OBDII Driving Performance Logging: Unleashing Your Car's Hidden Data

Do you want to truly understand your car’s performance? Obdii Driving Performance Logging offers a window into your vehicle’s inner workings, allowing you to record and analyze crucial data points while you drive.

This article dives deep into the world of OBDII logging, exploring its core principles, key advantages, and diverse applications. We’ll also guide you on how to leverage this powerful technology to optimize your driving experience and vehicle maintenance. Discover how tools like the CANedge empower you to log and interpret your car’s data effectively, using 100% free software and APIs, including intuitive browser dashboards.

Visualize your OBDII driving performance data in real-time with customizable dashboards.

Continue reading to understand why the CANedge stands out as an ideal solution for CAN and OBDII data logging and advanced telematics.

Quick Tip: Get a visual introduction in our 4-minute video above!

Understanding OBDII Driving Performance Logging

Before we delve into the benefits, let’s clarify the fundamentals of OBDII. On-Board Diagnostics II (OBDII) is a standardized system present in most modern cars. It provides access to a wealth of real-time parameters – known as OBDII PIDs – that reflect your vehicle’s operational status. These PIDs cover a wide range of metrics, from engine speed and coolant temperature to fuel consumption and emissions data.

Logging OBDII driving performance data is a straightforward process, typically involving these three steps:

Configuration: Set up your OBDII logger by selecting the specific OBDII PIDs you wish to monitor and record.
Connection: Plug the OBDII logger into your car’s OBDII port using an OBDII adapter. Once connected, logging begins automatically.
Data Extraction & Decoding: After your drive, retrieve the logged data from the SD card within the logger. Utilize free software or APIs to decode the raw data into human-readable formats.

For detailed instructions and guidance, refer to these resources:

CLX000 OBDII Logging Guide
CANedge OBDII Logging Guide

Visualize the OBDII data logging process: from vehicle connection to software-based data analysis.

Top 4 Advantages of OBDII Driving Performance Logging

The ability to capture and analyze OBDII data unlocks significant advantages for drivers, vehicle technicians, and fleet operators alike. Here are four key benefits:

OBDII data logging enables OEM part performance analysis and driving optimization.

1. Driving Behavior and Vehicle Optimization

OBDII driving performance logging provides objective data to understand and refine driving habits. By monitoring parameters like speed, acceleration, braking patterns, and RPM, drivers can identify areas for improvement in fuel efficiency, safety, and overall driving style. Furthermore, this data is invaluable for car tuning and performance enhancement. Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) also benefit, using logged data to assess the real-world performance of prototype components and systems under diverse driving conditions.

Diagnose intermittent vehicle issues effectively by logging OBDII data during driving.

2. Enhanced Diagnostics for Intermittent Issues

Diagnosing elusive, intermittent car problems can be incredibly challenging. These issues often occur sporadically during driving but disappear when the vehicle is stationary for diagnostics. OBDII logging offers a solution by capturing data continuously while driving. When a problem arises, the logged data from the period surrounding the event can be analyzed to pinpoint the root cause, even if the issue is no longer present. This significantly reduces troubleshooting time and improves diagnostic accuracy.

OBDII data logging provides critical insights for efficient vehicle fleet management.

3. Streamlined Fleet Management and Predictive Maintenance

For vehicle fleets, OBDII telematics offers a game-changing approach to management. Wireless OBDII loggers enable real-time data transmission, providing fleet managers with insights into driver behavior across the entire fleet. This data empowers them to optimize fuel consumption, reduce breakdowns through predictive maintenance by identifying early warning signs, ensure regulatory compliance, and even resolve disputes based on objective driving data. Insurance companies can also leverage this data for usage-based insurance models.

Gain full control over your vehicle data with open and customizable OBDII logging solutions.

4. Data Ownership and Custom Integration

Unlike many closed-system OBDII solutions, using an OBDII WiFi logger that records raw time-series data gives you complete control over your information. Data can be extracted via SD card or wirelessly uploaded to your private server. This open architecture facilitates seamless custom integration with existing systems and platforms through open APIs. You are not locked into proprietary software or dashboards, enabling you to tailor data processing and visualization to your specific needs.

Considering these advantages for your specific OBDII logging application? We are here to help – contact us for expert guidance and consultation!

Introducing the CANedge OBDII Data Logger

The CANedge series of CAN bus data loggers are exceptionally well-suited for OBDII driving performance logging. These devices offer optional integrated GPS/IMU, WiFi, and 3G/4G connectivity, making them ideal for both basic logging and advanced OBDII fleet telematics applications.

CANedge offers plug-and-play OBDII logging with optional cloud connectivity for telematics.

Plug & Play Simplicity: CANedge devices are designed for ease of use right out of the box. They operate standalone, requiring minimal setup. LTE versions can directly connect your vehicle data to your server infrastructure.

CANedge boasts professional-grade specifications for reliable and accurate OBDII data capture.

Professional Specifications: Featuring extractable 8-32 GB SD card storage, dual CAN/LIN channels, CAN FD support, zero data loss recording, high-precision RTC, and error frame capture, CANedge devices meet demanding performance requirements.

The compact and rugged design of CANedge ensures reliable OBDII logging in various environments.

Compact and Robust: With dimensions of only 8 x 5 x 2 cm and a rugged aluminum enclosure, CANedge loggers are designed for discreet and reliable operation, even in harsh vehicle environments. They include multiple LEDs for status indication and configurable 5V power output on the CH2 port.

Secure wireless data transfer via WiFi or LTE for OBDII telematics applications.

WiFi/LTE Connectivity: CANedge WiFi/LTE models enable seamless data push to your server via WiFi or cellular networks. They incorporate end-to-end security and support Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for remote management.

Integrated GNSS/IMU provides rich location and motion data alongside OBDII parameters.

GNSS + 3D IMU: Built-in GPS/IMU options offer enhanced location accuracy through sensor fusion. Capture position, speed, distance traveled, acceleration, vehicle attitude, and more in sync with OBDII data.

Open software and APIs for flexible OBDII data processing and integration.

Interoperable & Open: Benefit from free, open-source software and APIs. CANedge data is stored in the industry-standard MF4 format and can be converted to ASC/CSV. DBC file support, Python libraries, and dashboard integrations are readily available.

Learn more about CANedge products

Example Software: Customizable OBDII Dashboards

CANedge simplifies the creation of free, custom browser-based dashboards to visualize your OBDII driving performance data and configure alerts. By using a CANedge with integrated GNSS/IMU, you can seamlessly combine OBDII data with location and motion parameters for a richer analysis.

Explore the capabilities through our online playground or delve deeper into our dashboard introduction:

OBDII Dashboard Playground
Dashboard Introduction

Access the ‘OBDII Data Pack’

Eager to start working with real-world OBDII data? Download our comprehensive ‘OBDII Data Pack,’ which includes:

Our OBDII DBC file for data decoding
25+ car-specific DBC files (reverse-engineered)
Over 100 MB of sample data from 10+ different vehicles

Download OBDII Data Pack Now

Practical Use Cases for OBDII Driving Performance Logging

Let’s examine some real-world applications of CANedge for OBDII data logging:

OEM Vehicle Part Field Testing

Need to log CAN/OBDII data from vehicles in real-world conditions?

For OEMs, late-stage field testing of prototype vehicle components is crucial. This often necessitates capturing OBDII and CAN data from multiple vehicles over extended periods, such as months. The CANedge1 is ideally suited for this purpose due to its compact size, plug-and-play operation, and straightforward pre-configuration. Collected data can be periodically retrieved and analyzed using industry-standard CAN tools or the free asammdf GUI/API.

Explore CANedge1 for OEM Field Testing

CANedge facilitates OBDII data logging for OEM field testing of prototype vehicle parts and systems.

Wireless OBDII telematics for comprehensive vehicle fleet management and monitoring.

Vehicle Telematics for On-Road Fleets (OBDII + GNSS/IMU + 3G/4G)

Looking to implement OBDII telematics for your on-road vehicle fleet?

The CANedge3 is engineered for wireless OBDII telematics. It can transmit logged OBDII data via 3G/4G networks using your own SIM card, enabling near real-time data transfer from vehicles to your cloud server. The open APIs, including OBDII DBC decoding support, facilitate automated data processing. CANedge3 devices support Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for remote management. Furthermore, the integrated GPS/IMU adds valuable location, speed, distance, and motion data to your telematics solution.

Discover CANedge3 for Vehicle Telematics

Case Study: OBDII/CAN Telematics Implementation

Learn how Volkswagen utilizes the CANedge2 to log both OBDII and raw CAN data to SD cards, and to automatically push data to their self-hosted server for in-depth analysis.

“The CANedge2 enabled us to get up and running incredibly quickly with flexible configuration options – and the support was outstanding!“

Read the Volkswagen Case Study
Explore 100+ Case Studies

Illustration of Volkswagen’s OBDII telematics system leveraging CANedge data loggers.

Access Sample OBDII Data from an Audi A4

To help you get started, we provide downloadable OBDII sample data captured with CANedge from an Audi A4.

You can also download our free, open-source OBDII software and experiment with decoding the raw OBDII data yourself.

Download Raw OBDII Data
Download Decoded OBDII Data
Download Free OBDII Software

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about OBDII Driving Performance Logging

The OBDII protocol (SAE J1979) defines a standardized set of vehicle data parameters accessible for logging. However, it’s important to note that OBDII support and available parameters vary across different car makes and models. Older vehicles, in particular, may offer fewer parameters.

Here are some commonly available standard OBDII parameters:

Fuel system status
Engine load
Coolant temperature
Fuel trim
Fuel pressure
Intake manifold pressure
Engine RPM
Vehicle speed
Intake air temperature
MAF air flow rate
Throttle position
Air status
Oxygen sensor status
Runtime since engine start
Distance with MIL on
Fuel tank level input
System vapor pressure
Absolute load value
Hybrid battery pack life
Engine oil temperature
Engine fuel rate
Torque
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

For more comprehensive information, refer to the OBDII PID Wiki page or the official SAE J1979 standard.

To convert raw OBDII data from a CANedge logger into meaningful physical values (e.g., km/h, RPM), you need a database of decoding rules – a DBC file – and compatible OBDII software.

We offer a 100% free OBDII DBC file containing decoding rules for the majority of standardized Mode 01 (Service 01) OBDII PIDs, as documented on resources like the OBDII PID Wiki page.

This OBDII DBC file utilizes extended multiplexing to facilitate OBDII decoding. For deeper insights, explore our DBC introduction and our OBDII introduction, which explains how to interpret raw CAN frames containing OBDII responses.

You can load your raw OBDII data and the OBDII DBC file into our free software tools, such as asammdf or our OBDII dashboard integrations. This allows you to visualize decoded OBDII parameters like speed, engine speed, MAF, and fuel level.

This approach offers the flexibility to modify the OBDII DBC to include proprietary OBDII PIDs specific to your vehicle. You can also combine the OBDII DBC with proprietary CAN DBC files for comprehensive CAN and OBDII car data logging.

What is UDS (Unified Diagnostic Services)?

The Unified Diagnostic Services (UDS) protocol (ISO 14229-1) is another communication protocol used in automotive Electronic Control Unit (ECU) communication. While OBDII is primarily for on-board diagnostics during vehicle operation, UDS is designed for off-board diagnostics when the vehicle is stationary. A UDS diagnostic tool can send request messages on the CAN bus to retrieve information from specific ECUs.

How to Make UDS Requests over ISO-TP (ISO 15765-2)?

Requesting OBDII PIDs is relatively simple, involving a single request and response CAN frame. UDS requests, however, can involve more complex transport protocol sequences. For instance, using UDS service 0x22 to request data by identifier may involve:

A ‘UDS data logger’ sending a request frame specifying the Service ID (SID) and Data Identifier (DID).
The car’s ECU responding with a first frame containing SID, DID, total message length, and initial payload bytes.
The UDS logger acknowledging with a flow control frame.
The ECU sending subsequent consecutive frames with the remaining message payload.

Logging UDS data requires a tool capable of sending custom CAN frames and flow control frames. Software tools must then reconstruct multi-frame UDS responses to extract and decode the payload.

UDS and Extended OBDII PIDs for Advanced Data Logging

UDS Service IDs (SIDs) and Data Identifiers (DIDs) are sometimes combined into ‘extended OBDII PIDs,’ such as 0x220101. Service 0x22 UDS requests are used to access vehicle data beyond standard OBDII PIDs. For example, some electric vehicles provide State of Charge (SoC%) data via UDS requests under service 0x22.

CANedge as a UDS Data Logger

CANedge can be configured to send UDS requests by transmitting a request frame and a flow control frame within a specified timeframe. This initiates the complete UDS response sequence. The resulting log files with UDS responses can be analyzed in tools like CANalyzer (by converting MF4 data to Vector ASC) for decoding. Alternatively, our free Python CAN bus API can process multi-frame UDS responses, enabling data visualization in platforms like Grafana UDS dashboards. Our github API examples include UDS response data and a UDS DBC file for decoding State of Charge (SoC%) from a Hyundai Kona EV. For more information, see our EV data logger article or contact us.

Is My Car OBDII Compatible?

Most cars and light trucks are OBDII compatible. OBDII standardization has been mandatory in the USA since 1996 and in the EU (EOBD) since 2003.

However, OBDII support and the availability of specific data parameters vary by vehicle model, brand, and year. Older cars often have limited real-time parameter support. Some manufacturers are also restricting OBDII data access for greater control over vehicle data. While most cars use CAN for OBDII communication, older US cars (pre-2008) and some EU brands may use different protocols.

Verification Tip: Check your OBDII connector for “metal pins” in positions 6 (CAN High) and 14 (CAN Low) – refer to our OBDII connector illustration (red pins). If unsure, send us a picture for review.

OBDII utilizes five signal protocols in total:

ISO 15765 (CAN): Predominant, required in US vehicles since 2008.
SAE J1850 VPW & PWM: Ford and General Motors standards.
ISO 9141-2: Chrysler and some EU/Asian vehicles.
ISO 14230 (KWP2000): Primarily EU manufacturers.

CANedge/CLX000 support CAN-based OBDII. Contact us if you have doubts about your car’s compatibility.

For a preliminary protocol check, use this resource: OBDII Compatibility Checker. For a basic understanding of OBDII, see our OBDII introduction.

You can also use an OBDII logger to check supported Mode 01 OBDII parameter IDs in your car by requesting ‘Supported PIDs’ parameters (IDs 00, 20, 40, 60, 80, A0, C0). Analyze the response data bytes to determine PID support (see the Wikipedia OBDII PID article for details).

OBDII vs. J1939 Data Logging

OBDII is primarily used for cars and light trucks. For heavy-duty vehicles (trucks, tractors, excavators), the J1939 protocol is commonly used. J1939 is a standardized protocol for heavy-duty vehicles, enabling data decoding across different brands. Decoding J1939 data requires a J1939 DBC file. CANedge/CLX000 can also function as J1939 data loggers.

Which OBDII Data Logger Should I Choose: CANedge or CLX000?

Both CANedge and CLX000 series data loggers are suitable for OBDII data logging.

For primarily SD card logging, CANedge is recommended as the optimized 2nd generation of CLX000. For automatic log file upload to your server, the CANedge2 is ideal for OBDII telematics and OBDII dashboards.

For real-time OBDII data streaming to a PC via USB, the CLX000 series, such as the CL2000, is recommended.

Can I Stream OBDII Data in Real-Time?

Yes, the CLX000 series supports real-time streaming of raw CAN and OBDII data via USB. See our OBDII streaming introduction.

Raw CAN Data vs. OBDII Data Logging

Connecting a CAN logger like CANedge or CLX000 to your car’s OBDII port typically results in recording raw CAN bus data by default. This raw data is continuously broadcasted by vehicle sensors for internal communication.

OEMs often log raw CAN data as they possess the CAN databases (DBC files) to decode it. For non-OEM users, decoding raw CAN data usually involves car hacking and reverse engineering, although some partial databases may be available online from projects like opendbc.

For most users, OBDII protocol is the primary method for data collection. Today, OBDII communication is predominantly CAN-based. OBDII data is “on-request,” unlike broadcasted raw CAN data. OBDII logging involves sending specific CAN frames to request data from the vehicle, which responds if the requested OBDII PID is supported.

Types of OBDII Devices

The market offers a wide range of OBDII devices:

OBDII Scanners: Used by mechanics for diagnostics, identifying Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), and often include DTC databases and clearing functionality. Bluetooth and WiFi OBDII scanners provide convenient smartphone access.

OBDII Dongles: Small, consumer-oriented Bluetooth OBDII readers for real-time vehicle data display via smartphone apps. They are plug-and-play but offer limited flexibility and often use ELM327 microcontrollers.

OBDII Data Loggers: Standalone devices that record OBDII time-series data to SD cards for later analysis, without requiring a PC or app during logging. CANedge1 is an example.

OBDII WiFi/LTE Loggers: OBDII data loggers with WiFi or 3G/4G for data transfer. CANedge2/CANedge3 log to SD cards and auto-transfer data to servers for OBDII telematics and OBDII dashboards.

OBDII Interfaces: CAN interfaces that also stream OBDII data to PCs via USB. CLX000 enables USB streaming of OBDII data with SavvyCAN.

Will OBDII Logger Drain My Car Battery?

In most cases, no.

CANedge and similar loggers typically power on/off with the vehicle ignition as the OBDII port is often ignition-switched. This prevents battery drain when the car is off.

However, some vehicles may have OBDII ports directly connected to the battery. In such cases, the logger might remain powered even when the car is off. The logger’s power consumption is minimal (<2W), but for extended periods of vehicle inactivity, it’s advisable to disconnect the device.

You can easily check if your logger turns off with the ignition by observing the LEDs after turning off the car for 15-20 minutes. If the LEDs are off, the logger is off.

If the logger stays on, you can disconnect it during long periods of vehicle inactivity. Alternatively, CANedge can be configured to start/stop logging based on specific CAN data patterns related to ignition status. A DB9-DC splitter cable and DC-cigarette receptacle adapter can also be used to power the logger via the cigarette lighter socket, which is typically ignition-switched. Refer to the CANedge documentation for details.

Can I Log GPS Data with OBDII Logging?

While some cars have built-in GPS, accessing this data via OBDII or proprietary CAN is often not possible. For practical GPS logging alongside OBDII data, we recommend using a CANedge with integrated GNSS/IMU. This enables synchronized recording of GNSS/IMU data with CAN/OBDII data from your vehicle.

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OBDII Driving Performance Logging: Unleashing Your Car’s Hidden Data