The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner is a popular handheld tool designed for both OBD2 and some OBD1 vehicle diagnostics. This guide will walk you through the instructions for using your Actron OBD2 scanner, drawing insights from a detailed review to help you understand its features and capabilities for effective car troubleshooting.
Getting Started with Your Actron OBD2 Scanner
When you first receive your Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner, it comes neatly packaged with everything you need to get started. The kit typically includes:
- The Actron CP9185 Handheld Scanner
- A Protective Soft Case
- An Instruction Booklet
- A CD (containing the full user manual and PC connection software – though some packages may not include the CD, requiring a download)
- Main Scanner Cable
- USB Cable (for PC connection)
- OBD2 (16-pin) Adapter Cable
Before you begin using your scanner, ensure all components are present and in good condition. Familiarize yourself with the instruction booklet for detailed guidance beyond this quick start guide.
Powering Up and Connecting
The Actron scanner is designed to be powered by your vehicle’s 12V system. It features a power button, but the backlight for the display only activates when an external 12V power source is connected. This power can come from:
- Your Car’s OBD2 Port: OBD2 compliant vehicles provide power directly through the data-link connector (DLC). Simply plug the OBD2 cable into your car’s OBD2 port, usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- External DC Adapter: For OBD1 vehicles or when diagnosing outside the vehicle, you’ll need a 12V DC adapter. The OBD1 adapter kit (CP9127, sold separately) includes a cigar-lighter power adapter for this purpose.
Connecting to OBD1 Vehicles:
For older OBD1 vehicles, you will likely need the optional Actron CP9127 OBD1 adapter cable kit. This kit typically includes:
- 12-pin OBD1 Adapter Cable
- Cigar-lighter Power Adapter
The 16-pin OBD2 cable included with the CP9185 may work for some later OBD1 models like 1995 F-cars. However, for earlier OBD1 systems, like 1994 models, the CP9127 or a custom-made adapter cable is necessary to connect the 15-pin Actron connector to the 12-pin DLC connector. A 12V power adapter is also essential for OBD1 diagnostics.
Using Your Actron OBD2 Scanner: Key Functions
Once your scanner is powered and connected, you can access its diagnostic capabilities. The Actron CP9185 is designed to perform several key functions:
Reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
One of the primary functions of the Actron scanner is to read Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). These codes are generated by your vehicle’s computer system when it detects a problem. The scanner can retrieve:
- Current DTCs: Codes for problems that are currently active.
- History DTCs: Codes for past problems that have been resolved but are still stored in the system’s memory.
For OBD1 vehicles, the Actron CP9185 provides impressive DTC reading capabilities, effectively retrieving codes from systems in vehicles like 94/95 LT1, 94/95 L34, and even older 86 5.0L carbureted engines when used with the OBD1 adapter.
Live Data Streaming
The Actron scanner allows you to view live data parameters from your vehicle’s sensors and systems. This real-time data can be invaluable for diagnosing intermittent issues or monitoring engine performance.
- OBD1 Live Data: For OBD1 vehicles, the CP9185 provides multiple screens of live data, offering a good range of parameters for diagnostics.
- OBD2 Live Data: While it does offer live data for OBD2 vehicles, reviews suggest the functionality is not significantly more advanced than more basic and affordable OBD2 code readers.
Keep in mind that the graph function for displaying live data is limited, with low resolution and no pause or rewind feature for detailed examination.
Field Service Mode (OBD1)
For OBD1 systems, the Actron CP9185 includes a field service feature. This function grounds the field service pin on the DLC, which can be useful for certain diagnostic procedures on older vehicles. It’s important to note that for 1995 OBD1 cars using the OBD2 cable, the field service mode may not function correctly due to changes in pin assignments. Using the OBD1 adapter (CP9127) ensures proper field service mode operation for compatible OBD1 vehicles.
Limitations and Considerations
While the Actron CP9185 offers a range of diagnostic features, it’s important to be aware of its limitations:
- Limited OBD2 Advancement: As noted in reviews, the OBD2 functionality is not significantly superior to much cheaper OBD2 scan tools available on the market. For purely OBD2 diagnostics, more cost-effective options might suffice.
- No ABS/SRS Support: The CP9185 does not support diagnostics for Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) modules. If you need to diagnose issues with these systems, you’ll require a more advanced scanner.
- Basic Graphing: The graphing capabilities for live data are basic, with low resolution and lacking features for in-depth analysis.
- Limited Data Logging: Data logging is available for both OBD1 and OBD2, but recording times are short, and the update rate can be slow.
- Basic PC Interface: Connecting to a PC is primarily for transferring logged data, and even then, the data is in a basic text format.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner is a particularly useful tool if you work with or own older OBD1 vehicles. Its OBD1 capabilities are comprehensive for a handheld device, providing DTC reading, live data, and field service mode.
However, for users primarily focused on OBD2 diagnostics, the Actron CP9185 might not offer significant advantages over less expensive options. Reviews indicate that basic OBD2 code readers can provide similar functionality for a fraction of the cost.
Recommendation:
- Ideal for: Individuals needing a handheld scanner that effectively diagnoses OBD1 vehicles.
- Consider Alternatives for: Users primarily working with OBD2 vehicles may find comparable functionality in more affordable scan tools.
By understanding these instructions and the scanner’s capabilities and limitations, you can effectively use your Actron CP9185 OBD2 scanner for a range of automotive diagnostic tasks, particularly when working with older OBD1 vehicle systems.
