Experiencing trouble connecting your BAFX OBD2 reader to your 1999 Mazda Miata (NB)? You’re not alone. Many Miata owners encounter similar issues when trying to use aftermarket OBD2 devices. Let’s troubleshoot this problem and explore potential solutions to get your BAFX OBD2 reader working with your Miata.
One common question is whether specific settings are required for a ’99 Miata. OBD-II is a standard, but sometimes automatic protocol detection can falter. While OBD-II was mandated in the US starting in 1996, the implementation and communication protocols can vary slightly between manufacturers and models. In some cases, manually specifying the protocol within your OBD2 app (like Torque or Car Gauge Lite) might be necessary. Check your app settings for protocol selection and try manually setting it to ISO 9141-2 or another protocol commonly used in older vehicles if automatic detection fails.
Another point of confusion can be the location of the OBD2 port itself. While you correctly identified a port under the fuse box cover to the left of the driver’s knee, this might not be the OBD2 port your mechanic used. In the NB Miata (1999-2005), the OBD2 port is indeed located above the fuses in the driver’s side footwell, behind a removable plastic cover. It’s possible your mechanic was simply accessing it from a slightly different angle, making it seem lower in the footwell. Rest assured, the connector you found is likely the correct OBD2 port for your 1999 Miata. You should not need to search for a hidden or alternative port.
Compatibility can sometimes be an issue with OBD2 readers, especially with older vehicles like the NB Miata. While the BAFX OBD2 reader is generally well-regarded and compatible with many vehicles, there’s always a chance of incompatibility. NB Miatas, while OBD-II compliant, might exhibit some sensitivities with certain readers. If you’ve tried different apps, ensured the reader is powered (red light is on), and attempted manual protocol selection without success, the BAFX reader might not be fully compatible with your specific Miata.
Before concluding it’s a compatibility issue, double-check a few things. Ensure your Miata’s ignition is in the “ON” position (engine running or just ignition on) when attempting to connect. Some OBD2 systems only fully activate with the ignition on. Also, verify the Bluetooth pairing process is correctly completed between your Android device and the BAFX reader. Sometimes, re-pairing the devices can resolve connection glitches.
If you’ve exhausted these troubleshooting steps and your BAFX reader still fails to connect to your Miata but works on your ’98 Civic, then considering a different OBD2 reader might be the next logical step. While the BAFX reader is a popular choice, other models are available, and some might have better compatibility with the NB Miata. Before purchasing a new reader, research online forums and Miata-specific communities for recommendations on OBD2 readers known to work reliably with NB Miatas. Brands like OBDLink MX+ or Veepeak are often mentioned as highly compatible options, though they might come at a higher price point than the BAFX.
In summary, troubleshooting OBD2 connection issues with your BAFX reader on a Miata NB involves verifying the OBD2 port location, checking protocol settings in your app, ensuring proper Bluetooth pairing, and considering potential compatibility limitations. If all else fails, exploring alternative OBD2 reader brands known for their compatibility with Mazda Miatas could be the key to successfully reading and resetting OBD2 codes on your vehicle.
