Vgate vLinker MC+ Quick Start Guide
for iOS and Android
Getting Started with Your vLinker MC+
This guide will help you set up and use your Vgate vLinker MC+ diagnostic tool.
1. Vehicle OBDII Compliance
Most vehicles manufactured in 1996 or newer in the United States are OBDII compliant. In the European Union, gasoline vehicles from 2001 and newer, and diesel vehicles from 2004 and newer, are compliant.
Look for an "OBD II CERTIFIED" label, often found in the engine compartment or on the vehicle's compliance sticker.
2. Supported OBDII Protocols
The vLinker MC+ supports a wide range of OBDII protocols, including:
- SAE J1850 PWM
- SAE J1850 VPW
- ISO 9141-2
- ISO 14230-4 (slow & fast)
- ISO 15765-4 (CAN)
- SAE J1939 (CAN)
- ISO 11898 (raw can)
- Single Wire CAN (GMLAN)
- Medium Speed CAN (MS-CAN)
3. Download and Install Apps
Several popular apps are compatible with the vLinker MC+. Some recommended apps include:
- Torque Lite (Free version available)
- OBD Auto Doctor (Free with in-app upgrade)
- OBD Fusion
- BimmerCode (for BMW/Mini customization)
- FORScan (for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercury vehicles; available for Windows and Android)
Note: The vLinker MC+ (BT3.0) and vLinker MC+ (BLE) versions support different app combinations. Check the product page for the most up-to-date compatibility list.
4. App Support
The vLinker MC+ is designed to work with a variety of automotive diagnostic apps. Refer to the app compatibility list provided by Vgate for specific details.
5. Connecting the vLinker MC+
Locate your vehicle's OBDII Data Link Connector (DLC), typically found under the dashboard on the driver's side. For more information on DLC location, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_link_connector_(automotive)
Plug the vLinker MC+ into the OBD port.
6. Powering On
Turn the vehicle's ignition to the 'Key On Engine Off' position. The 'POWER' green LED on the vLinker MC+ should illuminate. The 'BT' blue LED will blink slowly, indicating it's ready for pairing. The 'OBD' red and 'HOST' orange LEDs will blink once.
If LEDs do not turn on, check the vehicle's fuses.
7. Connection Guide for Android (using Torque Lite)
- Plug the vLinker MC+ into the OBD port and turn the ignition to 'Key On Engine Off'.
- Open your phone's Bluetooth settings. Search for the device named "vLinker MC-Android" and pair with it. The default pairing code is '1234'.
- Open the Torque Lite app. Navigate to 'OBD2 Adapter Settings'.
- Select "vLinker MC-Android" as the Bluetooth device.
- Once connected successfully, you can select the desired control unit within the app.
8. Connection Guide for iOS (using Car Scanner)
- Plug the vLinker MC+ into the OBD port and turn the ignition to 'Key On Engine Off'.
- Open the Car Scanner app and go to 'Settings' > 'Connection'.
- Choose 'Bluetooth LE (4.0)' as the connection type. Select "vLinker MC-IOS" as the device name.
- Return to the main page and click 'CONNECT'. This process may take a few minutes.
- If the connection is successful, the ELM and ECU will be connected. You can then select the control unit you wish to access.
Important Note for iOS Users: Due to Bluetooth LE 4.0 technology, the vLinker MC+ Bluetooth device name may not appear in standard iOS Bluetooth settings. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your iOS device and configure the connection directly within the OBD app settings.
9. Important Notes and Features
- Automatic Wake-up & Power Saving: The vLinker MC+ can remain plugged into the OBD socket without draining the battery. It enters a low-power 'sleep mode' consuming only around 3mA. Pressing the 'Connect' button wakes the device.
- App-Specific Settings: Different OBD II apps may have unique Bluetooth setup procedures. Always follow the in-app instructions for optimal configuration.
- Product Upgrade: Visit http://www.vgatemall.com/downloadcenter to download upgrade packages and user manuals for your vLinker MC+ model.
Need Help?
For assistance, please email Vgate at sale@vgate.com.cn. They typically respond within 24 hours on working days.