1. Product Overview
The Thinkcar Thinksafe is an OBDII Bluetooth Vehicle Diagnostic Tool designed to provide comprehensive vehicle health detection. It connects wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, allowing you to perform various diagnostic and maintenance functions through a dedicated application.
2. Setup Guide
2.1. Download the ThinkDiag+ App
The Thinksafe device operates with a dedicated mobile application. Ensure your smartphone or tablet meets the minimum operating system requirements: Android 5.0+ or iOS 9.0+.
- For iOS devices: Download "THINKDIAG" from the Apple App Store.
- For Android devices: Download "THINKDIAG+" from Google Play.
2.2. Sign In or Sign Up
If you already have a Thinkcar Tech account, sign in using your credentials. If not, you will need to create a new account:
- Open the ThinkDiag+ App.
- Tap on "Sign Up".
- Input your username, email, and a verification code (which will be sent to your email).
- Create your own password.
- Tap "Sign Up" to complete your registration.
2.3. Activate Your THINKSAFE Device
After signing in, you need to activate your device:
- Tap on "Activate" to open the activation page.
- Input the serial number and the 8-digit activation code. These details are typically found on a small note included in the product packaging.
- Complete the activation process.
2.4. Insert the THINKSAFE Device into Your Vehicle's OBD Port
Locate the OBDII port in your vehicle. It is usually found under the dashboard, above the pedal on the driver's side. There are 5 common positions for the OBDII port. Once inserted, the THINKSAFE device will show a green light, indicating it is powered on.
2.5. Bluetooth Connection
Open the ThinkDiag+ App. The app will automatically search for activated devices. Select your device and connect to it via Bluetooth within the app. Important: Do not directly connect the device to your phone via Bluetooth settings in your phone OS. Always pair your device within the app following the instructions.
2.6. Download Diagnostic Software
In the "Diagnostics" interface of the App, you will need to download the corresponding diagnostic software for your vehicle's make and model. This is required for "All System Diagnostic" and "OBD Functions" for the first time. There is no need to download again next time.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Start Using Your THINKSAFE Device
After downloading the diagnostic software, the app will automatically search for activated devices and start running the diagnostics software when there are protocols available.
3.2. All System Diagnostic (Lifetime Free)
The Thinksafe device supports comprehensive diagnosis of all vehicle systems. This includes reading and clearing fault codes, reading live data streams, and viewing version information for systems such as:
- Engine System
- Transmission System
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
- BCM (Body Control Module)
- EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) System
- Air Conditioning System
- Instrument System
- Steering System
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
3.3. Full OBD2 Functions (Lifetime Free)
The device supports all standard OBD2 functions to help you turn off the engine light and check vehicle status:
- Reading Codes: Displays detailed descriptions of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- Erasing Codes & Reset: Turns off the Check Engine Light (MIL), clears codes, and resets monitors.
- Data Stream: Reads and displays live ECU/PCM data stream, plots functions graphically, and stores freeze frame data.
- I/M Readiness Status: Shows whether various emissions-related systems are operating properly and are ready for inspection.
- View Freeze Frame Data: Checks vehicle conditions recorded by the on-board computer when an emission-related fault occurs.
- O2 Sensor Test: Allows retrieval and viewing of O2 sensor monitor test results.
- On-Board Monitor Test: Retrieves and displays test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems.
- Read Vehicle Information: Displays VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID), and CVN (Calibration Verification Number).
- EVAP Monitor Test: Performs tests on the Evaporative Emission Control System.
3.4. Active Test / Bi-directional Control (Lifetime Free Update)
The 2025 New Version adds advanced bi-directional control features, allowing you to send commands to vehicle systems and monitor their operation. Examples include:
- Coolant pump activation
- Window open/close control
- Light control
- Rearview mirror control
- Windshield adjustment
- Wiper adjustment
- Fuel injector test
- Starting fuel pump activation
- Clutch open/close control
- Speaker on/off control
3.5. Auto VIN Scan
When you select "Auto VIN Scan" in the app, the scanner will automatically recognize your car's information and initiate a scan.
3.6. Online Diagnostic Report
The software can generate a diagnostic report. You can send this report via Bluetooth or email and then print it out for your records or to share with a mechanic.
3.7. Data Stream Display
The device allows you to view up to 4 kinds of real-time data simultaneously, providing a comprehensive overview of your vehicle's performance.
4. Maintenance Functions
4.1. 6 Reset Services (1 Year Free)
The Thinksafe device includes 6 commonly used reset services, which are free for the first year. After the first year, these 6 reset services for all supported car brands can be renewed for $29.95 per year.
- Oil Lamp Reset Service: Resets the Engine Oil Life system after an oil change.
- EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) Service: Essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of the electronic braking system.
- SAS (Steering Angle Sensor) Service: Helps clear fault steering angle sensor memories and calibrates the sensor.
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Service: Displays sensor IDs from the vehicle's ECU, allows input of replacement TPMS sensor IDs, and tests sensors.
- ABS Bleeding: Performs ABS brake bleeding to achieve a firm brake pedal after air exhaustion following ABS pump system repair.
- Throttle Learning: Initializes the throttle actuators to their default state.
There is no limit on the number of car software you can add; all are free to use these 6 resets for the first year.
5. Troubleshooting
- Device not powering on: Ensure the device is correctly inserted into the vehicle's OBDII port. Check for a green indicator light.
- Bluetooth connection issues: Remember to connect via the ThinkDiag+ app, not directly through your phone's Bluetooth settings. If issues persist, try restarting the app and your phone.
- Diagnostic software download failure: Ensure a stable internet connection. Check available storage on your device.
- VIN scan not working for specific models: While the device supports a wide range of vehicles, some older or less common models might not be automatically recognized. In such cases, manual vehicle selection might be necessary.
- App compatibility: The device is designed to work with the official ThinkDiag/ThinkDiag+ app. It is not compatible with third-party applications like Diagzone.
- Features after 1 year: The Full System Diagnosis and Full OBD2 Functions remain lifetime free. The 6 Reset Services require an annual subscription of $29.95 after the first year to continue receiving updates and full functionality. The device will not stop working entirely, but the reset services will require renewal for continued use.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | Thinksafe (TKSA1) |
| Special Features | Bluetooth, Active Test |
| Free Update Period | Lifetime for Active Test, Full System Diagnose, Full OBD2 Functions; 1 year for 6 Reset Services (then annual subscription) |
| Software Update | Yes (2025 Newest Version) |
| Hardware Version | 2025 Newest |
| Language Support | Arabic, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Vietnamese, Persian, Khmer, Lao, Burmese |
| Item Type | Code Readers & Scan Tools, OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth |
| Certification | CE |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Supported OS | Android 5.0+, iOS 9.0+ |
| Vehicle Coverage | 120+ brands (American, European, Asian) |
| Package Dimensions | Length: 8cm, Width: 12cm, Height: 4cm |
| Package Weight | 0.07 kg |
7. Warranty and Support
7.1. Warranty Information
- Money Back Guarantee: You benefit from a 30-day money back guarantee.
- Product Warranty: The device is guaranteed for a period of one year. The warranty starting date is based on the payment date.
- Replacement: Before replacement, please ensure complete packaging. For replacement/repair, please call the service number to get the shipping address.
7.2. Customer Support
- Service Line: 1-833-650-2788
- Customer Service Email: support@thinkcar.com, support@thinkcarus.com
- Official Website: www.thinkcar.com
- Social Media:
Facebook: @thinkcar.official
Twitter: @ObdThinkcar
A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download. You can access it via this link: Thinksafe User Manual (PDF)
8. User Tips
- Check Vehicle Compatibility: While Thinksafe supports over 120 car brands, always verify compatibility for specific models and years, especially for older vehicles or those with non-standard OBDII implementations.
- App is Key: Always use the official ThinkDiag or ThinkDiag+ app for all connections and diagnostic operations. Avoid attempting to pair the device directly through your phone's Bluetooth settings.
- Understand Subscription Model: Remember that while full system diagnosis and OBD2 functions are lifetime free, the 6 special reset services are free for the first year and then require an annual subscription for continued updates and use.
- Review Reports: Utilize the online diagnostic report feature to save and share detailed vehicle health information. This can be very helpful for tracking issues or consulting with mechanics.
- Community Support: Explore the Thinkcar Community app (if available) for additional tips and peer support.
