Experiencing issues with your new BAFX OBD2 scan tool in Canada? You’re not alone. Many users, particularly those with older vehicles, sometimes encounter snags when trying to connect and get accurate readings. Let’s break down a common problem reported by a user with a 1996 truck and using the Torque Pro app, and explore potential solutions to get your OBD2 scanner working smoothly in Canada.
One user shared their experience: after acquiring a BAFX scan tool and setting up the Torque Pro app, they were met with an error message stating, “ECU Problem. The ECU is reporting that it does not support the reading of any PIDs.” This message can be confusing, especially when the app also indicates “connected to ECU OK.” In this particular case, while RPM readings were accurate, other gauges like speed, coolant temperature, and boost were displaying incorrect or static values. Furthermore, attempting to scan for faults while the engine was running caused the truck to stall.
This situation highlights a few key areas to investigate when you’re facing problems with your BAFX OBD2 scanner in Canada:
1. OBD2 Compliance and Vehicle Age:
While OBD2 was becoming standard in 1996, particularly in the US, the user’s 1996 truck might be borderline. The error message itself suggests the vehicle might not be fully OBD2 compliant or that OBD2 access might not be fully enabled in the ECU. Even though the ECU is dated 1996, full OBD2 implementation could vary by manufacturer and even within the model year. It’s crucial to verify your vehicle’s OBD2 compliance. Check your vehicle’s documentation or look for an OBD2 port, which is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. If you find a 16-pin trapezoidal connector, it’s likely OBD2.
2. Torque Pro App and PID Settings:
The Torque Pro app is highly customizable, which is a strength but can also be a source of initial setup challenges. The user mentioned reading about “Power Stroke PIDs,” indicating they might be using a Ford Power Stroke engine. PID (Parameter ID) settings are essential for Torque Pro to correctly interpret data from your vehicle’s ECU. Incorrect PID settings can lead to inaccurate readings, like the speed gauge issue reported. You may need to manually configure specific PIDs for your vehicle, especially if it’s an older model or has specific engine types. Searching online forums dedicated to Torque Pro and your specific vehicle (e.g., “Torque Pro Ford Power Stroke PIDs”) is a good starting point to find recommended PID configurations.
3. Connection Issues and ECU Communication:
The “connected to ECU OK” message alongside the PID reading error is somewhat contradictory. It suggests a basic connection is established, but the ECU isn’t providing the expected data in a format Torque Pro understands. This could stem from the PID issues mentioned above, or it could indicate a deeper communication problem. The fact that scanning for faults stalls the engine suggests potential communication conflicts or the ECU’s response to diagnostic requests.
Troubleshooting Steps:
- Verify OBD2 Compliance: Double-check your vehicle’s documentation and OBD2 port.
- Research Vehicle-Specific PIDs: Search online for recommended Torque Pro PID settings for your specific vehicle year, make, and model, especially if it’s a 1996 truck.
- Manually Add PIDs in Torque Pro: Explore Torque Pro’s settings to manually add or adjust PIDs. Look for options to add custom PIDs or import PID sets.
- Test with Key On, Engine Off: The user found fault scanning worked with the key on but engine off. This could be a safer mode for initial testing and configuration.
- Check BAFX Scanner Compatibility: While BAFX scanners are generally reliable, ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle’s OBD2 protocol. Consult BAFX documentation if needed.
- Software Updates: Ensure both the Torque Pro app and your BAFX scanner firmware (if applicable) are updated to the latest versions.
- Seek Community Support: Online forums and communities dedicated to OBD2 diagnostics and Torque Pro are valuable resources for troubleshooting and getting specific advice from other users who may have encountered similar issues with BAFX OBD2 scanners in Canada or with comparable vehicles.
By systematically investigating these areas and trying the troubleshooting steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the issues with your BAFX OBD2 scanner and Torque Pro app, getting you accurate vehicle data and diagnostics in Canada.
