Are you looking to modify your BAFX OBD2 adapter for more convenient use? Many users prefer their OBD2 adapters to only be powered when the car is on, preventing potential battery drain. This guide will walk you through the process to add a switch to your BAFX to OBD2 adapter, specifically focusing on moving the power source from a constant 12V to a switched 12V supply. This modification ensures your adapter only draws power when your vehicle’s ignition is turned on or in ACC mode. It’s a straightforward modification that can be completed in about 15 minutes, requiring minimal tools and technical expertise. Let’s dive into how you can easily convert your BAFX OBD2 adapter to switched power.
Step-by-Step Guide: Modifying Your BAFX OBD2 Adapter for Switched Power
This modification is designed for the BAFX Products PIC18F2480 Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, a popular choice known for its reliability and compatibility. Before starting, ensure you have a basic understanding of automotive electrical systems and proceed with caution.
Tools You’ll Need
- A small Phillips head screwdriver
- A non-metallic pry tool or your fingers
- Your BAFX Products PIC18F2480 Bluetooth OBD2 adapter
Step 1: Accessing the Internals
The first step is to open the BAFX OBD2 adapter casing. Locate the blue label on the adapter. Beneath this label, you will find four screws that secure the two halves of the casing together.
- Carefully peel off the adhesive blue label to reveal the screw holes.
- Using your Phillips head screwdriver, remove all four screws. Keep these screws in a safe place as you will need them for reassembly.
- Gently separate the two halves of the adapter casing. You may need to use a non-metallic pry tool or your fingernails to carefully separate them without damaging the plastic.
- Once open, you will see a white connector attaching the OBDII connector to the PC board. Unplug this white connector to fully detach the OBDII connector from the internal electronics.
Step 2: Identifying and Moving the Power Wire
Now that the unit is open, you can access the pins of the OBDII connector. The goal is to move the power wire from pin 16 (constant 12V) to pin 8 (switched ACC 12V).
- Carefully lift the OBDII connector out of the unit’s shell. This will give you better access to the pins and wires.
- Identify pin 16 and pin 8 on the OBDII connector. In most BAFX adapters, pin 16 is located on the top left, and pin 8 is on the bottom left when looking at the connector with the pins facing you (refer to the image for visual guidance).
- Gently move the wire currently connected to pin 16 and insert it into the pin 8 slot. Ensure it is securely placed in pin 8.
Step 3: Reassembly
With the power wire moved to the correct pin, it’s time to reassemble your BAFX OBD2 adapter.
- Place the OBDII connector back into its position within the shell.
- Reconnect the white connector to the PC board, ensuring it is firmly seated.
- Carefully align the two halves of the adapter casing and press them together.
- Reinstall the four screws you removed earlier, tightening them securely but not over-tightening to avoid damaging the plastic.
- You can choose to reapply the blue label or leave it off.
Step 4: Testing Your Modification
The final step is to test your modified BAFX OBD2 adapter to ensure it now operates on switched power.
- Plug the modified BAFX OBD2 adapter into your vehicle’s OBDII port.
- Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “ACC” or “ON” position.
- Verify that your OBD2 adapter powers up and connects with your device or app as expected.
- Turn your vehicle’s ignition completely off.
- Confirm that the OBD2 adapter also powers down, indicating the switched power modification is successful.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully modified your BAFX OBD2 adapter to operate on switched power. This simple modification prevents unnecessary battery drain and ensures your adapter is only active when you are using your vehicle. Enjoy the enhanced convenience and peace of mind with your modified BAFX OBD2 adapter.
