Anyone have any comments on the value of the Fixd OBD to an XK8? Thank

 

Looks a bit like an elm327 but 10x the cost.

 

If it finds an error code you will still come on here to look up what it actually means, so I can't see the point either.

 

Othodixie, The FIXD OBD2 reader might be a great unit, but I cannot find any specifications quoted on any website, so, let me repeat some research I posted for another forum member:

... a really good miniature Bluetooth or WiFi reader (plus compatible 3rd party app for your Android or iPhone) will allow you to identify and clear many issues, plus it will allow you to monitor active data while driving. And they are easier on the wallet. I have tried a few of the inexpensive Bluetooth OBD readers for smartphones, and settled on a "TONWON PRO OBDII Bluetooth 4.0 Scan Tool for iOS and Android". I purchased it from Amazon for $28, which is fantastic for the money. I tested and found it to be a true ELM327 v2.1 device, with true Bluetooth v4.0 connectivity. It works well with several no-cost/low-cost smartphone diagnostic apps, and it gives me the capability to read and clear a large number of errors. And it's really nice to have the capability of monitoring actual coolant temp and more while I'm driving.

My other two units are really cheap ($10) clones. They both work (kind of) but are limited and unreliable.

So, IMHO, an inexpensive, miniature Bluetooth code reader is a good investment. When searching for a good value, keep in mind that anything under $20 or that claims to be "ELM327, (and especially if it claims "v1.5" software), it is just a cheap, obsolete clone. ELM Electronics never made a v1.5 software version; they only made 1.0, 1.3a, 1.4b, 2.1, and 2.2. Anything else is a pirated version of their original v1.0, which was not protected from being copied.

This is not necessarily an endorsement of the TONWON PRO BLE 4.0 unit, but it is a true v2.1 reader, as tested by the available (free) ELM327 Identifier app, and it is one third the cost of other genuine units. The BAFX Products Bluetooth Diagnostic OBDII Reader looks like a low cost but quality OBD2 reader, also.

Here's what a good (and fast) ELM327-chipped reader (v2.1 or 2.2) should get you (depending upon the app functionality and the data made available from the car sensors...) (Note: Apps are beginning to provide auto-specific readings):

• Supplementary vehicle instrumentation
• Reporting of error codes
• Clearing error codes

ELM327 Functions

• Read diagnostic trouble codes, both generic and manufacturer-specific, and display their meaning (over 3000 generic code definitions in the database).
• Clear trouble codes and turn off the MIL ("Check Engine" light)
• Display current sensor data
• Engine RPM
• Calculated Load Value
• Coolant Temperature
• Fuel System Status
• Vehicle Speed
• Short Term Fuel Trim
• Long Term Fuel Trim
• Intake Manifold Pressure
• Timing Advance
• Intake Air Temperature
• Air Flow Rate
• Absolute Throttle Position
• Oxygen sensor voltages/associated short term fuel trims
• Fuel System status
• Fuel Pressure
• Up to 4,000 - 15,000 additional values...

For more information, here's some interesting reading on the ELM327: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ELM327

Do test any reader you get with the free ELM327 Identifier app, and return anything less than full v2.1 functionality. Attached are the test results for my 3 units (two of which are for sale, by the way...). First one is the TONWON PRO...

 

I do have a comment on the need to constantly monitor diagnostics.

The day I feel the need to go around permanently connected to a heart monitor then I'll consider doing the same for my car.

Unless there's an issue, I don't routinely run diagnostics except:
1. prior to annual MoT vehicle test
2. before and after anyone else has worked on my vehicle

When using a 'quick access' android device, I ignore any fault descriptions and reference the code(s) to the Jaguar DTC lookups. Generic descriptions are often inaccurate and sometimes totally misleading.

Graham

 

I'm pretty keen (*) on OBD.

That leads me to do about the same! I don't check OBD unless I've a specific reason (which tends to be MoT is due soonish, but has also been because the MIL came on - which it has once and I needed a new O2 sensor).

(*) some will say very keen

MoT is our annual check (for many things, emissions being but one).
With no codes I basically check fuel trims are OK.

If I had to change the battery I know the trims and OBD monitors would be cleared so I would give the car a chance to relearn and then check the monitors were OK and likewise the trims.

Constant monitoring? No thanks!!

 

I do not constantly monitor our vehicles with my OBDII readers, either. But even if there are no warning lights or messages present on the dashboard, I try to remember to hook up the appropriate scan tool several times per year just to ensure that if there are any undiscovered or unannounced issues, I can get a handle on them. Especially just prior to our annual mandatory safety and emissions inspection....

 

Yes second a good ELM reader from Amazon...bought one with wifi that works great with my old iPhone! Also have a much more expensive autel maxidas that dives deep into most modules and supports numerous other cars as well...