Can't find an answer below? Email us at pbraj.career85@gmail.com and we'll get back to you within 1–2 business days.

Getting Started

What do I need to use TorQ OBD Scanner?

An Android phone running Android 8.0 (API 26) or higher, a Bluetooth ELM327-compatible OBD-II adapter (widely available for $5–$25), and a 1996 or newer OBD-II compliant vehicle. Most petrol and diesel passenger cars and light trucks sold from 1996 onward support OBD-II.

How do I connect my adapter?

1. Plug the ELM327 adapter into your car's OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard on the driver's side).
2. Turn the ignition to "ACC" or start the engine.
3. Open Android Settings → Bluetooth and pair the adapter (look for a name like "OBDII" or "ELM327"). Most adapters use PIN 1234 or 0000.
4. Open TorQ → Settings → tap the adapter name to connect.

The app can't find my adapter. What do I do?

Make sure the adapter is paired in Android's system Bluetooth settings (not just visible). Grant Bluetooth and Location permissions when prompted. Tap the refresh icon on the Settings screen. If the adapter still doesn't appear, un-pair and re-pair it in Android Bluetooth settings, then return to TorQ.

Does TorQ work with BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) adapters?

Yes. TorQ supports both classic Bluetooth SPP and BLE adapters. BLE adapters are detected automatically — they appear in the same Settings list.

Diagnostics & Fault Codes

What do the different DTC categories mean?

Stored (confirmed): The ECU has confirmed the fault and turned on the check-engine light.
Pending: Detected during the current or recent drive cycle but not yet confirmed — may disappear on its own if the fault doesn't recur.
Permanent: The ECU stores these internally; they cannot be cleared with mode 04 and will only disappear once the ECU verifies the fault is fully resolved.

I cleared the codes but the check-engine light came back. Why?

Clearing codes removes the stored data but does not fix the underlying fault. If the problem condition still exists, the ECU will detect it again and re-set the DTC. You need to repair the fault first.

My vehicle shows "NO DATA" for some sensors. Is that normal?

Yes. Not all vehicles support all OBD-II PIDs. Older vehicles may only support a subset of sensors. Manufacturer-specific sensors (mode 22) are not currently supported.

The scan failed with an error. What should I try?

Ensure the adapter is still connected (check the status indicator in Settings). Try disconnecting and reconnecting. Some adapters need the ignition on (not just the engine running) to communicate. If the error mentions "conditionsNotCorrect", this is normal on some CAN-bus vehicles after clearing codes — the codes were still cleared successfully.

Trip Recording

How do I record a trip?

Tap the record button on the Dashboard screen while connected. Grant Location permission if prompted (required for GPS route logging). The app keeps the screen on during recording. Tap Stop when you're done.

Can trips record in the background?

The app uses an Android foreground service to keep recording active while the screen is off or when you switch apps. A persistent notification will appear while recording is running. Note: the OBD Bluetooth connection requires the app to stay active — if Android kills the app, recording stops.

How do I export a trip?

Open the Trips tab → tap the trip → tap the share icon. Choose CSV (compatible with Excel, Google Sheets) or KML (compatible with Google Earth, mapping apps). Use the Android share sheet to send the file wherever you like.

Performance Tests

How does the 0–100 km/h timer work?

Tap Arm in the Performance tab. The timer starts automatically when your speed first crosses above 0 km/h and stops when you reach 100 km/h. Timing is derived from the OBD-II speed PID, refreshed at ~5 Hz. Results are estimates; for motorsport use, calibrated equipment is recommended.

Do performance tests require GPS?

No. They use speed data from the OBD-II adapter (mode 01 PID 0D). GPS is only needed for trip route logging.

Data & Privacy

Does the app need an account or internet connection?

No account is required and no internet connection is needed for core features. Map tiles for trip route display are fetched from OpenStreetMap (requires internet), but all other features work fully offline.

How do I delete all my data?

Go to Android Settings → Apps → TorQ OBD Scanner → Storage → Clear data. This removes the database, preferences, and any cached exports. Uninstalling the app removes all data automatically.

Contact Us

Still need help? Send an email to pbraj.career85@gmail.com with a description of your issue and, if possible, the make/model/year of your vehicle and the adapter name. We typically respond within 1–2 business days.