Owning a car comes with many responsibilities, but technology can make things easier. Smartphone apps are now essential tools for car owners, helping with everything from tracking maintenance to finding affordable fuel. With the right apps, you can save time, money, and even reduce stress during your journeys. Whether you're looking to improve safety, stay organized, or simply enhance your driving experience, there's an app for that! Here, we list 10 must-have apps for car owners in 2025 that you don’t want to miss.

GasBuddy

GasBuddy stands as the top app when it comes to nearby fuel stations and the cheapest gas prices. A feature that incorporates actual time data from numerous users will assist you in finding the nearest available gas station offering the cheapest price. Other than comparing prices GasBuddy also include options of payment through the app to save more and tracking how often you fill your car to monitor spending. It is easy to use for any driver who wants to save as much fuel as possible and at the same time, save time.

2. Waze

Waze is a community-driven navigation app designed to make your driving experience as smooth as possible. By collecting real-time input from its users, Waze provides updates on traffic conditions, road hazards, accidents, and speed traps. The app also suggests the fastest routes based on current traffic, helping you save time during your commute.

One of Waze's standout features is its ability to notify drivers of the cheapest gas stations along their route, combining navigation with cost savings. With its intuitive interface and reliability, Waze is a must-have for anyone spending significant time on the road.

3. Torque Pro

For those who want to monitor their car's performance, Torque Pro is an invaluable tool. This app connects to your vehicle via a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter and provides detailed diagnostics and real-time data. From engine performance to fuel efficiency and error codes, Torque Pro allows you to stay informed about your car's health.

Additionally, the app helps you identify issues early, potentially saving you from costly repairs down the line. It's particularly useful for car enthusiasts or anyone looking to take a more proactive approach to vehicle maintenance.

4. MyCarFax

Keeping track of your car's service history and maintenance schedule can be overwhelming, but MyCarFax makes it easy. With this app, you can store all your vehicle information in one place, receive alerts for upcoming services, and access a comprehensive report of your car's repair history. It also provides estimated costs for future repairs based on current mileage, helping you budget accordingly. By using MyCarFax, you'll never miss out on important maintenance tasks or forget about crucial repairs.

5. PlugShare

PlugShare is an essential app for electric or hybrid car owners. With its extensive database of charging stations worldwide, PlugShare helps you plan routes and find charging stations on-the-go. Users can also leave reviews and ratings for each station, giving you insight into the quality and availability of charging options. Additionally, PlugShare offers a trip planner feature that calculates your ideal route based on available chargers and distance. It's a must-have app for any eco-conscious car owner.

6. Google Maps

While many navigation apps are available, Google Maps remains a top choice for its accuracy and user-friendly interface. With real-time traffic updates, alternate route suggestions, and offline maps, Google Maps makes it easy to navigate wherever you go. The app also integrates with other Google services like Gmail and Calendar, making it seamless to plan trips or navigate to appointments. Plus, with the continuously improving technology, Google Maps is only getting better and more essential for car owners.

7. Drivvo

Similar to MyCarFax, Drivvo helps you track your vehicle's expenses and maintenance schedules. However, what sets this app apart is its focus on fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. By recording each fill-up and tracking your driving habits, Drivvo provides insights into how you can improve your car's efficiency and reduce emissions. It also offers personalized tips on saving fuel based on your driving style, ultimately helping you save money while being environmentally conscious.

8. Roadtrippers

For those who love to hit the road for a long drive or plan epic road trips, Roadtrippers is the perfect app. This app helps you discover unique destinations and attractions along your route, making it easy to plan pit stops and explore new places. You can also save routes and access them offline, making it ideal for remote areas with limited internet connectivity. With its vast database of points of interest and personalized recommendations, Roadtrippers takes road trips to the next level.

Splitwise

If you frequently carpool with friends or family, Splitwise is an excellent app for keeping track of expenses fairly. It allows you to split costs like gas, tolls, parking fees, and more among group members easily. Plus, you can set up recurring expenses for regular carpooling arrangements, making it a convenient and stress-free way to manage finances with others. With its simple interface and ability to connect with friends' accounts, Splitwise eliminates the hassle of keeping track of shared expenses.

10. RepairPal

Car troubles can happen at any time, and sometimes you may not be near your regular mechanic. That's where RepairPal comes in handy. This app helps you find reputable mechanics in your area by providing a list of certified shops with reviews and ratings from other users. It also provides estimates for common repairs based on location, helping you make informed decisions about car maintenance costs. With its user-friendly interface and convenient features, RepairPal is a must-have for unexpected car issues on the road.

Final Thoughts

With the ever-growing list of apps available for car owners, it's challenging to determine which ones are worth downloading. However, these ten apps have proven to be essential for any driver, regardless of their driving habits or car type. From navigation and fuel efficiency to maintenance and trip planning, these apps make life on the road easier and more convenient. So why not give them a try and see how they can enhance your driving experience? Happy driving!