It appears you’re encountering difficulties connecting your OBD2 adapter to your Renault, and you’ve highlighted the importance of the 25K80 chip. Let’s delve into this and explore potential solutions. You mentioned your ELM327 USB adapter, a common interface, isn’t connecting – with only the power light illuminating. This is a frequent issue with budget-friendly, often Chinese-made, clones.
The mention of “FTDI & 25K80 chips” is relevant because quality ELM327 clones often integrate these components for reliable communication. The 25K80 chip, in particular, is known for its role in the CAN bus interface, crucial for OBD2 diagnostics in many vehicles, including Renault. While some sources might associate these chips with Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury, their application extends beyond these brands for robust OBD2 functionality.
Your next step to diagnose the problem should include testing with the software provided and ensuring the correct drivers are installed, as you’ve already done. If connectivity remains an issue, the adapter itself might be the culprit. Considering you’ve seen recommendations for the “Vgate iCar 2 Mini ELM327 OBD II WiFi,” exploring alternative, potentially more reliable adapters could be a worthwhile next step in your diagnostic journey. While gateway issues in a 2018 model are less likely, focusing on a dependable OBD2 adapter with components like the 25K80 chip is a practical first approach.
