Real-time Graphic Feedback
Use Up To 33% less Fuel
ScanGaugeE provides you with real-time information about your vehicle's fuel economy through an intuitive graphic display. According to a report issued by the US government, adjusting your driving habits can increase fuel economy by up to 33%. Use the instant feedback provided by ScanGaugeE to adjust your driving style and improve your fuel economy.
Track Your Fuel Cost
Track your fuel costs and fuel used in real-time. View information such as miles-per-gallon, gallons-per-hour and Trip Fuel Used. Track actual fuel costs with Trip-Fuel-Costs and Today's-Fuel-Costs digital gauges.
Monitor Your Carbon Footprint
Track your vehicle's CO2 output in real-time. View information such as Current-CO2 and Trip-CO2. You can also track the days Total CO2 and Total CO2 for the tank within the built-in Trip Computers.
An Ultra Compact Design that Installs In Minute
ScanGaugeE installs in just minutes without tools and does not require batteries or an external power source. All data and power are derived from the single OBDII connection.
The detachable six (6) foot cord also allows ScanGaugeE to be mounted just about anywhere on the dash or console while staying connected to your vehicle. Below are just a few examples.
Advanced, Ultra-compact Vehicle Monitor
ScanGaugeII can help you monitor your vehicle's most vital systems and provide the kind of real-time information you've been missing. Features include more than 15 built-in digital gauges, 4 trip computers and an easy-to-use ScanTool that shows both set and pending trouble codes — All in an ultra compact design that installs in minutes.
Exclusive Programable Gauge System
The ScanGaugeII features the exclusive X-GAUGE™ programmable gauge system you can monitor parameters such as transmission temperatures, trip data and fuel economy information. X-Gauge™ gives you the ability to customize your ScanGaugeII by adding additional vehicle specific digital gauges.
Brand New Performance Monitor
The ScanGaugeII features the all new Performance Monitor™ for real-time performance measurements. The Performance Monitor gives your the ability to track your vehicles performance over short periods of time, distance and acceleration.
Learn to Improve Your Gas Mileage
The US government has put out a report that says driving habits can change fuel-economy by up to 33%. ScanGaugeII provides real-time data about your vehicle's instant and average fuel economy, fuel used, cost of fuel used for each trip, cost per mile, gallons per hour and more!
Trouble-shoot Your Vehicle
ScanGaugeII can help you diagnose and trouble-shoot problems by providing real-time data about your vehicle's performance. In addition, ScanGaugeII will display captured trouble codes and conditions when the problem occurred. With the ScanGaugeII you can "pull the codes", make your own repairs and turn off warning lamps just like the Pros.
Catch Problems Early
ScanGaugeII provides real-time gauges to show you what is going on "under the hood" so you can catch issues early before they become more expensive problems.
An Ultra Compact Design that Installs In Minutes ScanGaugeII installs in just minutes without tools and does not require batteries or an external power source. All data and power are derived from the single OBDII connection.
The detachable six (6) foot cord also allows ScanGaugeII to be mounted just about anywhere on the dash or console while staying connected to your vehicle. Below are just a few examples.
Turn off That Check Engine Light!
The ScanGaugeII can check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and if found, can display how many there are and the Trouble Codes themselves. Using the internet or repair manuals, these can be translated to the failed component and repairs can be made.
Clear Trouble Codes
Data captured when the Trouble Code was set can be recalled to help troubleshoot the problems (was the temperature hot or cold, speed high or low, etc.). The ScanGauge II can be used to clear the trouble codes and data which will turn off the warning lamp.
Is Your Vehicle Ready for Emissions Testing?
Some states now require that vehicle self tests have been completed since the codes were last cleared, before running emissions checks. The ScanGauge reports this "Readiness".
Read & Clear Pending Trouble Codes
If no codes where found and your Check Engine light is still on, your vehicle may be storing pending codes. ScanGauge provides a method to force clear any detected or undetected Trouble Codes.
Built-in Digital Gauges
The ScanGauge II can display up to 4 digital gauges at one time. The gauges are updated in real-time, as you drive.
The ScanGaugeII features an extensive array of built-in digital gauges and can display up to 4 at a time. You can quickly cycle through the gauges in each position simply by pressing the button next to each gauge display. You can also change the unit of measure between standard and metric, as well as adjust the update rate to one of three pre-set speeds (slow, normal and fast).
Digital Gauge | Name | Description |
CLSD LP OPEN LP |
Fuel System Loop Status |
This indicates when the oxygen sensor is being used to control the mixture (closed-loop) and when it is not (open-loop). It is usually closed except when the engine is cold or under full throttle acceleration. |
MAP BST |
Manifold Absolute Pressure Boost |
This indicates the pressure in the intake manifold. It is reported in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) by default but can be changed to kilo-pascals (KPA) if desired. If the engine is turbocharged or supercharged, you can set ScanGaugeII to calculate and display this gauge as Boost (BST) through the Advanced Setup parameters. |
MPG KPG MPL LHK KPL |
Miles Per Gallon Kilometers Per Gallon Miles Per Liter Liters Per 100Km Kilometerss Per Liter |
Instant fuel economy is updated about every 2 seconds at the NORMAL update rate . Small changes in throttle position or load while driving will show almost immediate changes in this gauge. |
MPH KPH |
Miles Per Hour Kilometers Per Hour |
Speed in the units selected. |
RPM |
Revolutions Per Minute |
The RPM of the engine. |
TPS |
Throttle Position Sensor |
In some vehicles, a closed throttle will read 0 and full throttle will read 100. Other vehicles will have a higher value than 0 for a closed throttle and a full throttle value less than 100. |
FWT CWT |
Water Temperature |
Water/Coolant temperature A vehicle with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water will not boil over until about 265? F at sea level. This will be reduced at higher elevations. |
AVG |
Average Fuel Economy |
This is the current average fuel economy and is updated about every 2 seconds (normal rate). |
TFC |
Trip Fuel Cost |
This is the total fuel cost for the current trip. |
CPM |
Cost Per Mile |
Cost of fuel per mile at this time. |
VLT |
Battery Voltage |
Normal running battery voltage is between 13 and 15. When the engine is off it should be between 11 and 13. Voltages higher than 15 volts can damage batteries and electrical components. Voltages below 13 when the vehicle is running could indicate poor charging of the battery. Voltage below 11 when the engine is off could indicate a low battery charge or a shorted battery cell. |
FIA CIA |
Intake Air Temperature |
Temperature of the air going into the engine. At highway speeds, this will typically be a few degrees higher than the outside air temperature. At idle or low speed, it may be much higher in temperature than the outside temperature due to the low airflow into the engine and the high under-hood temperatures warming it up. |
FPR |
Fuel Pressure |
This is the fuel pressure from the fuel pump. Very few vehicles report this. |
GPH LPH |
Gallons Per Hour Liters Per Hour |
Fuel consumption rate in the selected units. This is sensitive to throttle, gear and loading changes. |
IGN |
Ignition Timing |
Shows the amount of timing advance (or retard). The more advance there is (or less retard), the better for fuel economy and power. The limit is set by the octane of the fuel, the intake air temperature, and the load on the engine. A lower than normal amount of advance for similar temperature and speed could indicate too low an octane of fuel is being used. |
LOD |
Engine Loading |
This is a percentage of the maximum power available currently being generated. In some vehicles it is the maximum available at the present RPM. |
HP |
Horsepower |
Displays the calculated Horsepower your vehicle is currently making. This value can be adjusted for accuracy through the Advanced Setup parameters. |
TFT |
Transmission Fluid Temperature |
Not all vehicles report TFT. In some cases where TFT is not reported, you may be able to implement this gauge through the programmable XGauge system. |
The ScanGauge II can also be extended through the XGauge feature to add additional vehicle specific gauges such as transmission temperature, air-to-fuel ratio and much, much more.
Automatic Trip Computers
Five built-in trip computers keep track of everything from fuel cost to distance traveled and everything in between.
The CURRENT trip is restarted after the engine has been off for more than 3 minutes. The TODAY trip is restarted after the vehicle has not moved for 9 hours. The data from TODAY is moved to PREVIOUS DAY when it is restarted. This way, you don't have to reset the trip computers when you start a trip.
There is also a TANK Trip which you reset when you fill up the tank. It can provide you with "to empty" data as well as other useful information. The information is available anytime during the trip. The CURRENT trip can be reset. This is useful for making fuel economy measurements at a steady speed.
The GAUGE mode can display instantaneous fuel economy, but small variations in throttle, terrain or even wind will cause this to wander around some. The CURRENT trip computer and its RESET capability can smooth this out over a longer distance. A demonstration of how to do this can be chosen below.
The TRIP modes in the ScanGauge II can be used to save gas. Improved driving habits can improve fuel economy by up to 30% according to a US Government source. The ScanGauge II lets you try different driving techniques and routes and gives quick feedback on how they affect fuel use.
Built-in Trip Computers |
Trip Computer | Display Name | Available Information |
Current |
Current |
Trip MPG |
Trip Fuel Used |
Maximim Coolant Temperature |
Todays Trip |
TODAY |
Distance |
Maximum RPM |
Trip Elapsed Time |
Previous Trip |
PREV DAY |
Maximum Speed |
Average Speed |
Trip Fuel Cost |
Tank Trips |
TANK |
Trip MPG |
Trip Fuel Used |
Distance |
Trip Elapsed Time |
Average Speed |
Trip Fuel Cost |
TANK TO EMPTY |
Fuel Remaining for the Current Tank |
Distance Remaining Before Tank Is Empty |
Time Remaining Before Tank Is Empty |
Performance Monitor
The ScanGaugeII features the all new Performance Monitor™ for real-time performance measurements. The Performance Monitor gives your the ability to track your vehicles performance over short periods of time, distance and acceleration. You can also designate a specific digital gauge to track as well as save and recall the data of up to 8 performance runs for later review and comparison.
You can use the Performance Monitor various aspect of your vehicle's performance such as:
- Track your quarter-mile times and speeds at the track.
- Determine your vehicles 0-60 time.
- Measure your vehicles braking performance
- Save and Recall performance runs
- Monitor specific Digitial Guages
- and much more…
Available Performance Data Parameters |
Parameters | Description |
Time |
The amount of elapsed time at each data point from the beginning of the Performance Run to the end of the run |
Speed |
The speed of the vehicle at each data point |
Distance |
The total distance traveled at data point |
Monitored Gauge |
Use the Monitor Function to select a built-in digital gauge to monitor. Data will be recorded for the selected gauge. |
Real-time Fuel Economy
Graphic Feedback
ScanGaugeE™ provides you with real-time information about your vehicle's fuel economy through an intuitive graphic display. Use the instant feedback provided to adjust your driving style and improve your fuel economy.
Real-time Fuel Economy Feedback Graph
The graph represents your current average fuel economy over a period of time and is separated into 3 sections; (A) above your average, (B) at your average, and (C) below your current average.
As you drive, the graph will scroll to the left at regular intervals and provided feedback about your average fuel economy for the current trip. You goal should be to keep the graph above the Current Average (B) line. As your trip progresses, this may become increasing difficult as you raise your current average fuel economy.
Goal Based Fuel Economy Feedback Graph
It is possible to set the Real-time Fuel Economy Graphic Feedback to display results based on a fuel efficiency goal.
When set in Goal mode, the Current Average (B) line represents your Fuel Efficiency Goal. The area above the Current Average (A) line represents fuel efficiency readings above your goal and the area below the Current Average (C) line represents fuel efficiency readings below your goal.
Built-in Digital Gauges
The ScanGaugeE can display up to 2 digital gauges at one time along with the a real-time fuel efficiency feedback graph.
The ScanGaugeE features more then 18 built-in digital gauges that can be displayed two at a time along with the real-time fuel efficiency feedback graph. The ScanGaugeE also features pre-defined gauge screens for fuel efficiency (MPG & AVG), CO2 production (CO2 & TCO) and Trip Cost (TFC & DFC) along with 2 custom screens you can use to setup your own default gauge set.
The gauges and the graph are updated in real-time as you drive to provide you the kind of real-time feedback that can help you learn to raise your fuel economy and reduce your carbon footprint regardless of the type of vehicle you drive.
You can also change the unit of measure between standard and metric, as well as adjust the update rate to one of three pre-set speeds (slow, normal and fast).
Digital Gauge | Name | Description |
CLSD LP OPEN LP |
Fuel System Loop Status |
This indicates when the oxygen sensor is being used to control the mixture (closed-loop) and when it is not (open-loop). It is usually closed except when the engine is cold or under full throttle acceleration. |
MAP BST |
Manifold Absolute Pressure Boost |
This indicates the pressure in the intake manifold. It is reported in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) by default but can be changed to kilo-pascals (KPA) if desired. If the engine is turbocharged or supercharged, you can set ScanGaugeII to calculate and display this gauge as Boost (BST) through the Advanced Setup parameters |
MPG KPG MPL LHK KPL |
Miles Per Gallon Kilomteres Per Gallon Miles Per Liter Liters Per 100Km Kilomteres Per Liter |
Instant fuel economy is updated about every 2 seconds at the NORMAL update rate . Small changes in throttle position or load while driving will show almost immediate changes in this gauge. |
MPH KPH |
Miles Per Hour Kilometers Per Hour |
Speed in the units selected |
RPM |
Revolutions Per Minute |
The RPM of the engine |
TPS |
Throttle Position Sensor |
In some vehicles, a closed throttle will read 0 and full throttle will read 100. Other vehicles will have a higher value than 0 for a closed throttle and a full throttle value less than 100. |
FWT CWT |
Water Temperature |
Water/Coolant temperature < br/>A vehicle with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water will not boil over until about 265? F at sea level. This will be reduced at higher elevations. |
AVG |
Average Fuel Economy |
This is the current average fuel economy and is updated about every 2 seconds (normal rate). |
TFC |
Trip Fuel Cost |
This is the total fuel cost for the current trip. |
CPM |
Cost Per Mile |
Cost of fuel per mile at this time. |
VLT |
Battery Voltage |
Normal running battery voltage is between 13 and 15. When the engine is off it should be between 11 and 13. Voltages higher than 15 volts can damage batteries and electrical components. Voltages below 13 when the vehicle is running could indicate poor charging of the battery. Voltage below 11 when the engine is off could indicate a low battery charge or a shorted battery cell. |
FIA CIA |
Intake Air Temperature |
Temperature of the air going into the engine. At highway speeds, this will typically be a few degrees higher than the outside air temperature. At idle or low speed, it may be much higher in temperature than the outside temperature due to the low airflow into the engine and the high under-hood temperatures warming it up. |
FPR |
Fuel Pressure |
This is the fuel pressure from the fuel pump. Very few vehicles report this. |
GPH LPH |
Gallons Per Hour Liters Per Hour |
Fuel consumption rate in the selected units. This is sensitive to throttle, gear and loading changes. |
IGN |
Ignition Timing |
Shows the amount of timing advance (or retard). The more advance there is (or less retard), the better for fuel economy and power. The limit is set by the octane of the fuel, the intake air temperature, and the load on the engine. A lower than normal amount of advance for similar temperature and speed could indicate too low an octane of fuel is being used. |
LOD |
Engine Loading |
This is a percentage of the maximum power available currently being generated. In some vehicles it is the maximum available at the present RPM. |
DFC |
Day's Fuel Cost |
This is the total fuel cost for all trips for the current day |
CO2 |
Current Carbon Dioxide |
This shows the amount of CO2 your vehicle has produced durring the current trip. |
TCO |
Today's Carbon Dioxide |
This shows the total amount of CO2 your vehicle has produced durring the current day. |
Automatic Trip Computers
Five built-in trip computers keep track of everything from fuel cost, distance traveled your vehicle's CO2 footprint and much more.
The CURRENT trip is restarted after the engine has been off for more than 3 minutes. The TODAY trip is restarted after the vehicle has not moved for 9 hours. The data from TODAY is moved to PREVIOUS DAY when it is restarted. This way, you don't have to reset the trip computers when you start a trip. There is also a TANK Trip which you reset when you fill up the tank. It can provide you with "to empty" data as well as other useful information. The information is available anytime during the trip. The CURRENT trip can be reset. This is useful for making fuel economy measurements at a steady speed.
The TRIP modes in the ScanGauge can be used to save gas. Improved driving habits can improve fuel economy by up to 30% according to a US Government source. The ScanGauge lets you try different driving techniques and routes and gives quick feedback on how they affect fuel use.
Built-in Trip Computers |
Trip Computer | Display Name | Available Information | Display Name |
Current |
Current |
Average Fuel Economy |
FUEL ECO |
Trip Fuel Used |
FUEL USE |
Today's Trip |
TODAY |
Maximum Coolant Temperature |
WT MAX |
Trip Distance |
DIST |
Maximum Engine RPM |
MAX RPM |
Previous Trip |
PREV DAY |
Trip Elapsed Time |
HOURS |
Maximum Speed |
MAX SPD |
Tank Trip |
TANK |
Average Speed |
AVG SPD |
Trip Fuel Cost |
COST |
Trip C02 Production |
C02 |
Tank To Empty |
TO EMPTY |
Fuel Remaining |
FUEL |
Distance Remaining Before Tank is Empty |
DISTANCE |
Time Remaining Before Tank is Empty |
HOURS |
X-Gauge Commands
It is now possible to add up to 25 additional gauges to the 12 that are currently available to most vehicles. The available features include:
XGauges for ISO & VPW Vehicles
XGauges such as O2 Sensor Voltages, Long and Short Fuel Trims, Air to Fuel Ratio's, Fuel Level, and more can be found here for vehicles that use the ISO or VPW protocol.
View X-Gauge Data >>
XGauges for PWM vehicles
XGauges such as O2 Sensor Voltages, Long and Short Fuel Trims, Air to Fuel Ratio's, Fuel Level, and more can be found here for vehicles that use the PWM Protocol.
View X-Gauge Data >>
XGauges for CANSF Vehicles
XGauges such as O2 Sensor Voltages, Long and Short Fuel Trims, Air to Fuel Ratio's, Fuel Level, and more can be found here for vehicles that use the CANSF protocol.
View X-Gauge Data >>
Ford Specific XGauges
Ford Specific XGauges. View parameters such as Transmission Fluid Temperature, Cylinder Head Temperature, Fuel Level, and more on your Ford. There are also model specific XGauges for the 7.3, 6.0, 6.4 Powerstroke Diesels and the Ford Escape Hybrid.
View X-Gauge Data >>
Toyota Specific
Toyota Specific XGauge codes. Specific codes for the Gen I, II, and III Prius.
View X-Gauge Data >>
GM Specific
GM Specific XGauge Codes. Monitor your Transmission Fluid Temperature, Air to Fuel Ratio, Engine Torque, and more with these XGauge codes.
View X-Gauge Data >>
Using Performance Monitor
The ScanGaugeII now includes the all new Performance Monitor™
The Performance Monitor™ provides the ability to track the performance of your vehicle over short periods of time, distance and acceleration. You can think of the Performance Monitor as a performance-based Trip computer with a specialized purpose.
Performance Monitor also allows you to save and recall up to 8 performance runs. You can step through the data by time, speed or distance for a snapshot of your vehicles performance.
Available Performance Data Parameters |
Parameters | Description |
Time |
The amount of elapsed time at each data point from the beginning of the Performance Run to the end of the run |
Speed |
The speed of the vehicle at each data point |
Distance |
The total distance traveled at data point |
Monitored Gauge |
Use the Monitor Function to select a built-in digital gauge to monitor. Data will be recorded for the selected gauge. |
Reading Performance Data
The data the Performance Monitor records can be read through the DATA screen. The data screen displays the speed, distance and elapsed time for each data point. A data point is generated each time the Performance Monitor records data.
While viewing the Data screen, you can use the upper left and right function buttons to step through the data points.
Increasing Stepping Through Recorded Data
Stepping Through Recorded Data
While vieing the DATA screen, the lower right function button toggles the step-through mode, allowing you to step through the data points using the different criteria. The currently selected step-through mode is shown next to the lower right function button. The information layout on the DATA screen maintains a consistent layout as you switch between data step-thru modes. For instance, Distance (ft) is shown in the upper left of the screen, while speed (MPH/KPH) is shown in the upper right of the screen, and elapsed time (Sec) is shown near the bottom middle portion of the screen. See the chart Step-Through Parameters and Recording Rates on the following page for more information about each Data parameter and step-through intervals.
Helpful Tips
The Performance Monitor can provide a wealth of information about your vehicle's performance. Here are a few quick tips on how to use the data after a Performance Run to help get the most out the Performance Monitor.
Get Your 1/4-mile time
On the Data Screen, set the step-through parameter to Distance (D) and step through the data until distance shows 1320ft.
Get Your 0-60 MPH time
On the Data Screen, set the step-through parameter to Speed (S) and step thru through data until speed (MPH) shows 60MPH. The time displayed on the bottom line is your 0-60 time.
Available Performance Data Parameters |
Parameters | Display | Step Thru Intervals |
Time |
T |
Data is recorded and can be viewed incrementally every:
- 0.2 seconds with MONITOR Turned OFF
- 0.4 seconds with MONITOR turned ON
|
Speed |
S |
Data can be viewed incrementally every 5 MPH/KPH |
Distance |
D |
Data can be viewed incrementally every 100ft with special data points at: 60ft, 330ft (1/16 mile), 660ft(1/8 mile), 1320ft (1/4 mile), 2640ft (1/2 mile) and 5280ft(1 mile) |
Monitored Gauge |
M |
Data is recorded and can be viewed incrementally every 0.4 seconds. Only Available if a monitored gauge was set for the Performance Run |
Get Braking Performance — 60-0 MPH and Braking Distance
On a closed course, start by bringing your vehicle up to speed, just below 60 MPH, and hold your speed while your passenger arms the Performance Monitor. Then, bring your vehicle's speed up to 60 MPH and then begin braking. Once your speed reaches 0, the Performance Monitor will automatically stop recording data. Finally, set the step-through parameter to Speed (S) and step through the data until speed shows 0 MPH. Read the distance (ft) parameter for breaking distance and the time (Sec) parameter for breaking time.
Finding Incomplete OBDII Tests
Some states are now using the OBDII connector for emissions testing. The good news is that if the vehicle has completed testing its emissions systems since the last time the battery was disconnected or the trouble codes reset, the test takes only seconds to pass. The bad news is if it hasn't completed them the vehicle may not be passed. If you see "—Ready—" in the second line after pressing SCAN, all the tests have been run and there are no trouble codes. You are ready to pass the emissions check. If you see "-Not Ready-", some tests haven't been run. Even though there are no trouble codes, you may still fail emissions because some required tests have not been completed.
Some states allow the vehicle to pass emissions even if certain tests have not been completed. The ones that are allowed differ from state to state. Although the ScanGauge II cannot tell you which ones your state allows, it can tell you which ones have not been completed.
The CMNDS function in the ScanGauge II allows you to send OBDII requests and receive OBDII responses. The trick is in the encoding and decoding of the requests and returned data.
Data in the OBDII system uses hex-a-decimal bytes, just like most computers. This should make it easier for those familiar with the language of computers. For those who are not that deep into computers, don't worry, it can be broken down into some simple sequences of numbers and letters.
Hex-a-decimal uses the numbers 0 to 9 just like decimal, but adds the letters "A" through "F" as "numbers". Each "Byte" actually contains 2 hex-a-decimal digits. "7F" is an example of a hex-a-decimal byte. 1A23D4 is an example of a hex-a-decimal number. I'll leave the discussion of why computers like 16 numbers instead of 10 for someone else. You don't really need to worry about it.
OBDII Commands
OBDII Commands have a structure which depends on the protocol (MODE in the ScanGauge II). You will have to know the MODE your vehicle is using. When the ScanGauge has connected to the vehicle computer, CAN capable ScanGauges (Version 2.xx) will tell you the MODE by using MORE>MORE>MODE. The MODE will be shown on the top line. Non-CAN ScanGauges will show the MODE by using MORE>MODE>READ.
The commands use a checksum to verify that the data was received correctly. The ScanGauge adds this to what you tell it to send, so you don't have to worry about it. The responses also include a check value which is displayed by the ScanGauge II. The ScanGauge II validates the response by using the check value before the response is displayed. If a response is displayed, it has passed the check and you don't need to bother with the check value.
Making and Sending an OBDII Command
The ScanGauge II has 10 memories which can be used to store an OBDII command. It uses "Flash" type memory which doesn't require power or a battery to be retained. You can change it as often as you like or keep it as long as you want, even if the ScanGauge II is unplugged.
Access to the memory is through MORE>MORE>CMNDS. This get you to a Memory screen. You can use the upper buttons to select which memory (0 to 9) to use. The inputting of the command is reached by pressing EDIT. This opens a screen where the command can be created or, if one already exists, changed. The upper buttons move you through the hex-a-decimal number locations which extends clear through the top line and most of the way through the second line. Most OBDII commands are shorter than this.
The lower left button is used to change the character at the blinking cursor. It steps from a "space" to the numbers 0 to 9 and the letters A to F, then starts back at "space". This allows you to build the command using the upper buttons to position the cursor and the lower left to set the value at the cursor.
When you have completed the command, you exit the memory edit screen by pressing the lower right "OK" button. This returns you to the memory screen. The lower right "SEND" button causes the command to be sent. You can move from memory to memory sending commands as often as you like.
Receiving an OBDII Response
The ScanGauge II sends a command after you press the Send button when it is proper to do so according to the OBDII rules. It then looks for a response. It will capture, check and display the first response it sees after sending the command. This is an important point.
OBD busses can contain a lot of things being passed from one computer in the vehicle to another or to the ScanGauge II. The first response may not be the response to the command you sent. It may be a response to a command sent by the vehicle computer or other ScanGauge II command. The vehicle can sort the responses out because the response contains values which shows what command it is responding to. You have to do this by checking some of the characters in the response. If it is not the response to your command, you would send the command again.
Asking for Emissions Test Status
The command you need to put into the ScanGauge II and send to retrieve emissions test status depends on the protocol/MODE.
If your vehicle mode is PWM, the command would be:
616AF10101
For VPW, ISO and KWPx use:
686AF10101
For KWPx use:
C233F10101
For CANxx use:
0101
The Response
After entering the command, press OK and then SEND. Any response will appear in the display. If no response is seen, make sure the engine is on and gauges are responding and try again. The response you are looking for will have some values that verify it is a response to your request, other numbers that verify the data has been received correctly and numbers that contain the information you requested. Just like the command, the response depends on the protocol/Mode. The lower-case letters x,j,k,l,m,n,o,p,q and z are place holders in the following sequences. The actual values displayed by the ScanGauge II will be hex-a-decimal numbers (0 to 9 and A to F)
For PWM, the response will look like:
416Bxx4101jklmnopqzz
For VPW and ISO:
486Bxx4101jklmnopqzz
For KWPx:
86F1xx4101jklmnopqzz
For CANxx:
4101jklmnopq
If the response doesn't contain the hex-a-decimal numbers shown, send the command again until it does. If you can't get a response, either the command is not set up correctly or the vehicle doesn't have a response for the command.
Decoding the Response
The information we are interested in is in the j through q numbers. The j and k tell whether the "Check Engine" light is on and the number of trouble codes if any. The l and m values indicate the status of the continuously monitored systems. The n and o values indicate which type of tests are supported in the vehicle and the p and q values tell which of the tests have not been completed. The p and q values are what we are after.
Table 1 shows how to decode the p value. The x's indicate which tests have not been completed. For instance if the value in the q position was 4, the Evaporative System Monitor tests have not successfully completed. This could be caused by a missing or loose gas cap or other leak in the fuel tank system, or just indicate that the vehicle hasn't run long enough to perform the test since the trouble codes were reset or the battery disconnected.
Table 2 shows the decoding for the "q" value.
Table 1 – "p" Decoding
"p" Value |
AC Refrigerant Monitor |
Oxygen Sensor Monitor |
Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor |
EGR System Monitor |
0 |
|
|
|
|
1 |
x |
|
|
|
2 |
|
x |
|
|
3 |
x |
x |
|
|
4 |
|
|
x |
|
5 |
x |
|
x |
|
6 |
|
x |
x |
|
7 |
x |
x |
x |
|
8 |
|
|
|
x |
9 |
x |
|
|
x |
A |
|
x |
|
x |
B |
x |
x |
|
x |
C |
|
|
x |
x |
D |
x |
|
x |
x |
E |
x |
x |
x |
F |
x |
x |
x |
x |
Table 2 – "q" Decoding
"q" Value |
Catalyst Monitor |
Heated Catalyst Monitor |
Evaporative System Monitor |
Secondary Air System Monitor |
0 |
|
|
|
|
1 |
x |
|
|
|
2 |
|
x |
|
|
3 |
x |
x |
|
|
4 |
|
|
x |
|
5 |
x |
|
x |
|
6 |
|
x |
x |
|
7 |
x |
x |
x |
|
8 |
|
|
|
x |
9 |
x |
|
|
x |
A |
|
x |
|
x |
B |
x |
x |
|
x |
C |
|
|
x |
x |
D |
x |
|
x |
x |
E |
|
x |
x |
x |
F |
x |
x |
x |
x |
An Example
The following command was sent to a VPW vehicle which was showing "—Ready—" after being scanned.
686AF10101
The Response received was:
486B1041010007E50021
The 0's in the p and q locations (just before the 21 at the end) indicate there are no incomplete tests. This verifies the "Ready" status.
After disconnecting and reconnecting the battery, the same command was sent again and the following response was received:
486B1041010007E5E5FA
The "E" in the "p" location indicates the Oxygen Sensor Monitor, Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor and EGR System Monitor tests have not been completed.
The "5″ in the "q" location indicates the Catalyst Monitor and Evaporative System Monitor tests have not been completed.
A Scan shows "–Not Ready–" as we would expect.
Fuel Economy

According to the US Federal government, the way you drive can affect fuel economy by up to 33%.
See: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/driveHabits.shtml
Most of us are aware of how you can drive a vehicle in a matter to significantly reduce fuel economy. It is surprising though, how many don’t realize how many subtle things they can do to improve fuel economy. Part of the problem is the poor feedback we typically get about what improves fuel economy and what makes it worse. Calculating the fuel economy at every fill up is like going on a weight reduction plan but only weighing yourself at your annual medical checkup. The nagging of the bathroom scale at the morning weigh-in is what drives us to make the necessary changes to reach our goals.
Years ago, some vehicles added an “economy” gauge to indicate when you were using more or less fuel. These were based on manifold vacuum and couldn’t really tell you your fuel economy at that moment and would often tell you that you were getting better mileage when you actually weren’t. For instance, shifting to a lower gear would move the gauge higher into the economy range. Actually, shifting to a lower gear almost always lowers fuel economy.

As cars became more computerized, some vehicles added fuel economy gauges that really did show fuel economy. This was a big step forward, but still lacked the kind of feedback that would show the overall effect of different driving habits. You easily saw that when you stepped on the gas, the economy dropped and when you let off, it went back up. This something you already knew, but now you had some real numbers to go with it.
The next step to improve the feedback was to show the average fuel economy as you drove. This allowed you to see what adjustments in your driving styles could be used to actually raise your average fuel economy. When you stepped on the gas, the average would start decreasing. When you let off the gas, it would start increasing. It became easy to figure out how to make the economy go down less when it was going down and up more when it was going up. You could make it into a game to see how high you could get the MPG. The best part was, you got to redeem your points at the gas pump!
Although some cars have this feature today, many don’t. The solution to this problem came from emissions requirements called OBDII. Starting in 1996, all cars and light trucks sold in the US and Canada were required to follow standards on how to report information about what the engine was doing in the way of emissions. A gadget could be made to plug into the OBDII connector inside the car that could provide all kinds of data on how the engine was running and if there were any problems. The ScanGaugeII is a commercial product that can be plugged into this connector and provide real time information on the vitals of the engine as well as retrieve the codes when there was a problem and the “Check Engine Light” was on. Another neat thing came from this – the vehicles fuel use and economy could also be determined.

The ScanGaugeII and ScanGaugeE both provides real time MPG just like the factory options. More importantly, it also shows averages. It shows fuel use and economy for each trip you make, for all the trips in days driving, for all of the previous day’s trips and over the entire tank of fuel. Each time you start driving after the engine has been off for at least three minutes, the “CURRENT” trip reset to 0 MPG and starts increasing as you start driving.
You will see the MPG value go up and down as you drive. It will become very apparent what you can do to maximize the value. At the end of the day, you can see the average for the day in the TODAY selection and compare it to the PREVOUS DAY values.
In order to get good real-time feedback, you would set up the CURRENT TRIP MPG as a gauge. You could also display the actual amount of fuel used on the trips, since using the least amount of fuel is the actual goal. This allows you to compare different routes to places you often travel to, like work, school, the mall, etc.. When you fill up, you input the amount you paid per gallon. This allows the ScanGaugeII to show the actual cost of each trip as you are driving. This is a good way to see what each trip is costing. You may find that driving further to get a lower price on gas is actually costing more then you save.
Who knows, you could even become a hyper-miler. These people use every trick that they can find to get trip MPGs that are more then double the EPA ratings! At Hybrid Fest in Madison Wisconsin at the end of July in 2007, dozens of hybrids did a mileage challenge. The course was 28 miles through downtown Madison, out into the country and back through the city. ScanGaugeIIs were used to measure the amount of fuel it took to cover the course. One Prius used 0.19 gallons (147 MPG) Most of the others got well over 100 MPG. These people don’t lose sleep over the price of gas anymore.