Just got my hands on the BlueDriver OBD2 scanner and I’m already impressed with the live data it provides for my Honda. As a new owner, I was eager to explore my car’s performance beyond the dashboard gauges, and this Bluetooth scanner has been a game-changer. The BlueDriver, praised in numerous online reviews (bluedriver.com), boasts enhanced diagnostics specifically for Honda vehicles, which was a key factor in my decision. Purchased conveniently from Amazon, it promised a deeper look into my car’s operation, and it hasn’t disappointed. While I’m happy to report no fault codes on my brand-new Honda (and hope to keep it that way!), delving into the live data has been incredibly insightful.
One of the first things I observed using the BlueDriver was the engine’s operating temperature. By monitoring the Engine Coolant Temperature 1 (ECT1) reading, which I assume closely reflects the actual engine temperature, I noticed my Honda consistently runs between 80°C and 85°C (176°F to 185°F). This seems a tad cooler than what I’m used to in other vehicles. Interestingly, once the engine reaches this temperature, it remains remarkably stable, whether I’m stuck in stop-and-go traffic or idling for extended periods. The temperature gauge on the dashboard starts to move only when the ECT1 hits around 55°C (132°F) and reaches its normal position by about 75°C (165°F). It appears the thermostat in my Honda is designed to open only once the engine is at its optimal operating temperature, as indicated by the Engine Coolant Temperature 2 (ECT2), which measures radiator coolant temperature, beginning to rise only after ECT1 stabilizes.
Another fascinating aspect I’ve been monitoring is fuel trims. So far, my fuel trims have consistently been negative. The Short Term Fuel Trim (STFT) has been averaging around -5.5%, and the Long Term Fuel Trim (LTFT) about -8%. Currently, I’ve been using E0 fuel, but I recently switched to E10 to observe if it influences a positive shift in these values, as some discussions suggest it might. It will be interesting to see how these fuel trim values react to the change in fuel.
Looking ahead, I’m curious to see how the cold winter months will affect these readings. Living in a region with very cold winters and having what Honda might consider a “short distance” daily commute, I anticipate some changes in the live data. The BlueDriver OBD2 scanner for Honda is proving to be an invaluable tool for understanding my vehicle’s behavior in different conditions, and I’m excited to continue exploring its capabilities and monitor my Honda’s performance throughout the seasons.
