LAUNCH CR3001

LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 OBD2 Car Diagnostic Tool Instruction Manual

Automotive Code Reader for Check Engine Light and Full OBD2 Functions

1. Introduction

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 is an entry-level OBD2 car diagnostic tool designed for DIY users and professionals to quickly identify and resolve engine-related issues. It offers comprehensive OBDII/EOBD diagnostic functions, helping users to read and clear fault codes, view live data, and perform various emission-related tests. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your device.

Note on Models: The CR3001 model includes a USB cable for updates, while the CR300 model does not. All other functions and features are identical between the two models.

LAUNCH CR3001 OBD2 Scanner with main menu showing Diagnose, DTC Lookup, Tool Setup, Help options.
Figure 1: LAUNCH CR3001 OBD2 Scanner with its main menu.

2. Safety Information

Always operate the device in a safe environment. Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged. Do not attempt to perform diagnostics while driving. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific safety precautions.

3. Product Overview

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 features a compact design with an LCD screen and intuitive buttons for easy navigation.

Front and back view of the LAUNCH CR3001 OBDII Scanner, showing the screen, buttons, and serial number label.
Figure 2: Front and back view of the LAUNCH CR3001 OBDII Scanner.

Device Components:

  • LCD Screen: Displays menus, diagnostic data, and results.
  • Selection Buttons (Up/Down/Left/Right): Navigate through menus and options.
  • OK Button: Confirms selections.
  • ESC Button: Returns to the previous screen or cancels an operation.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up and begin using your diagnostic tool:

  1. Connect to Vehicle: Ensure your car's engine is turned on. Locate the OBDII port, typically found under the dashboard on the driver's side. Plug the diagnostic tool's connector firmly into the vehicle's OBDII port.
  2. Diagram showing how to connect the CR3001 to a car's OBDII port and navigate the main menu to read vehicle information.
    Figure 3: Connecting the CR3001 to the car's OBDII port and initial menu navigation.
  3. Power On: The device will automatically power on once connected to the vehicle's OBDII port.
  4. Language Setting: To change the display language, navigate to "Tool Setup" from the main menu, then select "Language". The CR3001 supports English, French, Russian, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Polish.
  5. Three-step diagram showing how to change the language setting on the CR3001 device: Main Menu -> Tool Setup -> Language selection.
    Figure 4: Steps for setting the device language.

5. Operation

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 offers a comprehensive set of 10 OBDII diagnostic functions to help you understand and manage your vehicle's engine system. Navigate through the 'Diagnostic Menu' to access these functions.

Diagnostic Functions:

  1. Read Codes: Retrieves Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to identify the cause of the Check Engine Light.
  2. Erase Codes: Clears DTCs from the vehicle's computer, turning off the Check Engine Light after repairs.
  3. Live Data: Displays real-time data streams from the engine system, such as RPM, vehicle speed, oxygen sensor readings, and more.
  4. Freeze Frame: Captures a snapshot of sensor data at the moment an emission-related fault occurred, providing valuable context for diagnosis.
  5. I/M Readiness: Checks the status of emission-related monitors to determine if the vehicle is ready for an emissions test.
  6. O2 Sensor Test: Retrieves oxygen sensor monitoring test results to identify sensor malfunctions.
  7. On-Board Monitor Test: Accesses the results of on-board diagnostic monitoring tests for non-continuously monitored components.
  8. EVAP System (Mode 8): Initiates a leak test for the vehicle’s Evaporative Emission Control System.
  9. Vehicle Information: Displays vehicle identification information such as VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID), and CVN (Calibration Verification Number).
  10. Component Test: Allows for testing specific vehicle components by sending commands from the scanner to check their operability.

Additional Features:

  • DTC Lookup: Provides detailed definitions of retrieved DTCs, helping you understand the meaning of each code.
Multiple screenshots of the CR3001 display showing various diagnostic functions like Diagnostic Menu, DTC Lookup, Monitor Status, I/M Readiness, Datastream, and Rich to Lean Sensor test.
Figure 5: Overview of CR3001 diagnostic menu and functions.
Image showing the CR3001 diagnosing a car, with text 'Reset Check Engine Light' and 'Find out what's wrong with your car and perhaps fix it. Save money and time.'
Figure 6: Resetting the Check Engine Light and diagnosing car issues.
Image showing a car's exhaust emitting CO2 and the CR3001 display with 'Emission Analyzer' and 'I/M Readiness' functions, indicating readiness for emission tests.
Figure 7: Using the CR3001 to prepare for emission tests.

Product Demonstration Video:

Video 1: A demonstration of the LAUNCH CR3001's features and how it helps diagnose common engine problems, including environmental pollution, increased fuel consumption, increased temperature, and engine noise. It shows the device connected to a car, navigating menus, and performing various tests like EVAP system test, O2 sensor test, and reading vehicle information.

6. Vehicle Compatibility

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 is compatible with 12V gasoline and diesel vehicles that support OBD2 protocols. It is not compatible with 24V trucks.

World map highlighting regions and car manufacturing years compatible with LAUNCH CR3001: American cars from 2000, European cars from 2003, Japanese/Korean cars from 2006, Chinese cars from 2009, and Russian cars from 2012.
Figure 8: Vehicle compatibility by region and manufacturing year.

Supported Regions and Years:

  • American Cars: Compatible with standard OBD2 cars from 2000 to present (e.g., Chrysler, Ford, GM, Jeep, Lincoln, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, HM).
  • European Cars: Compatible with standard OBD2 cars from 2003 to present (e.g., Mercedes Benz, Smart, Sprinter, BMW, Volkswagen, Skoda, Audi, Opel, Lamborghini, Porsche, Maybach, Ford, Land Rover, Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Rover, Mini, Vauxhall, DR, Ferrari, Fiat, Abarth, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Bugatti, Peugeot, Citroen, Renault, Saab, Volvo, GM, GMSA, Dacia, Seat).
  • Japanese / Korean Cars: Compatible with standard OBD2 cars from 2008 to present (e.g., Honda, Acura, Toyota, Scion, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, Infiniti, Isuzu, Daihatsu, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Samsung, Daewoo, Hyundai, Kia).
  • Chinese Cars: Compatible with standard OBD2 cars from 2014 to present (e.g., Great Wall, Huachen, Geely, DF Honda, Lifan).

Important Compatibility Notes:

  • Some cars may have special designs or regional variations in OBD2 protocol support. If you are unsure about compatibility, please provide your car's make, model, and year to the seller for verification.
  • Not supported: Russian Cars before 2012 (VAZ, UAZ, LADA).
  • Not compatible with 24V trucks.
  • For Renault and SsangYong vehicles, it is recommended to contact support before purchasing to confirm compatibility.

7. Maintenance

Software Updates:

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 offers lifetime free software updates online via PC. Updates can add support for new car models and fix bugs. If your device displays a white screen or encounters compatibility issues, an update may resolve the problem.

Image showing a laptop screen with the LAUNCH CR3001 update tool interface, and the CR3001 device connected via USB.
Figure 9: Updating the CR3001 software via PC.
Detailed steps for updating CR3001 software: Enter LAUNCH official website, install CR3001 update tool, open update tool & firmware program, and confirm upgrade.
Figure 10: Step-by-step guide for software update.

Update Procedure:

  1. Visit the official LAUNCH website.
  2. Download and install the CR3001 update tool on your PC.
  3. Connect your CR3001 device to your PC using the USB cable (if applicable for CR3001 model).
  4. Open the update tool and follow the on-screen instructions to update the firmware.

Supported Update Systems: Compatible with Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter:

  • Q: Does LAUNCH CR3001 support diagnosis of ABS and SRS systems?
    A: No, it only supports engine systems.
  • Q: System halts when reading data stream. What is the reason?
    A: This may be caused by a loose connector. Turn off the tool, firmly connect the connector, and switch it on again.
  • Q: Screen of main unit flashes at engine ignition start.
    A: This is a normal phenomenon caused by electromagnetic interference.
  • Q: There is no response when communicating with the on-board computer.
    A: Confirm the proper voltage of the power supply. Check if the throttle is closed, the transmission is in neutral, and the engine water temperature is appropriate.
  • Q: Why are there so many fault codes?
    A: This is usually caused by a poor connection or a fault in the circuit grounding.

9. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Special FeaturesNEWEST
Software UpdateYes (Free update Online)
Language SupportEnglish, French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish
Software VersionNEWEST
Hardware VersionNEWEST
Brand NameLAUNCH
Item TypeCode Readers & Scan Tools
CertificationCE
OriginMainland China
Model NameLAUNCH CR3001
Warranty1 Year
Supported SystemEngine System
Supported ProtocolsKWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM and CAN
Diagnosis FunctionCheck Reset Engine Light
Auto Scanner FunctionHelps vehicles pass emissions tests
Scan Tool FunctionErase Codes / I/M Readiness
Diagnostic Tool FunctionRead Freeze Frame / Read Live Data
Automotive Scanner FunctionO2 Sensor Test / On-Board Monitor Test
Read FunctionRead Vehicle Information (VIN, CIN, and CVN)
Car Scanner FunctionEVAP System (Mode 8)
Read Permanent Fault CodeYes
DTC LookupYes
Weight0.2kg
Voltage Range9-18V
Operating Temperature0°C - 50°C (32°F - 122°F)
Environment Temperature-20°C - 70°C (-4°F - 158°F)
Dimensions118mm x 68mm x 22.3mm (4.65" x 2.68" x 0.88")

10. User Tips

  • The compact, mini size of the OBD2 scanner makes it comfortable to hold and easy to carry, whether you're in your garage or on a trip.
  • Utilizing this tool can help you save money and time by diagnosing issues yourself before visiting a mechanic.
  • Performing an I/M Readiness check can help ensure your vehicle passes emission tests smoothly, avoiding repeated trips to the repair shop.

11. Package Contents

Image showing the retail packaging of the Creader 3001 OBDII Scanner.
Figure 11: Retail packaging of the Creader 3001.

Your LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 package includes:

  • 1 x LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 Diagnostic Tool
  • 1 x USB Cable (included with CR3001 model only)
  • 1 x User Manual

12. Warranty and Support

The LAUNCH CR3001/CR300 comes with a 1-year warranty. We offer 365 days of free replacement for eligible issues and provide lifetime technical support. For any inquiries or assistance, please contact our support team.

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