Applications designed for the iOS operating system that interface with a vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system enable users to access and interpret data related to the car’s performance and health. These programs require a compatible OBD2 adapter, typically Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled, that plugs into the vehicle’s diagnostic port. As an example, a user could employ such an application to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) generated by the car’s computer.
The utilization of these applications provides significant benefits, including the ability to proactively identify potential mechanical issues before they escalate, monitor real-time data such as engine temperature and speed, and potentially save money on diagnostic fees. Early vehicle diagnostic systems provided limited data, requiring specialized tools and expertise. The standardization of OBD2 in the mid-1990s, coupled with the proliferation of smartphones, paved the way for the development and widespread adoption of these user-friendly diagnostic tools.