THINKCAR THINKOBD 500 Car Code Reader User Manual
- June 6, 2024
- THINKCAR
Table of Contents
THINKCAR THINKOBD 500 Car Code Reader
THINKOBD 500
Safety Precautions and Warnings
To avoid personal injury, property loss, or accidental damage to the product,
read all of the information in this section before using the product.
Data and Software Protection
Do not delete unknown files or change the names of files or directories
created by others, otherwise the device software may not run.
Do not disassemble or modify the equipment
The device is a sealed device with no user-serviceable parts inside. All
internal repairs must be performed by an authorized maintenance organization
or qualified technician. Attempts to disassemble or modify the device will
void the warranty.
Data and Software Protection
Do not delete unknown files or change the names of files or directories
created by others, otherwise the device software may not run.
Note: Access to network resources makes the device vulnerable to computer viruses, hackers, spyware, and other malicious behaviors, and may damage the device, software, or data. To make ensure that you are using firewalls, anti- virus software and anti-spyware software to provide adequate protection for your computer and keep these software up to date.
IC Requirement
This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply
with Innovation,Science and Economic Development Canada’ s licence-exempt
RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause interference.
- This device must accept any interference,including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
IC WARNING
Cet équipement est conforme aux limites d’exposition aux rayonnements ISED
établies pour un environnement non contrôlé. L’utilisateur final doit suivre
les instructions spécifiques pour satisfaire les normes. Cet émetteur ne doit
pas être co-implanté ou fonctionner en conjonction avec toute autre antenne ou
transmetteur.
Le dispositif portatif est conçu pour répondre aux exigences d’exposition aux
ondes radio établie par ledéveloppement énergétique DURABLE. Ces exigences un
SAR limite de 1,6 W/kg en moyenne pour un gramme de tissu. La valeur SAR la
0.733W/kg plus élevée signalée en vertu de cette norme lors de la
certification de produit à utiliser lorsqu’il est correctement porté sur le
corps.
FCC Requirement
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’ s authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
- this device may not cause harmful interference, and
- 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.
FCC WARNING
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an
uncontrolled environment. End user must follow the specific operating
instructions for satisfying RF exposure compliance. This transmitter must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
The mobile device is designed to meet the requirements for exposure to radio
waves established by the Federal Communications Commission (USA). These
requirements set a SAR limit of 1.6 W/kg averaged over one gram of tissue. The
highest SAR value reported under this standard during product certification
for use when properly worn on the body is 0.733 W/kg.
For body operation, this device has been tested and meets FCC RF exposure
guidelines when used with any accessory that contains no metal and that
positions a minimum of 15mm from the body. Use of other accessories may not
ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure guidelines.
Product Descriptions
- Diagnostic Cable: Standard OBDII diagnostic cable
- LCD Display: 2.8 inch display (240*320)
- Code severity alert: Three status indicators
- I/M Button: Quickly enter “I/M READINESS” to view the data flow
- Help: About OBD instructions, about data flow instructions, about printing instructions, about exhaust ready instructions
- Up, down, left and right keys: used to select interactive functions
- Return key: Return to previous function
- OK Return: Confirm button
- Mini usb: Used to upgrade software and print functions
Code severity alert
Code severity reminder: By reading the code, you can quickly determine whether
your vehicle needs to be repaired immediately or repaired until you get home.
LED indicator warning: There are three LED indicators on the barcode reader:
NO DTC: Your vehicle is in good condition. Pending DTC: You need to solve the
problem and clear the code. Permanent DTC: There is a serious problem with
your vehicle. If these problems cannot be resolved, you may fail the emission
test.
Technical Specifications
Display: 2.8 inch display
Working Environment: 0 to 50℃ (32 to 122℉ )
Storage Environment: -20 to 60℃ (-4 to 140℉ )
Power Supply: 9-18V vehicle power
Supported Protocols: ISO9141, KWP2000 (ISO 14230), J1850PWM,J1850VPM and CAN
OBDII protocol
Function Description
- Compatible with vehicles after 1966 and vehicles with updated OBDII protocol
- Read & clear DTCS, check and turn off engine light
- Live data stream in graph for an effective troubleshooting
- O2 sensor, on-board monitor & EVAP system for emission inspection
- Built-in DTC lookup library, no need to search for DTC definitions
- View VIN, CID and CVN, quickly read vehicle identification
- Supports 8 Languages including English, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Japanese, Italian and Portuguese
- Prints diagnostic data report immediately for your inspection
- Compatible with ISO9141, KWP2000, J1850PWM, J1850VWM, J1850VPW and can OBDII protocol
How To Use
Data Link Connector (DLC) Location
The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is typically a
16pin connector where diagnostic code readers interface with the vehicle’s
onboard computer. The DLC is usually located 12 inches from the center of the
instrument panel (dash), under or around the driver’s side for most vehicles.
If Data Link Connector is not located under dashboard, a label should be there
telling location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC is located
behind the ashtray and the ashtray must be removed to access the connector. If
the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle’s service manual for the
location.
Application Overview
When the code reader boots up, the Home screen opens. This screen shows all
applications loaded on the unit. Following applications are preloaded into the
code reader:
- Diagnostics: leads to OBDII screens for all 9 generic OBD system tests.
- IM Readiness:option allows to view a snapshot of the operations for the emission system on OBDII/EOBD vehicles.
- Lookup: leads to screens for diagnostic trouble code lookup.
- Review Data: leads to screens for access to tested data files.
- Print : leads to screens for access to printing function
- Help: You will find the device OBD function and system instruction
- Setup:leads to screens for adjusting default settings to meet your own preference when using the code reader. Info: leads to screen that shows information about the code reader.
Select “Diagnosis”, click “OK” to enter the system diagnosis, select the vehicle type, and enter the diagnosis function list.
Select “ERASE CODES” to clear the fault code
NOTE :
-
To review I/M Readiness status, make sure that the ignition key is switched to ON with the engine off.
-
Not all monitors are supported by all vehicles.
I/M Readiness is a useful function used to check if all monitors are OK or N/A. The vehicle’s computer performs tests on the emission system during normal driving conditions. After a specific amount of drive time (each monitor has specific driving conditions and time required), the computer’s monitors decide if the vehicles emission system is working correctly. When the monitor’s status is:
- OK – vehicle was driven enough to complete the monitor.
- INC (Incomplete) – vehicle was not driven enough to complete the monitor.
- N/A (Not Applicable) – vehicle does not support that monitor. There are two types of I/M Readiness tests:
- Since DTCs Cleared – shows status of the monitors since the DTCs were last cleared.
- This Drive Cycle – shows status of monitors since the start of the current drive cycle. Below is a list of abbreviations and names of OBD II monitors supported by the code reader.
There are two ways to retrieve I/M Readiness Status data:
One-click I/M readiness key
Typical way: select I/M Readiness from Diagnostic Menu
Freeze Frame menu displays freeze frame data, a snapshot of critical vehicle
operating conditions automatically recorded by the on-board computer at the
time of the DTC set. It is a good function to help determine what caused the
fault.
Select “O2 SENSOR TEST” and click “OK” to view O2 Sensor data Stream.
OBD II regulations require certain vehicles monitor and test oxygen (O2)
sensors to isolate fuel and emissions related faults. The O2 Monitor Test
function is used to retrieve completed O2 sensors monitor test results.
The O2 Monitor Test is not an on-demand test. O2 sensors are not tested when
selected via the menu but tested when engine operating conditions are within
specified limits.
1.7 Select “ON-BOARD MONITORING” and click “OK” to view On-Board Monitor data streams.
The On-Board Monitor Test function is useful after servicing or after clearing
a vehicle ECU’s memory. It receives test results for emission-related
powertrain components and systems that are not continuously monitored for Non-
CAN vehicles. And for CAN vehicles, it receives test data for emission-related
powertrain components and systems that are and are not continuously monitored.
It is vehicle manufacturer who is responsible for assigning test and component
IDs.
1Select “EVAP SYSTEM” and click “OK” to view EVAP data streams.
Note: Some manufacturers do not allow tools to control vehicle systems. The manufacturer sets the criteria to automatically stop test. Refer to appropriate vehicle service manual before using this function.
Select” I/M READINESS” and click “OK” to view the I/M data flow.
To retrieve I/M Readiness Status data by one-click I/M readiness key: 1. Press the One-Click I/M Readiness Key on the keypad and the following screen displays. Figure 4-30 Sample Diagnostic Menu Screen 2. Colored LED and build- in beeper provide both visual and audible reminders for emission check and DTCs. Below is the intepretation of the LED and build-in beeper. When the LED is :
- Green – Indicates that engine systems are “OK” and working properply (the number of Monitors equipped with the vehicle which have run and performed their self-diagnostic testing is in the allowed range. MIL is off. ).No stored and pending DTCs exist. The vehicle is ready for an Emissions Test.
- Yellow – The tool finds a possible problem. It indicates the following two conditions: (1) Pending DTCs exist. Please check the I/M Readiness test result screen and use the Read Codes function to view detailed codes information. (2) Some of the vehicle’s emission monitors have not working properly. If the I/M Readiness screen shows no DTC (including pending DTC), but the Yellow LED is still illuminated, it indicate a “Monitor Has Not Run” status.
- Red – Indicates some problems exist with one or more of the vehicle’s system, and the vehicle is not ready for an Emissions Test. As well there are DTCs found. The MIL lamp on the vehicle’s instrument panel will light steady. The problem that is causing the illumination of Red LED should be fixed before an Emissions Test or driving the vehicle further. The built-in beeper works with the colored LED simultaneous, as an assistance to reflect the I/M Readiness test results:
- Green – two long beeps.
- Yellow – short, long, short beeps
Select “REVIEW” and click “OK” to enter the REVIEW DATA list. Select “Review DTC” and Next “OK” to View diagnostic records and delete records.
Select “DTC LOOKUP” and click “OK” to query fault code analysis.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
OBDII Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes that are stored by the on-board computer diagnostic system in response to a problem found in the vehicle. These codes identify a particular problem area and is intended to provide you with a guide as to where a fault might be occurring within a vehicle. OBDII Diagnostic Trouble Codes consist of a fi vedigit alphanumeric code. The first character, a letter, identifi es 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:
Select “Print” and click “OK” to enter the “UPLOAD RECORD” interface to view the prompts, click “Help and I/M” to view the prompts and operate whether to delete the information.
The
first step is to open the browser and enter the URL: https://mythinkcar.com/
to enter the official website, click Download. A drop-down box will appear and
select THINKOBD Update tool of THINKOBD, and download the installation tool.
1When THINKOBD Update tool downloads the installation package successfully,
the following program will appear (as shown in the figure below):
2. Select “Help” and click “OK”. You will find the device OBD function and system instructions.
Update The tool can be updated via a USB cable.
Please log in to http://www.mythinkcar.com official website and find the “THINKOBD Updata TOOL”, download tool “Product Updata Tool Setup.exe” on your computer. Unzip and install it on your computer (compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10).
After
the installation is complete, connect one end of the USB data cable to the USB
port of the computer, Type-c port on the other end of the tool.
First insert the device into the computer identification port, then open the
OBD500 upgrade tool. Find the “COMFLG.INI” file and open, and change the
“Serial Name” in the file as same as the computer and device port “USB-COM
name”
Finally, open the “C Reader V Plus Upgrade Tool.exe” of the OBD500
installation package
Warranty Terms
This warranty applies only to users and distributors who purchase THINKCAR INC
www. thinkcar.com THINKOBD 500 products through normal procedures. Provide
free warranty within one year. THINKCAR warranty including electronic products
for damages caused by defects in materials or workmanship. Damages to the
equipment or components caused by abusing, unauthorized modification, using
for non-designed purposes, operation in a manner not specified in the
instructions, etc.are not covered by this warranty. The compensation for
dashboard damage caused by the defect of this equipment is limited to repair
or replacement. THINKCAR does not bear any indirect and incidental losses.
THINKCAR will judge the nature of the equipment damage according to its
prescribed inspection methods. No agents, employees or business
representatives of THINKCAR are authorized to make any confirmation, notice or
promise related to THINKCAR products.
Service Line: 1-833-692-2766
Customer Service Email:
support@thinkcarus.com
Official Website: www.thinkcar.com
Products tutorial, videos, FAQ and coverage list are available on THINKCAR
official website.
FAQS
Will this read mileage see if it has been tampered with?
ThinkOBD 500 code scanner can’t support the read mileage. It only work for engine diagnosis.
Will this tell you transmission fluid temperature?
No it does not
Will it put my car into brakes service mode?
No, this obd2 scanner will not put your car into brakes service mode. it can just only do obd functions currently.
Do you need to pay for any services with this device ?
There is no any other fee for using and updating the THINKOBD 500 OBD2
scanner. If you have any other question, please feel free to contact us at
sales@thinkcarus.com.
THINKCAR Service Team
Does this tool support f250 05 5.4?
Yes
Does this read, reset, and live data for 2011 Hyundai Tucson tcm ?
J1850 protocol is the only one not supported. Since you have a Hyundai which would be ISO9141-2, I believe it would. It is a very nice tool.
Is the Thinkobd 500 compatible with a 2005 Nissan Skyline?
Yes it is.
how do i clean up the error code?
First read out the wrong code and clear it
does it work with 2005 Audi Cabriolet?
Yes. It can work with 2005 Audi Cabriolet. It can support 2003-2009 Audi
Cabriolet.
Any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Does the Scanner support 2013Maserati?
Yes
will it work with a 2014 bmw 535i x drive
Yes. it can
Will this product work with a 2015 hyundai veloster? also will it work on a 2008 volvo v70 3.2? and if so any what limitations?
Yes and yes.
does it work with 2017 Audi A1?
Yes. It supports 2011-2021 Audi A1. So it can work with your 2017 Audi A1.
Can you print out the recorded data ?
Yes, OBD2 scanner tool needs to be connected to the computer via USB Cable. Printing fault codes with code definitions are also available.
Will this show misfire counts for a 2007 chevy suburban?
Yes. It will show prior misfire history on specific coil. Just need to scroll thru the menus to find it.
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