Follow

Attention! "Bad" Bluetooth & WiFi adapters with low quality clones of ELM327.

  • Topic Is Sticky
  • 748K Views
  • Last Post 02 March 2022
Administrator posted this 08 December 2014

Attention "bad" adapters!

We faced the problem, that some adapters (often the cheapest ones), can’t connect to the car's ECU.

 

The reason is using of "bad made" clones of ELM327 instead of original chipset and firmware from Elmelectronics. You could notice potentially problematic adapters by: very low price, by MAC address (one can see it while connecting and searching for the device, so the adapter’s name will be detected and its MAC address) .

 

If the MAC address of your adapter

  1. starts with the numbers 66:35:56: ...  or 88:35:56:...(for example, 66: 35: 56: 78: 90: AB)

 

  • or 00:00:00:00:00:01
  • or AA:BB:CC:11:22:33
  • or 00:00:00:11:11:11 (fresh example from 2018 garbage collection, marked as version 1.5)
  • or some other "strange looking" addresses

- be prepared that this adapter could fail to connect, support not all protocols, fail to read some data and what's more, they can cause problems with your car.

 

There are also some adapters that might be almost good while working with single ECU and short commands, but cold fail to get reliable results for cars with 2 and more ECUs and "long" commands like VIN or DTC readings. One of this could have followingg MACs:

00:1D:A5:68:98:8A or ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C 

As well, there might be problems with other "no-name" Chinese adapters marked ELM327 v2.1.

Please follow the discussion below to get idea about the issues, ask questions and share your observations.

 

We ask to share with us the names, photos, links to these adapters to make a "black list" of such devices.

 

self-advertising

Our team constantly works for the best user experience with our products and to solve the problem with bad quality adapters, we developed reliable solution for our users - InCarDoc Auto Scanner!
This OBD2 Scan Tool was developed and tested by the InCarDoc`s professional engineers. It is recommended Bluetooth Adapter for iOS & Android devices and fully compatible with multiple car brands and modes.


For more information about InCarDoc Adapter – please, follow this link:
https://incardoc.com/en-us/deviceshop/

elm327-bluetooth elm327-wifi elm327 obd-ii connection-issues
  • Liked by
  • inCarDoc
Order By: Standard | Newest | Votes
Guest posted this 17 December 2014

Hi,

that's exactly what happened to me. Thankfully, car still starts, so I hope ECU is fine.

But odb adapter/dongle ( 

iKKEGOL Mini Bluetooth ODB2 II Car Auto Diagnostic Scanner Tool with Power Switch Torque Android 

) refused to connect to the car.

As described, MAC starts with  66:35:56 and it says ELM327 v2.1.

Wasted time and money. Useless product.

I decided to give it a hammer treatment rather then have seller flog it to another unaware buyer.

  • Liked by
  • Torsten Wolfram
Administrator posted this 18 December 2014

Thank you for the information. Please note that with our program we track such issues and permanently publish updates to bypass or block known hardware malfunctions.  Also we observe no problems when working with branded quality adapters like OBDLink or PLX ...

xbow posted this 24 January 2015

I bought this adapter (ELM327 v.2.1) and just tested it on my Opel Astra H.

It works fine - I saw some dynamic parameters (RPM, Temp of Cooling Liquid)

The connection was good.

The seller of this product is http://ru.aliexpress.com/item/2014-Newest-Super-Mini-ELM327-Bluetooth-with-Power-Switch-CAN-BUS-OBDII-ELM-327-Work-on/1852873392.html?recommendVersion=1

Maybe this version of the item is good. Unfortunately I can't say it's MAC address for now.

The smartphone is Alcatel Idol 2 mini S 6036Y

 

inCarDoc posted this 24 January 2015

All observed clones that is adapters with prices 5 - 30 usd version 2.1 have some problems and might be dangerous at least some of them. With our program we try to bypass known problems but can't guarantee the safety... Any way version 2.1 the bad choice if compare with 1.5 or 1.4 by fact looks like it based on the very old ELM327 1.0 firmware modified not correctly...

Guest posted this 24 January 2015

So i bought the ELM 327 FROM BANGGOOD.com (chinese wholesaler) 1.5v small black adapter Bluetooth, several months ago for my BMW 528i, have not tried it yet, they say it uses Torque android app. There are a few by that name, wondering if its going to work at all from reading various users online.

I'm going to try OBD DOCTOR app first and go from there,

any body tried the old little black one like mine? Which app is best? Free ones esp.

Im really needing to define 3 of the "P1" codes to fix my car in order to get emmisions test,rough idle & burning somewhat rich. Replaced all 6 ignition coils already, and didn't change a thing. Plugs are next I suppose. But at this rate it could start getting pricey.

Administrator posted this 26 January 2015

You are on forum of "OBD InCarDoc" and planning to try it So, what is the question?. Just try... :) as we have a free application it will cost you nothing

  • Liked by
  • robanglin
Mazi posted this 30 January 2015

Hi there,

Would you please give me more details about problems this device could cause to the car.

Thanks for your help,

Mazi

Administrator posted this 30 January 2015

Kind of lottery: it could be no serious problems or something like "almost all my electronic services shutted down..." , looks like in some cases adapter could generate incorrect or unsafe TTL signals, the results will depend on protection level implemented in your car, and exact supported protocols... looks most problems for CAN, but L-line and K-line could be affected too

Mazi posted this 30 January 2015

What do you mean by: "looks most problems for CAN, but L-line and K-line could be affected too".

Also, what does it mean TTL signals​.

Thanks,

Mazi

inCarDoc posted this 31 January 2015

That's all about signal (electrical) level of OBD-II specification. Unfortunately I can't here explain in brief all this. If interested please check signal level specification of OBD-II protocol. Thanks!

Guest posted this 31 January 2015

I have an elm 327 that I've had a couple years now. I've never had an issue with it. I've been using the app torque pro. It connects every time and is fast with communication. Is it an issue I only have to worry about when using in combination with this app?

inCarDoc posted this 01 February 2015

First of all v 2.1 is a fresh adapters and 2 years old usually 1.4 or 1.5 that never have listed issues. Other programs including Torque also have notifications about bad adapters on their pages or sites, some of them block using some adapters at all. There are cases when start engine with plugged adapter could cause the problem - no relation to any program at all.

Guest posted this 03 February 2015

I have problems with ELM 327 "Mini". It's blue and looks just like the one in the lower right of the photo on the Bluetooth OBD adapters thread.

It has address: 66:35:56:78:90:AB

It identifies as "OBD II" & "ELM327 v2.1"

It totally failed to do anything useful with several different OBD apps. It was sold by eBay vendor sgbyincons.

 

Guest posted this 07 February 2015

I just bought a Vgate scanner on amazon and it doesn't connect to the app. 

The address is exactly the one  you gave. Wished I had read that before ordering.

 

Guest posted this 17 February 2015

I have a mini bluetooth  elm327 v2.1 obd2 adapter. I plugged it in my mazda 3 spirit 2.0L model.

I am using torque pro, and did not encounter any problem.

Is there any chance that some problem or damage is possible ?

 

Administrator posted this 17 February 2015

Different programs might use different subset of ELM327 and OBD-II commands, even the same program could use different commands with various use-case scenarios. Some risk remains as one does not exactly knows the exact "dangerous" commands (generating failed signals with bad adapters) and cases when it could be send from the program. 

Guest posted this 17 February 2015

Is there any specific proof that the elm327 v2.1 caused any damage ?

Do you know for sure that there is some hardware bug in this adapter ?

Just blaming this adapter that it is bad is not an acceptable statement !!!

 

Administrator posted this 17 February 2015

First we are not talking about original elmelectronics.com products!!! No restrictions about original ELM327 with any version of firmware!!! All others is about some clones marked as v 2.1 and just a statistical observations from our users no blaming that's up to you use any of them. Even more we try to bypass known issues within our software. Have a good luck!​

Guest posted this 03 March 2015

 just got my Vgate (blue tooth) OBD Scan tool I have paired it to my sansung 4s phone.when i connect to app on phone iit get no reading. i only get power light on the scan tool never the OBD or pc light.is it the scan tool app or some other problem ?

Administrator posted this 04 March 2015

Switch off then on bluetooth support in phone, plug off then on adapter.turn on debug logging on page Menu-Configuration-Logging, try to connect then send log from the Menu-Configuration-Logging with issue description, comments, adapter and car details including year. Thanks!

Guest posted this 11 March 2015

Attention "bad" adapters!

We faced the problem, that some adapters (often Chinese one), can’t connect to the smartphone.

The reason is its MAC address (one can see it while connecting and searching for the device, so the adapter’s name will be detected and its MAC address).

If the MAC address of your adapter starts with the numbers 66:35:56: ... (for example, 66: 35: 56: 78: 90: AB) - be prepared that this adapter will fail to connect, and what's more, they can cause problems with your car.

As well, there are problems with Chinese adapters marked ELM327 v2.1.

We ask to share with us the names, photos, links to these adapters to make a "black list" of such devices.

 

Guest posted this 11 March 2015

Hi guys,

please make sure that your OBD clone is not this because seems to have the same problem fails to connect to the car with: 66:35:56:78:90:AB not found! 

AVOID THIS ONE TOO: follow link

Guest posted this 26 March 2015

Hi all,

I've bought a cheap chinese ELM327 v2.1 adapter.

I was trying it using Torque Pro and after 10 minutes on the road that car displayed several error messages (electric break fault, wrong oil level, etc), i stopped the car and turned it off, turned it on and it was saying "Electrical malfunction" or something like that. At this point the car wouldn't start. I disconnected the device, tried a few more times and at some point, everything went back to normal, and the car started and have not displayed any more error messages.

 

So this adapters CAN induce damage to cars.

The car is a 2004 Renault Scenic 1.5 Diesel.

The adapter as a different mac address of the ones mentioned on this thread: 88:18:56:68:98:EB

I've made two logs:

http://pastebin.com/UN2PRMuu

http://pastebin.com/pjraAjq2

After connect OBD Car Doctor free was giving me the information in "General Information" that it was a 2.1 device.

What do you think?

 

Administrator posted this 26 March 2015

You are right device with MAC range 88:18:56:... absolutely the same as 66:18:56... from the same manufacturer and only difference is color of the cover case. So the device might at some cases generate unsafe electrical signals dangerous for the ECU and electric subsystems of the car. So we can't recommend using of this adapter. It's better to change adapter for some other marked as 1.5... or brand devices with original ELM327 (with any version).

Guest posted this 08 April 2015

I tried this tool:

http://www.dx.com/p/elm327-wireless-obd-scan-tool-112586

It is advertised as ELM327 v1.5, has MAC 66:35:56:...

And I'm able to pair the device. but that's it. Car still starts.

 

Guest posted this 15 April 2015

same problems as vguset but with fiat punto 1.9 jtd

when elm 2.1 is connected, can't start engine , clocl was reseted and all indicators show zero even with engine on.

after disconneceting elm, i have check engine lamp on

 

Guest posted this 19 April 2015

Hello.. I have an issue with 2.1 version.. I have ELMs one chines one from eBay they both answers with ? on command such like this ATCRA700. 

   So they don't know the command CRA for some reason 

   Who may know is that suppost to be this way? Maybe they change some parameter I don't know about. I google it can't find.  

    Pls can you guys send this command  (ATCRA700) to your ELM to check what youve got for answer a ? or OK.

 Thanks appreciate.

Administrator posted this 20 April 2015

In reality there are some differences in firmware of clones marked as 2.1 but all of them looks like strongly limited or very old version of original ELM327 firmware. So a lot of AT commands are not supported. No problems with AT CRA xxx on original ELM, standard answer is OK 

Guest posted this 25 April 2015

Bought two from eBay, the first partially worked, second arrived today, this one solid black car a rather than clear blue mini. Both with same mac as in this thread 65 v2.1 . Torque pro connects it connects to car can see some real-time data ie throttle position but reports no fault codes at all. I know there are through more reputable diagnostics.

How about instead of listing just dodgy adapters which is good someone posts a link to a reasonably priced reliable adapter known to work well.

 

Guest posted this 06 May 2015

Received mine today.

The blue one, Mini ELM327 V2.1 with the famous MAC address.

Tested 6 software on my Android, 4 aren't working at all (not detecting dongle, or after a few trys fail at connecting), EOBD Easy almost connects to dongle then fail, and OBD Car Doctor seems to have no problem.

I'd be interested in having some more proofs of the danger I am in using this thing in my car, because for now there's only 2 persons, 1 that had resolved problem by removing the dongle, and the other had a "check engine" signal on dashboard.

At around 5$ I guess that there are thousands of this thing all over the planet, and I'm not saying that all this post is BS, just that it would be more usefull with proofs that it's that bad.

For now I'm quite afraid so I don't think that I'll use it each time I take my car, so I'm making some more researches lol.

 

Guest posted this 09 May 2015

I have a ELM 327 2.1 with mac adress 00:18:56:AE:08. And i can't connect it with my Opel Corsa C 1,2. I was able to connect it once, but now it seems it is not working anymore. I used torque pro. Thank you.

Dotaz posted this 04 June 2015

Fake Bluetooth OBD2 - MAC 66:35:56:78:90:AB

Shows Pair OK with pairing code 1234, and no further BT connection.

MAC 66:35:56 does not belong to any registered vendor/manufacturer.

Just smash it and don't waste time on it.

 

norbo posted this 29 September 2015

I plugged in a ELM327 v1.5 bluetooth bought from ebay last week. seller is from uk, atcwave

On my 2003 peugeot 2.0i it seems to have caused major damage! It looks like my BSI module has been damaged. The dashboard has gone crazy, nothing functions anymore, the car does not start. All attempts to reset the BSI have been futile. Will have to go to dealer with this problem. Watch out with this cheap chinese crap!! 

 

RoundhayJohn posted this 14 October 2015

I'm using this bluetooth adapter:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00UR5BRZU?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

and it is working fine on a BMW 3 series 2010 model.  The MAC address is AA:BB:CC:11:22:33.  More expensive than some adapters but it had good reviews so worthwhile.  It connects with no difficulty and all functions seem to work.  I upgraded to OBD Car Doctor Pro which works very well.

 

Administrator posted this 15 October 2015

I'm using this bluetooth adapter:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00UR5BRZU?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

and it is working fine on a BMW 3 series 2010 model.  The MAC address is AA:BB:CC:11:22:33.  More expensive than some adapters but it had good reviews so worthwhile.  It connects with no difficulty and all functions seem to work.  I upgraded to OBD InCarDoc Pro which works very well.

The pointed adapter marked as "V1.5" and this a good sign, while faked MAC address pointing to some "hidden factory" ;)

minnie posted this 25 October 2015

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Super-Mini-ELM327-Bluetooth-Interface-V2-1-OBD2-II-Auto-Diagnostic-Tool-ELM-327-Works-ON/1611613475.html

I bought 2. First one is here, not impressed. Connection to adapter, yes. To ECU, no. Adapter error count 0 other faults 1. Obviously it's not communicating from the EUC to phone. To be fair I tried 2 cars. I'll post back when the other one comes.

 

zze110 posted this 31 October 2015

I bought 2 of the same adapter as the previous poster from ebay. Neither one works. Both show a MAC of 00:00:00:00:00:01

They connect to the program and say elm327 v2.1 then freeze. I opened one up and it has no elm327 chip. Instead it has a MCP chip, completely fake.

minnie posted this 05 November 2015

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Super-Mini-ELM327-Bluetooth-Interface-V2-1-OBD2-II-Auto-Diagnostic-Tool-ELM-327-Works-ON/1611613475.html

I bought 2. First one is here, not impressed. Connection to adapter, yes. To ECU, no. Adapter error count 0 other faults 1. Obviously it's not communicating from the EUC to phone. To be fair I tried 2 cars. I'll post back when the other one comes.

Second one came, same thing. Would not communicate to the ECU. Back to Aliexpress, look for another vendor with better feedback. Ordered 2 from there http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Universal-OBD-V2-1-ELM327-OBD2-Bluetooth-Auto-Scanner-OBDII-2-Car-ELM-327-Tester-Diagnostic/1578466645.html garbage. 0 for 4. On a different forum, nothing to do with this, asked if anyone was running torque pro and which adapter. http://www.bafxpro.com/obdreader/ You can get them on Amazon for around $19. Ordered 2, paired right up, made sure settings were correct, BAM! Talking to the ECU. The seller of the counterfeit ones try to make you feel bad and stupid, but your not. The BAFX sells around $24 in general. https://www.scantool.net/scan-tools/smart-phone/obdlink-lx.html was also recommended, but has a price tag of $70.  

 

Administrator posted this 06 November 2015

Please note that issue could be not only with the adapter. The other possible reasons could be:

  • car does not support OBD-II standard
  • broken signal wire connection in socked
  • engine not started
  • issues with BT connection
  • etc
You cold send us the log(s) with connection sessions, it might give at least some tips on the issue:

  • switch off then on Bluetooth in phone
  • plug off - on adapter
  • turn on debug on page Menu-Configuration-Logging
  • try to connect
then send log from the Menu-Configuration-Logging with issue and car details including year in letter.

Thanks

minnie posted this 09 November 2015

Sure, and I have swamp land to sell. I got off the notion of buying the adapter from China to get one promised to work. It did. $20 vs $5. I was 0 for 4. Now 2 for 2 with the BAFX. You'll help to confuse people with making excuses why the ECU doesn't connect because of blaa blaa blaa. The unit is pretty self explanatory.

 

Davidthune posted this 11 November 2015

Help, I purchased a bluetooth obd2 scanner for my 2000 Chevy C3500. ​http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011NSX27A?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

It connected fine and was reading the sensors and sending info, so I decided to put it in drive and see how the app "Torque Lite" responded.  My truck went about ten feet, then all the electronics and engine died as it coasted to the side of the road.  For a little while there was light indicating it was in park when the key was in ACC and a clicking sound coming from under the dash deep above and behind the brake pedal.  I disconnected the battery to reset the computer but that changed nothing.  What could this little obd2 scanner have done to completely shut down my truck?  

Anyways I gave that thing a one star review, but I am sure they will just rebrand the same piece o crap.  Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.

Davidthune posted this 12 November 2015

Well I figured out the clicking is coming from the buzzer, I guess it is not getting enough electricity to fully beep because the cab lights are looking pretty dim as well.  Wondering if it is a bad ground or what, right now I am just like WTF is up with this truck.  Battery measured at 12.45 V.

 

minnie posted this 12 November 2015

Please note that issue could be not only with the adapter. The other possible reasons could be:
  • car does not support OBD-II standard
  • broken signal wire connection in socked
  • engine not started
  • issues with BT connection
  • etc
You cold send us the log(s) with connection sessions, it might give at least some tips on the issue:

  • switch off then on Bluetooth in phone
  • plug off - on adapter
  • turn on debug on page Menu-Configuration-Logging
  • try to connect
then send log from the Menu-Configuration-Logging with issue and car details including year in letter.

Thanks

Nope, cheap counterfeit. I ordered 2 BAFX http://www.bafxpro.com/obdreader/ hooked up no problem. Paired to phone, communicated to the module, ECU reported back to the phone torque pro.

polec posted this 05 December 2015

Hi Guys!

I've bought cheap ELM V2.1 from:

http://allegro.pl/interfejs-elm-327-bluetooth-v2-1-ulepszony-i5625431644.html

sorry, but page is in polish...

Anyway I was able to pair with my phone and I was able to read out some data from sensors, but I wasn't able to read out error codes. Any idea why? It could be caused by wrong address?

I can't read out address, because my car is in service now...

Thanks in advice!

 

Administrator posted this 05 December 2015

The most possible issue is that you have non-OBD-II errors. Program and adapters designed to work according to OBD-II standard that describes engine and exhaust systems only... if troubles with smth like ABS, Airbag etc. that out the scope... reading could very brand-model-year specific and unfortunately not supported. Thanks!

 

polec posted this 06 December 2015

Thanks for quick answer!

I had some problems with my car before I connected adapter and I had check engine diode on, so I am almost sure, that I have some OBDII errors. 

And I've seen on youtube that another guy was able to read out some errors in Astra H also.

 

Mehemed posted this 10 December 2015

To bad because I didn't saw this topic earlier, before I ordered this junk

http://www.ebay.com/itm/321861903604

name obd-2

MAC adress 00:00:00:00:00:01

It didn't read any codes at any app(tried 4 apps on my WP device), but it should to read, engine light is active

Can anyone recommend me some OBD 2 device from ebay up to 7-8 USD(7.50€) with shipping to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Anyone ordered this from this seller ? http://www.ebay.com/itm/401021802459

lukihaskiller posted this 23 December 2015

hi, i already tested my chinese elm v2.1 in many cars (28 now), the only i have issues was a chinese car, a Jac J3, all dash lights came on, the car won't start, locks get crazy..

my mac adress is 88:18:56:98:EB

and he look like this http://www.uobd2.net/upload/pro/super-mini-elm327-bluetooth-version-1.jpg

(sorry for my english)

[]s

 

denial posted this 07 January 2016

Hello,

i have also some ELM327 BT adapter from ebay which does not work.

Could you please send me some link to ebay with adapter which does work very well?

Please send me at least via PM if public links are not allowed.

Thanks.

 

zawmoelatt posted this 13 January 2016

One of the Worse EML 327 Ver 2.1

I bought Chinese product EML 327 from Bangok's Market, cost $13.

It can't connect ECU. Wasted Money and Faked EML 327.

Pls, Ban

zekoos posted this 15 January 2016

As I see this thread is still alive. I˙ll share some experience that I had today.

As I´m car mechanic and I have 20 years of experience with different cars and many kind of car diagnostics, today I get the chance to test this little Chinese stuff :). My friend came in to my service and asked me if I want to buy this little thing (with a smile) and I said let me  test it first, then I˙ll decide. So I connected it first to VW Caddy 2005 1.9 tdi. First I had to manage how to connect it but didn˙t have the time to read how to so somehow I managed to  connect it.

When it finally was connected it could read the fault code, read temperature˙s, and a few more stuff something more but don˙t remember anymore. The one thing that was strange is that the throtle position on idle is at 95% and it doesn´t react when it˙s pressed. Well I decided to test it on second car which was VW Polo 1.9 sdi around 2000 year which came with MF lamp ON. Error with these Chinese  was bad position of fuel quantity . Well it was a little strange cause we repaired the pump a few days ago so I connected pro diagnostic tool and the fault code was bad position of timing which was something completely different. Hm, as the customer was present didn˙t wanted to force it anymore so I gone on the third car which was Astra H 2006 year 1.3 cdti with error lamp ON also. Well I said this one will be my last test today and connected it with Astra and bam, no error??? LOL what a pity :), of course with pro tool there was an fault code. As I saw that it can read accelerations and decided to try it once more on my VW Jetta 1.9 tdi 2008 but as it is pretty cold outside I˙ll do it when the car is warm one of these days and that was good decision cause first I found out this thread and now it will not get the chance to be tested .

So, thanks to this thread I won˙t get a headaches .

 

inCarDoc posted this 16 January 2016

To "zekoos" or other who might wand to get a bit more than just screaming that ALL is bad and useless... First of all the branch about some BAD adapters that really does not work or work BAD. What shows Zekoos investigation?

  1. the adapter he tested WORKS, it able to connect the car and read some data
  2. the abilities of this instrument much less the professional scanners, (not a rocket science... as it costs 100 times less) but not all have access and really need a professional scanners... that for all not for profy
  3. scanner just transmit raw data from car's ECU to you computer or smartphone... so it could just work or not...
all others depends on what is exposed by car's ECU according to (OBD-II standard) and what program is used for interpretation...

 

rnd90 posted this 02 February 2016

It fails to connect to this adaper in 5.0. Downloaded 4.99 APK from the internets, everything works fine, pls check up the recent changes.

inCarDoc posted this 02 February 2016

The recent version is 5.02 Please check it. The most re-connection issues have no relation to version just 2 simple steps: - turn off- then on- Bluetooth support in phone, unplug and plug back the adapter. Thanks!

PATWIST posted this 06 March 2016

Hello ,

eBay: Sells as v1.5 but send v2.1

I bought item called Hot ELM327 OBD2 V1.5 Bluetooth Car Diagnostic Scanner Android Torque Auto Scan from seller gamesalor on eBay but he send me v2.1 

And it dont work with my car Škoda Fabia 2002 approx. I wanted v1.5 because there in forum and in pdf manual on page 5 you write that 1.5 is better, so be prepared when you search for v1.5 you can get v 2.1 

I got half price refund but after apllication Elm327 Version Check tells me that this is v2.1 so perharps I could get full refund.

I wanted to test this product because it seems to be interesting and perhaprs write article about it on my magazine.

inCarDoc posted this 07 March 2016

And it dont work with my car Škoda Fabia 2002 approx.

Please note that the reason of problems could be the car as well, Skoda in 2002 could have no OBD-II support, please check about with service or Skoda forums. Thanks!

 

mxv posted this 09 March 2016

Hi,

few days ago i got v2.1 adapter from ebay with MAC 00:1D:A5:68:98:8A.  I tried it yet and looks working right.. Than i found this topic. Should I be afraid of something? Thank You.

   

 bought this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/321872693916?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

​

 

inCarDoc posted this 10 March 2016

Hi,

few days ago i got v2.1 adapter from ebay with MAC 00:1D:A5:68:98:8A.  I tried it yet and looks working right.. Than i found this topic. Should I be afraid of something? Thank You.

   

 bought this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/321872693916?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

​

If you read this topic in details you will get the answer.... 1) cheep 2.1 adapters have nothing with original product of ELMElectronics 2) the product is very unreliable and could lead to the potential problems with SOME cars 3) all this does not mean that adapters doe not work at all it could work with some cars ... and as you are lucky with yours :)

Just treat buying one of this adapter as lottery ticket

Ujeen posted this 12 March 2016

Hi everyone,

Thanks a lot for this topic!

I bought recently a counterfeit adapter from aliexpress. I decided to dump it after  OBD car doctor showed me a warning message and I read this topic.

Now it appeared that I can't even find a genuine ELM327 chip based adapter as all online sellers seem to offer a counterfeit.

Where could I buy a proper one ? any advises?

inCarDoc posted this 14 March 2016

Hi everyone,

Thanks a lot for this topic!

I bought recently a counterfeit adapter from aliexpress. I decided to dump it after  OBD car doctor showed me a warning message and I read this topic.

Now it appeared that I can't even find a genuine ELM327 chip based adapter as all online sellers seem to offer a counterfeit.

Where could I buy a proper one ? any advises?

For example one could check PLX KiWi or OBD Link products. Thanks 

folio posted this 20 April 2016

Hello.

Purchased ELM 327 v.2.1 on Aliexpress.

Punto Auto = 2 / 1.2

Connection to the car and the pair ELM <> Lumia = no problem

On the program: "Diagnose your car" difficult to get a connection at the WP8.1 phone. At WP10 does not start.

How to connect it shows errors and lordling and all operating parameters of the engine.

But often causes going mad clock, reset, lock and start the car.

You must then remove the ELM and the car is booting up normally without problems.

On the program: "Car Scanner" is answered with no problem.

How to connect to it reads all the parameters offered by the program.

Tested on Lumia <> Punto 2 and the VW Golf +.

Program: OBD Auto Doctor does not start because of the WP10 in the phone.

 

inCarDoc posted this 21 April 2016

Please note that the forum and site about "OBD Car Doctor", "OBD Auto Doctor" is different product from other company. Thanks!

Makscars posted this 25 April 2016

 Здравствуйте, нужна ваша консультация. Несколько дней назад приобрел elm 327 1.5 версия, подключали к infniti fx работало нормально использовал torque и scanmaster lite. Подключили к toyota camry 2004 torque подключился scanmaster lite нет. Примерно через 3-4 часа машина не завелась подключили другой сканер показал что заблокирован компьютер. С помощью этого сканера сбросили в стандартных установок сняли клеммы с АКБ и только тогда автомобиль завелся и то не с первого раза и делал очень тихо с перебоями. Возможно вы можете подсказать в чем проблема,также после этого перестал работать прикуриватель салона и подсветка прикуривателя. Хотелось узнать ваше мнение по этому поводу. Зарание спасибо

inCarDoc posted this 03 May 2016

Скорее всего адаптер именно из серии китайских клонов о которых можно почитать выше в этой ветке. Некоторые недобросовестные продавцы могут перемаркировать их как 1.5, чтобы сказать что за адаптер нужно видеть отладочный лог и команды которые он не понимает. Как описывается выше в ветке некоторые машины могут быть более устойчивы к сигналам такого адаптера некоторые менее. Обычно сброс питания с ЭБУ должно лечить проблемы, реже требуется сброс при помощи сервисных специализированных сканеров. Остаточные проблемы с прикуривателем звучат странно, вероятно это просто совпадение. Спасибо!

markfothebeast posted this 04 May 2016

I purchased 2 "budget" bluetooth OBD2 adapters which I have been disappointed with. I originally read this post about 6 months ago when I was having problems just after receiving them. I have tested these adapters out on at least 6 different vehicles. The only vehicle I have gotten both adapters to work on was a 2002 Kia Sportage (Hyundai). And with all software functionality. I am wondering if in particular parts of Asia where these are manufactured that they are using a different type of OBD2 compatibility than what our made-for-America vehicles are using? I don't have enough experience in that department to really know. I've had this adapter connect to every PC and mobile device via Bluetooth fine but when the ELM327 software is attempting to use all the protocols available, it is unable to connect to a Ford, Chrysler, or Chevrolet vehicle.

My adapters MAC address does not match the defective MAC listed in the original post. 

Here's a few photos of my adapter(s). I did a quick tear down of the device. I compared the adapter teeth to my OBD2 scanner cable connector (which connects fine). The teeth in this adapter appear to be more recessed. They are also soldered in at such different lengths that perhaps there is a bad connection to the ECM when plugged in to most vehicles? Just a thought for those that have no functionality on their faulty or perhaps intentionally faulty Bluetooth adapters.

Update:

I took a look at the diagrams for the OBD2 pin configurations on typical OBD2 connectors. If anyone is interested, this unit is lacking pin #2 (J1850 Bus +) and pin #10 (J1850 Bus). It looks like several pins on OBD2 connectors are left for manufacturer specific features. This unit does not have any of those additional pins, as well as support for J1850, (assuming that I read the pin diagram properly). But if you read the case on the adapter, it "supports all OBD2 protocols"! SAE J1850 is listed as being used "mainly by US manufacturers". My assumption over these cheap adapters is that they were manufactured for the Asian or European vehicles in mind, hence the lack of the J1850 bus pins.

The pins that are present on my adapters; 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15, and 16. Here's a chart for the OBD2 pin out configuration if you feel the need to pull your adapter apart to see what bus it supports. This is the car side of the adapter so you'll have to look at your pins in reverse.

inCarDoc posted this 05 May 2016

Problem is deeper than only lack of contacts. Note!!! That now we are talking about cheap Chinese clones of ELM327, that have no relation to original product of ElmElectronics.com 

Clones marked as versions 1.4 and 1.5 use functional analog of original PIC-chip(s) used by ​ElmElectronics (PIC18F25K80 + MCP2551) and stolen early version of original firmware (that was practically unchanged). 

Clones marked as versions 2.1 use another chip (MCP2515 or other...) and other type firmware (own or strongly re-written) this combination appears to very raw and untested: it does not support a lot of required configuration AT-commands, some protocols could not be initiated, implementation of CAN signals could lead to on-bard electronics errors, etc.

By fact version 2.1 does not mean some unified product, looks like different manufactures try to fix (with better or not results) the firmware for own products. So it's really a big Zoo with quite a different a low predicted behavior  under the unified name 2.1

markfothebeast posted this 07 May 2016

I spent $10 USD for both but these adapters aren't worth even that purchase. Like you mentioned, INCARDOC, the official ELM chipset is much, much better overall. Spending the extra money to purchase a quality adapter is the best option in my opinion. The bluetooth connection drops out quite often on the adapter I posted above. But also, Bluetooth has been a very poor wireless connection for every device I use it for. Even the data transfer rates lack between every device i use it on. I also find that Windows is lacking in both driver and software support for Bluetooth. However, I have a quality USB OBD2 adapter that I use on my Windows PC and it is the best ELM327 device I have used till this day. I use the micro USB host adapter for that when running on Android and it seems to respond much quicker when recieving data from the vehicle.

greenespeed posted this 24 June 2016

A lot of people on here seemed to have negative experiences with clones ... I bought the Kiwi 3 OBD2 car to smartphone adapter from PLX's website a few months back and it has been working great– I just leave it plugged in and it autoconnects every time I enter my car. A little pricey but IMHO well worth the cost.

timjbirke posted this 03 July 2016

Hello everyone...

Posting here because maybe, just maybe someone will know something. I commented on the Torque forum too. About at my wits end here.

Here's the deal. I purchased one of these crappy generic adapters from BAFX. I didn't realize the harm I could do. I used this with Torque for quite some time on my 04 Chevy Cavalier. Well my brother had a check engine light in his 2003 Pontiac Grand Am for an engine misfire. Decided to figure it out and needed to reset the code. Well, I reset the code and now the engine won't crank. Tried the security relearn and replacing the ignition switch - which replaces the security sensor. My dad and I could get the engine started by starting it at the starter and it dies after a few seconds. Battery is good. So my question is, what component did the scanner most likely screw up? ECM, BCM, PCM???

Let me know folks! Learned my lesson that's for sure

 

pixel70 posted this 29 July 2016

Hi,

I've bought clone of the ELM327 adapter. Mac address is ​00:1d:a5:68:98:8d and appears, that vendor is Polish company WB Electronics (http://wb.com.pl/?lang=en).

Do you think, the adapter is safe to use?

inCarDoc posted this 01 August 2016

Unfortunately it does not possible to say smth, w/o through tests. The most problems observed with "no-name" adapters where you have no info about the manufacturer. If you have exact information and contacts of manufacturer, just try contact them and ask your questions. Thanks!

Kalderos posted this 18 August 2016

Hello!

Any one know is this one is a good one? The last elm327 that i bought from aliexpress died after 2 weeks~~, I drive a mitsubishi ASX 1.6 2015 and the car is ok.

 

inCarDoc posted this 18 August 2016

Hello!

Any one know is this one is a good one? The last elm327 that i bought from aliexpress died after 2 weeks~~, I drive a mitsubishi ASX 1.6 2015 and the car is ok.

Vgate one one of the reliable solutions from lower-price segment.

rogersride posted this 03 October 2016

An app that I've found really useful is "Elm327 Identifier". It really shows what your adapter supports and what you're missing because it doesn't support the latest standards. My Chinese made adapter which I bought years ago was fine when I bought it. I learned that I'm missing 7 pid's in version 1.4b, 3 in 2.0, and 2 in 2.1. I'm upgrading asap. BTW I tried the trial ofyour pro app and really liked it.

inCarDoc posted this 03 October 2016

Defiantly the original ELM327 is used by KiWi products, also one could consider OBDLink product line that utilize some reliable alternative chip STN1110 compatible with the ELM327. Some info could be available at ELMElectronics page. Thanks!

leirazepol posted this 24 October 2016

Hello all. 

I include myself on the list. I bought the Blue ELM327 V2.1 Bluetooth connector for my 2003 CR-V on the Dominican Republic.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ELM327-Mini-V2-1-OBD2-OBD-Bluetooth-Auto-Car-Scanner-Diagnostic-Tool-for-Android-/262624658939?hash=item3d25a645fb:g:TBwAAOSw3xJVaC87

In my case is not fare to say that the tool doesn't work at all. In fact it does connects to smartphone: LG G3 VS-985 and I'm even also capable to connect to some vehicles: 2011 Rav-4, 2013 Kia Rio, 2013 Kia K7 and other. But the one reason I need it no connect doesn't work: My CR-V.

In the link above you may find image of the item. Shortly I'll oist a picture of the chipset (IC).

leirazepol posted this 24 October 2016

I can confirm pins: 4,5,6,7,14,15,16.

I couldn't attach the pictures. Can't find the option.

inCarDoc posted this 25 October 2016

Your Honda of 2003-model year could have no OBD-II support. This depends on target market, if it was assembled for USA it must have OBD-II for all madels starting 1996, but if for any other markets, it might have no OBD-II 

The other possible reason could be that adapter supports not all OBD-II protocols.

Thanks!

 

nikospot posted this 11 November 2016

Hello, what about the OBD2 in ebay at the range of 15-20USD? They usually say: KW902, KW903, and there are some cheap vGate. They are also wifi. 

Like these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/222201867842

http://www.ebay.com/itm/152002399779

http://www.ebay.com/itm/131665954601

Some of them have the same packaging but they seem different brand. Is it possible to have the

vgate or KW packaging and the PCB inside would be the cheapest Chinese ones?

Thank you

inCarDoc posted this 11 November 2016

Unfortunately it's practically impossible to say "what's inside" without testing. All this product looks identically to iCar 2 - quite a stable solution from http://www.vgate.com.cn/en/... but unfortunate it's hard to say if they use the same chip and firmware as I've see that even brand VGate could be "shared" with different plants.

nikospot posted this 11 November 2016

Thats what I thought... So any reliable e-shop to buy the vGate? Or any tested seller from ebay?

At the vGate page I do not see how I can buy directly from them.

Konnwei is something similar to vGate?

Blinding posted this 04 December 2016

Hi,

I have just downloaded Car Doctor to try and retrieve the fault from my daughters Nissan Micra 03.

I am using a BT OBD connector that works fine on my 2012 Vauxhall Ampera but when I plug it into the Nissan it quickly flashes Green-Amber-Red and red stays solid.

Is this a car problem; as opposed to a BT device issue?

Thanks

Vince

 

inCarDoc posted this 05 December 2016

There could be different issues, but the most possible is that Micra just have no OBD-II support in 2003. If your model was not assembled specially for the USA market, it rather have proprietary Consult protocol only in 2003. Thanks!

Slobodan posted this 06 December 2016

Hi. I have bought this one:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Version-Diagnostic-Tool-Code-Reader-V2-1-Blue-Color-Super-Mini-ELM327-ELM-327-Bluetooth/598105554.html?spm=2114.13010608.0.0.IQTlFv

It has not arrived yet. When it does, I will connect it to some power supply to check if it will connect to a phone vie Bluetooth. And, if I can, will check for signal levels (voltages) of the output pins.

Untill then, can you tell me if any of you have this model (it is a no-name clone, but still), and did you had any problems with it?

Edit: Ops. When I was readin this topic on my phone, I did not see that there are more then 1 pages. OK, now after reading it all, I see that some of you did bought the same device. What I also noticed is that many of you where using it while driving the car, and it caused you problems. Well, this is not meant for that. You are only supposed to use it to read the codes, and then unplug it. Of course it will interfeir with the ECU while driving. Do not do it.

Slobodan posted this 09 December 2016

I have received the adapter. I have opened it up.

It uses NC7342-0 chip. It is probably a clone of the ON Semiconductor NCV7342: http://www.onsemi.com/pub_link/Collateral/NCV7342-D.PDF

It is a high speed low power CAN transceiver.

It is powered from the 70L05 linear voltage regulator (5V).

I did not connect it to the power supply yet, to see if it will connect to the phone via Bluetooth.

When I find time, I will see if I can also check the voltage levels of the output pins.

But, from what I am seeing, there is no reason to think that this device would damage the ECU.  Unless the cloned chip has a "bug" in hardware that makes it output voltage spikes or something. But even then, the biggest voltage it could output would be the voltage it is supplied with - 5V.

The IC under the black "blob" is probably a microcontroller, to interface between CAN and  the Bluetooth transceiver.

nikospot posted this 10 December 2016

Well, even if it doesn't cause damage to ECU, with some of these adapters it is really hard even impossible to connect to ECU! I have tried on my Suzuki Swift Sport 2007 an OBD like the one you posted and even if it connects with the cell phone it will not connect to ECU. The same adapter has no trouble connecting on a Peugeot 207GTi though.

Some months ago I also was trying to connect on my Swift an other cheap OBD adapter (with black bigger plastic case, I do not know what was inside) and it connected after many many tries. Finally it was causing my check engine to light up for some random problem that was not actually there. Something about tachometer/dashboard I do not remember exactly the error code. 

That is why I am thinking of buying something not as cheap as these crappy adapters and go for something at 15-20$. But I am also worried about getting a counterfeit of vGate because there are plenty of them on ebay with same casing and different branding. This is so confusing 

Administrator posted this 11 May 2017

There are also some adapters that might be almost good while working with single ECU and short commands, but cold fail to get reliable results for cars with 2 and more ECUs and "long" commands like VIN or DTC readings. One of this could have followingg MACs:

00:1D:A5:68:98:8A or ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C 

Demo posted this 03 August 2017

There are also some adapters that might be almost good while working with single ECU and short commands, but cold fail to get reliable results for cars with 2 and more ECUsand "long" commands like VIN or DTC readings. One of this could have followingg MACs:

00:1D:A5:68:98:8Aor ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C

 

dozemi posted this 07 August 2017

ELM327 you can buy at Amazon.

To read

ELM327 review

please click here. If you want find the

best OBD2 scanner

can find some keyword and click to my website:

https://www.bestscantool.net

to read reviews!

 

julio posted this 02 November 2017

Just got one and not sure about a few things. 

First of all, where do I find this address 666.....

2nd I can pair the device but that's about it. It specifies "make sure green light is on", mine; red. yellow and green light up briefly when connecting and then remains red. Is it not compatible with the vehicle? Mercedes ML320CDI 2005 or is it a dud?

inCarDoc posted this 02 November 2017

As you could read above, now the list of "bad" adapters does not limited with version that have MAC address "66:....", unfortunately in a risk zone any low priced models. If you want to see the MAC address, it's possible to see in a line next to adapter name in Connection settings or when searching, selecting the adapter.

The color coding now also could vary for different manufacturers, so one could not relay only on a green, that's from old times.

Mercedes in 2005 and by fact much earlier have compatibility with OBD-II and so should be supported with real ELM327 and our app.

If you have issues with connection please follow the instruction below to send us connection protocol for review:

  • turn on/off Bluetooth in phone (or reload phone)
  • start car's engine
  • unplug/plug back the adapter, check that it's powered
  • increase commands delay: Settings-Test-Commands delay-Long
  • turn on Debug logging: Settings-Logging-Debug logging
  • start app, try to connect and wait connection or error message
  • send us the debug log: Settings-Logging-Send message

in a letter with log please repeat the issue description, car model/year and information about adapter

 

Thanks!

Bob_SquarePants posted this 05 November 2017

Is the ODBII bluetooth adapter "KW902 ELM327 V1.5" is know to be reliable ?

Thank you.


Fernando posted this 06 November 2017

Sad to read this as I got all excited about checking codes and having my inovative dashboard for my GMC´56 Project with an LT1 FI OBDII as I even bought a Samsung Tablet to serve as Speedo, Tach, temp, MPG, etc... and music, why not?!

Has not worked or paired. First try and engine began to make some small explosions and at some point, in another attempts, switching to on and before starting the engine I could hear the gas pump working without stop. Fortunetelly that I disconnected it and engine came back to normal. But it was scary.

IS THERE A GOOD AND RELIABLE OPTION THAT I CAN USE ? Would really like to have the "digital" gauges, scanner and other apps from my Tablet with a safe OBDII reader-bluethoot.

inCarDoc posted this 07 November 2017

Here is some basics to start reliable OBD solution.

The most popular on the market are solutions named as "ELM327". That is combination of chip-set(s) ad firmware designed and supported by company ELM Electronics, Other high quality competitor is  OBD Solutions with their STN1110, that is compatible with ELM327 at commands level. The most reliable solutions are based on their chips and usually priced over $50 (as only chips itself is around $20). Known adapter's brands that works with original chips are for example PLX Kiwi and OBD Link.

Most of other adapter with prices less than $50 usually based on clones of ELM327 with absolutely different quality, it's really hard to qualify that products as all might use the same name but have VERY different quality. Ranged from the almost perfect to complete garbage. 

Thanks!

north wiebesick posted this 04 August 2018

Not sure what others of you think of konnwei adapters, but i bought an adapter from walmart.com by them, and the seller had 82 % rating... it costed 15$ and seems to work with my 2004 buick regal... it's a black device with red rubber surround near the top that says 'konnwei' on it, and also it has a power button on it... havent noticed any problems with it like the ones I see here, although I only had it a few days... and like many here i use torque pro, currently...

David Healey posted this 23 August 2018

I Have  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C6CZ0SQ/ref=sspa_dk_detail_7?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B01C6CZ0SQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=a54d13fc-b8a1-4ce8-b285-d77489a09cf6&pf_rd_r=FV4BAKM1CN4M0GMRSNEE&pd_rd_wg=Ol5mo&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_w=M49Wt&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pd_rd_r=45da28ce-a71f-11e8-ad5d-f9d1f1abea37   This OBDII module, and a Raspiberry Pi 3B+ Bluetooth connection no problem, rfcomm bind 0 ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C  also no problem, start the app, continue to get the following error :

read failed: device reports readiness to read but returned no data (device disconnected)

Any help would be great please.

David

inCarDoc posted this 27 August 2018

If you have issues or questions related to our app "OBD Car Doctor", it would be better to use in-app Feedback (or Contact us) options to prepare and send us letter with your settings and connection protocol data for review. Please repeat the issue description in a letter with protocol.

Thanks!

designerdxb posted this 30 August 2018

I have Passat CC 2012.

Is it fruitful to buy "Vgate iCar 2 ELM327 Bluetooth OBD2 Car Auto Diagnostics Scanner" 

Purpose is to scan error code and fix few lights on dashbaord. I will be still happy if device only scan error code. 

 

inCarDoc posted this 30 August 2018

"Vgate" is Ok, if that is original product from www.vgate.com.cn Unfortunately it's practically impossible to say "what's inside" without testing. A lot of no-name manufacturers produce adapters that labeled as iCar 2 but unfortunate it's hard to say if they use the same chip and firmware 

muhammad wasim posted this 20 September 2018

I have purchased OBD Advance scan tool from daraz.com but it won't works. The connection to ECU is not established and I think I have wasted my money.

Roslan Z posted this 12 January 2019

this 03 january 2019 I bought ELM 327 "Mini". It's blue color product and just like the ono ofe in the photo on the Bluetooth OBD adapters thread.

It's address: 66:35:56:78:90:AB

It identifies as "OBD II" & "ELM327 v2.1"

It comes with CD apps with several different OBD apps. for other apple phone, It sold in wish website vendor.

since they improvished own apps believe its suit its own purposes, again my car is VW year 2002 meanwhile passat do assemble in PRC right now and they have been this market quiet awhile now, anyway thanks for the update now is 2019, how competition keeps customers value for their monies

Jack9 posted this 02 March 2019

You say Vgate is reliable. I'm guessing many on ebay that say Vgate aren't really Vgate. How do you know which are real?

Is Vgate a real company or just another made up Chinese brand? If you google it, it just goes to obdinnovations.com, which is just a reseller, who also sells the same $1 V2.1 junk that's on ebay, that many have problems with.
https://www.obdinnovations.com/diagnostic-tools/


What about this one?
https://www.amazon.com/d/Automotive-Code-Readers/Vgate-Bluetooth-Diagnostic-Scanner-Check-Android/B07DCHWP9P
This review says it doesn't have an ELM327 chip:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R3HKKPT7MLGZWC/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B07DCHWP9P
FYI, this review seems to be by the poster in on this thread (rogersride).
So it seems Vgate is not a good brand.


What about BAFX? Is that just a company putting their brand label on the same cheap Chinese fake ELM327 units?


What about these?
https://mycarneedsthis.com/best-bluetooth-obd2-scan-adapters/

inCarDoc posted this 02 March 2019

Absolutely agree... and we stated near the same, if teview the thread. Now doezens of Chinese factories sell different products with different characteristics and quality, but packed and labeled as Vgate. The same for other brands as well.

inCarDoc posted this 17 April 2019

To help you we might need to see your app settings and raw communication data. Please use in-app option to contact our support and send data as well as the issue description. Menu-Info-Contact us

Thanks

inCarDoc posted this 17 April 2019

In app, Home screen, (right upper Conner) Menu-Info-Contact us

Thanks

inCarDoc posted this 18 April 2019

The logs should be attached to "Contact us" mail automatically. To force extended logging you might also need turn on Debug logging (Settings-Logging-Debug logging) before car connect attempt.

Thanks!

Omar Elgendy posted this 27 July 2019

Hi there I bought elm327 v2.1 from banggood China .when tried to use it with torque on my android with several cars .there were an error message " no contact with ECU " is there a solution ? Thanks. Omar.

inCarDoc posted this 27 July 2019

We could say noting about issues withTorque app, as this site about inCarDoc app. If you have issues with connecting inCarDoc app please use in app option Menu-Info-Contact us to contact our support, in a mail please repeat the issue description as well as car’s model/year details.

Thanks

maher habash posted this 06 September 2019

Hello I bought elm327 connect and work fine but only couldn't read my HV battery voltage for my car Prius 2008. where is the problem?

inCarDoc posted this 06 September 2019

Please note, that app inCarDoc by default reads only parameters that exposed by your car according to OBD-II standard specification. Standard does not support the most of specific to EV or Hybrid cars parameters including the Battery voltage.
Those parameters does not covered with any standards and their reading possible only with apps or extending setting, specific for the appropriate car-model. 


You might need to search apps or extensions, that exactly declares reading of battery related parameters for Toyota Prius 2008.

Thanks!

Takieddine Jouini posted this 19 October 2019

Attention "bad" adapters!

We faced the problem, that some adapters (often the cheapest ones), can’t connect to the car's ECU.

 

The reason is using of "bad made" clones of ELM327 instead of original chipset and firmware from Elmelectronics. You could notice potentially problematic adapters by: very low price, by MAC address (one can see it while connecting and searching for the device, so the adapter’s name will be detected and its MAC address) .

 

If the MAC address of your adapter

  1. starts with the numbers 66:35:56: ...  or 88:35:56:...(for example, 66: 35: 56: 78: 90: AB)

 

  • or 00:00:00:00:00:01
  • or AA:BB:CC:11:22:33
  • or 00:00:00:11:11:11 (fresh example from 2018 garbage collection, marked as version 1.5)
  • or some other "strange looking" addresses

- be prepared that this adapter could fail to connect, support not all protocols, fail to read some data and what's more, they can cause problems with your car.

 

There are also some adapters that might be almost good while working with single ECU and short commands, but cold fail to get reliable results for cars with 2 and more ECUs and "long" commands like VIN or DTC readings. One of this could have followingg MACs:

00:1D:A5:68:98:8A or ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C 

As well, there might be problems with other "no-name" Chinese adapters marked ELM327 v2.1.

Please follow the discussion below to get idea about the issues, ask questions and share your observations.

 

We ask to share with us the names, photos, links to these adapters to make a "black list" of such devices.

 

self-advertising

Our team constantly works for the best user experience with our products and to solve the problem with bad quality adapters, we developed reliable solution for our users - InCarDoc Auto Scanner!
This OBD2 Scan Tool was developed and tested by the InCarDoc`s professional engineers. It is recommended Bluetooth Adapter for iOS & Android devices and fully compatible with multiple car brands and modes.


For more information about InCarDoc Adapter – please, follow this link:
https://incardoc.com/en-us/deviceshop/

Ulf Jonsson posted this 07 November 2019

I bought elm327 wifi obd2 adapter for 130 sek (12 dollars). Tried it on my volvo v70 my2010. Connected to iphone but no connection to ecu. Suddenly a lot of error messages were presented in combined instrument and engine stopped. Not possible to eject key and startbutton was not working. Luckely when removing the elm327 from obd outlet , it was possible to start the car again. Do not know the version of the elm327. The elm327 device was good food for the trashcan.

inCarDoc posted this 07 November 2019

Before throwing adapter to the trash, please check that you follow recommendation to set connection with adapter as suggested in an article:

https://incardoc.com/en-us/article/how-to-connect-obd-car-doctor-ios-and-android-to-obd-adapter/

Thanks.

chikim posted this 26 March 2020

Reclamei no desenvolvedor do meu sofware que meu adaptador não estava mais funcionando no celular e a resposta foi qie posso estar usando um OBD falsificado. Meu adptador OBD funcionou muito bem, com esse software, e simplesmente esta todo confuso, do nada, então creio que isso é para me vender outro software, já que deve ter um ano da compra do anterior.

inCarDoc posted this 26 March 2020

It would be much helpful if post here the exact quote of the answer. Usually answer suggest exact steps and request to send us the log after running the suggested steps.
We have no "other" app to sell you, the one you are using is THE ONLY.


Thank you for the understanding and exact following the recommendations. 

jawad home posted this 17 April 2020

Thank You admin for your help in this section i want just check this store is officiel for vgate or not https://fr.aliexpress.com/store/4576039 Thank you alot 

inCarDoc posted this 18 April 2020

Thank You admin for your help in this section i want just check this store is officiel for vgate or not https://fr.aliexpress.com/store/4576039 Thank you alot 

 

Unfortunately it's hard to identify "real" Vgate from thousands of clones. Ref. page does not give direct mail or site contacts to validate the seller. You might try to find contacts and ask about brand owner company "HK Vgate Technology Co., Ltd" 

Thanks!

سعيد شكوكو posted this 16 January 2021

I bought this adapter (ELM327 v.2.1) and just tested it on my Opel Astra H.

It works fine - I saw some dynamic parameters (RPM, Temp of Cooling Liquid)

The connection was good.

The seller of this product is http://ru.aliexpress.com/item/2014-Newest-Super-Mini-ELM327-Bluetooth-with-Power-Switch-CAN-BUS-OBDII-ELM-327-Work-on/1852873392.html?recommendVersion=1

Maybe this version of the item is good. Unfortunately I can't say it's MAC address for now.

The smartphone is Alcatel Idol 2 mini S 6036Y

 

Duc H. Luu posted this 24 April 2021

Purchased a Nexpow OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth from Amazon. After a few minutes pairing the device to my phone, I was able to connect with incardoc app and Torque (lite) with no problems. The only limitations are the free version of the apps. My only recommendation is purchase the Pro/upgraded apps, not to play with advanced settings and associated PIDs in the app. Read the guide before going too deep.

shaik thoufik posted this 26 July 2021

Attention "bad" adapters!

We faced the problem, that some adapters (often the cheapest ones), can’t connect to the car's ECU.

 

The reason is using of "bad made" clones of ELM327 instead of original chipset and firmware from Elmelectronics. You could notice potentially problematic adapters by: very low price, by MAC address (one can see it while connecting and searching for the device, so the adapter’s name will be detected and its MAC address) .

 

If the MAC address of your adapter

  1. starts with the numbers 66:35:56: ...  or 88:35:56:...(for example, 66: 35: 56: 78: 90: AB)

 

  • or 00:00:00:00:00:01
  • or AA:BB:CC:11:22:33
  • or 00:00:00:11:11:11 (fresh example from 2018 garbage collection, marked as version 1.5)
  • or some other "strange looking" addresses

- be prepared that this adapter could fail to connect, support not all protocols, fail to read some data and what's more, they can cause problems with your car.

 

There are also some adapters that might be almost good while working with single ECU and short commands, but cold fail to get reliable results for cars with 2 and more ECUs and "long" commands like VIN or DTC readings. One of this could have followingg MACs:

00:1D:A5:68:98:8A or ​00:1D:A5:68:98:8C 

As well, there might be problems with other "no-name" Chinese adapters marked ELM327 v2.1.

Please follow the discussion below to get idea about the issues, ask questions and share your observations.

 

We ask to share with us the names, photos, links to these adapters to make a "black list" of such devices.

 

self-advertising

Our team constantly works for the best user experience with our products and to solve the problem with bad quality adapters, we developed reliable solution for our users - InCarDoc Auto Scanner!
This OBD2 Scan Tool was developed and tested by the InCarDoc`s professional engineers. It is recommended Bluetooth Adapter for iOS & Android devices and fully compatible with multiple car brands and modes.


For more information about InCarDoc Adapter – please, follow this link:
https://incardoc.com/en-us/deviceshop/

Avi Luler posted this 13 January 2022

To add to the wall of shame:  https://www.ebay.com/itm/263860402148
An obviously suspect cheap bluetooth ELM237 2.1 type MAC 00:10:CC:4F:36:03. Checked on Opel Astra J of an uneducated friend. Caused the ECU to power off (?) putting the car into some sort of limp mode, ESP, power steering and check engine warnings popped up.
The funny thing is a single fault is indeed found in the app, it is ECU disconnect event. It cannot be cleared, since it disconnects
Luckily after a few minutes powered off it can be started and driven normally, but with the check engine light on.

Alex Hiatt posted this 02 March 2022

I have an adapter with the above mentioned Mac address and I leave it plugged into my 2007 acura Tl with a android Tesla style screen, and I have zero issues with the device. It has properly diagnosed my issues with my car. So what exactly are you saying about these adapters? Are you saying that they will do more damage than good?

Categories
Popular Tags
This Weeks High Earners
Hot Topics
Close