Are you looking to record OBD2 data from your vehicle? Understanding your car’s data is crucial for diagnostics, performance tuning, and fleet management. This guide will introduce you to OBD2 recording, its key benefits, and practical applications. Discover how an Obd2 Recorder can unlock valuable insights into your vehicle’s operation.
Unlike many basic OBD2 scanners, the CANedge empowers you to log and analyze your car’s data on your terms, offering complete freedom with software and APIs, including customizable browser dashboards.
Learn why the CANedge stands out as the ideal OBD2 recorder for comprehensive CAN and OBD2 data logging and telematics solutions.
Watch our brief intro video to quickly grasp the essentials!
Understanding OBD2 Data Logging
Let’s revisit the fundamentals of OBD2. On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) provides a standardized set of parameters, known as PIDs (Parameter IDs), that you can access and record from almost any modern car. These OBD2 PIDs offer a wealth of information that is easily decodable across various vehicle makes and models.
Logging OBD2 data is a straightforward process involving three key steps:
- Configuration: Set up your OBD2 recorder by selecting the specific OBD2 PIDs you wish to monitor.
- Connection: Connect the recorder to your vehicle’s OBD2 port using an OBD2 adapter to initiate data logging.
- Extraction & Decoding: Retrieve the logged data from the recorder’s SD card and decode it using freely available software and APIs.
For detailed instructions, refer to our guides:
CLX000 OBD2 guide
CANedge OBD2 guide
Visual representation of OBD2 data logging process.
Key Advantages of Using an OBD2 Data Logger
Employing an OBD2 data logger offers numerous benefits for various automotive applications. Here are four major advantages:
OEM analysis using OBD2 data logger for part performance evaluation.
Enhanced Vehicle and Part Optimization
OBD2 data provides invaluable insights for optimizing driving habits and fine-tuning vehicle performance. For Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), this data is crucial for assessing the real-world performance of prototype components and systems under diverse driving conditions. By recording parameters like engine RPM, speed, and throttle position, an OBD2 recorder helps identify areas for improvement in both vehicle design and driving techniques.
Diagnosing intermittent car issues with OBD2 logger SD card data analysis.
Streamlined Diagnostics for Intermittent Issues
Troubleshooting rare or intermittent car problems can be challenging, especially when they occur sporadically during driving but not during workshop diagnostics. An OBD2 data logger solves this by continuously recording vehicle data. When an issue arises, you can analyze the logged data leading up to and during the event, pinpointing the root cause effectively. This is particularly useful for capturing fleeting errors that traditional diagnostic methods might miss.
OBD2 data logger for fleet management, insurance, and predictive maintenance.
Advanced Fleet Management Capabilities
For fleet managers, OBD2 recorders with WiFi telematics capabilities provide a powerful toolset. Monitoring driver behavior, optimizing fuel consumption, reducing vehicle breakdowns, ensuring regulatory compliance, and handling disputes become significantly easier with OBD2 data. Furthermore, integrating OBD2 data into predictive maintenance strategies can proactively prevent vehicle downtime, saving time and resources.
Open source OBD2 data logger system for custom integration and data control.
Unmatched Data Control and Custom Integration
Choosing an OBD2 WiFi logger grants you complete control over your vehicle data. The raw time-series data is recorded and can be accessed via an SD card or wirelessly uploaded to your private server. This open approach facilitates seamless custom integration into your existing systems through open APIs, allowing you to tailor data processing and visualization to your specific needs.
Interested in exploring how an OBD2 recorder can benefit your specific use case? Contact us for a free consultation!
Contact us
Introducing the CANedge OBD2 Data Logger
The CANedge series of CAN bus data loggers, including the CANedge OBD2 recorder, offers optional GPS/IMU, WiFi, and 3G/4G connectivity, making it exceptionally well-suited for advanced OBD2 fleet telematics applications.
CANedge OBD2 recorder offers plug & play setup for easy data logging.
PLUG & PLAY: Start logging data immediately. The CANedge operates standalone, effortlessly linking your vehicle data to your server environment.
Professional specifications of CANedge OBD2 recorder for high-performance logging.
PRO SPECS: Features include extractable 8-32GB SD card, dual CAN/LIN channels, CAN FD support, zero data loss, precise 50 µs RTC, error frame logging, and MF4 file format.
Compact and rugged design of CANedge OBD2 recorder for reliable vehicle data logging.
COMPACT: Small form factor (8 x 5 x 2 cm), 100G shock resistance, robust aluminum enclosure, multiple LEDs, and configurable 5V power output on CH2.
Secure WiFi/LTE data push for CANedge OBD2 recorder in vehicle telematics applications.
WIFI/LTE: Wirelessly push data via WiFi or 3G/4G to your server with end-to-end security and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
Integrated GNSS/IMU for CANedge OBD2 recorder to capture location and motion data.
GNSS + 3D IMU: Built-in GPS/IMU for enhanced location accuracy through sensor fusion, providing position, speed, distance, and more.
Open source software and APIs for CANedge OBD2 recorder ensuring data interoperability.
INTEROPERABLE: Utilize free open-source software and APIs. Supports MF4 to ASC/CSV conversion, DBC integration, Python API, and browser dashboards.
Learn more about CANedge
Software Example: Custom OBD2 Dashboards
With the CANedge OBD2 recorder, create free, personalized browser dashboards to visualize your OBD2 data and set up custom alerts. Enhance your dashboards by integrating GPS/IMU data using a CANedge with GNSS/IMU for a comprehensive view of vehicle performance and location.
Explore our online playground or delve deeper into dashboard customization in our introduction.
Playground
Dashboards Intro
Access the ‘OBD2 Data Pack’
Want hands-on experience with real OBD2 data?
Download our ‘data pack’ which includes:
- Our comprehensive OBD2 DBC file
- 25+ car DBC files (reverse engineered for various models)
- 100+ MB of real-world data from over 10+ vehicles
Download now
Practical Use Cases for OBD2 Recorders
Discover how the CANedge OBD2 recorder is applied in real-world scenarios:
OEM Vehicle Part Field Testing
Need to record CAN/OBD2 data from vehicles in real-world conditions?
OEMs often require late-stage field testing of prototype equipment, necessitating OBD2 and CAN data logging from multiple vehicles over extended periods. The compact and plug-and-play CANedge1 is perfectly suited for this, offering easy pre-configuration and reliable data collection. Analyze collected data with your preferred CAN tools or the free asammdf GUI/API.
CANedge1
OEM field testing of prototype vehicle equipment using OBD2 data logger.
OBD2 data logger applications in vehicle fleet management for trucks and cars.
Advanced Vehicle Telematics (OBD2 + GNSS/IMU + 3G/4G)
Looking to implement OBD2 telematics for on-road vehicle fleets?
The CANedge3 is designed for seamless OBD2 telematics. It uploads recorded OBD2 data via 3G/4G using your SIM card, enabling near real-time wireless data transfer to your cloud server. Process OBD2 data automatically with open APIs, including OBD2 DBC decoding support, and manage CANedge3 devices remotely with Over-The-Air updates. Integrated GPS/IMU adds location, speed, and motion data for comprehensive vehicle tracking.
CANedge3
Case Study: OBD2/CAN Telematics Implementation
Discover how Volkswagen utilizes the CANedge2 to log both OBD2 and raw CAN data to an SD card and automatically push data to their self-hosted server for in-depth analysis.
“The CANedge2 enabled us to quickly establish a robust system with versatile configuration options, backed by exceptional support!”
Learn more
Explore 100+ Case Studies
Illustration of OBD2 telematics using WiFi data logger in Volkswagen case study.
OBD2 Data Sample from an Audi A4
Download OBD2 data samples recorded with the CANedge to explore real-world vehicle data.
Access free open-source OBD2 software to practice decoding raw OBD2 data.
Raw OBD2 Data
Decoded OBD2 Data
Free Software
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about OBD2 Recorders
What kind of data can I log with an OBD2 recorder?
The OBD2 protocol (SAE J1979) standardizes a wide range of vehicle data parameters. However, the specific parameters supported vary by car model, with older vehicles often supporting fewer. Common OBD2 parameters include:
- Fuel system status
- Engine load
- Coolant temperature
- Fuel trim
- Fuel pressure
- Intake manifold pressure
- Engine RPM
- Vehicle speed
- Intake air temperature
- MAF air flow rate
- Throttle position
- Air status
- Oxygen sensor status
- Runtime since engine start
- Distance with MIL on
- Fuel tank level input
- System vapor pressure
- Absolute load value
- Hybrid battery pack life
- Engine oil temperature
- Engine fuel rate
- Torque
- VIN
- Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
For more details, refer to the OBD2 PID Wiki or the SAE J1979 standard.
How do I decode raw OBD2 data?
Decoding raw OBD2 data from a CANedge OBD2 recorder into physical values requires a database of decoding rules and suitable OBD2 software. We provide a free OBD2 DBC file containing most standardized Mode 01 OBD2 PID decoding rules. Use our free software tools like asammdf or our OBD2 dashboard integrations to load your raw data and DBC file for visualization. This method allows easy modification of the OBD2 DBC for proprietary PIDs and combining it with proprietary CAN DBC files for comprehensive car data logging.
What is UDS and how does it relate to OBD2 logging?
The Unified Diagnostic Services protocol (UDS, ISO 14229-1) is used for ECU communication in vehicles. While OBD2 is for on-board diagnostics during vehicle operation, UDS is typically used off-board when the vehicle is stationary. UDS allows more complex diagnostic requests beyond standard OBD2.
Can the CANedge be used as a UDS data logger?
Yes, the CANedge can be configured to send UDS requests and log responses. This involves sending request frames and handling flow control frames to manage multi-frame UDS responses. Logged UDS data can be analyzed using tools like CANalyzer or processed with our free Python CAN bus API for custom applications like UDS dashboards. Our API examples include resources for decoding State of Charge (SoC%) from EVs using UDS. For more information, see our EV data logger article or contact us.
Will an OBD2 recorder work with my car?
Most cars and light trucks support the OBD2 standard, especially since it became mandatory in the USA in 1996 and in the EU in 2003 (EOBD). However, OBD2 support and available parameters vary by vehicle. Some manufacturers are also restricting OBD2 data access. Verify CAN High (pin 6) and CAN Low (pin 14) pins in your OBD2 connector to ensure CAN-based OBD2 compatibility, which is required for CANedge and CLX000 OBD2 recorders. If unsure, contact us with a picture of your connector.
Is OBD2 logging suitable for heavy-duty vehicles?
OBD2 is primarily for cars and light trucks. For heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and tractors, the J1939 protocol is commonly used. The CANedge/CLX000 can also function as a J1939 data logger with a J1939 DBC file for decoding.
Which OBD2 recorder is right for me?
For SD card logging, the CANedge series is recommended due to its optimization for logging. For auto-uploading to a server and telematics applications, the CANedge2 is ideal. If real-time USB streaming is needed, the CLX000 series, like the CL2000, is suitable. Contact us for personalized advice based on your use case.
Can I stream OBD2 data in real-time?
Yes, the CLX000 series supports real-time streaming of raw CAN and OBD2 data via USB. See our OBD2 streaming guide for more information.
What is the difference between raw CAN data and OBD2 data?
By default, a CAN logger connected via OBD2 records raw CAN bus data broadcasted by vehicle sensors. This data requires reverse engineering and car-specific DBC files for decoding, unless you are the OEM. OBD2 data, in contrast, is accessed “on-request”. An OBD2 recorder sends specific CAN frames to request OBD2 parameters, and the vehicle responds if the PID is supported. For most users outside of vehicle manufacturing, OBD2 data is the more accessible and practical option.
What types of OBD2 devices are available?
- OBD2 Scanners: Used for diagnostics by mechanics, featuring DTC databases and fault clearing. Bluetooth and WiFi versions are available for smartphone connectivity.
- OBD2 Dongles: Consumer-oriented, low-cost Bluetooth readers for real-time vehicle data display via smartphone apps, often based on ELM327 chips.
- OBD2 Data Loggers: Standalone devices recording OBD2 data to SD cards for later analysis, like the CANedge1.
- OBD2 WiFi/LTE Loggers: Advanced loggers like CANedge2/CANedge3 that combine SD card logging with wireless data transfer for telematics and dashboard applications.
- OBD2 Interfaces: CAN interfaces like CLX000 that also function as OBD2 interfaces, enabling real-time USB streaming of OBD2 data.
Will an OBD2 recorder drain my car battery?
Typically, an OBD2 recorder connected to the OBD2 port turns on/off with the ignition, preventing battery drain. However, in some vehicles, the OBD2 port may be permanently powered. CANedge power consumption is minimal, but for extended periods of vehicle inactivity, disconnecting the device or configuring ignition-based start/stop is recommended.
Can I log GPS data with an OBD2 recorder?
While some cars have built-in GPS, accessing this data via OBD2 is usually not feasible. For GPS logging, use a CANedge with integrated GNSS/IMU to record synchronized GPS/IMU and CAN/OBD2 data.
Ready to start logging OBD2 data from your car?
Get your CANedge OBD2 Recorder today!
Buy Now
Contact Us
Recommended OBD2 Recorders
CANEDGE1 – PRO BLACK BOX LOGGER
CANEDGE2 – PRO CAN IoT LOGGER
CAN BUS INTERFACE: STREAMING OBD2 DATA WITH SAVVYCAN
