Vgate vLinker FD+ OBD2 Car Diagnostic Tool User Manual

1. Introduction

The Vgate vLinker FD+ is an advanced OBD2 car diagnostic tool designed for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and programming, especially for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. It supports a wide range of protocols and offers Bluetooth 3.0/4.0 connectivity for Android and iOS devices, enabling users to read/clear DTCs, monitor engine parameters, activate hidden functions, and more.

2. Package Contents

• 1 x Vgate vLinker FD+ (BT3.0/BT4.0 version)
• 1 x User Manual

3. Specifications

4. Setup

4.1 Hardware Installation

1. Locate your vehicle's OBD2 diagnostic port. This is typically found under the dashboard on the driver's side.
2. Insert the Vgate vLinker FD+ device firmly into the OBD2 port.
3. Turn the vehicle's ignition to the 'ON' position (engine off). The device's indicator lights should illuminate.

4.2 Software Installation

Download a compatible OBD2 diagnostic application from your device's app store (e.g., Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS). Recommended applications include Torque Lite, OBD2 Fusion, BimmerCode, JScan, FORScan Lite, and OBD Auto Doctor.

4.3 Bluetooth Connection (Android)

1. Insert the adapter into the OBD interface of the car. Turn ignition to Key On Engine Off Position.
2. Open the Bluetooth settings on your Android device and wait for available devices.
3. Tap "vLinker FD" to pair. If "vLinker FD-Android" does not show under "Available Devices", tap "Scan".
4. Enter the pairing code: 1234.
5. Successfully paired with "vLinker FD".
6. Open your chosen diagnostic application (e.g., FORScan Lite).
7. Go to the app's settings, select "Connection type" as "Bluetooth", and choose "vLinker FD" from the list of Bluetooth devices.
8. Wait for the connection to succeed.

4.4 Bluetooth Connection (iOS)

For iOS devices using the BT4.0 version, connect to Bluetooth directly within the diagnostic application. Do NOT connect to Bluetooth through your phone's general settings.

Video demonstrating the unboxing and Bluetooth connection process for the vLinker FD+.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 General OBD2 Functions

Once connected, your diagnostic application will allow you to access various OBD2 functions:

• Read Codes: Retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from the vehicle's ECU.
• Erase Codes: Clear DTCs and turn off the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
• DTC Lookup: Get descriptions for retrieved trouble codes.
• EVAP System Test: Monitor the Evaporative Emission Control System.
• I/M Readiness: Check the status of emission-related diagnostic monitors.
• MIL Fault Light: Indicates the status of the Malfunction Indicator Light.
• Data Stream: View real-time sensor data.
• Live Data: Access live parameters from the vehicle.
• Freeze Frame: View a snapshot of sensor data at the moment a DTC was set.
• O2 Sensor Test: Monitor oxygen sensor performance.
• Vehicle Information: Retrieve vehicle identification number (VIN) and other details.
• On-Board Monitor Test: Access results of on-board diagnostic monitoring tests.

5.2 Special FORScan Functions (Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercury)

The vLinker FD+ is specifically optimized for FORScan software, allowing access to advanced programming and diagnostic features for compatible vehicles:

• Automatically lock
• Speeding reminder
• Emergency brake flashing lights
• Lock the car and whistle
• Xenon lamp mode
• One-click skylight
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Snowflake logo
• Cruise function
• Compass
• Average (instantaneous) fuel consumption
• ECO energy saving mode
• Steering power adjustment

5.3 Auto Sleep and Wake-up

The vLinker FD+ features intelligent power management. If there is no data communication on the serial port and OBD bus within 20 minutes, the device automatically enters sleep mode. It can wake up in two ways:

• Wakes on OBD bus activity.
• Wakes on Battery Voltage change.

6. Supported Protocols

The vLinker FD+ supports a comprehensive set of protocols, covering almost 99% of OBDII cars on the market:

6.1 Multiple Protocols

• 15 ELM format protocols
• 23 STN format protocols
• Up to 64 user-defined protocols

6.2 OBDII 5 Standard Protocols

• SAE J1850 VPW
• SAE J1850 PWM
• ISO 9141-2
• ISO 14230-4
• ISO 15765-4 CAN

6.3 Additional Protocols

• SAE J1939 CAN
• ISO 11898 (raw CAN)
• Medium Speed (MS CAN)

7. Troubleshooting

• Connection Issues (iOS BT4.0): If using an iOS device with the BT4.0 version, ensure you connect to Bluetooth directly within the diagnostic application. Do not attempt to pair or connect via your iPhone's general Bluetooth settings.
• No Data Communication: If the device enters sleep mode (no data communication for 20 minutes), it will wake up automatically upon OBD bus activity or a change in battery voltage. Ensure your vehicle's ignition is on.
• App Not Detecting Device: Double-check that the vLinker FD+ is securely plugged into the OBD2 port and that your device's Bluetooth is enabled. Verify the correct connection type and device selection within your diagnostic app's settings.
• Inaccurate Readings: Ensure your diagnostic app is up-to-date. Some advanced functions or specific vehicle models may require specific app versions or configurations.

8. User Tips

• Software Costs: While the vLinker FD+ is compatible with various diagnostic software like FORScan, some advanced functions or the software itself may require additional payment to the software developer. The adapter only provides the hardware interface.
• Firmware Updates: The device features a secure bootloader for easy firmware updates. Check the Vgate official website or your diagnostic app for available updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
• Vehicle Compatibility: The vLinker FD+ is universally compatible with Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles, and supports almost 99% of OBDII cars. However, specific advanced features may vary by vehicle model and year.

9. Maintenance

• Keep the device clean and free from dust and moisture.
• Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty.

10. Warranty and Support

The Vgate vLinker FD+ comes with a 2-year official store warranty. For any technical assistance or support, please contact the Vgate Official Store. They aim to answer all messages within 24 hours.