Many car enthusiasts and professional mechanics are curious about using an OBD2 splitter to connect multiple devices to their vehicle’s diagnostic port simultaneously. The question often arises: Can you effectively use a Car Scanner Splitter to hook up two scanning tools at the same time? This article delves into the possibilities and potential challenges of using these splitters.
Connecting two scanning devices using an OBD2 splitter might seem like a straightforward solution for enhanced vehicle diagnostics or for running a constant monitoring device alongside a diagnostic scanner. However, the reality is more nuanced due to the complexities of vehicle communication networks, particularly the Controller Area Network (CAN bus) system prevalent in modern cars. When you introduce multiple “master” devices onto the CAN bus via a splitter, you increase the chance of communication conflicts.
Imagine a scenario where both scanning devices attempt to request data from your car’s computer (ECM) at the same moment. Or consider if the ECM sends a reply intending it for one scanner, but both are listening. These situations can lead to data collisions, missed messages, and general confusion within the vehicle’s communication system. While many systems are designed to handle occasional hiccups through repeated requests, consistent conflicts could potentially cause issues.
There have been anecdotal reports of aftermarket devices, like insurance telematics trackers, causing problems in vehicles when plugged into the OBD2 port. The exact reasons are not always clear. It could be due to poorly manufactured devices that don’t adhere to proper communication protocols, devices that are too aggressive in their data requests, or simply an unforeseen incompatibility. On the other hand, some users have reported success using devices like ScanGauge, which request limited data at a slower rate, without apparent issues over extended periods. Diagnostic scanners, which often perform more in-depth and potentially intrusive tests, might be more likely to cause temporary erratic behavior, such as dashboard warning lights flickering, as they actively command various vehicle systems for testing purposes.
Ultimately, the success of using a car scanner splitter with two devices can vary. Factors such as the types of scanners, their communication protocols, and the robustness of the vehicle’s network management system all play a role. The best approach is often empirical: proceed with caution, try it out, and carefully observe the results. If you decide to use a car scanner splitter, monitor your vehicle for any unusual behavior or error messages. Reporting your experiences can also contribute valuable real-world data to the community.
