VEHLIVE V880 OBD2 & EOBD Scan Tool User Manual

1. Introduction

The VEHLIVE V880 is an easy-to-carry, simple-to-operate, and fast diagnostic tool designed for vehicle owners. It features a large memory, comprehensive code base, powerful performance, and novel design. This new generation OBDII diagnostic tool offers a wide range of functions including Data Live, Freeze Frame, Read DTC, Clear DTC, O2 Sensor Test, On-board Test (Mode 6), Smog Check, I/M Readiness, EVAP Test (Mode 8), Vehicle Info, MIL Status, Battery Test, Fuel Analysis, Performance Data, Engine Data, DTC Query, Data Review, Printer, and Settings.

Note: This OBD2 diagnostic scanner is only suitable for petrol/gasoline car engines and not applicable to diesel car engines. If your vehicle is equipped with a diesel engine, please contact customer service to confirm compatibility.

2. Safety Information

2.1 Safety Precautions and Warnings

To prevent personal injury or damage to vehicles and/or the scan tool, read this instruction manual first and observe the following safety precautions at a minimum whenever working on a vehicle:

• Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.
• Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
• Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from all moving or hot engine parts.
• Operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated work area: Exhaust gases are poisonous.
• Put blocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle unattended while running tests.
• Use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor cap, ignition wires and spark plugs. These components create hazardous voltages when the engine is running.
• Put the transmission in PARK (for automatic transmission) or NEUTRAL (for manual transmission) and make sure the parking brake is engaged.
• Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/chemical/electrical fires nearby.
• Don't connect or disconnect any test equipment while the ignition is on or the engine is running.
• Keep the scan tool dry, clean, free from oil/water or grease. Use a mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the scan tool when necessary.

3. OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) II Introduction

3.1 OBD II/EOBD II

The first generation of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD I) was developed by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and implemented in 1988 to monitor some of the emission control components on vehicles. As technology evolved and the desire to improve the On-Board Diagnostic system increased, a new generation of On-Board Diagnostic system was developed. This second generation of On-Board Diagnostic regulations is called "OBDII".

The OBD II system is designed to monitor emission control systems and key engine components by performing either continuous or periodic tests of specific components and vehicle conditions. When a problem is detected, the OBD II system turns on a warning lamp (MIL) on the vehicle instrument panel to alert the driver, typically by the phrase "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon". The system will also store important information about the detected malfunction so that a technician can accurately find and fix the problem. This valuable information includes:

1. Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is commanded 'on' or 'off'.
2. Which, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored.
3. Readiness Monitor status.

3.2 Data Link Connector (DLC)

The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is the standardized 16-cavity connector where diagnostic scan tools interface with the vehicle's on-board computer. The DLC is usually located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel (dash), under or around the driver's side for most vehicles. If the Data Link Connector is not located under the dashboard, a label should be there indicating its location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC is located behind the ashtray and the ashtray must be removed to access the connector. If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle's service manual for the location.

4. Product Instructions

4.1 Product Description

The VEHLIVE V880 is a new generation OBDII diagnostic tool tailored for vehicle owners. It is easy to carry, simple to operate, fast in diagnosis, features a large memory, comprehensive code base, powerful performance, and novel design. It covers Data Live, Freeze Frame, Read DTC, Clear DTC, O2 Sensor Test, On-board Test (Mode 6), Smog Check, I/M Readiness, EVAP Test (Mode 8), Vehicle Info, MIL Status, Battery Test, Fuel Analysis, Performance Data, Engine Data, DTC Query, Data Review, Printer, and Settings.

4.2 Specifications

4.3 Accessories Included

• User's Manual: Instructions on tool operations.
• OBDII cable (DLC): Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector, provides power to tool and communication between tool and vehicle.

4.4 Keyboard

The V880 features 9 silicone buttons for easy operation. No solvents such as alcohol are allowed to clean the keypad or display. Use a mild nonabrasive detergent and a soft cotton cloth. Do not soak the keypad as it is not waterproof.

5. Getting Started

5.1 Power

The scan tool is powered via the vehicle Data Link Connector (DLC). Follow these steps to turn on the scan tool:

1. Connect the OBD II Cable to the scan tool.
2. Locate the DLC on your vehicle.
3. Plug the OBD II cable into the vehicle's DLC.
4. The scan tool will power up, and the Main Screen will appear.

5.2 System Setup

The System Setup functions allow you to adjust default settings and view information about the scan tool. From the Main Screen, use the LEFT/RIGHT scroll button to select "Setting", and press the OK button. Following the instructions to do adjustments and settings could make your diagnosis more convenient and easy.

• Language: You can choose eight languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Italian, Polish.
• Unit of measure: Sets the unit of measure to English or Metric.
• Beep Set: Turns on/off beep.
• Key Test: Checks if the keyboard is working properly.
• LCD Test: Checks if the LCD display is working properly.
• Screen Test: Checks if the screen is working properly.

Unit of Measure

Metric is the default measurement unit. From the Unit of Measure screen, use the OK button to select the desired unit of measurement.

Beep Set

The default setting is Beep On. From the Beep Set menu, use the OK button to select ON or OFF to turn on/off the beep.

Key Test

The Key Test function checks if the keyboard is working properly.

1. Press any key to start the test. When you press a key, the name of the corresponding key will show on the screen. Otherwise, the key is not functioning properly.
2. Double press ESC to return to the previous menu.

LCD Test

The LCD Test function checks if the LCD display is working normally.

1. Look for missing spots in the red, green, yellow LCD display.
2. When completed, press the ESC button to exit.

6. OBD-II Diagnosis

The OBD II Diagnostics function is a fast-access option that allows you to carry out a quick test on the engine system of OBD II. When more than one vehicle control module is detected by the scan tool, you will be prompted to select the module where the data may be retrieved. The most often to be selected are the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM). US regional models can read other modules, such as ABS, SRS etc., greatly supporting data reading of 8 modules at a time.

CAUTION: Don't connect or disconnect any test equipment with ignition on or engine running.

To perform an OBD-II diagnosis:

1. Turn the ignition off.
2. Locate the vehicle's 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
3. Plug the scan tool cable connector into the vehicle's DLC.
4. Turn the ignition on. The engine can be off or running.
5. Turn on the scan tool. Select "OBDII" from the Main Screen.
6. Press the OK button to wait for the Menu to appear. A sequence of messages displaying the OBDII protocols will be observed on the display until the vehicle protocol is detected.

6.1 Read DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)

OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes stored by the on-board computer diagnostic system in response to a problem found in the vehicle. These codes identify a particular problem area and are intended to provide a guide as to where a fault might be occurring within a vehicle.

There are three types of DTCs:

• Stored DTCs: A DTC is stored when a fault condition has occurred that meets enough criteria to activate the MIL.
• Pending DTCs: When a fault condition is identified during a Drive Cycle, but does not meet enough criteria to activate the MIL. If the fault condition occurs during two consecutive Drive Cycles, it will turn into a Stored DTC and the MIL will activate.
• Permanent DTCs: A stored DTC that can only be cleared by the OBDII system, after repairs are made, and a set number of Driving Cycles have been completed.

To read DTCs:

1. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Read DTC" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Stored Codes", "Pending Codes", or "Permanent Codes" from the Read Codes menu and press the OK button.
3. View DTCs and their definitions on screen.
4. If more than one DTC is found, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to check all the codes.

If retrieved DTCs contain any manufacturer-specific or enhanced codes, a message "The vehicle's code is defined by the manufacturer, please enter to select the manufacturer" will prompt you to select the vehicle manufacturer to view DTC definitions. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select the manufacturer and then press the OK button to confirm. If the manufacturer of your vehicle is not listed, select "Other" and press the OK button.

V880 Indicator Status

• Green light: Indicates no fault code or broken line.
• Red light: Indicates a stored code, current code, and permanent code.
• Yellow light: Indicates a pending code, pending code, and permanent code.
• Red and yellow lights: Indicates a stored code and pending code, or current code, pending code, and permanent code.

6.2 Clear DTCs

CAUTION: Erasing the Diagnostic Trouble Codes may allow the scan tool to delete not only the codes from the vehicle's on-board computer, but also "Freeze Frame" data and manufacturer-specific enhanced data. Further, the I/M Readiness Monitor Status for all vehicle monitors is reset to Not Ready or Not Complete status. Do not erase the codes before the system has been checked completely by a technician.

NOTE: Erasing codes does not mean that trouble codes in ECU have been eliminated completely. As long as there is a fault with the vehicle, the trouble codes will keep on presenting. This function is performed with the key on, engine off (KOEO). Do not start the engine.

To clear DTCs:

1. Use the UP/DOWN scroll buttons to select "Clear DTC" from the Diagnostics Menu and press the OK button.
2. Choose whether to erase codes or not.

6.3 Live Data

In this function, you can not only read live data but also record data for later review. Viewing Data allows viewing of live or real-time PID data of vehicle computer module(s). To view live data, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Live Data" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.

Live Data options:

• View All Items: To view a complete set of data, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "View All Items" from the Live Data menu and press the OK button. View live PIDs on the screen. Use the UP or Left/Right scroll button for more PIDs if additional information is available on more than one page.
• Select Items: To view customized PID data, click "Select Items" from the Live Data menu and press the OK button. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to get the desired items and click the OK button to confirm. Press ESC to view the selected PIDs.
• View Graphic Items: Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to get the desired items and click the OK button to confirm. Press ESC to view the selected PIDs. NOTE: Merge Graph can be used to compare four related parameters in graphic mode.
• Record All: Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Record All" from the Live Data menu and press the OK button. The scan tool will start timing to record retrieved live data. Press ESC to stop recording. You may review the recorded data in the Review function.
• Record Select: Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Record Select" from the Live Data menu and press the OK button. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to get the desired items, then press ESC. The scan tool will start timing to record selected live data. Press ESC again to stop recording. You may review the recorded data in the Review function.

6.4 Freeze Frame Data

Freeze Frame Data refers to the operating conditions that are stored when a DTC is detected. This allows the technician to view the vehicle's operating parameters at the moment a DTC is detected. Parameters may include engine speed (RPM), engine coolant temperature (ECT), or vehicle speed sensor (VSS), etc.

To view Freeze Frame data:

1. Select "Freeze Frame" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. View data. If retrieved information covers more than one screen, use the DOWN scroll button as necessary until all the data have been shown up.
3. Select "Save" to record freeze frame.

6.5 MIL Status

The MIL Status allows checking the status of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) and the run time/distance with the Check Engine Light on, and run time/distance since the DTC was cleared.

To check MIL Status:

1. Select "MIL" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select the item you'd like to check.

6.6 Viewing Vehicle Information

The Vehicle Info. function enables retrieval of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), Calibration ID Nos. (CINs), and Calibration Verification Nos. (CVNs).

To view Vehicle Information:

1. Select "Vehicle Info." from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. View retrieved vehicle information on screen.

6.7 O2 Sensor Test

OBD2 regulations set by SAE require that relevant vehicles monitor and test oxygen (O2) sensors to identify problems related to fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions. These tests are not on-demand tests; they are done automatically when engine operating conditions are within specified limits. These test results are saved in the on-board computer's memory.

The O2 Monitor Test function allows retrieval and viewing of O2 sensor monitor test results for the most recently performed tests from the vehicle's on-board computer. The O2 Monitor Test function is not supported by vehicles which communicate using a Controller Area Network (CAN). For O2 Monitor Test results of CAN-equipped vehicles, refer to the "On-Board Monitor Test" section.

To perform an O2 Sensor Test:

1. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "O2 sensor" from the O2 Sensor menu and press the OK button.
2. Wait a few seconds while the scan tool validates the PID MAP. If the vehicle does not support the mode, an advisory message will be displayed on the screen.
3. View test results of the selected O2 sensor.

6.8 Mode 6 (On-Board Monitor Test)

Mode 6 is useful after servicing or after erasing a vehicle's control module memory. The On-Board Monitor Test for non-CAN-equipped vehicles retrieves and displays test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems that are not continuously monitored. For CAN-equipped vehicles, it retrieves and displays test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems that are and are not continuously monitored. Test and component IDs are determined by the vehicle manufacturer.

In this test, there are typically a minimum value, a maximum value, and a current value for each monitor. By comparing the current value with the minimum and maximum value, the scan tool will determine if it is OK.

To perform a Mode 6 test:

1. From the Mode 6 menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select a test to view and press the OK button.
2. Wait a few seconds while the scan tool validates the PID MAP.
3. The scan tool will prompt you to select the vehicle make. (If you have selected the vehicle before, the Vehicle Manufacturer screen would not appear again).
4. After you select the vehicle manufacturer, the scan tool shows the On-Board Monitors tests for specific monitoring systems.

If the vehicle under test does not support the mode, an advisory message will be displayed on the screen.

6.9 Mode 8 (Component Test)

Mode 8 (The Component Test) function allows initiating a leak test for the vehicle's EVAP system. The scan tool itself does not perform the leak test, but commands the vehicle's on-board computer to start the test. Different vehicle manufacturers might have different criteria and methods for stopping the test once it has been started. Before starting the Component Test, refer to the vehicle service manual for instructions to stop the test.

To perform a Mode 8 test:

1. Select "Mode 8" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. If the test has been initiated by the vehicle, a confirmation message will be displayed on the screen.
3. Some vehicles do not allow scan tools to control vehicle systems or components. If the vehicle under test does not support the EVAP Leak Test, an advisory message is displayed on the screen.

6.10 I/M Readiness Monitors

An important part of a vehicle's OBD II system is the Readiness Monitors, which are indicators used to find out if all of the emissions components have been evaluated by the OBD II system. They are running periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure that they are performing within allowable limits. Currently, there are eleven OBD II Readiness Monitors (or I/M Monitors) defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Not all monitors are supported by all vehicles, and the exact number of monitors in any vehicle depends on the motor vehicle manufacturer's emissions control strategy.

In order for the OBD monitor system to become ready, the vehicle should be driven under a variety of normal operating conditions. These operating conditions may include a mix of highway driving and stop-and-go, city-type driving, and at least one overnight-off period. For specific information on getting your vehicle's OBD monitor system ready, please consult your vehicle owner's manual.

The I/M Readiness function is used to check the operations of the Emission System on OBD2 compliant vehicles. It is an excellent function to use prior to having a vehicle inspected for compliance to a state emissions program.

CAUTION: By clearing trouble codes you also clear the readiness status for the individual emission system readiness tests. In order to reset these monitors, the vehicle must be driven through a complete drive cycle with no trouble codes in memory. Times for reset vary depending on the vehicle.

Some latest vehicle models may support two types of I/M Readiness tests:

• Since DTCs Cleared: Indicates the status of the monitors since the DTCs were erased.
• This Drive Cycle: Indicates the status of monitors since the beginning of the current drive cycle.

An I/M Readiness Status result of "NO" does not necessarily indicate that the vehicle being tested will fail the state I/M inspection. For some states, one or more such monitors may be allowed to be "Not Ready" to pass the emissions inspection.

Symbols used in I/M Readiness:

• ✓ – Indicates that a particular monitor being checked has completed its diagnostic testing.
• X – Indicates that a particular monitor being checked has not completed its diagnostic testing.
• — – The monitor is not supported on that vehicle.

To perform an I/M Readiness test:

1. Press the I/M Readiness button to enter.
2. Wait a few seconds while the scan tool validates the PID MAP.
3. If the vehicle supports both types of tests, then both types will be shown on the screen for selection.
4. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button, as necessary, to view the status of the MIL light ("ON" or "OFF") and the following monitors:

For spark ignition engines:

• MIS - Misfire Monitor
• FUEL - Fuel System Monitor
• CCM - Comprehensive Component Monitor
• EGR - EGR System Monitor
• O2S - O2 Sensors Monitor
• CAT - Catalyst Monitor
• EVAP - Evaporative System Monitor
• HTR - O2 Sensor Heater Monitor

For compression ignition engines:

• AIR - Secondary Air Monitor
• HCAT - Heated Catalyst Monitor
• MIS - Misfire Monitor
• FUEL - Fuel System Monitor
• CCM - Comprehensive Component Monitor
• EGR - EGR System Monitor
• HCCAT - NMHC Catalyst Monitor
• NCAT - NOx Aftertreatment Monitor
• BP - Boost Pressure System Monitor
• EGS - Exhaust Gas Sensor Monitor
• PM - PM Filter Monitor

6.11 Battery Test

The Battery Test function allows viewing the status and the voltage of the vehicle.

To perform a Battery Test:

1. Select "Battery" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. You can clearly see the status and the voltage of the vehicle.

6.12 DTC Query

The DTC Query function allows the user to search definitions of DTCs stored in the built-in DTC library.

To perform a DTC Query:

1. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "DTC Query" from the Diagnostic Menu and press the OK button.
2. Wait for the scan tool to display the DTC Query screen.
3. Press UP/DOWN to change input, press LEFT/RIGHT to select position. Then press OK button to confirm and the scan tool will display this code's definition on screen.
4. If a definition could not be found (SAE or Manufacturer Specific), the scan tool displays "The fault code is not found in the database".
5. Press ESC button to return to the previous menu.

7. Review Data

The Review function allows viewing data from the last test recorded by the scan tool.

7.1 Reviewing Data

1. Select "Review" from the Main Screen, and press the OK button.
2. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select the item you'd like to review. Then press OK button to continue.
3. Review selected data on screen.

If no data from a previously tested vehicle is recorded, a message "No data available!" shows on the screen.

If you'd like to delete the saved data, select "Review" from the Main Screen, and then choose the one you want to delete and press OK.

8. Print Data

The print data function can print the fault code data recorded by the testing tool. To print fault data, you need the following tools:

• VEHLIVE V880 diagnostic tool
• One PC or laptop with a USB port
• USB cable

To print data:

1. Download the corresponding version of the application from our website: www.vehlive.com.
2. Connect the tester tool to the computer using the included USB cable.
3. Run "CRLINK.exe" on your computer and enter print mode.
4. Start the screen from the tester tool or press the ESC button to enter the main menu.
5. Press the MOVE key to select the "Print" function from the main menu, and press the OK key to enter.
6. Press the MOVE button to select the upload result, and then press the OK button.

9. Update Mode

This feature allows you to update the tool software. To update your tool, you need the following items:

• VEHLIVE V880 diagnostic tool
• PC or laptop with a USB port
• USB cable

Update process:

1. Download the corresponding version of the application from our website: www.vehlive.com.
2. Run "CRLINK.exe" on the computer and enter upgrade mode.
3. Press and hold the DOWN button on the device, insert a USB and connect to the computer, and release when the device screen shows "UPDATE MODE".
4. Click the "check for updates" button to upgrade.
5. If verification fails during the upgrade process and the upgrade cannot be performed, the red light will light up and the buzzer will sound for 3 seconds.
6. During the upgrade process, the device's yellow light flashes.
7. Upgrade successful: The green light stays on for 3 seconds and the buzzer beeps twice.
8. After a successful upgrade, restart the tester.

10. Troubleshooting

This section describes common problems you may encounter while using the scan tool and their likely solutions.

11. User Tips

• Diesel Engine Compatibility: Please note that this OBD2 diagnostic scanner is primarily designed for petrol/gasoline car engines. If you own a diesel vehicle, it is highly recommended to contact customer service to confirm compatibility before use.
• Voltage Issues: For specific issues like flickering H4 LED headlights, while the tool can read battery voltage, it may not directly fix voltage-related electrical problems. Consult a qualified mechanic for complex electrical diagnostics.

12. Warranty and Service

12.1 Limited One Year Warranty

This product is warranted to be free from all defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of the original purchase, subject to the following terms and conditions:

1. The sole responsibility of our company under this Warranty is limited to either the repair or, at our option, replacement of the scan tool at no charge with Proof of Purchase. The sales receipt may be used for this purpose.
2. This warranty does not apply to damages caused by improper use, accident, flood, lightning, or if the product was altered or repaired by anyone other than the Manufacturer's Service Center.
3. We shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising from the use, misuse, or mounting of the scan tool. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
4. All information in this manual is based on the latest information available at the time of publication, and no warranty can be made for its accuracy or completeness. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.

12.2 Service Procedures

If you have any questions, please contact your local store, distributor, or visit our website.

If it becomes necessary to return the scan tool for repair, contact your local distributor for more information.