LAUNCH CRP123 Plus Elite OBD2 Scanner User Guide

LAUNCH CRP123 Plus Elite OBD2 Scanner

Product Information

Specifications

• Brand: LAUNCH
• Trademark: LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD.
• Registered Trademark: Yes
• Country of Origin: China

Product Usage Instructions

Introduction

The LAUNCH equipment is designed for vehicle diagnostics and troubleshooting. It is compatible with OBD II compliant vehicles.

Vehicle Coverage

The LAUNCH equipment is compatible with most vehicles. To determine if a vehicle is OBD II compliant, look for a label under the hood or near the radiator that designates it as “OBD II Certified”. Additionally, all OBD II- compliant vehicles must have a common 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
Note : Some vehicles with 16-pin connectors may not be OBD II compliant unless they have a Vehicle Emissions Control Label stating “OBD II Certified”.

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II
OBD II is a system that monitors and reports vehicle diagnostics. The LAUNCH equipment is specifically designed to work with OBD II systems.

OBD II Definitions
OBD II uses Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to identify specific faults or issues in the vehicle. There are three types of DTCs:

1. Current – A DTC is considered current when a fault condition is currently present.
2. Stored – A DTC is stored when a fault condition has occurred in the past.
3. Permanent – A stored DTC that can only be cleared by the OBD II system after repairs are made and a set number of Driving Cycles have been completed.

Example DTC:
P0202 – Injector circuit malfunction, Cylinder 1

Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC)

The DLC is a 16-pin connector where diagnostic code readers interface with the vehicle’s onboard computer. It is typically located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel, under or around the driver’s side for most vehicles. However, the DLC location may vary for some vehicles with special designs. Please refer to the vehicle’s service manual for the specific DLC location.

Product Descriptions
Components & Controls

1. DB-15 diagnostic connector: Connect the tool to the vehicle’s DLC (Data Link Connector) port.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What is OBD II?
  A: OBD II stands for On-Board Diagnostics II. It is a system that monitors and reports vehicle diagnostics.

• Q: How do I determine if my vehicle is OBD II compliant?
  A: Look for a label under the hood or near the radiator that designates the vehicle as “OBD II Certified”. Additionally, all OBD II compliant vehicles must have a common 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).

• Q: Where is my vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC) located?
  A: The DLC is typically located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel, under or around the driver’s side for most vehicles. However, the DLC location may vary for some vehicles with special designs. Please refer to the vehicle’s service manual forthe specific DLC location.

Trademarks

LAUNCH is a registered trademark of LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD. in China and other countries. All other marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Copyright Information
Copyright © 2023 by LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD. (also called LAUNCH for short). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying and recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission.

Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liabilities

• All information, illustrations, and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of publication.
• The right is reserved to make changes at any time without notice. We shall not be liable for any direct, special, incidental, indirect damages or any economic consequential damages (including the loss of profits) due to the use of the document.
• To take full advantage of the unit, you should be familiar with the engine.
• LAUNCH shall not be liable for any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any consumable products other than those designated as Original LAUNCH Products or LAUNCH Approved Products by LAUNCH.

Safety Precautions and Warnings

To prevent personal injury or damage to vehicles and/or the tool, please read this user’s manual first carefully and observe the following safety precautions at a minimum whenever working on a vehicle:

• There are no user serviceable parts. Have the device serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the device is maintained. Disassembling the device will void the warranty right.
• This product is not a toy. Do not allow children to play with or near this item.
• Do not expose the device to rain or wet conditions.
• Do not place the device on any unstable surface.
• Handle the device with care. If the device is dropped, check for breakage and any other conditions that my affect its operation.
• Do not operate the tool in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or heavy dust.
• Keep the tool dry, clean, free from oil, water or grease. Use a mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the device when necessary.
• People with pacemakers should consult their physician(s) before use. Electromagnetic fields in close proximity to heart pacemaker could cause pacemaker interference or pacemaker failure.
• Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.
• Do not attempt to operate or observe the tool while driving a vehicle. Operating or observing the tool will cause driver distraction and could cause a fatal accident.
• Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
• Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from all moving or hot engine parts.
• Operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated work area: Exhaust gases are poisonous.
• Put blocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle unattended while running tests.
• Use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor cap, ignition wires and spark plugs. These components create hazardous voltages when the engine is running.
• Put the transmission in P (for A/T) or N (for M/T) and make sure the parking brake is engaged.
• Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/chemical/ electrical fires nearby.
• Don’t connect or disconnect any test equipment while the ignition is on or the engine is running.

FCC Statement

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note : This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Introduction

Vehicle Coverage
This diagnostic tool is specially designed to work with all OBD II compliant vehicles, including Controller Area Network (CAN). It is required by EPA that all 1996 and newer vehicles (cars and light trucks) sold in the United States must be OBD II compliant and this includes all American, Asian and European vehicles.
A small number of 1994 and 1995 model year gasoline vehicles are OBD II compliant. To verify if a 1994 or 1995 vehicle is OBD II compliant, check the following:

1. Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) Label. It is located under the hood or by the radiator of most vehicles. If the vehicle is OBD II compliant, the label will designate OBD II Certified.
2. Government regulations mandate that all OBD II compliant vehicles must have a “common” 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
   Note : Some 1994 and 1995 vehicles have 16-pin connectors but are not OBD II compliant. Only those vehicles with a Vehicle Emissions Control Label stating OBD II Certified are OBD II compliant.

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II
The OBD II system is designed to monitor emission control systems and key engine components by performing either continuous or periodic tests of specific components and vehicle conditions, which will offer three pieces of such valuable information:

• Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is commanded “on” or “off”;
• Which, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored;
• Readiness Monitor status.

OBD II Definitions
The following terms and their definitions are related to OBD II systems. Read and reference this list as needed to aid in the understanding of OBD II systems.
EOBD – European On-Board Diagnostics. Essentially the same as OBD II, with the same Data Link Connector and Communication Protocols.
Communication Protocols – Allows different systems and sensors in a vehicle to communicate. There are currently five protocols:

• CAN Bus
• J1850 VPW
• ISO 9141-2
• J1850 PWM
• ISO 14230 KWP

1. PCM — Powertrain Control Module. The PCM is the OBD II accepted term for the vehicle’s “on-board computer.” In addition to controlling the engine management and emissions systems, the PCM also participates in controlling the powertrain (transmission) operation. Most PCMs also have the ability to communicate with other computers on the vehicle (ABS, ride control, body, etc.).
2. DLC — Data Link Connector. The 16-cavity connector on the vehicle that allows communication between the computer system and the diagnostic tool.
3. MIL — Malfunction Indicator Light. The vehicle’s “Check Engine” warning light that activates when a DTC is stored.
4. DTC — Diagnostic Trouble Code. A code stored in the computer system’s memory, which helps to identify the fault condition that is causing the MIL to activate.
5. Freeze Frame Data — Operating conditions that are stored when a DTC is stored.
6. PID — Parameter Identification Data. Data returned by the vehicle’s control modules to the diagnostic tool.
7. Monitors — Monitors are “diagnostic routines” programmed into the PCM. The PCM utilizes these programs to run diagnostic tests, and to monitor operation of the vehicle’s emissions-related components or systems to ensure they are operating correctly and within the vehicle’s manufacturer specifications.
8. Enabling Criteria — Also termed Enabling Conditions. They are the vehicle- specific events or conditions that must occur within the engine before the various monitors will set, or run. Some monitors require the vehicle to follow a prescribed “drive cycle” routine as part of the enabling criteria. Drive cycles vary among vehicles and for each monitor in any particular vehicle. Please refer to the vehicle’s factory service manual for specific enabling procedures.
9. Drive Cycle — A specific mode of vehicle operation that provides conditions required to set all the readiness monitors applicable to the vehicle to the “ready” condition. The purpose of completing an OBD II drive cycle is to force the vehicle to run its onboard diagnostics. Some form of a drive cycle needs to be performed after DTCs have been erased from the PCM’s memory or after the battery has been disconnected. Running through a vehicle’s complete drive cycle will “set” the readiness monitors so that future faults can be detected. Drive cycles vary depending on the vehicle and the monitor that needs to be reset. For vehicle specific drive cycle, consult the service manual.
10. Fuel Trim (FT) – Feedback adjustments to the base fuel schedule. Short-term fuel trim refers to dynamic or instantaneous adjustments. Long-term fuel trim refers to much more gradual adjustments to the fuel calibration schedule than short-term trim adjustments. These long-term adjustments compensate for vehicle differences and gradual changes that occur over time.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
A DTC is a five digit alphanumeric identifier for a fault condition identified by the OBD II system. There are three types of DTCs:

1. Pending – when a fault condition is identified during a Drive Cycle, but does not meet enough criteria to activate the MIL.
2. Stored – A DTC is stored when a fault condition has occurred that meets enough criteria to activate the MIL.
3. Permanent – A stored DTC that can only be cleared by the OBD II system, after repairs are made, and a set number of Driving Cycles have been completed.

The first character, a letter, identifies which control system sets the code. The second character, a number, 0-3; other three characters, a hex character, 0-9 or A-F provide additional information on where the DTC originated and the operating conditions that caused it to set. Here below is an example to illustrate the structure of the digits:

P0202 – Injector circuit malfunction, Cylinder 1

Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC)
The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is typically a 16-pin connector where diagnostic code readers interface with the vehicle’s on-board computer. It is usually located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel, under or around the driver’s side for most vehicles. For some vehicles with special designs, the DLC location may vary.
Refer to the following figure for possible location.

• A- Opel, Volkswagen, Audi
• B- Honda
• C- Volkswagen
• D- Opel, Volkswagen, Citroen
• E- Changan
• F- Hyundai, Daewoo, Kia, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Renault, Opel, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mazda, Volkswagen, Audi, GM, Chrysler, Peugeot, Regal, Beijing Jeep, Citroen and other most popular models

If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle’s service manual for the location.

Product Descriptions

Components & Controls

1. DB-15 diagnostic connector
   Connect the tool to vehicle’s DLC (Data Link Connector) port.

2. Selection buttons

Move cursor up and down for selection.

Move cursor left or right for selection; Or turn page up and down when more than one page is displayed.

3. OK button
   Confirm a selection (or action) from a menu list.

4. ESC button
   Exit the current program or return to the previous screen.

5. USB port
   Connect on PC to upload data or print test results.

6. Memory Card Slot
   Insert the memory card.

7. LCD screen
   Indicates test results.

8. DTC lookup button
   Retrieve the DTCs in the database.

Technical Specifications

• Screen: 4.0” TFT LCD display
• OBDII input voltage range: 9~18V
• Net weight: <400g
• Working temperature: 0 to 50°C (32 to 122 F°)
• Storage temperature: -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158 F°)

Accessories Checklist

The following accessory items are for reference purpose only. For detailed accessory items, please consult from the seller.

1. Diagnostic tool x 1
2. Diagnostic cable x 1
3. Memory card x 1
4. Memory card reader x 1
5. USB cable x 1
6. Quick start guide x 1
7. User manual x 1

Initial Use

Install memory card

1. Take out the memory card from package box.
2. Insert the memory card into the memory card slot on the bottom of the tool perpendicularly. Make sure is fully inserted in the right place with the “micro” label facing upward.
   Note : You can hear a clicking sound if you insert the memory card in the right place.
   Press the card slightly, it will be ejected automatically.

Update
By default, the tool is pre-installed with the diagnostic program and vehicle diagnostic software before shipment. To make sure the tool is running the latest available software, it is advisable to check for updates on a frequent basis. Refer to Section “Register & Update” for details.

Settings
This option allows you to make some system settings of the tool. Select [Settings] in the main menu and press [OK], the system will enter the following screen:

1. Language
   This option enables you to set the user interface language.
   Note : Due to continuous software upgrade, language interface may differ from different software versions.

2. Unit of Measure
   This option allows you to set measurement unit.

3. Beeper
   It is used to set On/Off the buzzer.

4. Record Mode
   It is used to turn On/Off recording function. All recorded files are saved under “Diagnose” -> “Review”.

Diagnostics

Connection

1. Turn the ignition off.

2. Locate the vehicle’s 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC). Refer to Chapter 1.5.

3. Plug one end of the diagnostic cable into the vehicle’s DLC(Data LinkConnector) port, and the other end to the DB-15 diagnostic connector of the tool, and then tighten the captive screws.
   Notes:

4. A plastic DLC cover may be found for some vehicles and you need to remove it before plugging the diagnostic cable.

5. The cable connector is keyed and will only fit one way. If you have problems connecting the cable connector to the DLC, rotate the connector 180o and try again.

6. Turn the ignition on. Engine can be off or running.
   Caution : Don’t connect or disconnect any test equipment with the ignition on or engine running.

7. Now the tool is ready for use.

Start Diagnostics

OBD/EOB II Diagnostics

• This option presents a quick way to check for DTCs, isolate the cause of the illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), check monitor status prior to emissions certification testing, verify repairs, and perform a number of other services that are emission-related.
• After the tool is properly connected to the vehicle’s DLC, tap “OBD II” in the Job Menu. The tool will automatically start a check of the vehicle’s computer to determine which type of communication protocol it is using. When the tool identifies the computer’s communication protocol, a communication link is established and then the screen will display the Monitor Status.
  Tap “OK” to enter the diagnostic test modes selection screen.

It mainly includes the following functions:

1. Read Codes
   This function can identify which section of the emission control system has malfunctioned.

2. Erase Codes
   This function erases the codes from the vehicle, after retrieving codes from the vehicle and certain repairs have been carried out.
   Make sure the vehicle’s ignition key is in the ON position with the engine off before the operation.

3. I/M Readiness
   This function checks whether or not the various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly, and are ready for Inspection and Maintenance testing.
   It can also be used to check the Monitor Run Status, and to confirm if the repair of a car fault has been performed correctly.

4. Data Stream
   This function retrieves and displays live data and parameters from the vehicle’s ECU.

5. View Freeze Frame
   This function takes the snapshot of the operating conditions when an emissionrelated fault occurs.
   Note : If DTCs were erased, Freeze Data may not be stored in vehicle memory depending on vehicle.

6. O2 Sensor Test
   This function retrieves O2 sensor monitor test results of the most recently completed tests from the vehicle’s on-board computer.

7. On-board Monitor test
   This function retrieves test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems that are not continuously monitored. The test’s availability is determined by the vehicle manufacturer.

8. EVAP System Test
   This function lets you initiate a leak test for the vehicle’s EVAP system. Refer to the vehicle’s service repair manual to determine the procedures necessary to stop the test.

9. Vehicle Info
   This function retrieves a list of information (provided by the vehicle manufacturer) from the vehicle’s on-board computer.
   This information may include:

10. VIN (Vehicle identification Number).

11. CID (Calibration ID).

12. CVN (Calibration Verification Number).

System Diagnostics

• This function is specially designed to diagnose the electronic control system of the single-vehicle model.
• For Creader Professional 123 V2.0, only four vehicle systems with basic diagnostic functions are supported.
• For Creader Professional 123 V2.0 PLUS, all vehicle systems with basic diagnostic functions are supported.

Notes:

• Before diagnosing, please make sure the diagnostic program corresponding to a certain vehicle model has been installed on your tool.
• For vehicles manufactured by different vendors, it may have different diagnostic menus. For details, please follow the instructions on the screen to proceed.

Refer to the flowchart illustrated as below to diagnose a vehicle:

Review
This function is used to review or delete the recorded DTC, Data Streams, and Freeze Frame.

Help
This menu enables you to view device information and OBD introduction

DLC Location Information
This option helps you to find the location of the vehicle’s DLC.

DTC Library
This function helps you to get the details of the DTC, which will greatly help simplify the diagnostic process.

Press button to move the highlight bar to a different position. Press button to alter the value, then press [OK] button, and the screen will display the definition of the DTC

Abbreviation
This option allows you to view the full name and detailed explanation of the automotive glossary abbreviations.

Tool Information
This option allows you to view the hardware and product information of the tool.
Note : You are strongly recommended to note down the Serial Number and Register Code in the above figure since these 2 pieces of information are required while registering your tool.

About OBD
This option allows you to have a general knowledge of OBD.

Upgrade Information
This option provides you with a website link to download the update suite.

Register & Update

Hardware Requirement:

1. A computer that can access the Internet.
2. A memory card reader/writer and a memory card are required. There are 2 methods available: via memory card or via USB cable.

Method 1: Via Memory Card

1. Go to http://www.cnlaunch.com to download the corresponding update tool.

2. Install the update tool and launch the program when installed.

3. Type in the Serial Number (located at the back of the tool).

4. After the Serial Number is entered, click [Device Upgrade] and enter the following information. Click [Submit].
   (If you need the Register Code, proceed to the steps 5-8)
   (If you have the Register Code, proceed to step 9 directly)

5. The Register Code can be found by connecting the supplied USB cable to the tool and inserted into the computer.

6. When the tool has powered up, place cursor on the Help icon and press the [OK] button.

7. Select [Tool Information], press [OK].

8. This is the Register Code for inputting into step 4.
   (Return to step 4 and input the code and then proceed)

9. Install the memory card from the tool into the supplied card adaptor and insert into USB port of CPU.

10. Reopen the update tool and select the updates you would like to perform or click [Select All] and click [Download].

11. Once all steps are complete, reinsert the memory card into the tool and power the tool via USB in computer or via OBD2 port in vehicle. The tool will prompt you to upgrade, click [OK] to start updating and a progress bar will appear. It may take several minutes to finish update if your upgrade package file is too large, please wait.

12. The registration process is now complete!

Method 2: Via USB Cable
Note : Make sure the PC has an Internet connection.

1. Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port of PC, and the other end to the tool.
2. If a newer version is found, the following screen will appear.
3. Press [OK] to configure this tool as a USB device. The Serial Number and Register Code shown below are needed for inputting in Steps 4-5.
4. Launch the update tool, the following screen will appear
5. Type in the Product Serial Number, and then click [Device Upgrade] to enter the following screen. Input the required information and click [Submit] to enter the update page.
6. Select the updates you would like to perform or click “Select All”, and then click [Download] to start downloading.
7. Once all steps are complete, restart your tool. It will prompt you to upgrade, click [OK] to start updating. It may take several minutes to finish the update.
8. The update process is complete, your tool is now ready for use.

FAQ

Here we list some frequently asked questions and answers relating to the tool.

• Question: System halts when reading data stream. What is the reason?
  Answer: It may be caused by a slackened connector. Please turn off the tool, firmly connect the connector, and switch it on again.

• Question: The screen of main unit flashes at engine ignition start.
  Answer: Caused by electromagnetic disturbing, and this is a normal phenomenon.

• Question: There is no response when communicating with an on-board computer.
  Answer: Please confirm the proper voltage of the power supply and check if the throttle has been closed, the transmission is in the neutral position, and the water is in proper temperature.

• Question: Why are there so many fault codes?
  Answer: Usually, it’s caused by poor connection or fault circuit grounding.

Warranty

• THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY LIMITED TO PERSONS WHO PURCHASE LAUNCH PRODUCTS FOR PURPOSES OF RESALE OR USE IN THE ORDINARY COURSE OF THE BUYER’S BUSINESS. LAUNCH electronic product is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one year (12 months) from the date of delivery to the user.
• This warranty does not cover any part that has been abused, altered, used for a purpose other than for which it was intended, or used in a manner inconsistent with instructions regarding use. The exclusive remedy for any automotive meter found to be defective is repair or replacement, and LAUNCH shall not be liable for any consequential or incidental damages.
• Final determination of defects shall be made by LAUNCH by procedures established by LAUNCH. No agent, employee, or representative of LAUNCH has any authority to bind LAUNCH to any affirmation, representation, or warranty concerning LAUNCH automotive meters, except as stated herein.

Order Information
Replaceable and optional parts can be ordered directly from your LAUNCH- authorized tool supplier. Your order should include the following information:

1. Quantity
2. Part number
3. Item description

Customer Service
If you have any questions on the operation of the unit, please contact the seller, or contact LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD.:

Website: www.x431.com
www.cnlaunch.com
Phone : +86 755 2593 8674
Email : [email protected]

Statement:

LAUNCH reserves the rights to make any change to this manual without notice. We have tried our best to make the descriptions and illustrations in the manual as accurate as possible, and defects are inevitable, if you have any question, please contact local dealer or LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD., LAUNCH does not bear any responsibility arising from misunderstandings.

References

• X431

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>