TorqueBot vs Carly: Which AI Car Diagnostic Tool is Better?
Carly is one of the more established OBD2 scanner apps on the market. It combines a physical Bluetooth scanner (which you buy separately) with an app that reads codes, runs diagnostics, detects odometer fraud, and even lets you code certain vehicle features. It's well-regarded in the BMW and European car community. The downside is you need their hardware, and the subscription cost adds up on top of the scanner purchase.
Feature Comparison
Key Differences
Where Carly Shines
- +Deep integration with European cars (BMW, VW, Audi, Mercedes)
- +Vehicle coding (customise car features)
- +Odometer fraud detection for used car buyers
- +Established brand with large user base
- +Detailed health reports
- +Real-time sensor data
Where Carly Falls Short
- -Requires purchasing their physical scanner
- -Subscription cost on top of hardware
- -No AI conversational diagnostics
- -No photo diagnostics
- -No parts sourcing or repair cost estimates
- -No web app
- -No build cards or community features
Who Should Use What?
Choose Carly if...
European car owners (especially BMW, VW, Audi) who want to code vehicle features, check for odometer fraud, or run deep OBD diagnostics with a physical scanner.
Choose TorqueBot if...
You want car-specific diagnostics without buying extra hardware. You want to describe a problem in plain English or snap a photo and get an answer tailored to your exact car. You want repair cost estimates in AUD, parts sourcing, build cards, and an app that actually makes car maintenance a bit fun.
Pricing Comparison
TorqueBot
$9.99 AUD/month
Free tier: 5 messages/day. Pro: unlimited messages, photo diagnostics, parts sourcing, build cards, full access. No hardware needed.
Carly
From ~$80 AUD/year + scanner (~$80 AUD)
Carly requires purchasing their Universal Scanner (~$79.90 EUR / ~$130 AUD) plus an app subscription starting around $74 USD/year (~$115 AUD/year) for a single brand, or more for all brands. Total first-year cost can exceed $200 AUD.
Note: Requires the Carly Universal Scanner (Bluetooth OBD-II dongle), sold separately for ~$130 AUD.
The Verdict
Carly is a solid tool for what it does. Deep integration with European cars (BMW, VW, Audi, Mercedes) is a genuine advantage. But if you're an everyday car owner who wants to quickly diagnose a problem, get an honest cost estimate, and maybe even track your build, TorqueBot is built for exactly that. No extra hardware, no confusing interfaces, just straightforward car help on your phone or computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy Carly's scanner separately?
Yes. Carly requires their Universal Scanner (around $130 AUD) plus an ongoing app subscription. TorqueBot works with just your phone and costs $9.99 AUD/month for Pro, with a free tier available.
Is Carly better for European cars?
Carly does have deep integration with BMW, VW, Audi, and Mercedes, including vehicle coding features. If you specifically want to code your BMW's features or check for odometer fraud, Carly is a good pick. For general diagnostics, repair costs, and photo-based diagnosis across all car brands, TorqueBot is more versatile.
Can I use Carly without a subscription?
Carly's free features are very limited without a subscription. Most useful features require both the scanner hardware and an active subscription. TorqueBot gives you 5 free diagnostic messages per day with no hardware needed.
Try TorqueBot Free
5 free diagnostic messages per day. No hardware, no credit card.