Many car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics utilize Elm327 V1.4 Usb Obd2 Obdii Can-bus adapters for vehicle diagnostics and performance monitoring. These versatile tools, when paired with software or apps, provide valuable insights into your car’s health. However, some users prefer to modify their adapters to draw power only when the ignition is on, a feature known as switched power. This modification can be beneficial for preventing battery drain and ensuring the adapter is only active when the vehicle is running or in accessory mode.
This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step process to modify your ELM327 V1.4 USB OBD2 OBDII CAN-BUS adapter for switched 12V power. This modification, demonstrated here on a BAFX Products adapter, is generally applicable to similar ELM327-based USB OBD2 adapters and can be completed in approximately 15 minutes.
Step 1: Accessing the Adapter’s Internals
To begin, you will need to open the adapter casing. Locate the four screws that secure the two halves of the case. In many models, these screws are hidden beneath a label. Carefully peel back the adhesive label to reveal the screws. Using a small screwdriver, remove all four screws and gently separate the top and bottom halves of the adapter casing.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Connector
Once the case is open, you will see the internal components, including a PC board and the OBDII connector. Identify the white connector that connects the OBDII port to the PC board. Carefully unplug this white connector from the PC board. This disconnection will allow you to remove the OBDII connector from the casing for easier access.
Step 3: OBDII Connector Removal
With the white connector unplugged, you can now gently lift the OBDII connector assembly completely out of the adapter’s plastic shell. This step provides clear access to the pins on the OBDII connector, making the wiring modification straightforward.
Step 4: Wire Repositioning for Switched Power
The key step in this modification is to relocate the power wire. Locate pin 16 on the OBDII connector. This pin typically carries the constant, full-time 12V power supply. Next, identify pin 8, which is designated for switched ACC (Accessory) 12V power. Carefully move the wire currently connected to pin 16 and insert it into the pin 8 position. In many ELM327 adapters, pin 16 is located on the top left, and pin 8 is on the bottom left, making this a simple and direct move.
Step 5: Reassembly and Testing
After repositioning the wire to pin 8, carefully place the OBDII connector back into its housing within the adapter shell. Reconnect the white connector to the PC board, ensuring it is firmly seated. Carefully reassemble the two halves of the adapter casing and secure them with the four screws you removed earlier. Be mindful of the internal LEDs during reassembly to avoid bending or damaging them. Finally, you can reapply the label or leave it off, depending on your preference.
Your ELM327 V1.4 USB OBD2 OBDII CAN-BUS adapter is now modified for switched power. It will now only power on when your vehicle’s ignition is turned on or is in accessory mode. This modification helps prevent battery drain and ensures your adapter is active only when needed, enhancing the overall user experience with your car diagnostic tools and software.
