The Kobra OBD2 scanner is a powerful tool designed to empower you with professional-level car diagnostics right at your fingertips. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a car owner keen on understanding your vehicle better, this OBD2 scanner is engineered for ease of use and broad compatibility. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to get your Kobra OBD2 scanner up and running, ensuring you can quickly diagnose issues, read car codes, and maintain your vehicle’s health effectively. With both Bluetooth and WiFi versions available, Kobra ensures seamless connectivity with your preferred device.
Getting Started with Your Kobra OBD2 Scanner
Setting up your Kobra OBD2 scanner is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to connect your scanner and start diagnosing your vehicle.
Step 1: Plugging in the Kobra OBD2 Scanner
Begin with your vehicle’s ignition turned off. Locate the OBD2 port in your car – it’s typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Plug your Kobra™ OBD Scanner securely into this OBD2 port.
Step 2: Connecting via WiFi
Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the ON position (do not start the engine, just turn the key to the position right before starting). On your smartphone or tablet (iOS, Android, or Windows), go to “Settings” and then “Wi-Fi”. Enable Wi-Fi and look for the network name “WiFi_OBDII” in the list of available networks. Connect to this WiFi network.
Note: If your chosen OBD app doesn’t immediately recognize the “WiFi_OBDII” connection, try force-quitting and relaunching the app. On Android, use the “Task Manager” to force quit. On iOS devices, double-press the home button and swipe up to close the app.
Step 3: Launching Your OBD2 App
Now, launch your preferred OBD2 app. The Kobra OBD2 scanner is compatible with a wide range of apps, both free and paid.
Popular App Choices:
- For Android: Torque Lite (free), Torque Pro (paid), OBD Fusion, OBD Car Doctor, ScanMaster Lite, OBDLink, and many ELM327 compatible apps.
- For Apple iOS: OBD Fusion (free), DashCommand (paid), OBD Car Doctor, EOBD Facile, EngineLink, REV, NovaScan.
- For Windows: OBD Auto Doctor.
These apps allow you to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitor real-time engine data, check vehicle performance, and much more.
Step 4: Configuring App Settings for WiFi Connection
Depending on the OBD app you choose, you might need to manually configure the connection settings to ensure it communicates with the Kobra WiFi OBD2 scanner. Many apps will connect automatically, but for those that require manual setup, follow these general steps, often found in the app’s settings or connection menu.
Example using Torque App Settings:
- Open the Torque app and go to “Settings”.
- Tap on “Connection Type” or “Connection” and select “WiFi”.
- Look for a “Device” or “Adapter” setting. Choose “OBD2” or if there is an option to select adapter type, choose “ELM327 WiFi”.
After updating these settings, it’s generally a good practice to force close and restart the app to ensure the new configurations are applied correctly.
Troubleshooting Your Kobra OBD2 Scanner
Encountering issues? Here are solutions to common problems you might face while setting up or using your Kobra OBD2 scanner.
Common Connection Issues and Solutions
Issue 1: App Not Recognizing Scanner
- Solution: Ensure your device is connected to the “WiFi_OBDII” network. Double-check that you have configured your OBD app to use a WiFi connection in the app settings as described in Step 4. Force close and relaunch the app.
Issue 2: No Power to OBD2 Scanner
- Solution: Detach and re-plug the OBD scanner. If there are still no lights on the scanner, check your vehicle’s OBD fuse, usually located in the fuse box (consult your car’s manual for location). Replace the fuse if necessary.
Issue 3: Connected to Scanner but Not ECU
- Solution: Turn off WiFi on your device, force close the OBD app, disconnect and reconnect the Kobra scanner from your car. Wait for the red light on the scanner to illuminate, then re-enable WiFi, reconnect to the “WiFi_OBDII” network, and relaunch the app.
Issue 4: Check Engine Light Not Clearing
- Solution: Try clearing codes with the ignition in the “ACC” mode (Accessory mode, the second key position). Remember that clearing a code only removes the symptom, not the underlying problem. If the issue persists, the check engine light will likely reappear.
Issue 5: Scanner Not Reading Fault Codes
- Solution: While the Kobra scanner is compatible with the vast majority of vehicles manufactured post-1996, very rarely, some vehicles might require more specialized diagnostic tools.
Issue 6: Scanner Detected but Not Connecting to Car (in App)
- Solution: Verify your vehicle is OBD2 compliant. In the United States, all cars and light trucks manufactured after January 1, 1996, are OBD2 compliant. If your vehicle is OBD2 compliant and still not connecting, there may be a deeper issue requiring professional diagnostics.
Advanced Troubleshooting for Firmware Issues
In rare cases, particularly with older devices, you might need to manually configure a static IP address for a stable connection.
Setting a Static IP Address
- Follow steps 1 & 2 of the standard setup to connect to the “WiFi_OBDII” network.
- Once connected, access the advanced settings for the “WiFi_OBDII” network on your device (often by tapping a small arrow or settings icon next to the network name).
- Change the IP settings from DHCP or Automatic to “Static”.
- Enter the following static IP settings:
- IP Address: 192.168.0.123
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Router: 192.168.0.10
- Leave Gateway and DNS fields blank.
- Save these settings and exit back to the Wi-Fi settings.
- Start your car engine.
- In your OBD app settings, configure the connection to use a custom TCP connection with:
- IP Address: 192.168.0.10
- TCP Port: 35000
Recommended OBD2 Apps for Your Kobra Scanner
To maximize the functionality of your Kobra OBD2 scanner, using a compatible and feature-rich OBD2 app is crucial. Here are some top recommendations for both Android and iOS users:
Top App Recommendations
For Android Users:
- Free: ScanMaster Lite, Torque Lite, OBD2-ELM327 Car Diagnostics, OBD Dashboard, ScanMyOpel Lite (for Opel/Vauxhall), OBD Car Doctor, Efficiency (free), BMWhat Lite (for BMW).
- Paid: DashCommand, Torque Pro, ScanMyOpel (full version), OBD Car Doctor Pro, TouchScan (OBD Diagnostics), Efficiency Pro, BMWhat (for BMW).
For Apple iOS Users:
- Free: OBD Fusion, OBD Car Doctor, EOBD Facile.
- Paid: DashCommand, EngineLink, REV, NovaScan – The OBD Total Solution, BMWhat (for BMW), OBD2 Scanner iPad Optimized Apps: DashCommand, iCanOBD2 (for VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda), Engine Link HD.
Conclusion
The Kobra OBD2 scanner is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, providing you with valuable insights into your vehicle’s health and performance. By following these instructions, you can easily set up your scanner, troubleshoot common issues, and utilize powerful OBD2 apps to take control of your car diagnostics. Start exploring the features and benefits of your Kobra OBD2 scanner today and drive with greater confidence and knowledge.
Cautions & Warnings
- Ensure the iOBD2 WiFi OBDII adapter is correctly plugged into your car following the installation instructions before operating.
- Do not operate the unit while driving. Any distraction could lead to an accident.
