As I posted awhile back, I recently inherited an S type from my Dad. The check engine light has been on and off. I bought an ELM327. It plugs into all 3 cars, the red light comes on, but that's it. I can't get it to recognize any ports, I've moved the USB connection to each port, and I've tried changing the ports in the ScanTool.net program.
I figure I'll get better responses here than from the seller.
I'm running XP on my laptop and the software has installed fine.
Help!
Thanks.

 

Messed up the title.

 

You have to install it exactly how the directions state. If you dont follow them step by step it wont be read by the software. I did the same thing just plugged in it has it read and installed the software and it didn't work then looked at the directions and followed them and worked. So uninstall the software and start over and follow the directions and you should be good.

 

Check in XP Device Manager that you have an extra COM port you didn't have. IIRC (but it's been a while) install is 2 stages: a USB driver then a (USB-)COM driver.

When you have the drivers, and not before, you then have to get the baud rate right. Usually 38400 but try 9600 if not.

You'll need the car's ignition on / engine running - maybe the whole time of the above, sorry can't recall.

 

Are there directions somewhere online? I got a disk with the programs, and the ULM. That's it.
Thanks again.

 

I had the same issue with mine.... Plus I was a dumb *** and went for the cool "Bluetooth" version, that only complicated things further.

Luckily I know just enough about computers to be dangerous, so I was able to blast my way through it. But, I admit I was stumped for a bit. Following the directions carefully was required.

I found a bunch of helpful videos on YouTube. Lots of folks with the same issues.

 

It's an Elm - or at least I hope it is!!

google will find stuff if asked

You have looked for a readme / etc on the CD...........

 

On the disk thatr came with it is a read me file open it and follow the instructions, also there should be a password for your elm device without this password it won't connect.