Vgate vLinker FD+ V2.2 ELM327 OBD2 Car Diagnostic Tool User Manual

1. Introduction

The Vgate vLinker FD+ V2.2 ELM327 is a professional-grade OBD2 car diagnostic tool designed to provide comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and programming capabilities. It is perfectly compatible with FORScan software for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles, and supports a wide range of other third-party diagnostic applications. This device connects to your vehicle's OBD-II port and communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth 4.0 (for iOS/Android) or Bluetooth 3.0 (for Android only), allowing you to read/clear DTCs, adjust parameters, refresh data streams, and activate hidden functions.

2. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• 1 x Vgate vLinker FD/FD+ Diagnostic Tool
• 1 x User Manual (Quick Start Guide)

3. Specifications

3.1 General Specifications

• Automotive Fit Type: Vehicle specific fit
• Battery Included: No
• Wireless Support: Bluetooth (BT4.0 for iOS/Android, BT3.0 for Android only)
• Special Features: Bluetooth connectivity, Advanced diagnostic functions
• Software Update: Yes
• Language: English
• Software Version: Vgate vLinker FD FD+ ELM327 V2.2
• Hardware Version: Vgate vLinker FD FD+
• Brand Name: Vgate
• Origin: Mainland China
• Item Type: Code Readers & Scan Tools
• Certification: CE, FCC, RoHS
• Product Name: Vgate vLinker FD
• Function: More Powerful than iCar Pro/OBDlink/ELS27 etc.
• Car Maker Compatibility: Primarily for FORScan For Ford, also supports other OBD2 standard protocols.

3.2 Supported Protocols

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

• ELM Format Protocols: 15
• STN Format Protocols: 23
• User-Defined Protocols: Up to 64
• OBDII 5 Standard Protocols:
  • SAE J1850 VPW
  • SAE J1850 PWM
  • ISO 9141-2
  • ISO 14230-4
  • ISO 15765-4 CAN
• Additional Protocols:
  • SAE J1939 CAN
  • ISO 11898 (raw CAN)
  • Medium Speed (MS CAN)

3.3 Advanced Features

• Fully compatible with ELM's AT command set and STN's ST command set.
• 39 VT macro commands for simplified communication.
• Compatible with ELM and STN power management solutions.
• Supports up to 5 ways to enter sleep mode (e.g., UART silence, battery low voltage, OBD bus silence).
• Supports up to 5 ways to wake up from sleep mode (e.g., UART active, battery voltage drop, OBD bus active).
• Device sleep power consumption is less than 2 mA.
• OBD request byte up to 48 bytes for special long frame communication.
• UART data buffer up to 2K bytes, with baudrate increased to 230.4Kbps.
• 256-byte storage unit with over 100,000 erasable times.
• Read and write operations on any unit in the storage area using VT commands.
• Mix ID Sending mode of CAN protocol.
• Optional formatted send data according to protocol.
• Multiple WM sequence settings, including manual AT command setup.
• Secure bootloader for easy firmware updates.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Unboxing and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the vLinker FD+ device and user manual from the packaging. Inspect the device for any visible damage.

4.2 Device Installation

1. Locate your vehicle's OBD-II Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC). This is typically found under the instrument panel (dash) on the driver's side.
2. Firmly plug the Vgate vLinker FD+ into the OBD-II port.
3. Turn your vehicle's ignition to the 'Key On Engine Off' (KOEO) position. The green 'POWER' LED on the device will turn on, and the red 'OBD' LED will blink once. The blue 'BT' LED will start blinking twice, indicating it's ready for connection.

Note: If the LEDs do not light up, check your vehicle's fuses for any blown circuits.

4.3 App Installation and Bluetooth Pairing

The vLinker FD+ supports various apps. For detailed instructions, refer to the specific app's guide. Below are examples for FORScan Lite and Car Scanner.

4.3.1 FORScan Lite Connection Guide (iOS Example)

1. Download and install the FORScan Lite app from the App Store.
2. Insert the adapter into the OBD interface of the car. Turn ignition to Key On Engine Off Position.
3. Open your iOS device's Bluetooth settings. Enable Bluetooth.
4. Wait for available devices to appear. You should see "vLinker FD".
5. Tap "vLinker FD" to connect. (Note: For iOS, Bluetooth connection is typically managed directly within the diagnostic app, not always through the system Bluetooth settings for pairing.)
6. Run FORScan Lite.
7. Tap the CONNECT button on the Status page.
8. Once connected, all LED indicators on the vLinker FD+ will light up, and you can select different function modules on the status page.

4.3.2 FORScan Lite Connection Guide (Android Example)

1. Download and install the FORScan Lite app from Google Play.
2. Insert the adapter into the OBD interface of the car. Turn ignition to Key On Engine Off Position.
3. Open your Android device's Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
4. Tap "vLinker FD" (or "vLinker FD+") when it appears. If it doesn't show, tap "scan".
5. Enter the pairing code: 1234. Confirm pairing.
6. Once successfully paired, open the FORScan Lite app.
7. Go to the app's settings.
8. Select "Connection type" and choose "Bluetooth 0", "Bluetooth 1", or "Bluetooth 2" as appropriate.
9. Select the Bluetooth adapter: "vLinker FD".
10. Go back to the main screen and click the connect button. The device's 'BT' LED will blink, and the 'OBD' red LED will blink in the middle.
11. Wait for the connection to succeed.

4.3.3 Car Scanner Connection Guide (Android Example)

1. Download and install the Car Scanner app from Google Play.
2. Insert the product into the OBD interface of the car. Turn ignition to Key On Engine Off Position.
3. Open the Bluetooth settings on your Android device. Search for "vLinker FD" and pair using code 1234.
4. Open the Car Scanner app. Click the settings icon.
5. Select "Connection" and choose "Bluetooth". Select "vLinker FD" as the device name.
6. Return to the main page and click "CONNECT".
7. Wait for the ELM and ECU to successfully connect.
8. Once connected, you can select the control unit you want to diagnose.

Important Note: Different OBD II apps have different Bluetooth setting steps. Always follow the instructions provided within the specific app you are using to configure the settings.

4.4 FORScan for Windows Setup

For FORScan on Windows, you will need to connect the vLinker FD with your Windows PC's built-in Bluetooth or a Bluetooth adapter before using the FORScan software. Refer to the official FORScan website (www.forscan.org) for detailed configuration instructions.

5. Operating Instructions

Once connected to your vehicle and a compatible diagnostic app, the Vgate vLinker FD+ allows you to perform various diagnostic and customization functions.

5.1 FORScan Specific Functions (for Ford/Mazda/Lincoln/Mercury)

The vLinker FD+ is professionally suitable for FORScan, enabling advanced features:

• Read/Clear Engine DTC: Diagnose and clear diagnostic trouble codes from the engine control unit.
• Adjust Parameters: Modify various vehicle parameters.
• Refresh Parameters: Update and view real-time parameter data.
• Hidden Function Activated: Unlock and activate hidden features within your vehicle's modules.
• Read Data Stream: Monitor live data from various sensors and modules.

5.2 General Diagnostic Functions (13+ Detection Functions)

Beyond FORScan, the vLinker FD+ supports a range of general detection and customization functions through compatible apps:

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

6. User Tips

• The vLinker FD+ is a compact and convenient device for on-the-go diagnostics, especially with apps like FORScan Lite.
• Users report high reading speeds and stable communication, with automatic MS-CAN switching in FORScan Lite.
• It has been successfully used with various Ford models (e.g., Focus 2, Mondeo 2007, Escape 2024 Hybrid) and other brands like Mazda 6GH, Volvo V50 D2, and Passat (with Carista app).
• While efficient, it may be slightly slower than a direct cable connection for very high-speed live data streaming.
• Ensure your vehicle's ignition is in the 'Key On Engine Off' position or the engine is running for proper connection and data acquisition.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Connection Issues

• Device LEDs are off: Check your vehicle's fuses. A blown fuse in the OBD-II circuit can prevent the device from powering on.
• "vLinker FD" not appearing in Bluetooth devices: In your phone's Bluetooth settings, try tapping the 'scan' or 'refresh' option to search for available devices.
• Bluetooth pairing failed: The default pairing PIN is 1234. If this doesn't work, try 0000. Ensure you are attempting to pair from your device's Bluetooth settings (for Android) or directly within the diagnostic app (for iOS).
• App cannot connect to ECU: Ensure the vehicle's ignition is in the 'Key On Engine Off' position or the engine is running. Some apps may require the engine to be running for full functionality.
• App-specific connection problems: Always refer to the specific diagnostic app's instructions for Bluetooth configuration, as steps can vary.

7.2 General Usage Notes

Warning: The manufacturer is not responsible for any damage to the vehicle caused by improper use of diagnostic apps or incorrect vehicle maintenance procedures while using the Car Scanner APP and FORScan APP. Always exercise caution and consult professional advice when making changes to vehicle settings.

8. Maintenance

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

9. Warranty and Support

For technical support or inquiries, please contact Vgate customer service via email:

Email: sale@vgate.com.cn

Vgate aims to reply to all inquiries within 24 hours on working days.

User Manual (PDF):

A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download. Please refer to the product page or contact support for the direct link: View User Manual (PDF)

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does it work on the 2019 Kia Sportage diesel?

A: The Vgate vLinker FD+ is primarily advertised and optimized for FORScan, which is for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. While it supports general OBD2 standard protocols, specific advanced function compatibility with a 2019 Kia Sportage diesel is not explicitly guaranteed by the manufacturer. For non-Ford vehicles, basic OBD2 functions (like reading/clearing generic DTCs) should work, but advanced features may require specific app compatibility or may not be available.