Navigating the complexities of modern vehicle diagnostics requires reliable and efficient tools. The Blue Point Car Scanner Eecr1a aims to be just that, offering automotive technicians and enthusiasts a handheld device to interpret the intricate language of on-board diagnostic systems. This review delves into the initial user experience with the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A, examining its features and on-road behavior.
Initial encounters with the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A reveal some interesting operational characteristics. While installation instructions may lean towards the Microscan series, users might find themselves exploring the EECR1A’s functionality with a degree of independent investigation. One immediate observation is the scanner’s performance in live data mode. The loading speed for real-time data appears to be somewhat deliberate, and occasional unresponsiveness, particularly when customizing data displays, has been noted. In certain instances, a simple reconnection of the OBD2 connector was required to restore operation.
The Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A boasts various functions within its live data mode, including customizable display screens. However, a notable limitation appears to be the absence of a direct feature to save selected live data parameters (PIDs). By default, the scanner selects all available live data points, potentially overwhelming users with information. Further exploration is needed to fully understand the scanner’s icon-driven interface, which replaces traditional written menu items. Familiarity with these icons is crucial for efficient navigation and operation.
Modern diagnostic tools often simplify vehicle configuration, automatically detecting vehicle specifics. In contrast, the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A seems to operate more generically. Initial observations suggest it might not actively identify or store detailed vehicle information such as manufacturer, model, or engine type beyond reading and displaying OBD2 data PIDs. This contrasts with older scanners like the MT2500, which offered more vehicle-specific selections, including VIN type, make, model, and engine details. This raises the question of whether the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A relies on VIN reading for enhanced vehicle-specific diagnostics, a feature that may not be universally supported across all vehicle years, especially older models.
For vehicles lacking advanced “Info” functions, such as VIN reading, the diagnostic capabilities of the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A might be limited to basic OBD2 data retrieval. Features like comprehensive O2 sensor tests or in-depth Mode 6 functions, which provide non-continuous test results, may not be universally accessible, particularly on older vehicles. Initial testing was conducted with the protocol selection set to “Auto.” For vehicles like Chrysler Jeeps, manual selection of the ISO 9141 protocol might be necessary to ensure optimal communication.
Understanding OBD2 protocols is crucial for effective diagnostics. Key protocols include:
- ISO 9141-1 & 9141-2: Predominantly used in Chrysler vehicles, as well as European and Asian models.
- ISO 15765-4 CAN (SAE J2480): Common in modern vehicles, especially those not strictly adhering to OBD2 standards.
- ISO14230-4 (KWP2000): Frequently found in Asian manufactured cars.
- SAE J1850 PWM: Primarily used by Ford.
- SAE J1850 VPW: Common in GM vehicles.
The physical OBD2 connector itself also has variations, with Type A and Type B configurations differentiating pin assignments. Examining the pin configuration of a vehicle’s OBD2 port can help determine the communication protocol it utilizes. Vehicles manufactured post-2008 generally employ the more advanced CAN protocol, featuring a standardized pin layout (pins 4, 5, 6, 15, 16). Older vehicles exhibit greater variability in pin usage.
The OBD2 connector pinout is as follows:
TOP:
- Pin 1: OEM Reserved Communication
- Pin 2: J1850 Bus+
- Pin 3: OEM Reserved
- Pin 4: Chassis Ground
- Pin 5: Signal Ground
- Pin 6: CAN High (J-2284) – Common in 2008+ vehicles along with pins 4, 5, 15, and 16.
- Pin 7: ISO 9141-2 K-line
- Pin 8: OEM Reserved
BOTTOM:
- Pin 9: OEM Reserved Communication
- Pin 10: J1850 Bus-
- Pins 11, 12, 13, 14: OEM Reserved
- Pin 15: ISO 9141-2 L-line
- Pin 16: Battery Power (Unswitched) – Powers the scan tool.
In conclusion, the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A presents a mixed initial impression. While it offers live data capabilities and supports various OBD2 protocols, users may encounter limitations in data saving, vehicle-specific functions, and potentially interface responsiveness. Further in-depth testing and long-term usage will be necessary to fully evaluate the Blue Point Car Scanner EECR1A‘s effectiveness and solidify its position as a reliable diagnostic tool.
