AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester User Manual

1. Introduction

The AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus is a versatile 2-in-1 diagnostic tool designed for comprehensive vehicle health assessment. It combines full OBD2 diagnostic capabilities with professional 12V battery testing, enabling users to identify and resolve common vehicle issues efficiently. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and maintenance of your device.

Figure 1: AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester.

Key Features:

• Full OBD2 Diagnostics: Reads and clears trouble codes, turns off Check Engine Light, displays live data streams, freeze frame data, I/M readiness, O2 sensor tests, EVAP system tests, and on-board monitor analyses.
• Comprehensive Battery Testing: Supports 12V batteries (100-2000 CCA) including flooded, AGM, GEL, and EFB types. Performs battery health, cranking, and charging system tests.
• Wide Vehicle Coverage: Compatible with most US vehicles since 1996, European models since 2002, and Asian vehicles since 2008.
• Safety Features: Includes reverse polarity protection, short circuit protection, overcurrent protection, and overvoltage protection.
• User-Friendly Design: Durable ABS housing, easy-to-read display, and intuitive operation.

2. Product Overview

The BAS300 Plus integrates two essential automotive diagnostic tools into one compact unit. Understanding its components and interface is crucial for effective operation.

Figure 2: Overview of the AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus device, highlighting its robust design, anti-slip features, and included accessories like the OBD2 cable and battery clamps.

Package Contents:

• AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus Unit
• OBD2 Cable (integrated)
• Battery Clamps (integrated)
• USB Cable (for computer connection/updates)
• User Manual (this document)

3. Setup and Connection

The BAS300 Plus is designed for plug-and-play operation. No internal battery is required as it draws power directly from the vehicle.

3.1 Connecting for OBD2 Diagnostics

1. Locate the OBD2 Port: The 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC) is typically located under the dashboard on the driver's side. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual if you cannot find it.
2. Connect the Scanner: Plug the BAS300 Plus's OBD2 connector firmly into the vehicle's DLC.
3. Power On: Turn the vehicle's ignition to the "ON" position (engine off) or start the engine, depending on the diagnostic function required. The scanner will power on automatically.

Figure 3: Illustration of connecting the OBD2 scanner to the vehicle's diagnostic port.

3.2 Connecting for Battery Testing

1. Ensure Vehicle is Off: For battery health and cranking tests, ensure the vehicle's engine is off. For charging tests, the engine will need to be running.
2. Connect Battery Clamps:
   • Connect the RED clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the 12V battery.
   • Connect the BLACK clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the 12V battery.

   Ensure a secure connection. The device features reverse polarity protection to prevent damage from incorrect connections.

3. Power On: The scanner will power on automatically once connected to the battery.

Figure 4: Proper connection of battery clamps to a vehicle battery.

4. Operating Instructions

The BAS300 Plus features a user-friendly interface with a main menu for selecting diagnostic and testing functions.

4.1 Navigating the Menu

Use the UP/DOWN arrow buttons to scroll through menu options and the OK button to confirm selections. The ESC button returns to the previous screen.

Figure 5: Main menu display of the AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus, showing options for OBDII, I/M, and BATTERY tests.

4.2 OBD2 Diagnostic Functions

From the main menu, select "OBDII" to access the following functions:

• Read Codes: Retrieves Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from the vehicle's computer system. These codes indicate specific issues.
• Erase Codes: Clears DTCs and turns off the Check Engine Light (CEL) after repairs have been made. Warning: Do not erase codes before addressing the underlying problem.
• I/M Readiness: Checks if the vehicle's emission-related systems are operating correctly and are ready for an emissions test.
• Live Data Stream: Displays real-time data from the vehicle's sensors and components, such as engine RPM, vehicle speed, oxygen sensor readings, and coolant temperature. This data can be viewed numerically or graphically.
• Freeze Frame: Records a snapshot of vehicle operating conditions at the moment a DTC was set. This helps in diagnosing intermittent problems.
• O2 Sensor Test: Monitors and tests the functionality of the oxygen sensors.
• EVAP System Test: Tests the Evaporative Emission Control System for leaks or malfunctions.
• On-Board Monitor Test: Accesses the results of on-board diagnostic monitoring tests for specific components/systems.
• DTC Lookup: Provides detailed descriptions of generic (P0, P2, P3, U0) and manufacturer-specific (P1, P3, U1) codes.
• Vehicle Information: Retrieves the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), Calibration ID (CID), and Calibration Verification Number (CVN).
• Data Print: Allows printing of diagnostic data (requires connection to a computer with appropriate software).
• Data Feedback: Provides a mechanism to send diagnostic feedback.

Figure 6: Screen displaying various OBD2 diagnostic functions available on the BAS300 Plus.

4.3 Battery Test Functions

From the main menu, select "BAT" to access the following battery testing functions. Ensure the battery clamps are correctly connected to the 12V battery.

• Battery Test: Assesses the overall health and condition of the battery, including its State of Charge (SOC) and State of Health (SOH).
• Cranking Test: Measures the battery's ability to provide sufficient current to start the engine. It checks the minimum voltage drop during engine cranking.
• Charging Test: Evaluates the vehicle's charging system (alternator) to ensure it is properly charging the battery under various load conditions.
• Review Data: Allows viewing of previously saved test results.

Figure 7: Screen displaying various battery test functions and results, including battery health, cranking, and charging tests.

The BAS300 Plus supports various battery types and standards:

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and accurate performance of your AUTOPHIX BAS300 Plus, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a dry, clean environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Cable Care: Avoid bending or kinking the OBD2 cable and battery clamp wires excessively. Inspect them regularly for damage.
• Software Updates: Periodically check the official AUTOPHIX website for software updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with newer vehicles. Updates are typically performed by connecting the device to a computer via the provided USB cable.

Figure 8: The USB port on the BAS300 Plus, used for connecting to a computer for software updates.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter while using the BAS300 Plus.

6.1 General Issues

• Device does not power on:
  • Ensure the OBD2 connector or battery clamps are securely connected.
  • Verify the vehicle's ignition is in the "ON" position or the engine is running (for OBD2).
  • Check the vehicle's battery for sufficient charge (for battery testing).
• Communication error with vehicle:
  • Confirm the vehicle is OBD2 compliant (most US vehicles after 1996, EU after 2002, Asia after 2008).
  • Check for loose connections at the OBD2 port.
  • Turn off the ignition, wait 10 seconds, and restart the vehicle before reconnecting the scanner.

6.2 Interpreting Battery Test Results

Understanding the results from the battery, cranking, and charging tests is key to diagnosing battery-related problems.

Battery Test Results:

• GOOD BATTERY: Battery is in good condition.
• GOOD-RECHARGE: Battery is good but needs a full charge.
• CHARGE & RESET: Fully charge the battery and retest.
• REPLACE BATTERY: Battery is failing and needs replacement.
• BAD CELL-REPLACE: One or more cells are bad; replace the battery.

Note: Insufficient battery power can lead to difficulty starting the car and affect other vehicle systems. Always ensure the battery is properly charged and connected.

Figure 9: Guide to understanding battery test results and recommended actions.

Cranking Test Results:

• TOO LOW (Voltage <10.8V before starting): Indicates the battery may not be able to start the car.
• NORMAL (Voltage 11.8-12.8V before starting): Battery voltage is within acceptable range.
• SLIGHTLY LOW (Voltage <10.8-11.8V before starting): May result in difficulty starting.
• TOO HIGH (Voltage >14.8V): May indicate an issue with the charging system or potential battery damage.

Figure 10: Guide to interpreting cranking test voltage readings.

Charging Test Results:

• NO PROBLEMS: Normal output from the alternator.
• NO OUTPUT: No alternator output detected.
• LOW OUTPUT: Alternator does not provide sufficient current.
• HIGH OUTPUT: Alternator voltage output exceeds normal limits.
• EXCESSIVE RIPPLE: Excessive AC ripple detected, indicating potential alternator issues.

Figure 11: Guide to understanding charging system test results.

7. Specifications

Figure 12: Illustration of the wide operating temperature range of the BAS300 Plus.

8. Warranty and Support

AUTOPHIX products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty details, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AUTOPHIX website.

Customer Support:

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding the operation of your BAS300 Plus, please contact AUTOPHIX customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the official AUTOPHIX website or within the product packaging.

For the latest information, software updates, and support resources, please visit: www.autophix.com