Are you looking to optimize your experience with Bafx Products Obd2 Pairing and ensure your Bluetooth OBD2 adapter isn’t constantly drawing power from your vehicle’s battery? Many users appreciate the reliability and solid connection of BAFX Products Bluetooth OBD2 adapters, particularly models like the PIC18F2480. These adapters are well-regarded for their compatibility and performance with popular OBD2 apps. However, a common concern arises from the fact that they are designed to draw power continuously from the OBD2 port, even when your car is turned off. This constant power draw can, in some cases, lead to battery drain over time, especially if your vehicle sits unused for extended periods.
This guide provides a straightforward, 15-minute modification to convert your BAFX Products OBD2 adapter to switched 12V power. This means the adapter will only be powered when your car is on or in accessory mode, eliminating any worry about unnecessary battery drain and ensuring seamless BAFX Products OBD2 pairing whenever you need it. This modification is perfect for users who want to maintain the convenience of their Bluetooth OBD2 adapter without the potential for battery issues.
Why Modify Your BAFX OBD2 Adapter for Switched Power?
The primary benefit of this modification is to prevent potential battery drain. OBD2 ports typically provide constant 12V power. While the draw from a BAFX OBD2 adapter is minimal, continuous drain over days or weeks can impact battery health, especially in vehicles with older or smaller batteries. By switching the power source to a switched 12V circuit, you ensure the adapter is only active when the ignition is on. This not only conserves battery power but also can prolong the lifespan of your car battery.
Furthermore, having your BAFX OBD2 adapter powered only when the car is running aligns with typical usage scenarios. You generally need the adapter active for diagnostics or performance monitoring while the vehicle is in operation. This modification ensures efficient power usage and maintains optimal BAFX Products OBD2 pairing during vehicle use, while completely shutting down the adapter when the car is off.
Step-by-Step Guide to Modifying Your BAFX OBD2 Adapter for Switched 12V Power
This modification is designed to be simple and reversible, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes of your time. Before starting, ensure your vehicle is turned off and you are working in a well-lit area.
Tools Needed:
- Small Phillips head screwdriver
- Small flat head screwdriver or similar tool (for gently moving the wire in the connector)
Step 1: Accessing the Internals
Locate the blue label on your BAFX Products OBD2 adapter. This label covers the four screws holding the unit together. Carefully peel off the adhesive label to reveal the screws. Using your Phillips head screwdriver, remove all four screws.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Connector
Once the screws are removed, gently separate the two halves of the adapter casing. Inside, you will see a small white connector connecting the OBDII port to the PC board. Carefully unplug this white connector from the PC board. This will allow you to remove the OBDII connector from the casing for easier access.
Step 3: Wire Relocation (Pin 16 to Pin 8)
Identify pin 16 and pin 8 on the OBDII connector. Pin 16 is the full-time 12V power wire, and pin 8 is typically a switched ACC 12V wire (often unused in the adapter’s default configuration). 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 clarity).
Using your small flat head screwdriver or a similar tool, gently depress the small plastic tab holding the wire in pin 16 within the connector. Carefully pull the wire out of pin 16. Next, insert this wire into the pin 8 slot. Ensure the wire is securely inserted into pin 8.
Step 4: Reassembly
Place the OBDII connector back into the adapter casing. Reconnect the white connector to the PC board, ensuring it is firmly seated. Carefully reassemble the two halves of the adapter casing, making sure not to pinch any wires or bend the LEDs. Secure the casing with the four screws you removed earlier. You can choose to reapply the blue label or leave it off.
Step 5: Testing
Plug the modified BAFX OBD2 adapter back into your vehicle’s OBD2 port. Turn your car’s ignition to the “ACC” or “ON” position (engine running is not necessary for this test). Verify that your BAFX adapter now powers on and you can establish BAFX Products OBD2 pairing with your preferred app. Turn your car off and confirm that the adapter powers down.
Conclusion
By performing this simple modification, you’ve successfully converted your BAFX Products OBD2 adapter to switched 12V power. This ensures that you can enjoy reliable BAFX Products OBD2 pairing and diagnostics without the worry of unnecessary battery drain. This quick and easy DIY project enhances the usability and longevity of your BAFX Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, making it an even more valuable tool for vehicle maintenance and monitoring.
