Laptop, smartphone apps offer an alternative to scan tools

June 2, 2017
Assuming that a technician already owns a smartphone, these tools offer an inexpensive, pocket-sized scan tool that can quickly be used to perform basic, and even advanced OBDII diagnostics.

Professional technicians don’t generally purchase tools that do-it-yourself. The reasons for this can include tool quality, availability of specialized tools, longevity and ease of repair or replacement. In general, the adage that “you get what you pay for” holds true for automotive tools. This reasoning also applies to electronic tools as well. For example, a $30 digital multimeter can provide basic electrical measurement capabilities, but it’s no substitute for a professional meter like the Fluke 88V that retails for $449 and is designed for automotive use with features like Min/Max record, millisecond fuel injector pulse width and an analog bar graph.

Pick a phone—both iPhone (at left) and Android smartphone platforms allow users to download OBD-II related apps that turn their phone into a portable dynamometer, scan tool and trouble code library. iTunes and Google Play websites have a mind-boggling number of these types of apps that range in cost from free to $10

Scan tools are no different. DIY models range in price from $35 for a simple coder reader to around $500 for a scan tool. Professional scan tools start at about $800 and can exceed $6,000 for the most sophisticated models. Spending $6,000 for a scan tool may not make economic sense for every technician and many shops have one high-end scan tool that multiple technicians uses on an as-needed basis. Depending on how big and how busy a shop is, having only one scan tool can create a diagnostic bottleneck, particularly when a vehicle first comes into a shop for an estimate. Having an inexpensive scan tool for every technician can speed things up on a busy morning when lots of vehicles show up with their check engine light on. There are alternatives to using a hand-held scanner to perform basic functions like reading trouble codes and turning the check engine light off and many technicians already own half of an inexpensive, portable, highly functional scan tool — a laptop or smartphone.

By installing diagnostic software, and purchasing an OBD-II interface, a laptop can become a powerful, portable scanner with a large high-resolution display screen.

Technicians who already own a laptop can avoid some of the cost of a hand-held scanner or code reader by using it as a scan tool. A laptop with OBDII software installed, and a connection to the vehicle’s OBDII data link connector (DLC), can provide technicians with the same or greater levels of functionality as many high-end scan tools. The hardware component of this setup is a USB cable and adapter that plugs into a vehicle’s DLC, connecting it to a laptop. Wireless communication is also available via Bluetooth, or WIFI connectivity. There are numerous software programs available that turn the laptop into a scan tool, including free “shareware” that can be downloaded. In addition to reading and erasing DTCs, this software can also display customized gauges (analog and digital), graphs, tables, charts and alerts, all of which can be viewed as a virtual dashboard. Because of their portability, a laptop can be taken along for a test drive to record OBDII data.

The downside of using a laptop as a scan tool is that many are too fragile to survive a typical shop environment for long. Laptop keyboards and greasy fingers are not a good combination, and a laptop that makes an unintentional “trip” from the workbench to the shop floor is going to be expensive, if not impossible, to repair. They also take up lots of space in a toolbox drawer. A better alternative to a hand-held scan tool or laptop is the other device that most technicians already own — a smartphone.

There’s an app for that!

What do smartphones have to do with OBDII? You may have heard the saying, “There’s an app for that.” And there are many OBDII-related mobile applications. Searching Google Play and Apple’s iTunes websites, over 500 applications can be found that allow a smartphone access to OBDII data via a dongle, or adaptor, that plugs into a vehicle’s diagnostic connector. Adaptors are available online from $10 to $100, and many have Bluetooth or WIFI capabilities to connect with a smartphone. Some adaptors work only with their specific apps and offer more than a generic interface of OBDII vehicle data.

Between the Google Play Store (Android) and Apple Store (iPhone) there are over 500 apps that utilize on-board vehicle computer output from the OBD-II data link to interface with these applications. They provide a wealth of information, education and entertainment all at a low cost to the user.

OBDII-related apps are an inexpensive way for technicians to have a fully functional Global OBDII scan tool that as a bonus receives and makes phone calls. Many of these applications do more than simply read and erase trouble codes. They can display real-time data from the car’s engine management system, provide instant fuel economy numbers and display custom dashboards with all types of gauges. With all the OBDII data available, it’s no wonder that some of these applications also offer some fun, behind-the-wheel features. Because smartphones are equipped with accelerometers and GPS-locating capabilities, OBDII apps can provide a sophisticated view of a car's performance. The vehicle’s weight, horsepower, torque and acceleration can all be calculated and displayed in the form of performance gages or graphs. We’ll take a closer look at some OBDII adapters and smartphone apps that are especially useful for professional technicians.

BlueDriver Adapter and smartphone app

Lemur Monitors (www.lemurmonitors.com) provides advanced diagnostic solutions via their BlueDriver platform. The BlueDriver app is designed to work exclusively with their adapter as a complete system. Available for both Android and iOS devices, the BlueDriver app focuses on repair instead of fuel economy or engine horsepower information and is ideal for the professional technician.

Smartphones, like the iPhone (at left) and Android based Samsung can communicate with the BlueDriver adapter and its dedicated app. The app can be downloaded for free from either the Apple Store or on Google Play.

Using the BlueDriver app is easy. On vehicles from 1996 to mid-2000, just type in the VIN number and the app will populate the vehicle’s information fields. Entering the VIN number from most mid-2000 to present vehicles is not necessary as the app will automatically recognize them and record their information. The app is well organized with two tabs: Scan Tool and Live Data. The Scan Tool tab is the main feature and presents functions that include reading/erasing codes, generating repair reports, freeze-frame data, smog check information, Mode $06 data, MIL status, vehicle information and a handy flashlight for locating the DLC. The Live Data tab monitors real-time performance by displaying sensor values and data using customizable gauges and graphs. Standard OBDII nomenclature is used so professional technicians will easily understand what’s being displayed.

One of the most useful features of the BlueDriver app is its reports function. When a DTC is present, a report can be generated and emailed directly from the app. Reports list the DTC set, its definition, possible causes and a list of repairs that address the root cause for the DTC. The BlueDriver repair database contains over 4.5 million experienced-based reported fixes for DTCs that are ranked as Top Reported Fixes, Frequently Reported Fixes and Other Reported Fixes. A technician could use the report information to assist in filling out an estimate for repairing the cause of the DTC. The report could be emailed to the customer, however some judgement should be exercised before sending this information directly to a customer and should be dependent on the specific DTC and the possible “fixes” that the app suggests.

The BlueDriver main screen is well organized with scan tool and live data tabs making navigating the app easy. Reading DTCs can be accomplished quickly and pressing the Repair Reports icon allows the user to email a report of any trouble codes set and other vehicle repair information.

Another feature of the BlueDriver app is its ability to display Mode $06 data. Available on all Global OBDII vehicles, Mode $06 is a listing of all the individual tests an ECM makes as part of its various monitors. Mode $06 can provide technicians an additional diagnostic path toward determining the root cause of a DTC. Other features of the BlueDriver app include enhanced diagnostics for ABS, airbag and transmission systems for General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota and BMW/Mini for North America. In addition, Smog Readiness Check and multi data (PID) interactive graphing and logging are available. The BlueDriver app can be used on an unlimited number of vehicles to read all of the aforementioned data at no additional cost.

The BlueDriver adapter retails for $99.95, and the app can be downloaded for free from Google Play or the Apple Store without purchasing the adapter. Lemur Monitors has a professional help-desk staff available to answer phone calls, emails or chat online regarding use of the BlueDriver app and adapter.

U-Scan adapter and app

Actron, a division of Bosch Automotive Service Solutions, offers the U-Scan CP9600 Smartphone Wireless Vehicles Diagnostics. The U-Scan CP9600 adapter plugs into a vehicle’s DTC and works exclusively with the U-Scan app for both Android and Apple iOS devices. The adapter retails for $108.95 and uses a Bluetooth connection to pair with a smartphone and works on 1996 and newer vehicles, including those using CAN protocols.

The U-Scan adaptor works exclusively with Actron’s U-Scan app that can be downloaded for free from either the Apple or Google Play stores.

The U-Scan app is free and can be downloaded from Google Play or the Apple Store. Included with the app are AutoLink, which automatically identifies most 2000 and newer vehicles upon connection; Vehicle Activity, a log that provides a history of vehicle tests and procedures; QuickCheck, which reads and erases DTCs, provides code definitions and shows I/M emissions status; and MyGarage, which provides easy access for users to manage vehicles that the tool has been previously connected to. Included with the U-Scan app is Powertrain Enhanced Data that allows users to access manufacturer-specific diagnostics and code definitions. Freeze-frame data can also be viewed and the app can display over 300 sensors (if supported by the connected vehicle) as numbers or graphs.

To take advantage of the full potential of the app, technicians should consider purchasing U-Scan’s advanced applications. These include Unlock CodeConnect ($39.99) that lists the most likely cause for specific DTCs; ABS DTCs and Definitions ($29.99), which accesses ABS brake data; and Airbag DTCs and Definitions ($39.99) that accesses vehicle airbag systems. If all the advanced applications are purchased, they add up to $109.97 plus the cost of the U-Scan adapter, for a total of $218.92.

OBDLink MX adapter

OBD Solutions is a leading provider of onboard diagnostics. Their hardware and software offerings cover the full spectrum of onboard diagnostic applications including smartphone-to-OBDII Bluetooth interfaces. They can be found on the web at www.obdsol.com. OBDLink, a subsidiary of OBD Solutions, makes two interfaces — the LX and MX Bluetooth adapters — both of which can be purchased at www.ScanTool.net.

The OBDLink MX is a small unit and can easily stay plugged into a vehicle’s DLC while it’s being operated. The sleep mode feature allows the MX to stay connected even if the ignition is turned off as it won’t drain the vehicle’s battery.

The OBDLink MX Bluetooth is an easy-to-use, inexpensive, Bluetooth OBD adapter that can turn a smart phone, tablet or laptop into a sophisticated diagnostic scan tool, trip computer and real-time performance monitor. Pairing the MX with a smart mobile device or Bluetooth-equipped laptop is easy and only takes a few minutes. The MX is small enough to leave plugged into a vehicle’s DLC while driving. Leaving it connected, even when the vehicle is not in use, does not drain the vehicle’s battery as the adapter features automatic sleep and wake-up functions.

The MX Bluetooth works with all 1996 and newer cars and light trucks sold in the United States. It supports all legislated OBDII protocols including EOBD, JOBD and all other international variants of OBDII. In addition to standard OBDII protocols, the adapter can communicate with General Motors SW-CAN and Ford MS-CAN networks to access body, HVAC and other onboard systems. The processing speed of the MX adapter renders smooth graphics and rapid changes in gauge readings on smartphone or tablet displays.

Because OBDLink MX is backwards compatible with the ELM327 command set, it will interface with dozens of third-party apps for Android-based smartphones. It does not work with iOS operating systems. The OBDLink MX Bluetooth sells for $79. To keep the MX operating system up to date, free firmware and software updates are available via the OBDLink website. Also included with all OBDLink products is a license key for OBDWiz diagnostic software that runs on a Windows-based PC or laptop. All OBDLink products are covered by a three-year warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee.

Smartphone Apps

The Android-only OBDLink app was developed specifically for the OBDLink adapters and can be downloaded for free on Google Play. The app turns a phone or tablet into a full-fledged diagnostic scan tool that can read and erase diagnostic trouble codes, display emissions readiness and estimate fuel economy. The app can display emissions readiness standards specific for each state in the U.S. In addition, it can create customizable dashboards that use multiple trip meters, log engine management data in a CSV format (used in Microsoft Excel), and track vehicle performance in real time. Unlimited software updates for the app are available at no cost.

The OBDLink splash screen provides the gateway to numerous OBD-II functions and data. The app is easy to use and offers an easy way to monitor a vehicle’s emissions performance and other engine management information. The OBDLink screen displays emission testing status, readiness standard for specific states and the status of all monitors if they are available and/or complete for emissions testing.
This Torque Pro screen shows test results for various OBD-II sensors. The app compares known good values with what the sensors are reporting and gives each an “OK” or “Not OK” status. This is quick way to ascertain if a sensor is misbehaving and needs a closer look.

One of the most popular apps that uses OBDII inputs is Torque. This Android-only app comes in both free (Torque Lite) and paid versions (Torque Pro) for $4.95. Torque functions as a scan tool and provides the ability to read and erase trouble codes, display freeze-frame data, view live sensor data, check OBD readiness monitors for emission testing and provides access to a DTC database of fault codes from different manufacturers. Using a smartphone’s GPS input, the app features a Track Recorder plugin that correlates the vehicle’s location with OBD II data.

After inputting vehicle-specific values for engine displacement, vehicle weight and fuel type into a vehicle profile, Torque Pro can use this information to calculate vehicle performance. Using the phone’s GPS location, internal compass, barometer and accelerometer, Torque can calculate vehicle acceleration rate, 0-60 times, quarter-mile time and speed, horsepower, engine torque and fuel economy. Some of these features are found in the Pro version only.

Users can store multiple profiles for many different vehicles and store separate logs and dashboard layouts for each profile. The View Map function displays a Google Map with a color-coded log of a user’s last few trips that indicate relative speeds along a route. Users can also choose to display G-forces on this map. This function is useful for autocross events or amateur road racing as it indicates speed at various points along a racetrack.

The app provides lots of entertainment value from software that costs less than $5. A word of caution: Trying to set up all the screens, gauges, graphs and other information while driving on the road is not a good idea, as these activities are very distracting. Setup should only be performed when the vehicle is parked in a driveway or as a passenger during a drive.

Just one of the numerous dashboard gauge setups that Torque offers. From the top left are: engine RPM, speed in mph, coolant temperature, engine load in a graph format, throttle position in percentage and engine load again in a bar graph format.

In this article we have only scratched the surface of all the available OBDII adapters and smartphone apps. Assuming that a technician already owns a smartphone, these tools offer an inexpensive, pocket-sized scan tool that can quickly be used to perform basic, and even advanced OBDII diagnostics. Because of the processing power of a typical smartphone, the graphics displayed of OBDII data can be visually stunning and provide a wealth of easy-to-interpret information. The apps and adapter firmware can be kept current via the smartphone’s online connection and additional OBDII data features can be purchased as well. Smartphone scan tools offer a wealth of information for professional technicians and have one function that even a $6,000 scan tool can’t provide — a phone call from your significant other reminding you not to be late for dinner.

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