Delving into the world of automotive diagnostics and customization can often feel like navigating a maze. For car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics, OBD2 scanners are indispensable tools. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Launch Obd2 Scanner Creader on a 2024 Toyota 4Runner and a 2023 RAV4, specifically focusing on accessing and modifying customizable vehicle settings. While the Launch Creader proves to be a powerful tool capable of unlocking features like window and alarm programming, the journey wasn’t entirely straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of my experience to guide you through accessing these hidden customization options.
Accessing Customization Menus – Two Methods
The Launch OBD2 Scanner Creader offers multiple pathways to reach the customization settings, which can initially be confusing. I discovered two primary methods that successfully provided access, each with slightly different steps.
Method 1: Using the ‘Toyota’ Button
This method involves manually selecting your vehicle’s manufacturer. Follow these steps:
- Begin by connecting your Launch scanner to the OBD port of your vehicle and turning on the ignition – the engine does not need to be running.
- From the scanner’s home screen, select “Diagnostics”.
- Instead of using the autodetect VIN feature, press the ‘Toyota’ button.
- On the subsequent screen, choose ’16 pin DLC’.
- The scanner will initiate a scan, retrieve vehicle information, and then prompt you to hit ‘OK’.
- You will now be presented with a menu containing options like Health Report, System Selection, Service Function, Customize Setting, and Vehicle Info.
- Navigate to ‘Customize setting’ and explore the sub-menus to locate programmable functions such as windows, interior lighting, and seat warming.
Method 2: Autodetect VIN
Alternatively, you can utilize the VIN autodetect feature for a quicker initial scan, though it slightly alters the menu navigation:
- As before, plug in the scanner and turn on the ignition.
- From the “Diagnostics” menu, allow the scanner to automatically detect the vehicle VIN. This process immediately initiates a health report scan, bypassing the menu presented in step 6 of Method 1.
- Once the health report is complete, exit the report by selecting the back arrow, typically located in the upper left corner of the screen.
- This action will lead you to the DTC code screen, displaying all scanned modules. Clicking on the ‘>’ symbol next to a green checkmark beside a module will reveal a new menu.
- Within this new menu, you’ll find options like Read Fault Code, Clear fault memory, Read freeze frame, Read data stream, Actuation test, and importantly, Special Function. Access ‘special function’.
- ‘Special function’ leads to another menu, presenting ‘initialization’ and ‘customize setting’.
- Finally, ‘Customize setting’ will guide you to the desired menu where you can adjust settings for windows, doors, warnings, and other programmable features.
Navigating the Interface and Vendor Misinformation
While the Launch OBD2 Scanner Creader is undoubtedly capable of accessing and modifying these customization settings, the user interface isn’t particularly intuitive. The lack of comprehensive instructions or readily available guides, especially for newer models like the 4Runner, adds to the challenge.
Interestingly, upon contacting the vendor, I was informed that programming features were not supported by this particular reader. This is demonstrably false, as I successfully altered settings on both test vehicles. It appears that these Creader models, often sold through overseas affiliates, may lack official support from US-based branches of Launch, leading to potential misinformation regarding their capabilities.
Conclusion
The Launch OBD2 Scanner Creader stands out as a valuable tool for those looking to tap into their vehicle’s hidden customization options. Despite a less-than-user-friendly interface and minimal official guidance, its ability to program features on vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and RAV4 is undeniable. For DIY enthusiasts willing to explore and experiment, the Launch Creader offers a powerful way to personalize your vehicle settings. Just be prepared for a bit of a learning curve and don’t solely rely on vendor support for uncovering its full potential. Exploring these menus can unlock a new level of personalization for your car, making it truly your own.
