Unlock Your Vehicle’s Hidden Features and Diagnose Error Codes Using OBDeleven

      Andrew P. Collins

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      Nearly all vehicles manufactured after 1996 are equipped with an OBD2 diagnostic port, allowing users to connect and read trouble codes when the "check engine" light illuminates. However, certain models, especially German cars produced post-2008, offer significantly more functionality through this same port. For specific cars, you can unlock hidden features with a device known as OBDeleven and its related smartphone app, which is currently offered at a steep discount for Black Friday.

      OBDeleven is a Bluetooth dongle that plugs into your car’s OBD2 port, usually located near the driver’s knees. Once you see the blue light indicating a connection, you can link it to your phone via the OBDeleven app (or OBDeleven VAG app for Volkswagen Group vehicles). From that point, on compatible vehicles, you can begin accessing your car’s computer systems. I’ve been testing it with my BMW wagon, and here's more information on its capabilities and functionality.

      Diagnostics

      The car communicates with the device, which then interacts with your phone, reporting and explaining any issues stored in a compatible vehicle's system. It provides deeper insights compared to a standard auto-parts-store OBD code reader, revealing faults across various systems and displaying historical fault data. This can be especially useful for diagnosing intermittent or longstanding problems and offers insight into the car's past.

      While I didn’t have an active check-engine light or service alerts, OBDeleven uncovered some minor glitches the car had experienced. Although you can clear old codes, it’s advisable not to do so indiscriminately, as past data may assist in diagnosing future issues.

      When trying to identify real-time problems your car might be facing, you can also read live data, helping you pinpoint which systems or sensors may be malfunctioning.

      Even if you intend to have a professional mechanic handle repairs, tools like this enhance your ability to perform preliminary assessments on the severity of a warning light or unusual sounds. Particularly during road trips or short errands, it's invaluable to understand exactly what's happening with your vehicle before continuing to drive if something appears off.

      OBDeleven can also assist you with adjustments like electronic parking brakes, which we recently covered in the news.

      Customization and Hidden Car Features

      Beyond advanced diagnostics, using OBDeleven with a vehicle that officially supports the technology grants access to hidden features and customizations through one-click apps. For instance, on my 2017 BMW F31, I could modify the appearance of the gauge cluster, adjust engine start/stop behavior, enable door handle lights while reversing, set up a headlight animation, and more.

      These functionalities are concealed behind coding because BMW didn’t include them on every model. Some of these features are integrated into the vehicle’s software, activating them for various regional markets or options packages. However, with OBDeleven, you can make these changes directly from your phone. You can easily tap into these features using OBDeleven’s One-Click Apps for select cars, allowing even those without technical expertise to perform the adjustments mentioned above.

      Check out the OBDeleven customization list to see what modifications are applicable to your vehicle.

      Compatibility

      OBDeleven is “officially licensed by Volkswagen Group (VAG), BMW Group, Ford (US), and Toyota,” according to the brand. This includes Volkswagen, Audi, Škoda, SEAT/CUPRA, Lamborghini, Bentley, BMW, Rolls-Royce, MINI, Toyota, Lexus, and Ford. To fully utilize the functionality of this OBD2 tool, you'll need a vehicle from one of these manufacturers, similar to the BMW example shared earlier. Nonetheless, it can scan any car equipped with a CAN bus protocol (mostly vehicles produced post-2008), including those using VW’s Vehicle Diagnostic Protection software (known as SFD in German).

      The OBDeleven app is available on Apple’s App Store for iOS and the Google Play Store for Android. The app requires iOS 17 or Android 8.0 to operate, so if you’re using an older iPad as your shop computer, like I do, it might be time to consider an upgrade.

      Tech Support

      OBDeleven’s website features a live chat option for customer service and a forum for discussing the device and related topics with other users. For interpreting trouble codes, selecting customization options, and actual car repairs based on insights from the OBDeleven app, I recommend referring to a factory service manual, a basic Haynes or similar manual, or a specific forum dedicated to your car model.

      The OBDeleven dongle itself is compact enough to fit in your pocket alongside your wallet.

      Shortcomings

      The OBDeleven system is not compatible with older OBD2 vehicles (