Many mechanics and auto repair shops are finding success by utilizing new apps that can help speed up inspections, car repairs, diagnostic readings and more. These apps can help everyone from dealerships and repair shops to mobile mechanics and DIYers. Here is our selection of the best mobile apps and online resources by use type.
Diagnostic and code reader apps
Torque Pro: Torque is a vehicle diagnostics tool and scanner that uses an OBD II Bluetooth adapter to connect to your OBD2 engine management. It can use the GPS to provide tracker logs with OBD engine logging so you can see what you were doing at any point in time.
It works on any vehicle that uses the OBD 2 standard (most vehicles built after 2000, but can work for vehicles as far back as 1996). The app needs a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to work. Torque is currently $4.95 and available in the Google Play Store.
Car Scanner ELM OBD2: Car Scanner offers OBD code scanning, sensor data and more. You can also reset DC fault codes with this app. It uses an OBD 2 Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adapter to connect to your OBD2 engine management.
Car Scanner is currently free and available in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
RepairSolutions2: The Repair Solutions app guides you from diagnosis to fix. It pairs with the newest generation of compatible OBD2 decoders and scanners to deliver the most comprehensive automotive repair database with verified fixes from ASE Master Technicians.
The mobile app requires an OBD2 scanner for most functions. It is currently free in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Digital vehicle inspection apps
Tekmetric Mobile: Tekmetric Mobile is specifically designed for the automotive industry and helps car mechanics be more efficient with tasks like digital vehicle inspections. Technicians can take pictures and videos straight from their mobile phone to show customers where a repair is needed. It also provides auto mechanics with an easy way to manage their time clock.
Tekmetric Mobile is free but an active Tekmetric subscription is required to use this app. Tekmetric Mobile is available for iOS and Android users.
SafetyCulture: SafetyCulture has designed a workflow app that helps teams collaborate and manage tasks. While not specifically designed for the automotive industry, this app can be used for digital vehicle inspections.
This app is free currently for teams with 10 people or less. It is available for iOS and Android users.
Service guide apps
BG Technician App: With access to fluid application guides, tech tips, and service guides, auto repair professionals can harness the power of the BG Tech App in the palm of their hands. The BG Tech App instills the confidence needed for technicians to discuss common car maintenance problems and solutions that prevent those problems. The BG Technician App is free and is available for iOS and Android users.
1A Auto Diagnostic & Repair: The 1A repair app helps guide you through various automotive repairs with over 19,000 videos from professional technicians. You can also shop for auto parts used in the videos directly from the app. This app can also benefit mobile mechanics by allowing them to shop for car parts straight from the app.
The 1A mobile app is available for free in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
VIN scanner apps
Tekmetric Mobile: Tekmetric Mobile can scan VIN codes and license plates to help you start your check-in process sooner and build ROs faster.
Tekmetric Mobile is free but an active Tekmetric subscription is required to use this app. Tekmetric Mobile is available for iOS and Android users.
VIN Check Report: This app will scan your VIN and show you market value, vehicle history, recalls, and more. Typically this type of app is used by those looking to purchase a car but this app also helps mechanics find title and recall information.
This app is available for free to Android users or you can utilize their website.
VIN Report: This app provides an easy way for you to scan a VIN and retrieve important title, recall, theft, and pricing information. It also can estimate depreciation and market value if you are looking to buy or sell a car. Mechanics will appreciate its ability to quickly find vehicle history information and open recalls.
The VIN Report mobile app is available for free in the Google Play Store or you can use their website.
Tire apps
TireScan Advisor: While many other options exist for measuring tire tread, TireScan has created an app to help automate this task by taking pictures from your mobile phone. This app utilizes AI to analyze your tire’s tread, TIN and sidewall.
TireScan is available for free in the Apple and Google App Store.
Anyline: If you are looking for a more robust app, Anyline might be the solution for you. They have created an app that reads sidewall, tread, TIN/DOT, sizing, make and model in real-time. However, they do not disclose their pricing and it is safe to assume that it is not a free app. This app seems to be designed for dealerships and large repair shops.
Tek-Tip: Tekmetric Tire Suite provides automated DOT registration, fitment data, ordering, and more.
Service advisor apps
BG Advisor App: The BG Advisor App is developed specifically for automotive service advisors and can help with sales, training and more. This app can help service advisors and shop owners explain repairs to customers and win more work for your shop. This app is available for iPhone and Android smartphones.
Online resources
YouTube
YouTube is a gold mine for car repair veterans and DIYers alike. Some of our favorite channels include:
- Enright Auto - for new tools and repair techniques
- Brilliant Auto Care - for maintenance tips and guides
- Tuner World - for DIY and performance videos
- Royalty Auto Service - for repair videos and industry updates
- Super Mario Diagnostics - for troubleshooting videos
- Rainman Ray’s Repairs - for repair and diagnostic videos
Reddit can be another powerful resource for new techniques plus an online community to answer questions you may have. Some of the best subreddits include:
- r/mechanic - for repair advice
- r/Justrolledintotheshop - for a good laugh
- r/MechanicAdvice - for general repair advice and discussion
Podcasts
Podcasts can be entertaining and an easy way to learn while working or driving. Some of our favorites include:
- Automotive Diagnostic - for a balanced diet of everything related to auto repair
- Confessions of a Shop Owner - for brutally honest industry insights and a better way forward
- The Jaded Mechanic - for industry reflections and insights
- Changing The Industry - explore common problems in the automotive industry and how to address them
- Remarkable Results - for automotive business strategies
- Gain Traction - for tire news
Are mobile apps necessary for auto mechanics?
Mobile apps are more of a luxury than a necessity for mechanics, however, they can help speed up repairs and boost efficiency. They can also help reduce time spent on paperwork and simplify workflows. If your shop is looking to stay competitive in this technology-heavy era plus boost productivity, mobile apps might be the answer you are looking for.
Closing thoughts
While all of these mechanic apps and resources can be useful, it is important to find apps that pair well with your needs. Before downloading any apps, make sure to read the reviews and do your own research. Lastly, don’t be afraid to test new apps out in your shop and see what works best for you.
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