THINKCAR THINKSCAN 689BT OBD2 Diagnostic Tool User Manual

1. Introduction

The THINKCAR THINKSCAN 689BT is an advanced OBD2 diagnostic tool designed for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and maintenance. This device features a 4G+64GB storage, a 2.0 GHz 4-Core high-efficiency processor, Android 10.0 OS, and dual 5G & 2.4 GHz WiFi connectivity. It supports CANFD and DOIP protocols, FCA AutoAuth, V.A.G Guided Functions, ECU Online Coding, Bi-directional Control, and over 34 maintenance services. All functions are lifetime free with no annual fees.

2. Product Overview

2.1. Key Features

• Enhanced Hardware: 4G+64GB storage, 2.0 GHz 4-Core CPU (5X faster), Android 10.0 OS, 5G & 2.4 GHz Dual WiFi.
• Advanced Protocols: Supports CANFD and DOIP protocols for newer vehicles.
• FCA AutoAuth: Compatible with 2017 and later Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat vehicles.
• V.A.G Guided Function: Provides step-by-step repair guidance for Volkswagen/Audi/Skoda/Seat.
• ECU Online Coding: Re-flash vehicle control modules, update software, reprogram adaptive data.
• Bi-directional Control (Active Test): Send commands to ECUs to test component functionality.
• Full Systems Diagnosis: Read/Clear Fault Codes, View Live Data Stream, Record & Playback Data, Retrieve Module Info, Active Test, Special Reset.
• 34+ Maintenance Services: Includes Oil Reset, EPB, TPMS, BMS, DPF Regeneration, IMMO Keys, Injector Coding, SAS Calibration, Suspension Level Calibration, Throttle Adaption, Sunroof Initialization, Seats Calibration, ABS Bleeding, Gearbox Reset, Gear Learning, Tire Reset, A/F Reset, Adblue Reset, Coolant Bleeding, Nox Sensor Reset, ODO Reset, SRS (Airbag Reset), Transport Mode, Windows Calibration, Language Change, EGR Adaption, Stop/Start Reset, AFS Headlamp Reset, Motor Angular Position Sensor Calibration, Engine Power Balance, High Voltage Battery Health Check, Smart Cruise Control Calibration, GPF Regeneration, Automatic Air Conditioning Initialization.
• Broad Vehicle Coverage: Supports over 120 vehicle brands (1996-2024) with 99% vehicle coverage.
• Multi-Language Support: 28 languages including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, Turkish, Dutch, Hungarian, Chinese, Greek, Slovak, Croatian, Slovene, Finnish, Japanese, Korean, Czech, Romanian, Russian, Persian, Arabic, Polish, Swedish, Serbian, Danish, Vietnamese, Bulgarian.
• User-Friendly Features: Smart Auto VIN, One Click Update, 4-in-1 Data Stream, Diagnostic Report Print & Share, Data Record & Playback.

2.2. Device Components

• On/off Button: Powers the device on or off.
• Reset Button: Used for device reset.
• Charging Port: For connecting the power adapter.
• TF Card Slot: For expandable storage.
• 8-inch Touch Screen: Main display for operation.
• Diagnostic Line Interface: Connects to the VCI.
• OBD Interface: Connects the VCI to the vehicle's OBD-II port.

3. Setup Guide

3.1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully unpack all items from the box. Verify that all components listed in the packing list are present and undamaged.

Packing List:

• THINKCAR THINKSCAN 689BT Device
• VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface)
• Power Adapters (various types)
• RJ45 Network Cable
• F_Chassis Cable
• TYPE-C Cable
• USB2.0 to 10/100M Network Cable
• Soft Silicone Protective Case

3.2. Charging the Device

Before first use, fully charge the THINKSCAN 689BT device using the provided power adapter and charging cable. Connect the charging cable to the charging port on the device.

3.3. Powering On/Off

• To Power On: Press and hold the On/off Button until the screen lights up.
• To Power Off: Press and hold the On/off Button, then select 'Power Off' on the screen.

3.4. Connecting to the Vehicle

1. Locate the vehicle's OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard on the driver's side).
2. Plug the VCI into the vehicle's OBD-II port.
3. Connect the VCI to the THINKSCAN 689BT device via Bluetooth or the diagnostic line interface.

3.5. Initial Software Setup

Upon first power-on, follow the on-screen prompts to configure language, time zone, and Wi-Fi connection. Ensure a stable internet connection for software updates.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. System Diagnosis

The THINKSCAN 689BT performs OE-level full system diagnostics, allowing you to scan all available modules in the vehicle.

1. From the main menu, select 'Diagnose'.
2. The device will attempt to automatically identify the vehicle's VIN. If successful, proceed. Otherwise, manually select the vehicle's brand, model, year, and engine type.
3. Choose 'Health Report' to perform a full system scan or 'System Selection' to diagnose specific modules (e.g., Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), ABS, SRS, etc.).
4. The device will scan for fault codes and display a report.
5. You can then view live data streams, record and playback data, or clear fault codes.

4.2. Live Data Stream

The device can display up to 120 data streams simultaneously, allowing for detailed analysis of vehicle performance.

1. During a system diagnosis, select 'Live Data Stream'.
2. Choose the parameters you wish to monitor (e.g., Engine Speed, Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor, Fuel Rail Pressure Regulator Command, Accelerator Pedal Position, Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay Command, Ambient Air Temperature, Barometric Pressure (BARO), Brake Pedal Position Sensor, Calculated Barometric Pressure, Cold Start-Up).
3. The data will be displayed in graphical format. You can record and report this data.

4.3. ECU Coding

ECU Coding allows for re-flashing vehicle control modules and reprogramming adaptive data.

Note: ECU coding functions vary by vehicle model. Always check compatibility before proceeding.

1. Navigate to the 'Diagnose' section and select the vehicle.
2. Choose 'ECU Coding' from the available functions.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform desired coding operations, such as:
   • Unfold Hidden Features
   • Optimize Vehicle's Performance
   • Disable Annoying Functions
   • Customize OE-Settings
   • Key Programming (Add a key, Rewrite keys, Reset/Relearn keys, All Key Lost)

4.4. Bi-directional Control (Active Test)

This function allows you to send commands to the vehicle's ECUs to test specific components.

1. From the 'Diagnose' menu, select 'Active Test' or 'Special Function'.
2. Choose the component you wish to test (e.g., Windows, Mirrors, Headlights, Horns, Wipers, Fuel injectors, Air Conditioner, ABS Pump Test, Cycle A/C clutch).
3. Send commands to activate or deactivate the component and observe its response. For example, you can turn on the radiator fan, modulate the throttle, open/close windows, or operate mirrors/lights.

5. Maintenance Functions

The THINKSCAN 689BT offers over 34 frequently used maintenance reset functions. Note that features vary by car model and year.

To access maintenance functions, navigate to the 'Maintenance' section from the main menu.

5.1. Common Maintenance Resets

• Oil Reset: Resets the oil life system and turns off the oil light after oil or oil filter replacements.
• EPB (Electronic Parking Brake): Resets the brake pad after replacement, deactivates/activates the brake control system, assists with brake fluid control, opens and closes brake pads.
• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System): Resets tire pressure and turns off the tire pressure fault indicator.
• BMS (Battery Management System): Resets the monitoring unit of the car battery after replacing the battery or battery monitoring sensors.
• DPF Regeneration (Diesel Particulate Filter): Clears particulate matter from the DPF filter through continuous combustion oxidation mode.
• IMMO Keys (Immobilizer): Disables lost vehicle keys and programs replacement key fobs (for some Asian and American cars with low-grade IMMO).
• Injector Coding: Writes the actual code of the fuel injection nozzle or rewrites the code in the ECU.
• SAS Calibration (Steering Angle Sensor): Calibrates the steering angle after replacing steering-related parts.
• Suspension Level Calibration: Adjusts vehicle height sensor for level calibration.
• Throttle Adaption: Initializes throttle actuators.
• Sunroof Initialization: Initializes sunroof data for various functions.
• Seats Calibration: Matches the seat after repairing or replacing seats with memory functions.
• ABS Bleeding: Helps exhaust air from the ABS system.
• Gearbox Reset: Completes gearbox self-learning.
• Gear Learning: Monitors certain camshaft position sensor signals.
• Tire Reset: Sets size parameters of modified or replaced tires.
• A/F Reset: Sets or learns Air/Fuel ratio parameters.
• Adblue Reset (Diesel Engine Exhaust Gas Filter): Resets urea after diesel exhaust treatment fluid is replaced or filled.
• Coolant Bleeding: Activates the electronic water pump.
• Nox Sensor Reset: Resets catalytic converter learned value.
• ODO Reset: Copies, writes, or rewrites the kilometer value (check compatibility).
• SRS (Airbag Reset): Resets airbag data to clear collision fault indicator.
• Transport Mode: Deactivates transport mode.
• Windows Calibration: Performs door window matching.
• Language Change: Changes vehicle system language.
• EGR Adaption: Learns the Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve after cleaning.
• Stop/Start Reset: Sets up the automatic start-stop function.
• AFS Headlamp Reset: Initializes the adaptive headlamp system.
• Motor Angular Position Sensor Calibration.
• Engine Power Balance.
• High Voltage Battery Health Check.
• Smart Cruise Control Calibration.
• GPF Regeneration.
• Automatic Air Conditioning Initialization.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your THINKSCAN 689BT.

6.1. Device Not Powering On

• Ensure the device is fully charged. Connect it to the power adapter and allow it to charge for at least 30 minutes.
• Press and hold the On/off Button firmly for several seconds.
• If the device remains unresponsive, try pressing the Reset Button with a small pin.

6.2. VCI Not Connecting to Vehicle

• Verify that the VCI is securely plugged into the vehicle's OBD-II port.
• Ensure the vehicle's ignition is in the ON position (engine can be off).
• Check the VCI's indicator lights for proper operation.
• Try connecting the VCI to a different vehicle to rule out a vehicle-specific issue.

6.3. Communication Errors During Diagnosis

• Ensure the VCI is properly connected to both the vehicle and the THINKSCAN 689BT device (via Bluetooth or cable).
• Check for any loose connections.
• Restart both the THINKSCAN 689BT and the vehicle's ignition.
• Verify that the vehicle model and year selected in the software match the actual vehicle.
• Ensure the device software is up to date. Perform a 'One Click Update' if available.

6.4. Software Freezes or Crashes

• Restart the device.
• Ensure there is sufficient storage space on the device. Clear unnecessary files if needed.
• Perform a software update to the latest version.
• If the issue persists, consider performing a factory reset (backup important data first).

6.5. Inaccurate or Missing Data

• Ensure the vehicle's ignition is on and the engine is running (if required for specific tests).
• Verify that the correct vehicle information has been entered or automatically detected.
• Check for any pending software updates that might improve data accuracy.
• Consult the vehicle's service manual for expected data values.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The THINKCAR THINKSCAN 689BT comes with lifetime free updates for all functions, ensuring your device remains current with the latest vehicle models and diagnostic capabilities. For technical support, please refer to the official THINKCAR website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase records for any warranty claims.

9. User Tips

• Check Compatibility: Always confirm vehicle compatibility for specific functions like ECU coding or IMMO keys before purchase or attempting operations. Features can vary significantly by car model and year.
• Software Updates: Regularly use the 'One Click Update' feature to ensure your device has the latest software, which can improve performance, add new features, and enhance vehicle coverage.
• Data Logging: Utilize the 'Data Record & Playback' feature for in-depth analysis of vehicle parameters over time. This can be invaluable for diagnosing intermittent issues.
• Guided Functions: For VAG group cars (VW/Audi/Skoda/Seat), leverage the 'Guided Function' to receive step-by-step instructions, minimizing errors during complex procedures.
• Battery Life: Keep the device charged, especially before long diagnostic sessions, to avoid interruptions.
• Protective Case: Use the provided soft silicone protective case to safeguard your device from accidental drops and wear in a workshop environment.