For car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, understanding your vehicle’s health is becoming increasingly accessible. OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) adapters have revolutionized car diagnostics, allowing you to tap into your car’s computer system using your smartphone or tablet. Among the various types of OBD2 adapters, WiFi-enabled adapters offer a convenient wireless connection. This guide will walk you through the simple process of connecting your Obd2 To Wifi so you can start diagnosing your car with ease using apps like Car Scanner.
Step #1: Powering Up Your OBD2 WiFi Adapter and Plugging It In
First, ensure you have an OBDII ELM327 adapter that specifically supports a Wi-Fi connection. Locate the OBDII diagnostic socket in your vehicle. This port is typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side. With your car’s ignition turned on (or engine running), firmly plug the OBD2 adapter into this socket. If your adapter has a power button, make sure to switch it on. This powers up the device and allows it to establish a WiFi network.
Step #2: Connecting to the OBD2 WiFi Network from Your Phone or Tablet
Now, on your smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android), navigate to your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Do not open the Car Scanner app yet. Enable Wi-Fi and scan for available networks. Your OBD2 adapter will broadcast a Wi-Fi signal, usually with a name like “OBDII,” “OBD2,” “WIFI_OBDII,” or sometimes branded with the adapter manufacturer’s name, such as “VLINK” for VGate adapters.
Select the OBD2 adapter’s Wi-Fi network to connect. In most cases, these adapters do not require a password. However, if prompted for a password, consult the documentation that came with your OBD2 adapter. It’s important to note that the Wi-Fi network name will never be related to your car’s brand.
Connecting to OBD2 WiFi network on iPhone settings
Step #3: Configuring the Car Scanner App for OBD2 WiFi
Once your device is connected to the OBD2 adapter’s Wi-Fi network, open the Car Scanner application. Look for the “Settings” icon, usually represented by a gear symbol, typically located in the top-right corner of the app’s main screen. Tap on this settings icon to proceed.
Car Scanner app main settings menu
Within the Car Scanner settings menu, find and tap on the “Adapter” option (in older versions of the app, this might be labeled “Connection”). This section allows you to configure how the app communicates with your OBD2 adapter.
Selecting Adapter settings in Car Scanner app
In the Adapter or Connection settings, you will see a “Connection type” option. Select “Wi-Fi” as your connection method. This tells the Car Scanner app to look for a connection over the Wi-Fi network.
Choosing WiFi as connection type in Car Scanner app
After selecting Wi-Fi, verify the “Adapter IP address” and “Port” settings. For the majority of OBD2 WiFi adapters, the default IP address is 192.168.0.10 and the port is 35000. However, some adapters may use different settings. Always refer to the documentation provided with your specific OBD2 adapter to confirm the correct IP address and port if the default settings do not work.
Step #4: Connecting and Starting Your Car Diagnostics
With the Wi-Fi connection established and Car Scanner configured, you are now ready to connect to your car’s computer. On the Car Scanner app’s main screen, locate and tap the large, prominent “Connect” button, often depicted in green.
Car Scanner app connection progress screen
The Car Scanner app will now attempt to connect to your OBD2 adapter and retrieve data from your vehicle. Once connected, you can start using the app’s features to read diagnostic trouble codes, monitor live sensor data, and gain valuable insights into your car’s performance and health.
For subsequent uses, ensure your device is connected to the OBD2 WiFi network again and simply tap the “Connect” button in the Car Scanner app. Connecting your OBD2 to WiFi makes car diagnostics a breeze, empowering you with information to maintain your vehicle effectively.
