Many automotive enthusiasts and DIY mechanics rely on OBD2 scanners to diagnose and monitor their vehicle’s performance. For owners of older vehicles, like the 1997 C1500, accessing specific data parameters such as CMP Offset can be crucial for engine tuning and diagnostics. This article addresses a common challenge faced by users attempting to read CMP Offset using a BFX OBD scanner and the DashCommand app, exploring connection issues and offering potential solutions based on real user experiences.
Initially, users might attempt to use the Torque Pro app, a popular choice for OBD2 diagnostics. While Torque Pro is capable of displaying general engine operation information, it may fall short when it comes to reading specific parameters like CMP Offset on older vehicles. Some users have reported difficulties in manually adding the correct PID (Parameter ID) for CMP Offset within Torque Pro, with OBD modes like “221301” proving ineffective for certain models like the 1997 C1500. This limitation often leads users to explore alternative apps that may offer enhanced functionality for specific vehicle makes and models.
DashCommand emerges as a frequently recommended alternative, known for its potential to access advanced parameters, including CMP Offset. However, switching to DashCommand doesn’t automatically guarantee a seamless experience. Users have encountered connectivity issues when pairing DashCommand with BFX OBD2 scanners, particularly the Wi-Fi versions. One user, in a forum discussion, detailed their struggle to connect DashCommand with their BFX Wi-Fi OBDII reader, despite successfully connecting the BFX scanner with Torque Pro previously. This highlights a potential compatibility issue or a specific configuration requirement within DashCommand that needs to be addressed.
Forum discussions reveal valuable insights into resolving these connection and data access challenges. Experienced users suggest that within DashCommand’s settings or options, particularly during the initial setup, it’s crucial to select “ELM” as the adapter type. This selection is vital for DashCommand to properly communicate with ELM327-based OBD2 scanners like the BFX. Furthermore, accessing manufacturer-specific parameters like GM’s CMP Offset often requires an in-app purchase of extended PIDs (Parameter IDs). For General Motors vehicles, this typically involves purchasing the extended GM PIDs, which can cost around $9.99. This purchase unlocks access to a broader range of data parameters specific to GM vehicles, including Transmission Temperature and, importantly, CMP Offset.
The type of connection, Wi-Fi versus Bluetooth, initially raised as a potential issue, is clarified in user feedback. It’s confirmed that BFX Wi-Fi OBDII readers are indeed compatible with DashCommand, dispelling the notion that Wi-Fi connectivity might be the root cause of connection problems. The key takeaway is that the correct app configuration, specifically selecting ELM as the adapter and purchasing the necessary extended GM PIDs, are the crucial steps to successfully reading CMP Offset using a BFX OBD scanner and DashCommand on vehicles like the 1997 C1500. It’s also important to note that DashCommand, like many similar apps, may require an initial app purchase to enable full functionality beyond a basic demo mode. Attempting to connect and access advanced features in a demo mode might be restricted, necessitating the initial app purchase to unlock complete connectivity and feature access.
In conclusion, while initially challenging, reading CMP Offset on a 1997 C1500 using a BFX OBD scanner and DashCommand is achievable. The process involves ensuring the correct adapter type selection (“ELM”) within DashCommand, purchasing the extended GM PIDs to unlock access to GM-specific parameters like CMP Offset, and potentially completing the initial app purchase to move beyond demo mode limitations. By following these steps, users can effectively utilize the BFX OBD scanner and DashCommand to gain valuable insights into their vehicle’s engine performance and diagnostic data.
