Short answer: You need an OBD-II adapter (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or USB), a smartphone or computer running OBDAI, and a 1996+ gasoline or 2004+ diesel vehicle.
What You Need
Hardware
OBDAI requires an OBD-II adapter to communicate with your vehicle. The adapter plugs into your car’s OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard, near the steering column).
OBDAI officially supports OBDAI Gen 1 and Gen 2 hardware. These adapters are tested for reliable Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connections across all platforms and don’t have the aggressive power management issues common in generic adapters.
OBDAI may work with other ELM327-based adapters, but we cannot guarantee compatibility or provide support for third-party hardware.
Software
OBDAI is available on Android, iOS, and Windows.
The link above detects your device and sends you to the correct app store.
Vehicle Compatibility
OBDAI works with:
- Gasoline vehicles: 1996 and newer (US OBD-II mandate)
- Diesel vehicles: 2004 and newer
This covers most passenger vehicles sold in the US, Canada, and Europe. Commercial trucks, motorcycles, and pre-1996 vehicles are not supported through the standard OBD-II port.
How to Connect
Plug in your adapter. Insert the OBD-II adapter into your vehicle’s diagnostic port. The port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
Turn the ignition on. The vehicle doesn’t need to be running, but the ignition must be in the “On” or “Run” position (where the dashboard lights up).
Open OBDAI and scan for devices. The app will search for nearby adapters. OBDAI hardware appears as “OBDAI” (Gen 1) or “OBDII BLE” (Gen 2).
Select your adapter and connect. If using Classic Bluetooth on Android, you may be prompted to pair the device first. BLE adapters connect without pairing.
Wait for initialization. OBDAI will communicate with your vehicle’s computer to determine supported features. This takes 5–15 seconds depending on the vehicle.
Once connected, you’ll see live data from your vehicle on the dashboard.
If Connection Fails
Using OBDAI hardware? Contact us at support@obdai.app with your device type (Gen 1 or Gen 2), platform (Android/iOS/Windows), and vehicle year/make/model. We’ll help you get connected.
Using third-party hardware? We’re happy to try to help, but our support options are limited for devices we don’t manufacture. We can’t test or replicate issues with hardware we don’t have. For persistent connection problems with third-party adapters, you may need to contact your device manufacturer.
Common issues with OBDAI hardware:
- Adapter not appearing in scan: Make sure the adapter is plugged in and the vehicle ignition is on. The OBD-II port provides power to the adapter.
- Adapter appears but won’t connect: Try closing and reopening the app. On Android, ensure Bluetooth and Location permissions are granted.
- Connects but shows no data: Some vehicles take longer to initialize. Wait 15-30 seconds. If still no data, the vehicle may have a blown OBD-II fuse.
What’s Next
After connecting, explore:
- Dashboard — Real-time gauges for speed, RPM, coolant temperature, and more
- Parameters — Access to 150+ sensor values your vehicle reports
- Faults — Read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Emissions — Check readiness monitors for smog testing
- ARIA— Ask questions about your vehicle’s health in plain English
Related Articles
- What is ARIA?
- What does each dashboard gauge mean?
- How to read and clear trouble codes
- Understanding emissions readiness monitors
- What OBDAI can and cannot diagnose
Hardware required. OBDAI is software — you need an OBD-II adapter to connect to your vehicle. Shop OBDAI Hardware →
Questions? support@obdai.app