The Blue Point Diagnostic Tool Obd2 is a valuable asset for anyone involved in automotive repair, from professional mechanics to dedicated DIY enthusiasts. These tools are essential for accessing the wealth of data available from modern vehicle onboard diagnostic systems. Understanding how these tools function and what they offer is crucial for effective vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting.
One key function of any OBD2 diagnostic tool, including the Blue Point models, is the ability to display live data. This feature allows users to monitor real-time parameters from the vehicle’s engine and other systems. However, experiences can vary with different tools. For instance, some users have noted that certain scanners, like the Microscan III, can be slow when loading live data. This can sometimes lead to frustration, especially when trying to customize data views or experiencing unresponsive touch screens. In such cases, users may even need to disconnect and reconnect the OBD2 connector to reset the tool.
While live data is a cornerstone feature, the organization and usability of this data are equally important. Many diagnostic tools, including Blue Point scanners, offer custom display options for live data. This allows mechanics to focus on specific parameters relevant to their diagnosis. However, a common limitation in some tools is the lack of a save function for selected live data configurations. Typically, OBD2 scanners default to displaying all available Parameter IDs (PIDs), which can be overwhelming.
Modern diagnostic tools are designed for ease of use, often automatically configuring themselves to the connected vehicle. Older scanners might require manual vehicle-specific configurations, but newer blue point diagnostic tool OBD2 devices often streamline this process. They are generally designed to read OBD2 data PIDs and display live information without needing explicit details about the vehicle’s make, model, or engine. This contrasts with older tools like the MT2500, which often prompt users for vehicle-specific information like VIN type, make, model, and engine details. It raises the question of whether newer scanners rely on VIN reading capabilities to gather vehicle information automatically, even though basic OBD2 functionality should be independent of VIN access for essential data retrieval.
It’s important to remember that the capabilities of an OBD2 scanner are also limited by the vehicle’s onboard systems. Older vehicles, like a 1998 Jeep, may lack advanced “Info” functions such as VIN reading through the OBD2 port or comprehensive test modes like those for O2 sensors. More advanced diagnostic functions, such as Mode 6 tests for non-continuous monitoring results, might be available on some scanners but not supported by all vehicle ECUs, especially in older models.
When using a blue point diagnostic tool OBD2, protocol selection is a key consideration. While many scanners offer an “Auto” protocol selection, manual selection can sometimes be necessary for optimal communication. For example, for Chrysler Jeep vehicles of a certain era, the ISO 9141 protocol is often the correct choice. Understanding OBD2 protocols is crucial for effective diagnostics. Common OBD2 protocols include:
- ISO 9141-1 & 9141-2: Frequently used in Chrysler vehicles, as well as European and Asian models.
- ISO 15765-4 CAN (SAE J2480): Prevalent in modern vehicles, including those not strictly mandated to adhere to OBD2 standards.
- ISO14230-4 (KWP2000): Common in Asian vehicles.
- SAE J1850 PWM: Used by Ford.
- SAE J1850 VPW: Used by GM.
The physical OBD2 connector itself is standardized, but it’s useful to be aware of the two main connector types, Type A and Type B, although the standard pinout is consistent for diagnostic purposes.
Type A
Type B
The protocol used by a vehicle can be determined by examining the pins present in its OBD2 connector. Vehicles manufactured after 2008 generally utilize the CAN protocol and will typically have pins 4, 5, 6, 15, and 16 populated in their OBD2 connector. Older vehicles may have more variations in pin usage depending on the communication protocol they employ.
Here’s a breakdown of the standard OBD2 connector pin assignments:
TOP:
- Pin 1: OEM Reserved for manufacturer-specific communication.
- Pin 2: J1850 Bus+ for SAE J1850 PWM and VPW protocols.
- Pin 3: OEM Reserved.
- Pin 4: Chassis Ground.
- Pin 5: Signal Ground.
- Pin 6: CAN High (J-2284) for CAN protocol, common in modern vehicles (2008+).
- Pin 7: ISO 9141-2 K-line for ISO 9141 and KWP2000 protocols.
- Pin 8: OEM Reserved.
BOTTOM:
- Pin 9: OEM COMM.
- Pin 10: J1850 Bus- (negative) for SAE J1850 PWM and VPW protocols.
- Pins 11, 12, 13, 14: OEM Reserved.
- Pin 15: ISO 9141-2 L-line for ISO 9141 and KWP2000 protocols.
- Pin 16: Battery Power (Unswitched) to power the diagnostic tool.
In conclusion, the blue point diagnostic tool OBD2 is a fundamental instrument in automotive diagnostics. Understanding its capabilities, limitations, and the underlying OBD2 protocols and connector standards is essential for anyone working on modern vehicles. While user experience can vary between different models and vehicle systems, the core functionality of reading live data and accessing diagnostic information remains invaluable for effective car repair.
