Many users appreciate the convenience of Bluetooth OBDII scan tools for vehicle diagnostics. The Bafx Bluetooth Obdii Scan Tool is a popular choice due to its compatibility and positive reviews. However, like many OBDII adapters, it typically draws constant power from your vehicle’s battery, even when the ignition is off. This can lead to battery drain over time, especially if your vehicle sits for extended periods.
This guide explains how to easily modify your BAFX Bluetooth OBDII scan tool to draw power only when your vehicle is turned on or in accessory mode (switched 12V power). This simple modification ensures that the adapter only uses power when needed, preventing potential battery drain. The process is straightforward and should take approximately 15 minutes.
Here are the steps to modify your BAFX Bluetooth OBDII adapter for switched 12V power:
-
Open the Adapter Housing: Locate the four screws hidden beneath the blue label on your BAFX adapter. Carefully peel off the adhesive label to access and remove these screws.
-
Separate the Unit and Disconnect the Connector: Once the screws are removed, gently separate the two halves of the adapter housing. You will see a white connector attaching the OBDII connector to the internal PC board. Unplug this white connector.
-
Remove the OBDII Connector: With the connector unplugged, you can now lift the OBDII connector assembly completely out of the adapter’s plastic shell. This provides easy access for the wiring modification.
-
Relocate the Power Wire: Identify pin 16 and pin 8 on the OBDII connector. Pin 16 (typically wired red) provides constant 12V power. We will move this wire to pin 8, which is designated for switched ACC 12V power. In the provided image, Pin 16 is on the top left, and Pin 8 is on the bottom left, making this wire relocation a simple maneuver. Gently remove the wire from pin 16 and insert it into pin 8.
-
Reassemble the Connector and Housing: Place the OBDII connector back into the adapter shell and reconnect the white connector to the PC board. Carefully reassemble the two halves of the housing, ensuring you don’t bend the internal LEDs. Secure the housing with the four screws.
-
Reapply the Label (Optional): You can reapply the blue label or leave it off, depending on your preference.
Your BAFX Bluetooth OBDII scan tool is now modified to operate only when the vehicle is powered on or in ACC mode. This ensures it functions identically to its original operation but now conserves your vehicle’s battery by eliminating unnecessary constant power draw. This modification is particularly beneficial if you frequently leave your Bluetooth OBDII scanner plugged into your vehicle’s OBDII port.
