KOBRA OBD2 Scan Tool: Your Comprehensive Guide to Wireless Car Diagnostics

The Kobra Obd2 Scan Tool is engineered to empower you with professional-grade car diagnostics right at your fingertips. Transform your smartphone or tablet into a sophisticated vehicle monitoring system and gain unprecedented insight into your car’s health and performance. This user-friendly OBD2 scanner reads both generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes, accessing a comprehensive database of over 3000 code definitions to help you understand and address any issues your vehicle may be experiencing.

Unlock Seamless Connectivity with the KOBRA OBD2 Scanner

Unlike many OBD scanners that limit compatibility, the KOBRA OBD2 scan tool utilizes Wi-Fi connectivity to ensure seamless integration with a wide array of devices. Whether you are an Apple aficionado, an Android enthusiast, or prefer Windows-based systems, this versatile car code reader bridges the gap. Simply connect to a Wi-Fi network and unlock a wealth of real-time data on your car’s performance, enabling you to diagnose problems efficiently and effectively.

App Compatibility: Expanding Your Diagnostic Capabilities

The KOBRA OBD2 scan tool is designed to work with a variety of popular OBD2 applications, giving you the freedom to choose the software that best suits your needs and preferences. It supports leading apps such as OBD Fusion, DashCommand, and OBD Car Doctor for iOS users, Torque Pro for Android aficionados, and OBD Auto Doctor for Windows devices. This broad compatibility extends to numerous other ELM327-compatible apps that rely on a Wi-Fi OBD2 adapter, ensuring you are not locked into a single platform. Rest assured, the KOBRA OBD2 wireless car code reader is compatible with all cars and light trucks manufactured in the United States from 1996 to 2018, offering extensive vehicle coverage.

Upgraded for Enhanced Performance and User Experience

The latest version of the KOBRA WIFI OBD2 Scanner and Check Engine Code Reader reflects our commitment to continuous improvement based on valuable user feedback. This upgraded iteration boasts an enhanced Wi-Fi signal range, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. App compatibility has been further optimized, and the internal components have been upgraded to deliver superior performance and durability. Furthermore, we have eliminated the need for a CD, streamlining the setup process. Don’t compromise on quality with cheaply manufactured OBD2 ELM327 scanners. The KOBRA OBD diagnostic scanner and Check Engine Light Eliminator is constructed using premium materials, ensuring optimal performance and long-lasting reliability.

Risk-Free Purchase and Dedicated Customer Support

Your satisfaction is our top priority. We are confident in the quality and performance of the KOBRA OBD2 scan tool, which is why we offer a 1-year money-back guarantee. If this auto diagnostic scanner does not meet your expectations, we provide a hassle-free return process, no questions asked. Our friendly customer service team is always ready to assist you, ensuring a positive and supportive experience.

Kobra Products Wifi OBD Scanner User Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

To get started with your Kobra OBD2 scan tool, follow these simple steps:

Initial Setup: Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is turned off. Locate your vehicle’s OBD2 port and firmly plug in the Kobra™ OBD Scanner.
Establish Wi-Fi Connection: Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position (one step before starting the engine). On your smartphone or tablet, navigate to “Settings” and then “Wi-Fi”. Enable Wi-Fi and connect to the network named “WiFi_OBDII”.
- Note: If your chosen OBD app does not immediately detect the “WiFi_OBDII” connection, force quit the app and relaunch it. (On Android, use the “Task Manager” to force quit. On iOS, double-press the home button and swipe up to close the app).
Launch Your OBD App: Open your preferred OBD app. Popular free options for Android include Torque Lite, OBD Link, ScanMaster Lite, and OBD Car Doctor. Torque Pro is a highly regarded paid app. For Apple devices, consider free apps like OBD Fusion and OBD CarDoctor, or the paid DashCommand app. Refer to the comprehensive app lists provided below for more recommendations.
App Connection Configuration: Some apps will automatically connect to the Kobra OBD2 scanner upon launch. Others may require manual configuration within the app settings. If necessary, access the app’s settings menu and configure the connection type to Wi-Fi OBD Scanner. Then, select the “WiFi_OBDII” device when prompted.
Update App Settings for Wi-Fi: It is crucial to configure your OBD app (e.g., Torque) to specifically search for a Wi-Fi connection. If this setting is not correctly adjusted, the app will not be able to detect the scanner. This configuration process is generally consistent across most OBD apps.

Example: Torque App Settings

Within the Torque app, navigate to “Settings” and make the following adjustments:
1. Tap “Connection” and select “WIFI” as the connection type.
2. Tap “Device” and choose “OBD2” as the device.
After making these changes, force close the Torque app using the Task Manager (Android) or by double-pressing the home button and swiping up (iOS). Relaunch the app to ensure the new settings are applied correctly. Many OBD apps require a restart to fully implement setting changes.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

Step 1: Verify Wi-Fi Connection: Before proceeding, confirm that your device is successfully connected to the “WiFi_OBDII” network and that your car’s ignition is in the “ON” position (engine not started).

Step 2: Configure OBD App Settings: Ensure your OBD app is configured to search for a Wi-Fi OBD2 scanner, as detailed in step 5 of the user guide.

Step 3: Restart the App: Force close and relaunch your OBD app to apply any newly configured settings.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to establish a successful connection between your Kobra OBD2 scan tool and your vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit). Always ensure your car’s ignition is turned to the “ON” position during the connection process.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Firmware Compatibility

In some instances, particularly with older devices or those with outdated firmware, a specific connection sequence may be necessary:

Plug-in and Ignition Off: With the vehicle’s ignition off, plug the Kobra™ OBD Scanner into the OBD2 port.
Ignition ON and Wi-Fi Connect: Turn the ignition to the “ON” position. On your device, go to Wi-Fi settings and connect to the “WiFi_OBDII” network. Allow up to a minute for the network to be detected.
Static IP Configuration: Once connected to “WiFi_OBDII”, access the advanced Wi-Fi settings for this network (often by clicking a small blue arrow or gear icon). Set the IP Address configuration to “Static”. Enter the following static IP settings:
- IP Address: 192.168.0.123
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Router: 192.168.0.10
- Leave gateway and DNS fields blank.
Save these settings and exit the Wi-Fi configuration.
Start Car and App Configuration: Start your car’s engine. In your OBD app’s connection settings, configure a custom TCP connection with the following parameters:
- IP Address: 192.168.0.10
- TCP Port: 35000

Resolving Common Operational Issues

Issue: Device connected to Wi-Fi, but OBD app not recognizing the scanner.
Solution: Turn off Wi-Fi on your device, disconnect the OBD scanner from the car, force quit the OBD app, relaunch the app, reconnect Wi-Fi, and try connecting again.

Issue: OBD2 scanner showing no power (no lights).
Solution: Detach and re-attach the adapter, repeating the setup steps. If the issue persists, check your vehicle’s OBD fuse and replace it if necessary.

Issue: Phone/app connected to scanner, but unable to connect to ECU.
Solution: Turn off Wi-Fi, force close the app, disconnect the scanner, reconnect it (wait for red light), reconnect Wi-Fi, and relaunch the app.

Issue: “Check Engine” light reappears after clearing codes.
Solution: Try clearing codes in ACC mode (second ignition position). Note that clearing codes does not fix the underlying problem, and the issue may reoccur.

Issue: “Check Engine” and fault codes present, but Kobra Scanner cannot read them.
Solution: While highly compatible, some vehicles may require specialized diagnostic equipment beyond the capabilities of the Kobra Scanner.

Issue: Torque (or other app) detects scanner, but no car connection.
Solution: Verify OBD2 compatibility of your vehicle. Vehicles manufactured or imported after January 1, 1996, are typically OBD2 compliant. Older vehicles may not be compatible and may require professional mechanic scanners.

Recommended OBD2 Apps

Full List of Recommended Android Apps

Free:

ScanMaster Lite
Torque Lite
OBD2-ELM327 Car Diagnostics
OBD Dashboard
ScanMyOpel Lite
OBD Car Doctor
Efficiency (free)
BMWhat Lite (BMW only)

Paid:

DashCommand
Torque Pro
ScanMyOpel
OBD Car Doctor Pro
TouchScan (OBD Diagnostics)
Efficiency Pro
BMWhat (BMW only)

Full List of Recommended Apple iOS Apps