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OBD II Scan Tool

ballistx

Full Member
Joined
Dec 24, 2011
Messages
19
I purchased 2 ELM 327 scan blocks to interface with my Galaxy S6. Neither of them will lock in on the ECU with the correct protocol.  I tried both in our 2003 Buick Rainier and the lock in immediately.
I can watch the unit automatically scanning the various protocols and not settling on any one of them.
The ELM 327 is only about $7 on Ebay and has what seems like a good Torque program on the S6.

Anyone tried the ELM 327 on a 2003 era Avalance 1500?
 
Using this one with Torque Pro app for android and no issues on an 04 Avalanche.
https://www.scantool.net/obdlink-mxbt/
mxbt_obdlink_main_web.png
 
I have the same setup as BoomerX except I used the obdlink app, it can actually read sensors. It's a great tool on my 2003
 
That is a scantool.net unit if I am not mistaken?

I have their corded unit as well as the chip variant. The chip variant will be hard wired into my truck this summer.

I keep the corded unit in my bag with my laptop. I HAD an 8" tablet to run it with but for some reason the tablet has since died.

LOVE using an 8" tablet with these units though. Scantool has a bluetooth unit as well as a wireless lan version.

Problem with the cheap ELM clones is they don't work 100% with older vehicles all the time. They work great with 2006 and newer GM's which are fully canbus. Some mechanics and dealers call the newer systems "Digital" for some reason. Not really Digital as much as universal protocol. Prior to 2006 GM ran a GMLAN based on j1850 protocol. Since 2006 GM has run CANBUS and the GMLAN now is SWLAN which is a CANBUS variant and not the same as the old GMLAN j1850.  Thus the reason why it may or may not work on older vehicles. Chances are if it is running on one GM car and not another of the '03-'04 time frame then it is likely a quality issue of the module. I don't believe ANY GM vehicles prior to 2006 run CANBUS but I could be wrong. My understanding is the j1850 protocol was run on all vehicles at a baud rate of ~10k from 1996-2006 which would mean they SHOULD work for all vehicles in that range. But I have heard people having issues with these cheaper units where they don't work with all the vehicles they are supposed to.

I bought a cheap ELM clone that worked great in my truck or my CTS but I left it installed in my CTS and after about a month it stopped working.

I have some "car hacking" modules that are compatible with newer vehicles and I signed up to be a developer for a newer module that is compatible with the older trucks too. Hopefully I will be receiving mine shortly and will get my truck back from the mechanic soon so I can start playing with it.

Rodney
 
I have an ELM327 on my 05 Av.....connected to a Motorola droid running Torque Pro. Works great now but was a PITA getting it setup. The first ELM327 proved to be junk. I had to figure out how to load GM profiles in it. Took a while to get it working but now it tracks tranny temp, coolant temp & trying to get engine oil temp.
 
I don't think, but could be wrong, that we've got oil temp sensors in stock engine configurations in our truck engines.
 
ballistx said:
I purchased 2 ELM 327 scan blocks to interface with my Galaxy S6. Neither of them will lock in on the ECU with the correct protocol.  I tried both in our 2003 Buick Rainier and the lock in immediately.
I can watch the unit automatically scanning the various protocols and not settling on any one of them.
The ELM 327 is only about $7 on Ebay and has what seems like a good Torque program on the S6.

Anyone tried the ELM 327 on a 2003 era Avalance 1500?
I have the BAFX ELM327 Bluetooth OBD2 adapter as sold on Amazon for about $22.  It's about 10x faster refresh rate than the really cheapie ones.  I get 30+ scans/sec on 2001 Blazer which has the same communication protocol as my 2004 Avalanche.  It does work just fine on the Avalanche, but there are things that you need to know.

I haven't tested it for speed with the Avalanche, so that is why I am reporting it in the following way.  Speed is important if you intend to monitor multiple PIDs at the same time.  If yours only does 3 scans/sec - then displaying 8 misfire counters and RPM at the same time will only get you an update every 3 seconds.  Makes the tach and many other PIDs really unuseable.

I bought and tried the OBDLink MX for $80 which is not Elm 327 and it did around 36scan/sec on the Blazer.  So I sent it back because I did not observe any significant advantage to using it on my vehicles.  it may or may not be beneficial for CAN protocol vehicles or more modern vehicles, but it wasn't any better with my 2006 G6 which has first year of CAN or with my 2008 Ford Ranger (also CAN).

For Android software I have Torque Pro ($5.95), Car Gauge Pro ($8.95), and Dash Command ($10 + $10 for each car for the GM PIDS).  They all include differing amounts of the GM PIDS.  All will connect to pretty much any OBD2-compliant vehicle to read and clear codes and do basic live data.  More than that depends on both you and your vehicle.  They each have their advantages and disadvantages.

  • Torque Pro - best presentation and intuitive, very popular, but most limited functionality.
  • Car Gauge Pro - by far the most versatile, but also most difficult to use.  Unfiltered PIDs and modules may or may not work with your vehicle.  You have to figure out what it will do and how to use it.
  • Dash Command - best for select specific years and makes of vehicle as you are buying PIDs for specific years.  If any android app will do your vehicle, Dash Command will, and as far as I know any PID that shows will work.  Also, know that Dash Command also offers an iPhone version that uses a Wifi OBD2 adapter.

For example, 1996-1997 Blazers are the first two years of OBD2.  All three apps will do the basic stuff.  Only Dash Command provides GM-specific PIDs that will work on 1996-1997.  Note that Dash Command is the only software that will display cam sensor retard on the early Vortec V6 and V8.  Car Gauge Pro and Torque Pro will not connect to the 1996/1997 Blazers in any but the most basic mode.

However, Car Gauge Pro is just fine for the cam sensor retard and other GM specific PIDs on 1998-2004 Blazers and late Vortec V8s.  Torque Pro will connect to the 1998-2004 Blazers and late Vortec V8s, and does many GM PIDs but it does not provide the PID for the Cam Sensor Retard and some others that are found in Car Gauge Pro.

Now as far as I know, only Car Gauge Pro will read and clear codes for PCM/TCCM/SIR/ABS/HVAC/BCM/etc.  Note that this is done as a connection option and I used the app for a year before discovering this.  There is a entire page of modules to connect to that will not work.  Also, Car Gauge Pro offers GM PIDs that the other apps do not offer like, for example fuel level % as seen by the PCM.  But then again, Car Gauge Pro is a real bearcat to learn to use so it's not for the technically inept.

I also have ScanXL Pro for Windows at $150 (which is Dash Command's big brother).  It will run through the Bluetooth or the OBDLinkSX OBD2 adapter (USB) (about $30) that I have for it.  The USB adapter is light speed in comparison to the Bluetooth.

So note that I have four different softwares with four different capabilities through the same Bluetooth OBD2 adapter.  I believe a lot of the problems people have is not with the Elm327 adapter, but the software or the app doesn't support something with their specific vehicle.

Now if you want bidirectional communication to do things like crank sensor relearn and injector balance tests, and to control things like the transmission shifting and TCC - you need to spend the bucks.  I have HP tuner's VCM Scanner.  It cost $350 and comes with it's own proprietary OBD2 adapter.  Also have heard good things about EFI live, and Autoenginuity.  Still none of them can do what the Tech 2 can do.

For me, 98% of the time I can conveniently do what I need with the Android apps and the Elm 327 OBD2 adapter.  If I need more for a specific reason I drag out the laptop with HP Tuner's but frankly it's a pain.  Scan XL Pro remains pretty much unused since I figured out how to do cam sensor retard with the android app.  However it does have a remote terminal that I have used before to communicate with the TCCM and read/clear codes by typing in the computer hieroglyphics.

All of this should certainly be valid for 2002-2005 Avalanches.  CAN Protocol Avalanches I have zero experience with, but my Elm327 worked with my 2008 Ford Ranger and 2006 G6 which were both CAN protocol.  Car Gauge Pro only connected with the G6 in most basic mode.  Torque Pro would not connect at all with the G6 in any mode.  Dash Command connected with the G6 just fine.  All three apps connected fine with the 2008 Ford Ranger and gave manufacturer-specific PIDs.

Your experiences my vary!

Hope this help someone.  
 
enoniam said:
I don't think, but could be wrong, that we've got oil temp sensors in stock engine configurations in our truck engines.
I figured there was, but have never seen that in writing anywhere. The dash displays oil pressure. Torque Pro has 2 different oil temp options, neither of which worked for me. Maybe I'll look into one of the other apps slick mentioned.
 
Slickside, how much do you know about j1850 commands? (Older GMLAN)

There is a device you might be interested in but the software is not yet working for j1850 although the hardware should be.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1029808658/macchina-the-ultimate-tool-for-taking-control-of-y/community

This device is supposed to be pretty much a catch all device. Should be interesting.
 
BooomerX said:
Using this one with Torque Pro app for android and no issues on an 04 Avalanche.
https://www.scantool.net/obdlink-mxbt/
mxbt_obdlink_main_web.png

Did you install the latest firmware upgrade for the OBDLink MX, 3.31 ???
 
enoniam said:
I don't think, but could be wrong, that we've got oil temp sensors in stock engine configurations in our truck engines.
I think you are correct.  No oil temp sensors.
 
redheadedrod said:
Slickside, how much do you know about j1850 commands? (Older GMLAN)

There is a device you might be interested in but the software is not yet working for j1850 although the hardware should be.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1029808658/macchina-the-ultimate-tool-for-taking-control-of-y/community

This device is supposed to be pretty much a catch all device. Should be interesting.
Do you mean like "AT Z"?  Or something else.
 
MS03 2500 said:
Did you install the latest firmware upgrade for the OBDLink MX, 3.31 ???

Mine came loaded version 4.0.2. There were no other connectors with it and unless it's connected to a vehicle for power I'm not sure how to update it to a later firmware but I'm looking for some instructions here.....

https://www.scantool.net/downloads/updates/obdlink_mx/
 
I went from 3.11 to 3.31 with no issues, I used the OBLINK app to update it. It does seem to operate a bit fast but I had no problem before.
 
2004Slickside said:
Do you mean like "AT Z"?  Or something else.
Nope, totally different. The Hayes command set is to communicate with the ELM device. This unit is not an ELM compatible device and will use linux based socketCAN compatible communications. Not sure yet how it would work with Windows. Likely need a socketCAN driver for windows to work there.

Under linux you use the can-utils and can log and communicate directly with your vehicle with OS built in tools.

Rodney
 
redheadedrod said:
Nope, totally different. The Hayes command set is to communicate with the ELM device. This unit is not an ELM compatible device and will use linux based socketCAN compatible communications. Not sure yet how it would work with Windows. Likely need a socketCAN driver for windows to work there.

Under linux you use the can-utils and can log and communicate directly with your vehicle with OS built in tools.

Rodney
I have a Linux box at home that I use all the time simply for Internet security purposes, and I dual-boot with Linux/windows on my old netbook where I run HP Tuners.  I'm not big running terminal commands on Linux (always have to look them up), but I've been playing with Ubuntu with KDE (and more recently Mint with Mate)  for 15+ years.  I even did a Slackware KDE install for grins and giggles (what a godawful pain) back in the early 2000's.  Tell me more!!  Maybe what I'm asking is at the link.  I'll go take another look.

Les
 
Basically devices like the M2 or Pican2 device allow you to connect to your vehicle using SocketCan. SocketCan basically is a network driver that allows you to access your car as if it was connected to your computer through a network port. Support for this port is integrated into wireshark and metasploit (Latest release). There are some basic utilities out there but not any real great applications to do more than just look at stuff.

There are quite a few "hacker" related programs to figure out what the car is doing.

Rodney
 
Bringing this thread back up, did anyone ever find an inexpensive way to read TCCM codes without having to manually deal with CAN messaging to the vehicle? As referenced by Slickside, some injector or cylinder balance testing functionality would be really nice as well. I just bought my first Avalanche (2005 Z71) and it's got some running issues as well as an intermittent service 4wd message.

Currently I'm considering the Autel MK808, simply because it seems like the most inclusive scanner out there. I'd prefer not to pay for it though, so I'm also looking at the autoenginuity, but that's going to end up costing more than the MK808 by the time I buy the product and then the enhanced GM features. Anyone got a better options for my purposes?
 
Vident i-link 400 handheld. Under $200 Does it all on my 2004 including reading TCCM codes and position PIDs, etc. It also has ABS brake bleeding, injector balance testing, crank sensor relearn, etc. Cheaply made Chinese but mine works good on everything I have thrown at it.
 
Vident i-link 400 handheld. Under $200 Does it all on my 2004 including reading TCCM codes and position PIDs, etc. It also has ABS brake bleeding, injector balance testing, crank sensor relearn, etc. Cheaply made Chinese but mine works good on everything I have thrown at it.
You're the shiz! Thanks for the lead.

Any insight on the other scanners listed? I wouldn't mind having something that has a lot more coverage, but I will almost definitely be getting the iLink400. Currently $159 on Amazon, $149 on ebay.
 
On the iLink400 don't forget to order the one for GM and then download/install the update software. You can add for other cars like Ford, etc for additional fee later if you like.

I have heard very good things about Autoenginuity - but expensive.

If you just want to read/clear the TCCM codes, I think that Car Diagnostic Pro/Car Gauge Pro and bluetooth adapter will do that for $10 during a "scan all faults" or "clear all faults".

I got mine from Amazon. You can actually return stuff there if it doesn't work as you expect (as long as it is fulfilled by Amazon). To me it's worth the extra $10 on stuff like this. I returned a disappointing Foxwell to Amazon when I bought the iLink400 back in 2019. I like being able to take returns to my local Kohl's Store and they box/ship them back to Amazon for free.
 
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On the iLink400 don't forget to order the one for GM and then download/install the update software. You can add for other cars like Ford, etc for additional fee later if you like.

I have heard very good things about Autoenginuity - but expensive.

If you just want to read/clear the TCCM codes, I think that Car Diagnostic Pro/Car Gauge Pro and bluetooth adapter will do that for $10 during a "scan all faults" or "clear all faults".

I got mine from Amazon. You can actually return stuff there if it doesn't work as you expect (as long as it is fulfilled by Amazon). To me it's worth the extra $10 on stuff like this. I returned a disappointing Foxwell to Amazon when I bought the iLink400 back in 2019. I like being able to take returns to my local Kohl's Store and they box/ship them back to Amazon for free.
Yep, the return process is great. I sold a desktop computer last week. Cost $58 and about $12 of packaging to get it to the customer. Crazy. Much easier and faster to just drop off the product and walk away.

As for the iLink, I bought the one for GM and it came today. I immediately saw on the side of the package that there was a sticker that said "Chrysler." I've already ordered another one and started the return process for the first one.

I put a new O2 sensor (B2S1) in the Avalanche today, and I got a 10W30 oil change yesterday. I was also really lucky and able to get a used Goodyear installed at a sketchy looking shop for $40 cash and walk kind of deal. It had the spare on it when I bought it. I also pulled off the intake and changed out the knock sensors and harness and the oil pressure sensor. The rear knock sensor was sitting in water thanks to a bad harness seal, but it's good now and with the 10W30 I the oil pressure up from about 20-25 to closer to 40 and no engine noise anymore and the thing runs like a top! Snappy even, despite 235k miles. I'll still use the scanner for the (now not present) service 4wd message, and I've got a Sky Redline I can use it on as well, so thanks again for the tip on this scanner! It reminds me of my days of using the Tech II as a dealer tech until about 2008. The menu system looks very similar. I think all I've got left after the 4x4 message is to figure out a noise I noticed yesterday (pretty sure it's the front drive shaft U-joints based on some videos I watched) and then start replacing the steering wheel buttons. I'm excited to continue bringing it back to life!
 
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I just used the ILink400 to unlock a junkyard radio for my 2006 G6.

Here's the list of all special functions for OBD2 GM vehicles by make/year/model (1996-2016). There are similar lists for the functions of the software for the other makes on the Vident website.

You look up the module for your vehicle and then you look at the special function code list. For example S278 special function tells me it will do the radio setup for RPO U85 radios.

Have fun!

http://www.videntstore.com/upload/pr...966878424.xlsx
 
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I have a HyperTough-HT200 from Wally World (Autel AP200), it's blue tooth and comes with one auto manufacture software (so for us GM - and it covers all GM vehicles) lifetime software subscription for $50. It is the AP200 for $60 on "the 'net" if WM is out. It comes with the app for you phone or tablet so you don't need any additional software.

Works great, gives "all" available DIC and EOBD info (it has the same software as their top of the line plug in units), lots of LIVE data for almost everything that I can imagine including transmission temp, coolant temp, all the O2 sensors, injectors, etc. Does all kinds of resets like the oil change notification, abs clear, code clears etc.

It does the emissions readiness check (will clear light if needed) so you know if you'll pass before going to state (if you have too).

You have to dig deep and play around to find what you want as the "manual" is not very good. But once you find the correct location of the data, it it is excellent.

I did a lot of research at the time and this was the best bang for the buck and does almost everything you will ever need.

Just recently, my abs light was staying on and dinging. Hooked up the scanner, it shot two or three codes all for the right front abs sensor. I took off the wheel, inspected and found a clip came off and the wire was rubbing the wheel and wore through the outer cable, eating into the wires creating the short. Put in a new sensor, cleared the codes, all good :)).
 
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