1. Introduction
The ANCEL DS160 is a professional OBD2 car diagnostic tool designed to provide comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and maintenance services. It features a 5.5-inch full touchscreen, Android 9.0 operating system, and offers lifetime free updates. This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and maintain your DS160 device.
Figure 1: ANCEL DS160 Diagnostic Tool Overview
2. Key Features
- Lifetime Free Updates: No subscription fees for software updates.
- Bidirectional Control (Active Tests): Full control over various systems/components to perform active tests.
- OE-level All Systems Diagnostics: Scan all available systems to read/erase fault codes, display live data, and retrieve ECU information.
- 30+ Special Functions: Includes services like oil reset, throttle adaptation, steering angle reset, battery matching, ABS bleeding, DPF regeneration, gear learning, IMMO service, injector coding, TPMS reset, and more.
- Full 10 OBD Functions: Standard OBD2 diagnostic functions for all cars.
- One-Click AUTO-VIN & Scan: Automatic VIN detection for quick diagnostics.
- 4-in-1 Live Data Graph: Displays live vehicle conditions in text and graph for easy analysis.
- Android 9.0 Operation System: Provides stable and smooth performance.
- 5.5-inch Bright Full Touchscreen: Clear and vibrant display of diagnostic data.
- Built-in 32GB Storage & 4000mAh Battery.
3. Supported Vehicles
The ANCEL DS160 offers extensive compatibility with various vehicle makes and models from 1996 to 2024. Coverage may vary for specific models and functions. Please contact support for detailed compatibility information for your vehicle.
3.1. Compatibility Tables
Figure 2: Benz Maybach Compatibility (1996-2024)
Figure 3: Porsche Compatibility (1996-2024)
Figure 4: KIA and Hyundai Compatibility (1996-2024)
Figure 5: Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury Compatibility (1996-2024)
4. Setup
4.1. Connecting the Device
- Locate the vehicle's OBD2 port, usually found under the dashboard on the driver's side.
- Plug the ANCEL DS160's diagnostic cable into the vehicle's OBD2 port. Ensure a secure connection.
- Turn the vehicle's ignition to the 'ON' position (engine off). The DS160 device will power on automatically.
Video 1: Demonstrates connecting the ANCEL DS160 to a vehicle's OBD2 port and initial power-up.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Automatic VIN Scan
The DS160 can automatically identify your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) upon connection, streamlining the diagnostic process.
Figure 6: Automatic VIN Scan in progress
5.2. Full System Diagnostics
Perform a comprehensive scan of all available electronic control units (ECUs) in your vehicle to read and clear fault codes, view live data, and retrieve ECU information.
Figure 7: Full System Scan Interface
Figure 8: Overview of Diagnosable Vehicle Systems
5.3. 30+ Reset Services
The DS160 offers a wide range of maintenance and reset functions to address common vehicle issues. These include:
- Oil Reset
- Electronic Throttle Adaptation
- Steering Angle Reset
- Battery Matching
- ABS Bleeding
- Brake-pad Reset
- DPF Regeneration
- Gear Learning
- IMMO Service (Key Matching)
- Injector Coding
- TPMS Reset
- Suspension Matching
- AFS Reset (Adaptive Headlamp System)
- A/T Learning (Gearbox Self-learning)
- Sunroof Initialization
- EGR Adaptation
- Airbag Reset
- Transport Mode
- A/F Reset (Air/Fuel Ratio)
- Stop/Start Reset
- NOx Sensor Reset
- AdBlue Reset (Diesel Engine Exhaust Gas Filter)
- Seat Calibration
- Coolant Bleeding
- Tyre Reset
- Windows Calibration
- Language Change
Figure 9: 30+ Hot Reset Services
5.4. Bidirectional Control (Actuation Test)
This function allows you to send commands to vehicle systems and components to test their operational status directly from the DS160, without using the vehicle's controls. Examples include turning on the fuel pump, radiator fan, modulating the throttle, or testing door lock actuators.
Figure 10: Bidirectional Control Interface
5.5. ECU Coding
The ECU Coding function allows you to re-flash vehicle control modules, customize car settings, refresh hidden features, or disable unwanted functions. It also helps reprogram adaptive data for certain components after repairs or replacements.
Figure 11: ECU Coding Options
5.6. Full OBD2 Functions
The DS160 supports all 10 modes of OBDII/EOBD functions for comprehensive engine diagnostics:
- Mode 01: Request current powertrain diagnostic data.
- Mode 02: Request freeze frame information.
- Mode 03: Request emissions-related diagnostic codes.
- Mode 04: Clear/reset emissions-related diagnostic information.
- Mode 05: Request oxygen sensor monitoring test results.
- Mode 06: Request on-board monitoring test results for specific monitored systems.
- Mode 07: Request emission-related diagnostic trouble codes detected during current or last completed driving cycle.
- Mode 08: Request control of on-board system, test or component.
- Mode 09: Request vehicle information.
- Mode 0A: Request emissions-related diagnostic trouble codes with permanent status after a clear/reset emission-related diagnostic information.
Figure 12: Full OBD2 Functions
5.7. One-Click Features
The DS160 includes several convenient one-click functions:
- One-Click Free Update: Easily update the device software.
- One-Click Screenshot: Capture screen images for documentation.
- One-Click Recording & Play: Record diagnostic sessions.
- Create Email & Report: Generate and share diagnostic reports.
- One-Click Chat Service: Access online customer support.
Figure 13: One-Click Auto VIN and Report Generation
5.8. 4-in-1 Live Data Graphs
Monitor multiple live data streams simultaneously in a graphical format for easy comparison and analysis of vehicle parameters. You can combine, view values, and customize the data stream options.
Figure 14: 4-in-1 Live Data Graphs
6. Maintenance
6.1. Software Updates
The ANCEL DS160 offers lifetime free software updates. Connect the device to a Wi-Fi network and navigate to the 'Update' section on the main menu to download and install the latest software versions. No SD cards, cables, or PC are required for updates.
6.2. Cleaning
Wipe the device with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues with your ANCEL DS160, consider the following:
- Device not powering on: Ensure the OBD2 cable is securely connected to the vehicle's port and the vehicle's ignition is in the 'ON' position. Check the vehicle's battery.
- Communication errors: Verify the vehicle's ignition is on. Ensure the OBD2 connector is clean and free of debris. Try connecting to a different vehicle to rule out a vehicle-specific issue.
- Software freezing/slow performance: Ensure the device has sufficient battery charge. Perform a software update if available. If the issue persists, contact ANCEL customer support.
- Specific function not working: Not all functions are universally compatible with all vehicle models. Refer to the compatibility information or contact ANCEL support with your vehicle's make, model, year, and VIN for assistance.
7.1. Diagnostic Feedback
If you encounter an unsolvable problem or a software bug, you can use the 'Feedback' function on the device. This allows you to send the most recent 20 test records to the ANCEL team for analysis and troubleshooting. Please provide your contact information (phone or email) and a detailed description of the problem.
Figure 15: Diagnostic Feedback Interface
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Name | ANCEL DS160 |
| Software Update | Yes (Lifetime Free) |
| Electronic | Yes |
| Is Batteries Included | Yes |
| Item Weight | 0.92kg |
| External Testing Certification | CE |
| Hardware Version | Newest |
| Software Version | Newest |
| Item Type | Engine Analyzer |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Supported Languages | Arabic, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Slovenia, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish |
| Package Length | 20 cm |
| Package Width | 20 cm |
| Package Height | 20 cm |
| Package Weight | 0.92 kg |
9. User Tips
- Language Settings: The device supports multiple languages, including Spanish. You can change the system language through the settings menu.
- Vehicle Compatibility: While the DS160 supports a wide range of vehicles, specific functions (like injector coding for diesel engines or certain reset services) may vary in compatibility. Always verify compatibility for your exact vehicle make, model, and year before attempting advanced procedures.
- FCA Auto Auth: For 2018 and newer FCA vehicles (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat) in the US, Canada, and Mexico, the device supports FCA Auto Auth for free.
10. Support
For any technical assistance or inquiries, please utilize the 'One-Click Chat Service' feature on your device or refer to the diagnostic feedback mechanism. The ANCEL DS160 comes with lifetime free software updates to ensure optimal performance and expanded vehicle coverage.
