Are you tired of hefty service bills just to reset the service indicator on your Ducati? If you’re a hands-on owner of a Ducati Scrambler or similar model, you’ll be pleased to know you can perform this task yourself using Ducati Obd2 Software. This guide will walk you through the process of resetting your service indicator for models like the 2017 Scrambler Desert Sled, saving you time and money.
What You’ll Need: Essential Tools and Software
Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools and software. This DIY method utilizes readily available and affordable components:
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OBD2 Cable Kit for Ducati: You’ll need a specific cable set that includes an ELM 327 FTDI OBD2 cable and a 4-pin Ducati adapter cable. Search online marketplaces like eBay for “ELM 327 FTDI cable and 4 pin Ducati cable” to find a kit, typically around £33. It’s crucial to verify that the ELM 327 chipset is FTDI, as other chipsets may not be compatible.
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FTDI VCP Drivers: To enable your computer to communicate with the OBD2 cable, download and install the Virtual Com Port (VCP) drivers for FTDI chips. A quick Google search for “VCP drivers FTDI” will lead you to the necessary download. Install these drivers before plugging in your USB FTDI ELM 327 cable. You might also need the ELM327 v1.5 software driver, which may be included with your cable (often on a mini-CD) or available for download online.
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COM Port Configuration: After installing the drivers, open Windows Device Manager and locate the COM port assigned to your USB OBD2 cable. Set the COM port speed to 38400 bps. This ensures proper communication speed for the diagnostic software.
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JPDiag/MelcoDiag Software: The heart of this process is the free (for non-commercial use) JPDiag MelcoDiag software. Download it from the jpdiag official website. This powerful tool, designed for Ducati, Guzzi, Morini, and other motorcycles, allows for various diagnostic and service functions, including service light resets.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your Ducati Service Light
With all components ready, follow these steps to reset your Ducati service indicator:
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Launch MelcoDiag and Select M3C: Start the MelcoDiag software and on the initial screen, ensure the button is set to M3C.
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Obtain a Free License: MelcoDiag requires a free license for activation. Follow the on-screen instructions to request a license. You’ll typically receive a lic.cle license key file via email within a few hours. This file is specific to your bike’s VIN and ECU code.
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Place License File: Copy the received lic.cle file into the same folder where you installed the MelcoDiag software.
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Connect Cables to Your Ducati:
- Plug the USB FTDI OBD2 cable into your laptop.
- Locate the 4-pin diagnostic connector on your Ducati. For Scrambler models, it’s usually under the plastic battery cover, near the USB port. Remove the seat and battery cover to access it.
- Connect the Ducati 4-pin adapter cable to the OBD2 cable, and then plug the adapter into the Ducati’s diagnostic connector.
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Establish Connection:
- Ensure the lic.cle file is in the MelcoDiag folder.
- Turn on your Ducati’s ignition.
- In MelcoDiag, click the Connect button on the Home tab. Successful connection is indicated by the Connect button lights turning green and the cable lights flashing.
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Troubleshooting Connection Issues: If you encounter an “ELM software not detected” error, it likely means you have an incompatible OBD2 cable. Double-check that you purchased an ELM 327 FTDI cable. If necessary, restart the process with the correct cable.
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Select M3C Again: If the connection is successful (green lights), re-confirm that M3C is selected on the MelcoDiag opening screen.
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Reset the Service Light:
- Navigate to the Reset Tab in MelcoDiag.
- Click the Desmo service reset button once.
- Wait for a confirmation ‘ding’ sound (this might take a few seconds).
- Turn off the Ducati ignition.
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Verify Reset: Wait for about 15 seconds, then turn the Ducati ignition back on. The service indicator should now be reset, typically for another 7500 miles.
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Show Appreciation: Consider making a donation to JPDiag via PayPal to support the developer’s hard work. This free software saves Ducati owners significant costs associated with dealer service resets.
By following these steps, you can effectively use Ducati OBD2 software to reset your service indicator, empowering you to maintain your motorcycle and save money on routine maintenance.
