends to both American OBD2 vehicles and EOBD models from Europe.

Movi Pro has a sophisticated interface that lets you graph and compare up to 4 values at once. It also has virtual horsepower and torque readings, data neglected by many other OBD2 readers and programs. The ability to record driving data is great, too, especially when you’re diagnosing intermittent issues.

3 Main Types of ELM327 Adapter Connection Types

The three connection types for ELM327 adapters are: WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB adapters. They each have their pros and cons, as shown below.

Best ELM327 adapters reviews

If you look online, you’ll find many different choices for ELM327 scanners. It’s tough deciding which one’s the best for you out of all the options out there.

Hence, here are our picks for the best ELM327 adapters.

ELM327 WiFi adapters – WiFi Connection Only

Vgate iCar 3 ELM327 WiFi adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Vgate iCar 3 diagnoses and erases your car troubles. It has a long list of parameters including fuel consumption, fuel trim, mass air flow, barometric pressure, air intake, throttle position, and so on.

However, the best part about the Vgate iCar 3 is its Auto sleep function. Hence, you don’t have to worry about plugging and unplugging it. Just connect it once, and it will turn on and off by itself. Also, it won’t drain your car battery and save you lots of precious time.

It supports all US, European, and Asian OBD2 vehicles, including light trucks.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; OBD Fusion; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

Kobra ELM327 WiFi adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Kobra Products ELM327 WiFi adapter offers you detailed definitions of trouble codes whether generic or manufacturer specific from within its DCT library.

You can enjoy a live feed of data directly from your car’s inbuilt computer. It can be connected to any iOS, Android, or Windows device. Hence, all you need is a stable WiFi connection, and you’re set to use the many features it offers.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; DashCommand; ScanMaster Lite; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; OBD Fusion; DashCommand; ScanMaster Lite; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

Friencity ELM327 WiFi adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Friencity ELM327 WiFi adapter works on most OBD2 compliant models. Its main features include reading and erasing trouble codes. Also, trouble codes can be generic, manufacturer-specific, or pending – it doesn’t matter.

It will also conduct onboard monitoring tests such as emission tests. The adapter can also display sensor data including your engine RPM, coolant temperature, vehicle speed, intake air temperature, absolute throttle position, oxygen sensor voltages/associated short term fuel trims, fuel System status, fuel pressure and others.

Moreover, the adapter supports all iOS and Android devices, including tablets, smartphones, and computers.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; DashCommand; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; DashCommand; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

Mocatec ELM327 WiFi adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Moctec ELM327 WiFi device can perform a range of diagnostic tests that give you real-time data.

For example, you can check your:

• Engine
• Transmission
• RPM
• Fuel trim
• Calculated loaded value
• Air intake temperature
• Manifold pressure

Additionally, the adapter is supported by all petrol cars, SUVs and light trucks with OBD2 protocols after 1996, including Mazdas, Hondas, Fords, BMWs, and Audis.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; DashCommand; OBD Auto Doctor; OBD Mate; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; DashCommand; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

ELM327 Bluetooth Adapters – Bluetooth Connection Only

Vgate iCar Pro ELM327 Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE) adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

Similar to the Vgate iCar 3 WiFi adapter, the Vgate iCar Pro ELM327 Bluetooth adapter offers the same unique functions except with Bluetooth connectivity, you don’t have to worry about your car’s battery as the Vgate iCar Pro Bluetooth 4.0 adapter only needs connecting once, and it will turn on and off with its Auto Sleep function.

It helps you prepare for emissions testing, check your fuel system status and other freeze frame data. Also, it’s compatible with most cars made since 1996 in the U.S. and 1998 in Canada.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2; Bimmercode; OBD JScan and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; OBD Fusion; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2; Bimmercode; OBD JScan and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

Panlong ELM327 Bluetooth adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Panlong ELM327 Bluetooth adapter is a very popular Bluetooth adapter that works with both iOS and Android.

It also comes with exclusive free app which helps you pair the device quickly and easily, so you don’t have to manually pair with Bluetooth or connect to your phone.

In addition to the standard functions like reading and clearing codes, this device also allows you to monitor fuel consumption, throttle position, intake temps, coolant temps, and even the temperature of your catalytic converters.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – OBD Fusion; DashCommand; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2; Bimmercode and others.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; DashCommand; OBD Fusion; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2; Bimmercode and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

Mestart ELM327 Bluetooth adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Mestart ELM327 Bluetooth adapter is suitable for an impressive number of EOBD and OBD2 cars, including Bentleys, Fords, Hyundais, Chryslers, Chevrolets, Saabs, Porsches, etc. Furthermore, it requires no batteries, cables, or switches as it’s completely wireless.

You can find multiple diagnostic tests, including car transmission, engine speed, fuel trim, boost pressure, etc. Moreover, it has multi OBD2 protocol support.

Compatible apps/programs:

• iOS – **NOT compatible.
• Android – Torque Pro/Lite; OBD Auto Doctor; Car Scanner ELM OBD2 and others.
• Windows PC – TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.
• Apple Mac – Movi Pro and others.

ELM327 USB adapters – Wired Connection (USB) Only

The main advantage with USB ELM327 connectors is that they tend to be compatible with all 3rd party apps and programs, including premium apps / programs like TOAD Pro and FORScan, which the WiFi and Bluetooth ELM327 adapters above are generally not compatible with. So, with these USB adapters, you shouldn’t have compatibility issues with any of the premium diagnostic apps and programs.

OBDLink EX ELM327 USB adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The OBDLink EX ELM327 adapter is an excellent tool for DIY diagnostics because it allows you to access your car’s OBD system easily.

However, its main feature is that it is optimized for use with FORScan, and is even specifically recommended by the FORScan team for use with their program.

This adapter is up to 20 times faster in terms of data transfer speeds and has a super solid and reliable connection which avoids data corruption and lost data packets.

Compatible apps/programs:

• Windows PC – FORScan; TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.

Vgate vLinker FS ELM327 USB adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The Vgate vLinker USB ELM327 adapter allows you to access your car’s OBD system easily. However, its main feature is that, like the OBDLink EX ELM327 USB adapter, it is also optimized for use with FORScan, and is also specifically recommended by FORScan themselves.

Some of the modifications possible include changing the Bambi mod, tire size correction, reverse tilt mirrors, heated steering wheel, tire pressure monitoring etc. It even allows you to disable your double horn honk and ajar door features.

Compatible apps/programs:

• Windows PC – FORScan; TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.

OHP ELMconfig ELM327 USB adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The OHP ELM adapter is an excellent tool for DIY diagnostics because it allows you to access your car’s OBD system easily. However, its main feature is that it enables multiple FORscan modifications.

These modifications include changing the Bambi mod, tire size, tilt mirrors, heated steering wheel, among other things.

Compatible apps/programs:

• Windows PC – FORScan; TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.

VINTscan TT55502 ELM327 USB adapter

Why buy this ELM327 adapter?

The great thing about the VINT TT55502 USB ELM327 adapter is that you can use is to diagnose problems from different systems. Hence, you’re not restricted to your OBD2 system. You can access all modules, including Airbag, ABS, climate control, and gearbox. 

Furthermore, the adapter allows you to modify ECU parameters, conduct a service reset, and perform a DPF regeneration.

Compatible apps/programs:

• Windows PC – FORScan; TOAD Pro; EngineCheck Pro from Gendan; Freediag and others.

FAQs

❓ How do I pair my ELM327 adapter?

💡 Plugin your adapter to your car’s OBD2 port and turn on the ignition halfway. If your adapter is a USB adapter, then connect the cable to your phone/laptop. If it’s a wireless adapter (either WiFi or Bluetooth), go to the WiFi/Bluetooth settings on your phone/laptop and connect the device to the adapter.

❓ How do I get ELM327 to work?

💡 All you need to do is correctly connect/pair your device to the adapter. It will automatically begin communicating with your car’s OBD2 system and display the information you need.

❓ Why is my ELM327 device not pairing?

💡 If you have a Bluetooth or WiFi adapter, and you are having difficulty pairing the device, there may be a pairing code / password required to be entered to connect the device. Ask the seller to give you the relevant pairing code / password. If all the default codes (including ‘0000’ or ‘1234’) don’t work, there may be some other issue with the adapter and we recommend contacting the seller to deal with this.

❓ How do I connect my ELM327 adapter to my iPhone?

💡 You will need to go to the WiFi or Bluetooth settings on your iPhone, and you’ll find the adapter appearing on the list of visible devices. The name of the adapter depends on the brand and model.

❓ Why isn’t my ELM327 adapter connecting to my iPhone?

💡 You may need to refresh your Bluetooth or WiFi search on your iPhone for the device to show up. Remember, the device should be plugged in to the vehicle and the ignition turned on (the engine doesn’t need to be running but the ignition should be switched on so that the device is receiving power).

Conclusion

In summary, there is a lot to know and consider when it comes to the ELM327 interface and the types of adapters and devices available, and we hope our detailed breakdown was helpful and informative. We strongly urge you to try out ELM327 adapters if you’re prone to car trouble. They help make life a whole lot easier and ultimately cut down on costs.