OBDII (ODB2) Readers

One of the most useful devices you can purchase for your rig is an OBDII reader.  This little gems plug into the computer port under your dashboard and allow you to communicate with the rig’s computer.  This is nothing much different than what the service tech plugs in to read the codes for “Check Engine” or whatever may be flashing on your dashboard.  The benefits are numerous, not just to be able to see what’s wrong without driving it to a garage or service area.

ODBII became a standard and a requirement in the U.S. in 1996 and it wasn’t until recently that the equipment necessary to communicate with the computers have been readily and cost effectively available to the consumer.  Not only can they tell you what’s wrong with your rig but it can also provide live data that will show how efficiently your engine is running.

After testing a couple devices, I found the one below to be sufficient to my needs.

ODBII Reader

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005NLQAHS

You will note that this particular model is BLUETOOTH.  I did not pay attention to the first one  I purchased and it was WIFI.  Both work fine, however, if you wish to look stuff up on the internet while using the device and you have a WIFI version, you will need to disconnect from the device first.  This is not very convenient at all.  Bluetooth is the way to go.

The software

These scanners are only that, the scanner.  The device to do the communications.  You will need some software to communicate with it and to  decipher the codes and other data provided.  The phone app called TORQUE PRO is a wonderful application.  Cheap, easy to use, and compatible with most ODBII readers:

Torque Pro App

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.prowl.torque

Locating the ODBII port

The ODBII port is usually located near your steering column and generally behind a shield or something.  Given that it is black it is sometimes difficult to pick out.  You will need a flashlight.  The port will look like this vertically or horizontally:

ODBII Port

Overall, this is a great investment and for those of you who are efficiency buffs, a wonderful tool to help you tweak your fuel economy as well as helping to ensure you have a comfortable and safe trip.