is a special Bluetooth device that allows you to quickly diagnose a car, identify errors in the ECU (electronic engine control unit), understand their cause and eliminate them, without resorting to the help of qualified specialists (whose services are very expensive).
The elm327 mini car diagnostic scanner appeared on the Russian market relatively recently, but today it is already used by a large number of car enthusiasts, this fact is directly related to the fact that devices such as, for example, the ELM327 BLUETOOTH adapter we are considering have a number of undeniable advantages over a regular visit to a specialist. car diagnostics:
As you already understand, having a car scanner at your disposal is not a waste of money, but a profitable investment that will save a lot of money in the future.
Characteristics and capabilities of the ELM327 auto scanner
In the delivery set you will find the elm327 bluetooth car scanner itself, for diagnosing the car, as well as a special disk with basic software and elm327 instructions. As a rule, no one uses the disk (since it is in English). Everyone immediately goes to the Internet and downloads the most suitable program, we will talk about them below. The principle of operation of the scanner is extremely simple - you connect the adapter to the engine control unit, then find it via bluetooth using any supported device (smartphone, tablet, laptop), open a pre-installed program and all the data is already before your eyes.
Now in more detail about the tasks that this device can help you perform:
- Monitoring the performance of sensors installed on your car;
- Identifying failed sensors and checking the correctness of sensor readings;
- Monitoring and reading error code indicators (explanation of the meaning of each code);
- Possibility of self-resetting errors in real time;
In general, the capabilities of the EML327 Bluetooth auto scanner directly depend on the software that you have installed.
As mentioned above, the design of the auto scanner is quite compact; its main part is occupied by a connector with which it connects to a special diagnostic socket on your engine control unit. The rest of the device is occupied by a bluetooth module and a chip with a data processing chip.
If you don't know where the engine control module diagnostic connector is located, try looking in the following places:
- Under the fuse box cover;
- In the glove compartment (For example, this is a Renault car);
- Under the instrument panel.
Compatibility and principle of operation of the ELM327 Bluetooth auto scanner
The ELM327 autoscanner works by communicating between the adapter and the ECU via a special OBD-II (On Board Diagnostic) protocol. It is necessary to properly connect to the engine control unit.
Be sure to check the compatibility of your car’s ECU with this protocol. This standard has been supported by all American cars since 1996, and by European cars since 2001 for gasoline engines, and since 2004 for diesel engines. To use an auto scanner on a domestic car, check the model of the installed ECU (read about this below).
List of cars compatible with OBD2 protocols
For greater convenience, we have prepared a list of supported cars, protocols and car brands that are absolutely compatible with the OBD2 standard.
ISO 15765-4 protocol
- Opel;
- Ford;
- Jaguar;
- Renault;
- Peugeot;
- Chrysler;
- Porsche;
- Volvo;
- Mazda;
- Mitsubishi.
ISO 14230-4 protocol
- Daewoo;
- Hyundai;
ISO 9141-2 protocol
- Honda;
- Infinity;
- Lexus;
- Nissan;
- Toyota;
- Audi;
- Mercedes;
- Porsche.
J1850 VPW protocol
- Buick;
- Cadillac;
- Chevrolet;
- Chrysler;
- Dodge;
- Isuzu.
J1850 PWM protocol
- Ford;
- Lincoln;
- Mazda.
To ensure proper operation of the auto scanner for diagnostics, you need to have a device with installed and configured software (smartphone, tablet, laptop or even desktop computer). You can use the included software, or find a suitable program on the Internet (if for some reason you are not satisfied with the included software). If elm327 does not connect to the ECU, you need to find out what the reason is - a defective auto scanner, or simple incompatibility.
The ELM327 autoscanner can work not only via bluetooth, but also via wi-fi networks or using a USB cable. The standard size of an auto scanner is approximately 5x3 centimeters, but there are also smaller versions.
Car scanners operating via bluetooth are the most popular, since their design is much more reliable, and working with them is the simplest, most convenient and intuitive. In addition, the ELM327 1.5 series car scanners are suitable for most vehicles. By clicking on the link, you can buy an ELM327 auto scanner from a trusted supplier.
Now on the car scanner market you can find models of the 1.6 and 2.1 series, but you should not buy them, since these devices have a number of limitations, in particular they relate to compatibility with the ECU of many car brands. So be sure to check which series adapter when purchasing. If the auto scanner does not connect to the ECU, be sure to contact technical support and clarify the reason.
Programs for working with the ELM327 auto scanner
You can find a lot of software on the Internet - these are diagnostic programs that will be compatible with the ELM 327 BLURTOOTH 1.5 series auto scanner. There are both free programs and paid diagnostic programs. The most popular at the moment are programs developed for the Android OS, since they can be used via a tablet or smartphone. Such programs for elm327 support the ability to transfer data via Bluetooth.
In general, this kind of software can be installed from the disk that comes with the auto scanner, but you can also find it on Google Play and do not bother connecting your smartphone or tablet to the computer to install these programs. Below you can read about the most popular elm327 programs and how to use these programs.
TORQUE program
This program is the undisputed leader in the software market, there is both a PRO and LITE version (paid and free). So you will be faced with a choice - buy the version with maximum functionality, or use the free version with limited functionality. In the free version you can check the functionality of your car components, as well as reset errors. The difference between the paid and free versions is the number of car parameters displayed (there are many more in the paid version).
What Torque can offer:
- Scanning car engine errors;
- A special panel displaying vehicle parameters in real time;
- Checking the correct operation of the oxygen sensor (lambda probe);
- Detecting and displaying problems in the car detected by sensors;
- Displaying errors with a large set of their parameters;
- Calculation of fuel consumption, cost of travel;
- If you install the Track Recorder plugin, you can record a video of the trip and overlay it with sensor readings on a particular section of the trip to identify errors or problems that may have arisen along the way;
- For programmers who want to somehow modify the program, access to the source code is provided, which will allow you to modify the program to suit your needs.
One of the shortcomings of the program is an incomplete translation into Russian, which is of course a little depressing, but judging by the ratings on Google Play, few people care. Here are video instructions for setting up the program and further working with it:
After watching the video, you will probably fully understand all the nuances regarding working with this program.
Car Doctor OBD program
This program is designed to read current parameters and errors from the vehicle control unit and transfer them to the reader using the OBD2 standard. The program is completely Russified and is suitable for diagnosing cars both domestic and for models produced in other countries of the world. This program is fully compatible with the ELM327 auto scanner.
What the Auto Doctor OBD program can offer:
- Reading error codes and recognizing them;
- Possibility of resetting errors in real time;
- Determination of the current state of the car using sensors (revolutions, load, coolant temperature, fuel system, vehicle speed, average fuel consumption, air pressure, ignition timing, intake air temperature, mass air flow sensor indicators, throttle position, lambda probe indicators, fuel pressure level , and other indicators, depending on the capabilities of your car’s ECU);
- Accurate determination of the VIN number of the car body.
We can say that this application takes a solid second place after the previous one. You can see a lot of positive reviews about it on Google Play.
You can also watch a detailed video with instructions for working with this program:
OpenDiag Mobile program
The program is perfect for owners of fuel-injected cars of the VAZ, GAZ, ZAZ and UAZ families. Simply put, this program is designed exclusively for domestic cars. The program runs on Android and is entirely in Russian. The pairing with the ELM327 auto scanner is excellent, all functions work flawlessly. By the way, the functionality of this program is very extensive, and even somewhat greater than that of its analogues. But, as mentioned earlier, this program is exclusively for domestic car brands.
Here is a list of ECUs with which you can safely use this program:
VAZ family
- BOSH ECU - M5.4 R83 series;
- BOSH ECU - M1.5.4 E2 series;
- BOSH ECU - MP 7.0 E3 series;
- BOSH ECU - MP7.0 E2 series;
- BOSH ECU - M7.9.7 E3/E4 series;
- BOSH ECU - ME series 17.9.7
- BOSH ECU - M7.9.7 E2 series
- ECU January - series 5r83;
- ECU January - Series 5 E2;
- ECU January - 7.2 E2 series;
- Itelma - version VS5.1 E2;
- Itelma - version VS5.1 R83;
- Itelma and Avtel - version M73 E3;
- Itelma - version M74;
- Itelma - version M74K;
- Itelma - version M74CAN;
- Itelma - version M74CAN MAP;
- Itelma - version M75;
GAZ and UAZ family
- Mikas - VS8 E2 series;
- Mikas - Episode 11 E2;
ZAZ family
- Mikas - episode 10.3/11.3
- Mikas - Episode 7.6
Compatibility of programs with reading devices
As a rule, most of the released programs can only support devices on the android OS (android), but some programs can also connect to the iOS OS
Where to buy a high-quality auto scanner ELM327
On the modern market you can find many fakes of the ELM327 BLUETOOTH car scanner. It is very important to choose a proven car scanner model and buy it from an official distributor. To avoid falling for scammers, you can buy a car scanner by following this link. There you can buy a good, licensed car scanner, suitable for all brands of cars, at a competitive price, and not worry about its quality. Car diagnostics and operation will become an interesting and exciting activity for you if you approach them wisely. 
Instructions on setting up a diagnostic adapter ELM 327 WiFi with programDashCommand download
If you purchased a diagnostic adapter based on a chip ELM 327 and you have difficulty setting it up, then on this page you will find instructions in Russian for the ELM327. On our website there are instructions for elm327 various modifications ( USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi)
Video instructions for connecting elm327 Bluetooth
Comparison of versions of adapters elm327 Bluetooth v1.5 and version 2.1. What are their differences and why it may not be connected to the car.
So, let's get started, if you haveELM327 Bluetooth diagnostic adapterthen for his work with the programTorque You need:
1. Connect the diagnostic adapter ELM 327 Bluetooth to the OBD II diagnostic connector of your car, after which you need to turn on the ignition.
2. Then turn on the Bluetooth module on your device (smartphone or tablet PC on the Android platform).
3. In the settings of your mobile device, you need to go to the Bluetooth wireless networks section and click search for new equipment to pair. A new device will appear in the search window (usually the identifier “CHX”, “OBDII”, “CBT”, “Vgate”, etc.) After this, you can click on the item to pair with the device (you will need to enter the password from the adapter instructions, as a rule it is 1234,0000,1111,9999,6789 ).
4. After that, open the program Torque.
5. Go to the program menu, “settings”.
6. Open the section "OBD2 adapter settings / Select Bluetooth device" and select your adapter ELM 327 Bluetooth(has the identifier "CHX", "OBDII", "CBT", "Vgate", etc.) from the list.
7. After that, click on the icon that says “Adapter Status” and check the connection (green checkmarks should appear next to the first 3 items in the list).
8. You can also select the protocol manually in the “Vehicle Profiles” item (located in the same menu as “settings”).
9. After this, you can start diagnosing your car!
Modern technologies are penetrating ever deeper into the most diverse sectors of human life. Now it’s possible to diagnose a car in your garage, without even disassembling it. This is available if there is an OBD2 output on the vehicle and a special auto scanner from the ELM series. How to use the ELM327 will be discussed in this article.
Auto diagnostic mechanisms
Auto manufacturers are trying to design their equipment in such a way that they can quickly scan for faults and also quickly eliminate them.
For this purpose, the OBD2 diagnostic standard was adopted, resulting from several stages of long development and testing. Its task is to monitor the condition of the engine, individual body parts and the internal control network. Manufacturers may use different protocol implementations to connect the OBD to the vehicle.
The standard also defines a connector through which diagnostic information can be obtained. It is a socket type system with 16 contacts. Also, the OBD specification assumes the presence of a connector in the immediate vicinity of the steering wheel.
OBD2 fault codes
The error message from the system consists of one letter and a sequence of 4 numbers. Their decoding looks like this:
- letter. Indicates the subsystem of the problem;
- second digit. Mostly contains 0, but can be 1 or 2. It is not of particular importance, since it is used when compiling a total number to clarify a specific malfunction;
- the third digit indicates the type of failure;
- the last two digits are the error code itself.
The letter symbol can take on several meanings, depending on the class of equipment in which the failure was found:
- B. Everything related to body mechanisms. Airbags, central locks, windows, etc.;
- C. Chassis;
- P. Engine or gearbox;
- U. Internal electronic systems.
The type of failure or third digit can also take several standard values:
- 1 or 2. Fuel system;
- 3. Ignition;
- 4. Auxiliary control;
- 5. Idle speed;
- 6. Internal electronic circuits;
- 7 or 8. Transmission.
Common OBD2 error codes
- P0100. Faulty air flow sensor.
- P0251. This indicates that there is a problem with the turbine injection pump.
- P0322. There is no signal from the ignition distributor.
- P0340. Problems with the camshaft sensor.
- P1603. EEPROM error.
- S0276. Valve relay circuit is faulty.
- B0835. Ignition 1 circuit is faulty.
- P1812. Transmission overheating.
The number of codes is actually very large. Therefore, before using the ELM327, it is recommended to search the Internet for a complete list of them. Many of the transcripts may not be translated into Russian. Well, what can you do, the specification is foreign, you will have to delve into it and master English.
Review of the ELM327 auto scanner
Depending on the manufacturer, the device may externally look like a small box with a male connector. Its task is to read data from various engine sensors, electronic systems, error codes and reset them in the computer memory.
There are several options for working with the ELM327. These are Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and USB cable.
Connecting the device
As said earlier, ELM327 connects to the OBD2 port of the car. It's enough just to insert it all the way and that's it. Then, depending on the type of connection with the device, various manipulations are performed.
How to use ELM327 with Bluetooth
This is probably the easiest and most convenient way to conduct self-diagnosis. Next, you need to connect from your phone via Bluetooth to the scanner.
Now it’s time to select software. In fact, there are many products on the Internet that can work with scanners. Let's look at the most well-known and frequently used ones before using the ELM327 in the field.
Torque
A multifunctional application that, in principle, replaces the on-board computer. Works great with Bluetooth connection. It works quickly and doesn't crash. There are two versions available in Google Play - free Lite and commercial Pro.
The interface is simple, but functional. How to use ELM327 with a connected application? Very simple. It is enough to launch it, specify several parameters in the profile and select the appropriate icon, depending on the situation.
The program has the following features:
- reading and deleting error information from the vehicle's electronic control unit;
- car diagnostics;
- displaying the current state of equipment in various graphical ways;
- the ability to create widgets for the smartphone desktop.
This is an incomplete list of the capabilities and characteristics of the application, so it is advisable to read the instructions for its use before using ELM327 Bluetooth on Android.
DashCommand
Has slightly fewer features than the previous product. The application can read data from most devices and components of the car and display it in nice graphs and visualizers. Among them are the current engine operation, fuel economy indicators, and route. After diagnostics, it will also display error codes that will help you navigate the repair. Pairs well with many models and variations of the ELM327.
Before using ELM327 with DashCommand, it is worth mentioning that the application contains paid content. You can download it from the official Google Play store.
OBD "AutoDoctor"
A significant difference from previous programs is Russian localization. The application is free, but contains advertising.
Can display engine performance in real time, read errors and clear them from the ECU. Separately, it is worth highlighting the console mode, designed for manually entering commands of the ODB2 specification.
It can also receive GPS system parameters.
OpenDiag
The program can read data from sensors of domestic cars. Can be used at various services and service stations. Capable of showing basic errors and their codes, current information on the vehicle and dynamic parameters.
Before using the ELM327 scanner with Bluetooth and OpenDiag, the developers recommend that you carefully study the help section of the application, since not all devices may be supported.
ELM327 and Windows
The scanner could not do without adapting the software for the Windows operating system. Next there will be a small list of programs for connecting and diagnosing a car using the Windows line.
ScanMaster
Functional and convenient program for Windows environment. Can show a lot of different information from sensors and nodes.
The interface is designed in the form of various tabs, each with its own functionality. Vehicle information, for example, will show the VIN and other numeric data. Here you can fill out a car profile for yourself, if there are several of them.
The “Table of Live Data” tab will be of greatest interest to the majority of car owners. It displays many parameters and characteristics in real time in a convenient tabular form.
There is also another interesting tab - “Operational Data Measurements”. Here you can specify some of the parameters of the previous paragraph and monitor their changes, for example, when driving a car.
“Error codes” will show fault identifiers and immediately a description. True, only in English.
ScanTool
Essentially, a version of ScanMaster stripped down in functionality and capabilities. But it is light and responsive. If the detail of the data is not particularly important, then this is the best solution.
PCMScan
More powerful product than ScanMaster. In addition to all the already listed functions of other programs, it can measure the current power and torque of the car in real time.
The program can be connected directly to the monitor in the cabin to see live the changes and processes occurring in the car.
It is also possible to use the program as a control interface for chip tuning. Unfortunately, this will require a special module from the manufacturer. Although, even without all these bells and whistles, the program copes with its task with a bang. Before using the ELM327 mini in conjunction with PCMScan, it is worth studying its manual in detail.
Other diagnostic applications
There are also programs tailored for a specific car brand. If there is such an application, then it is better to use it. The program will be able to fully realize the potential of the scanner, unlike universal solutions.
For example, there is a good product for Toyota - ELMScan Toyota.
Testing the testing device
The tautology in the title is not without reason. Due to the huge number of modifications of the ELM, many fakes, versions and versions have appeared. To be sure that your actions are correct, before using the ELM327 auto scanner, you can find out what version it is.
There is a program for this called ELM327 Identifier. It checks for version support and displays the result on the screen. This will help resolve issues of incompatibility of some modules and software.
Finally
Before using the ELM327 scanner, it is best to spend a little time and find out how not to buy a counterfeit or a device that is not supported by the car’s diagnostic system. In addition, this is an electronic device that can change some data in the car’s ECU, so the choice must be taken with a great deal of responsibility.
Up until the mid-1990s, every car manufacturer had their own standards and protocols, and this was a real headache even for professional auto mechanics who simply didn't have access to it. The situation began to change with the introduction of the standard OBD-II, which has been implemented by automakers around the world. And today, one of the most popular tools for reading errors from a car’s on-board computer is the ELM327 auto scanner (ELM 327): Android, iOS, Windows, including Windows Phone can work with this device quite accurately.
What is it and how does it work?
The ELM327 car scanner is a car-mounted device; it is a tiny, relatively inexpensive solution that helps determine car malfunctions. But it is not self-sufficient for diagnostics; this microcontroller is used by other devices, for example, the Yongtek Bluetooth scanner.
ELM327 functions as a bridge between the on-board computer in the car and your laptop, tablet or smartphone. It is capable of communicating with the OBDII system and then transmitting data via USB, WiFi or Bluetooth, depending on the specific implementation.
ELM327 supports several different interfaces. But to connect it you need special programs. The three main connection methods include:
- Wired USB connections. The most common option, relatively inexpensive due to the lack of wireless modules in the device.
- Wireless WiFi connection. Such devices are already a little more expensive.
- Bluetooth wireless connection. Relatively inexpensive, available for many, including older phones, tablets and other devices. But it is not compatible with some devices, such as the iPhone.
If you have a PC or an Android device, either one will usually work. If you have an iPhone or iPad, you probably won't be able to use the ELM327 Bluetooth device due to the way iOS handles the Bluetooth stack. Jailbroken devices can work, although there is some level of risk involved.
Programs for ELM327
So, to work with a microcontroller for diagnostics, you will need one or another program. Their main classification is based on the operating systems on which they are installed for scanners.
Programs for Windows (laptop)
OpenDiag
It is considered the best program for diagnosing domestically produced cars. Suitable for almost all brands and models of Russian cars. Of the minuses, it should be noted that it is incompatible with the Wi-Fi protocol. The program is suitable for most versions of Windows, including one of the most popular versions - 7, in Russian.
ScanMaster ELM
This is the most universal program for ELM327 scanning a car computer and is considered one of the simplest and most understandable. Another significant advantage is the ability to work via all connection channels: USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Russian language is present.
PROScan
And this is the most functional program for a car scanner, it is distinguished by the presence of many features, including analytics of indicators and tips on certain parameters. But, unfortunately, there is no Russian language in it.
ScanXL
Another program that can rightfully be considered the golden mean between most others due to the presence of many necessary functions and compatibility with many makes and models of cars.
Android Applications
OpenDiag Mobile
As the name suggests, this program, according to the section above, is for diagnosing domestic cars. A good application for any makes and models of our cars. And it already supports Wi-Fi
Torque
This application is the golden mean of most of those presented in the Android store. It is functional, easy to use and compatible with all devices and connection types.
EconTool ELM327
This application is only for older Nissan cars, but it is popular for one simple reason - it is the only one that is supported when working with these cars.
iOS apps
OBD Car Doctor
We start with the simplest program, but it has all the ELM327 functions necessary for operation. USB and Bluetooth are not supported here, only Wi-Fi.
DashCommand
But the DashCommand application for iPhones and iPads does not have Russian in the interface. But the program is more functional, and the list of supported cars is quite wide. Just like the previous one, it only supports Wi-Fi communication.
Engine Link
What is the difference between version 2.1 and 1.5
Microcontroller ELM327 version 2.1 most often can only be found in non-original Chinese ones. It’s not worth buying it, and version 1.5 will be enough for you, because 2.1 will just be an inscription that does not distinguish the previous version in any way in this case, except for the inflated price.
And for version 1.5, don’t go cheap either. The average cost of an adapter today is about 400-500 rubles or a similar price in dollar equivalent.
How to use
Setting up the ELM327 is quite simple, but it depends on the specific program with which it is used. In any case, you will need to connect an adapter or diagnostic adapter to the car's on-board computer. It is usually located under the driver's left knee on most makes and models of cars. Occasionally it may be located in another place.
To display a list of vehicle mechanisms, there is a computer with an LCD monitor on board. If the computer previously detected a problem, the driver needed to contact a car service center. However, with the advent of a scanning device for diagnosing car systems, the need for this decreases, because minor problems can be fixed independently. The ELM 327 Interface OBD2 wireless adapter simply connects and starts reading information about the car’s status.
This approach reduces the cost of car service services and the time spent on repairs, and also allows the driver to better understand the mechanisms of his car.
One of the inventions for automating troubleshooting is ELM 327 Interface OBD2. The previous version of the ELM 327 BST scanner connected to devices via a cord, and it is up to you to decide which is better for you - a cheap wired one or an expensive wireless one. ELM 327 WiFi operates thanks to the Internet, and the OBD2 Bluetooth adapter Obdii operates thanks to the presence of Bluetooth. Due to this, ELM 327 Interface OBD2 displays information on the monitor of a PC, PDA or smartphone.
You can buy a scanner with instructions in Russian on the official website. Here you will find prices as well as reviews written by users. The possibility of delivering the ELM 327 adapter with a switch to the cities of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan is presented.
Delivery to CIS countries Connection rules
It is not enough to buy a wireless car scanner ELM 327 - you need to know how to use it. The video will help with this problem and in determining which auto scanner is better to choose and whether it is possible to remake it.
To connect the ELM 327 scanner to your car, follow the instructions:
- Turn off the car engine.
- Take the ELM 327 USB adapter and place it in the ELM 327 OBD2 connector. Please note that in each vehicle model this hole is located in different places - in the glove compartment or to the left of the dashboard.
- Install the software disc for the ELM 327 WST scanner. You will see the installed ELM 327 OBD2 utility in the menu.
- Start the car.
- Activate bluetooth on the signal output device (computer, phone) and receive the file.
- Open the Driver file using Smart Scan tool ELM 327 and read the data specified there.
Now at any time you can read data about the condition of the car in order to fix it yourself or go to a car service center.
Together with the Skaner 327 elm Bluetooth scanner you will forget about car service Information on screen
ELM327 scanners display the following data:
- display information about software failures;
- photograph the displayed information using a screenshot;
- show generalized data about the vehicle;
- display the VIN code.
Using the ELM 327 Bluetooth auto scanner, you can see the fuel level, engine, transmission or coolant temperature. The ELM 327 bluetooth auto scanner shows what load is on the engine and what the situation is with the ignition switch. ELM 327 USB with a switch will show the level of air consumption and the state of the brake system. Also ELM 327 USB with switch will display all data in chart format.
Operational problems
A difficulty often arises - the drivers for the ELM 327 Wi-Fi and Smart Scan Tool ELM 327 are installed, but your ELM car scanner does not function. For correct operation of ELM 327 Wi-Fi, reinstall the software from the included disk. If you have an Android device, download the scanner from the store. Reviews about Smart Scan are positive due to the free nature of the utility. Before you start working with the ELM 327 adapter, check the presence of OBD 2 hole.
Buy with 50% discount
Elm327 reading can be read via Smart Scan on Android OS Where to buy and what is the price?
You can order an ELM 327 car scanner by filling out the form below. A consultant will contact you who will tell you all the conditions for purchasing and delivering the goods.
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