The BlueDriver OBD2 scanner is a popular tool for car owners and enthusiasts, known for its user-friendly interface and ability to provide in-depth vehicle diagnostics. A common question among users, especially those performing maintenance or towing, is whether the BlueDriver OBD2 scanner can read transmission fluid temperature (ATF temp). This article delves into this question, providing a comprehensive overview based on real user experiences and expert insights.
Monitoring your vehicle’s transmission fluid temperature is crucial for several reasons. Elevated ATF temperatures can indicate stress on the transmission, especially when towing heavy loads or driving in demanding conditions. Keeping an eye on ATF temp is vital for preventing overheating, which can lead to costly transmission damage and premature wear. For DIY mechanics and car enthusiasts, knowing the ATF temperature is often necessary when checking or changing transmission fluid levels accurately.
Many users naturally assume that a sophisticated OBD2 scanner like BlueDriver would include ATF temperature readings in its live data capabilities. After all, many vehicles are equipped with sensors that measure transmission temperature. However, based on user experiences and direct communication with BlueDriver support, the reality is somewhat different.
Discussions in online forums, like the one initiated by user kcjaz, reveal that BlueDriver users have been seeking ATF temperature data for quite some time. Kcjaz, a BlueDriver user, initially couldn’t find ATF temp listed in the BlueDriver app’s live data options and inquired about it. This highlights a common user experience: the apparent absence of transmission temperature readings within the standard BlueDriver interface.
Further investigation, as shared by user FrazzledHunter, confirmed directly with BlueDriver support in January 2020 that BlueDriver does not officially support transmission temperature readings as part of the standard OBDII live data set. BlueDriver’s response indicated that while they recognized user demand, particularly for Chrysler and Toyota vehicles, ATF temperature was not a standard OBDII parameter they currently supported. They also mentioned ongoing Research & Development into displaying ATF temp for specific manufacturers but without a firm release timeline.
This information clarifies that BlueDriver’s capabilities are, to some extent, limited to the standard OBDII data parameters. While BlueDriver is a powerful tool for reading generic OBDII codes and some enhanced diagnostics, it may not access all manufacturer-specific data points like ATF temperature across all vehicle makes and models.
For users specifically needing to monitor ATF temperature, particularly on brands like Toyota, forum users like afgman786 and linuxgod recommended alternative solutions. These solutions often involve using generic ELM327 OBD2 adapters in conjunction with third-party apps like OBD Fusion. OBD Fusion, when paired with Enhanced Diagnostic add-ons (like Toyota-specific PIDs – Parameter IDs), can access and display transmission temperature data that BlueDriver might miss.
The combination of a generic ELM327 adapter (often much cheaper than BlueDriver) and OBD Fusion with enhanced PIDs offers a more customizable and potentially data-rich alternative for users focused on specific parameters like ATF temperature. Apps like Carista and Torque Pro were also mentioned as potential alternatives that may offer ATF temperature readings depending on the vehicle and app configuration.
It’s important to note the distinction between “standard OBDII data” and manufacturer-specific PIDs. Standard OBDII parameters are mandated and consistent across most vehicles for emissions-related diagnostics. However, manufacturers often include additional sensors and data points beyond this standard, such as ATF temperature. Accessing these enhanced parameters usually requires tools and apps that are designed to read manufacturer-specific PIDs, which may not be fully supported by all OBD2 scanners like BlueDriver out-of-the-box.
For some Toyota models, as mentioned by kcjaz, there might be vehicle-specific procedures to check ATF temperature without an OBD2 scanner, such as using a jumper wire to trigger a dashboard indicator when the ATF is at the correct temperature. However, for real-time monitoring and more precise readings, OBD2 tools remain highly valuable.
Conclusion:
While the BlueDriver OBD2 scanner is a robust and user-friendly tool for many vehicle diagnostic needs, it does not currently offer transmission temperature readings as a standard feature. Users specifically requiring ATF temperature monitoring, especially for vehicles where this data is not part of the standard OBDII set, may need to consider alternative solutions. These alternatives include using a generic ELM327 adapter with apps like OBD Fusion and purchasing manufacturer-specific enhanced diagnostic add-ons. Before purchasing an OBD2 scanner with ATF temperature monitoring in mind, it’s crucial to verify compatibility with your specific vehicle make and model and confirm that the tool can indeed access and display this data. Understanding the difference between standard OBDII data and enhanced, manufacturer-specific PIDs is key to choosing the right OBD2 tool for your diagnostic needs.
