TOPDON CarPal Bluetooth Vehicle Diagnostic Dongle User Manual

Safety Is Always the First Priority!

• For your safety, the safety of others, and to avoid any damage to the product and your vehicle, CAREFULLY READ AND MAKE SURE YOU FULLY UNDERSTAND ALL THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND MESSAGES ON THIS MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING. Vehicle service manuals should also be consulted, and stated precautions or instructions observed before and during any test or service procedure.
• Keep yourself, your clothing, and other objects away from moving or hot engine parts and avoid contact with electrical connections.
• ONLY OPERATE THE VEHICLE IN A WELL-VENTILATED AREA, as the vehicle produces carbon monoxide, a toxic and poisonous gas, and particulate matter when the engine is running.
• ALWAYS WEAR APPROVED SAFETY GOGGLES to prevent damage from sharp objects and caustic liquids.
• DO NOT SMOKE OR HAVE ANY FLAMES NEAR THE VEHICLE when testing. The fuel and battery vapors are highly flammable.
• DO NOT ATTEMPT TO INTERACT WITH THE PRODUCT WHILE DRIVING. Any distraction may cause an accident.
• TURN THE IGNITION OFF BEFORE CONNECTING OR DISCONNECTING THE PRODUCT FROM THE DATA LINK CONNECTOR (DLC) to prevent causing damage to the product or vehicle's electronic components.

Section 1: What's in the Box?

The CarPal package typically includes:

• CarPal Bluetooth Vehicle Diagnostic Dongle (a compact device with an OBD-II connector and an indicator light)
• Quick User Guide

Section 2: Product Overview

The CarPal device features:

1. Indicator Light:
   • Solid Blue: Bluetooth connected
   • Solid Red: Power on
   • Solid Green: Communicating with the vehicle
2. OBD-II 16 Pin Connector: Connects the CarPal to the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).

Visual description: The CarPal device is a compact, rectangular dongle with a multi-pin connector on one end, designed to plug into a vehicle's OBD-II port. It has a sleek, dark grey body with the "CarPal" logo and an indicator light on its side. The OBD-II connector is typically translucent or black.

Section 3: Getting Started

3.1 Download the App

Search for "TOPDON CarPal" in the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play (for Android devices) to download and install the application.

Note:

The TOPDON CarPal app is compatible with iOS 11.0 or later and Android 7.0 or later.

Visual description: Screenshots show the App Store and Google Play icons, along with search results for "CarPal TOPDON" displaying the app icon and an "INSTALL" button.

3.2 Register & Log In

Open the TOPDON CarPal app and log in to a TOPDON account. If an account is not available, enter an email address to register. Existing users can tap "Login with Password" to access their TOPDON account using their email and password.

Visual description: A screenshot of the app's "Welcome to CarPal" screen, showing fields for email address, "Next" button, and "Login with Password" option. A Google 'G' icon is also visible for potential third-party login.

3.3 Add the VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface)

To add a device for the first time, tap "Add Device". For adding multiple devices, navigate to "Me > Device Management" within the app.

Visual description: Two app screenshots. One shows a "Give your car a thorough health check. Add your first CarPal device." prompt with an "Add Device" button. The other shows a "Device Management" screen listing connected devices (e.g., TOYOTA, HONDA, BENZ) with their validity dates and a trashcan icon for removal, plus a '+' button to add new devices.

3.4 Plug the CarPal into the Vehicle's DLC

Follow the on-screen instructions to plug the CarPal into the vehicle's OBD-II port. Then tap "Next".

Note:

Ensure the ignition is OFF before plugging in the unit.

Visual description: A diagram showing the CarPal dongle being inserted into a vehicle's OBD-II interface. Another image shows a close-up of a vehicle's footwell area, highlighting the location of the OBD-II port, typically found under the dashboard.

3.5 Turn the Ignition to the "ON" Position

Follow the on-screen instructions to start the vehicle engine, then tap "Next".

If the vehicle is equipped with a keyless start system and the ignition switch is an "Engine Start Stop" button, press the button until the car is in "ON" mode. Do not apply the brake while pressing the "Engine Start Stop" button, as this will start the car instead of putting it in the "ON" position.

The method of ignition varies by vehicle model. Refer to the vehicle's service manual for details.

Visual description: Two diagrams. One shows a traditional ignition key slot with "LOCK", "ACC", "ON", "START" positions. The other shows a circular "ENGINE START STOP" button.

3.6 Bluetooth Connection

When the LED light on the CarPal device is solid green, Bluetooth connection can begin. Tap "Next" in the app, then tap "Connect Now" to connect to the Bluetooth device in the phone's settings. Once connection is established, the LED light on the device will turn solid blue, and the VCI will be activated automatically.

Visual description: A diagram showing the CarPal connected to the OBD-II interface, emitting Bluetooth signals towards a smartphone. An app screenshot shows "Add Device" screen with "Step 3" and instructions to confirm the LED light is solid green, then tap "Next" to start Bluetooth searching. It also states the light will turn solid blue upon connection.

Section 4: Using the CarPal via the App

4.1 Home Screen Overview

The CarPal app's home screen provides quick access to various diagnostic and maintenance functions:

• Full Vehicle Health Check: Provides quick access to check the health status of the vehicle.
• Engine Inspection: Provides quick access to check engine failure details.
• Data Stream: Provides quick access to read the data stream from the OBD.
• Battery Test: Displays battery real-time voltage and cranking voltage of the vehicle.
• HUD (Head-Up Display): Configures the phone to operate as a Head-Up Display tool.
• Maintenance: Provides 6 maintenance service functions.
• I/M Readiness: Provides quick access to check the status of emission-related systems.
• Performance Test: Allows performing 0 to 100km acceleration tests on the vehicle.

Visual description: A screenshot of the CarPal app's home screen, showing a large dial indicating a "55" score for vehicle health, and various function icons arranged in a grid: Full Vehicle Health Check, Engine Inspection, Data Stream, Battery Test, HUD, Maintenance, I/M Readiness, Performance Test. A bottom toolbar shows "Home", "Service", and "Me" icons.

4.2 Full Vehicle Health Check

This module scans all supported vehicle systems for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and allows access to Diagnostic Feedback.

4.2.1 Identifying the Vehicle

To perform a full vehicle health check, the vehicle must first be identified:

1. Tap "Full Vehicle Health Check" from the home screen.
2. Manually modify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or tap "Read" to acquire the VIN, then tap "Confirm". The CarPal will automatically decode the VIN and bind the vehicle make to the device.

Note:

Vehicle information may need confirmation for some vehicle models. A system menu will display after vehicle identification; systems may vary by vehicle make, model, and year.

Visual description: App screenshots showing "Acquire VIN information" screen with a text input field for VIN and "Confirm", "Cancel", "Read" buttons. Another screenshot shows "Full Vehicle Health Check" with a car graphic and a "Tips" dialog asking to confirm the current vehicle make (e.g., BENZ).

4.2.2 Scan

The scan function detects supported systems and retrieves DTCs, providing a complete health check. Scans performed before and after repairs can aid in troubleshooting and validating repairs. Pre and post-scan reports record vehicle conditions for comparison.

To perform a Scan, tap the "Scan" button. The CarPal will scan all supported systems, and DTC retrieval will proceed automatically. Results are displayed progressively. Tap a system with DTCs to view detailed information.

Visual description: App screenshots showing a list of vehicle systems (e.g., PGM-FI, AT, ABS, SRS/SWS/PUH, EPB, HYDRAULIC BOOSTER, EPS, BODY ELECTRICAL, Gauges, Parking Sensor, IMA, TPMS, ATTS) with "Scan", "Clear DTCs", and "Show actual" buttons at the bottom. Another screenshot shows the scan results with a "Score for Vehicle Health Diagnostics" (e.g., 55) and systems listed with "Fault" or "Not exist" status, along with "Report", "Scan", "Clear DTCs" buttons.

Button Description:

• Report: Tap to save current scan results in report format. Saved reports can be viewed via "Me > Diagnostic Report".
• Clear DTCs: Tap to clear all retrieved DTCs.
• Show All / Show Actual: Tap to toggle between showing all vehicle systems and only supported systems.

4.2.3 Diagnostic Feedback

The CarPal allows users to send diagnostic feedback instantly, with logs of diagnostic data automatically attached, when encountering software problems with diagnostics operations.

To send diagnostic feedback:

1. Tap the feedback icon (typically a 'T' or similar symbol) located at the top right corner of the app screen.
2. Select the type of problem.
3. Write a description of the problem.
4. Tap "Submit" to send the feedback.

Note:

The Diagnostic Feedback function is available for the Full Vehicle Health Check, Engine Inspection, Data Stream, and Maintenance modules.

4.3 Engine Inspection

The engine inspection function reads and clears engine fault codes. Fault codes are labeled by severity (serious, slight, ignore). Users can view corresponding fault code details and maintenance suggestions.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing a "Check Engine" screen with a list of DTCs (e.g., P2122, P2127, P0123, P0223, P2649), each labeled with severity ("Slight") and a "Maintenance Suggestion" field (often "No data."). "Report" and "Clear DTCs" buttons are at the bottom.

4.4 Data Stream

To view the data stream for the system:

1. Tap "Data Stream" from the home screen. A data stream list will display.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing a "Data Reading" screen with various parameters listed (e.g., Numbers of DTCs, Malfunction indicator lamp status, Engine coolant temperature, Fuel pressure, Engine rpm, Vehicle speed sensor, Intake air temperature). "Custom Mode", "Report", and "Record" buttons are at the bottom.

Button Description:

• Edit: Allows customization of the data stream list. Select desired data stream checkboxes and tap "Confirm".
• Report: Tap to save current data stream values in report format. Saved reports can be viewed via "Me > Diagnostic Report".
• Record: Allows recording and saving data stream information for comparison and analysis. Saved data stream information can be viewed via "Me > Data Stream".

Each entry in the list shows the name and current value of the data stream. Tapping the settings icon (⚙️) next to each entry allows access to the setting screen, where the data stream can be viewed in value, graph, or gauge format.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing "Real-Time Data Reading" with options to customize display form (Number, Graph, Gauge) and a list of parameters with their current values and units (e.g., Engine speed: 800 RPM). A "Restore Defaults" button is present.

For ease of comparison and observation, a "Combine" function is provided, allowing up to 4 data streams to be viewed in one graph.

To access the Combine function:

1. Tap the graph icon (?) and tap "Save" to change the display form, then return to the data stream screen.
2. Tap the full screen icon (⤢) at the right side. A combined graph will appear.
3. Tap "Combine" and select up to four data streams.
4. Tap "Confirm". A combined graph will display.

Note:

IF THE VEHICLE MUST BE DRIVEN TO VIEW THE LIVE DATA STREAM, ALWAYS HAVE A SECOND PERSON HELPING YOU. DO NOT WATCH THE DATA STREAM WHILE DRIVING.

Visual description: App screenshots showing a graph of engine RPM and vehicle speed sensor data over time, and a gauge display for vehicle speed. Another screenshot shows a full-screen combined graph with multiple data streams (Engine coolant temperature, Engine rpm, Vehicle speed sensor, Absolute throttle position). A final screenshot shows a "Select Data Stream" list with checkboxes to choose up to four data streams for combining.

4.5 Battery Test

This function configures the CarPal as an automotive battery tester, allowing performance of battery tests on the vehicle. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Key considerations for accurate results:

• Only supports testing vehicles equipped with 12V lead-acid batteries.
• For accuracy, conduct the test after the battery is fully charged or the engine has been started for three minutes.
• Before testing, turn the ignition off (stop the engine).
• For continuous testing, an interval of three minutes or more is recommended.
• If multiple test results are negative, consult a professional testing agency (e.g., a 4S store).

Visual description: An app screenshot showing a "Battery Test" screen with a circular gauge displaying "Current Real-Time Voltage" (e.g., 12.33V) and voltage ranges. "Start Testing" and "Voltage Reference" buttons are present below the instructions.

4.6 HUD (Head-Up Display)

The HUD module configures the phone to operate as a Head-Up Display tool. Users can choose the display style and switch to mirror mode as needed.

Instructions for HUD use:

1. Choose a favorite HUD style.
2. Tap the upper right corner of the HUD to switch to mirror mode.
3. Place the phone on the front windshield.
4. After starting the vehicle, data read by CarPal is projected onto the windshield, addressing the problem of looking down at data.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing a "HUD" explanation screen with a graphic of a car dashboard and a projected display on the windshield. Options include "Don't remind me again" and "OK" button.

4.7 Maintenance

The CarPal supports 6 special maintenance functions:

• Oil Reset: Resets the oil service lamp for the engine oil life system after an oil change.
• Throttle Adaptation: Initializes throttle actuators if the ECU is disconnected, or if the throttle is replaced or cleaned, ensuring accurate air intake regulation.
• EPB (Electronic Parking Brake) Reset: Helps replace and reset brake pads, necessary after pad/sensor replacement, when the warning light is on, or after fixing a short circuit/replacing the servo motor.
• BMS (Battery Management System) Reset: Resets the car battery control unit after battery replacement, clearing fault information and matching new battery data.
• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Reset: Resets tire pressure information after tire reinflation or replacement to resolve fault codes.
• DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Regeneration: Used for regenerating diesel particulate filters by removing particles through combustion and oxidation to maintain performance.

4.7.2 Performing a Service Reset

To perform a service reset:

1. Tap "Maintenance" from the home screen. A function menu will display.
2. Select the desired function.
3. Vehicle identification is required before accessing the function (refer to "Identifying the Vehicle" on 4.2.1). Once complete, the function menu displays.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the service reset.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing the "Maintenance" menu with six icons representing the functions: Oil (oil can icon), Throttle (throttle body icon), EPB (brake caliper icon), BMS (battery icon), TPMS (tire pressure icon), DPF (exhaust pipe icon).

4.10 I/M Readiness

This function checks if emission-related systems are operating properly and are ready for I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) testing. It also confirms if car fault repairs have been performed correctly.

Note:

The vehicle should only be considered ready for inspection and allowed to pass emissions if all required tests have been passed.

4.11 Performance Test

The Vehicle Performance Test allows accurate measurements of vehicle acceleration, providing results at intervals defined by set speed and fixed distance measurements.

4.11.1 Performing a Vehicle Performance Test

1. Tap "Performance Test" from the home screen.
2. A warning message will appear. Read it carefully and tap "OK" to continue.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing a "Performance Test" screen with a large speedometer-like gauge displaying "0 MPH" and a "Warning" dialog about not using on highways or prohibited locations, and agreeing to use it as intended. "OK" button is present.

The default values for start and end speeds are 0 MPH and 60 MPH respectively. To change these values, tap the "0-60 MPH" button and then "Edit" to set the desired speeds.

Accelerate the vehicle to start the test.

Note:

If the end-of-measurement speed is not reached, results will automatically reset when the car's speed equals the start speed.

Visual description: App screenshots showing the "Performance Test" screen with gauges for Vehicle Speed, Engine Speed, Horsepower, and Torque. Data fields for "Time", "Top Speed", "Engine Load", and "Coolant Temperature" are displayed. "Start Accelerating" and "Testing..." buttons are shown. Another screenshot shows "Segment Time" tab with results for 1/4mi, 1000ft, 1/8mi, 330ft, 60ft tests.

Button Description:

• Start: Tap to reset for the next run.
• Test Report: Tap to view the test results.
• 0-60 MPH / (1/4 mi): Tap to toggle between the 0-60 MPH result screen and the 1/4 mi result screen.
• Edit: Tap to set the start and end speeds.

4.11.2 Viewing Test Results

From the test screen, tap "Test Report". The result screen will appear.

Visual description: App screenshots showing a "Test Report" screen with a list of past test records by date and time (e.g., 2024/7/8, 14:23, 14:22). Another screenshot shows the detailed test report for a selected record, including "0-100 kph Acceleration Time" and "Segment Speed Time" (e.g., 0-10MPH, 0-20MPH, etc.) with their respective elapsed times.

Tap the desired record to view its full content.

• 1/4 mi Test Results: Records elapsed time for a vehicle to travel specific distances (60 ft, 330 ft, 1/8 mi, 1000 ft, 1/4 mi) and instantaneous speed at each point.
• 0-60 MPH Test Results: Records elapsed time for a vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour. Start and end speeds can be changed.
• Speed Test Results: Records elapsed time for a vehicle to accelerate to a specific speed.

4.10 Service

4.10.1 DTC Repair Guide

The DTC Repair Guide is an experience-based database of generic OBD-II DTCs, providing code-specific information, popular fixes, and repair steps for identifying faults.

To use: Tap "Service > DTC Repair Guide". Enter a DTC in the search bar.

4.10.2 Technical Service Bulletins

To view: Tap "Service > Technical Service Bulletins". Select vehicle make, model, year, system, and subsystem, then tap "Next". A list of OEM technical service bulletins will display. Tap the desired option for full content.

4.10.3 DLC Location

To view: Tap "Service > DLC Location". Select vehicle make, model, and year, then tap "Next". A picture of the DLC location will display.

4.10.4 Warning Light Library

The Warning Light Library provides information on dashboard warning lights, including descriptions, impacts on driving, typical causes, responsive measures, and relevant FAQs.

To use: Tap "Service > Warning Light Library". A list of warning lights will display. Tap the desired option for details.

4.11 Me (User Information & Settings)

This section provides access to User Info, Data Stream, Diagnostic Report, Diagnostic History, Device Management, Firmware Update, User Manual, and Help and Feedback.

Visual description: An app screenshot showing the "Me" screen with "Log In Now" at the top, and sections for "Data Stream", "Diagnostic Report", "Diagnostics History", "Device Management", "Firmware Update", "User Manual", "Help and Feedback", and "Settings", each with a right arrow icon.

4.11.1 User Info

Tap the profile photo to view and edit avatar/nickname. View Email account and TOPDON ID, change login password, delete account, and log out.

4.11.2 Data Stream

View saved data stream information.

4.11.3 Diagnostic Report

View saved diagnostic reports.

4.11.4 Diagnostic History

View diagnostic histories.

4.11.5 Device Management

Bind the VCI to the account.

4.11.6 Firmware Update

Update VCI firmware if a new version is available.

4.11.7 User Manual

View the user manual of the CarPal app.

4.11.8 Help and Feedback

View frequently asked questions and submit feedback.

4.11.9 Settings

General settings: language, unit, cache clearing, privacy and security center, app version, and TOPDON contact information.

Section 5: Specifications

Section 6: FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What should be done if a communication error occurs?

A: Follow these steps to identify the problem:

1. Check if the ignition is ON.
2. Check if the CarPal is securely plugged into the vehicle's OBD-II port.
3. Turn the ignition off, then turn it on after 10 seconds and continue the operation.
4. Check if the vehicle's control module is defective.

Q: Why is it necessary to download diagnostic software after installing the CarPal app?

A: Since there are various vehicle manufacturers, different diagnostic software is required for different brands.

Q: What special functions does the CarPal support?

A: The CarPal supports 6 special functions, including Oil Reset, Throttle Adaptation, EPB Reset, BMS Reset, TPMS Reset, and DPF Regeneration.

Q: Is it necessary to update the firmware before using it for the first time?

A: Yes. Firmware will automatically update to the latest version once the TopScan (CarPal) is connected with the phone via Bluetooth. Users can also tap "Me > Firmware Update" to update the firmware manually.

Q: Can multiple devices be bound to one CarPal app account?

A: Yes.

Section 7: Warranty

TOPDON's One Year Limited Warranty

TOPDON warrants to its original purchaser that the company's products will be free from defects in material and workmanship for 12 months from the date of purchase (Warranty Period). For defects reported during the Warranty Period, TOPDON will either repair or replace the defective part or product according to its technical support analysis and confirmation. TOPDON shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising from the device's use, misuse, or mounting. If there is any conflict between the TOPDON warranty policy and local laws, the local laws shall prevail.

This limited warranty is void under the following conditions:

• Misused, disassembled, altered, or repaired by unauthorized stores or technicians.
• Careless handling and/or improper operation.

Notice:

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. TOPDON reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice.

Section 8: FCC Compliance

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Support and Contact Information

• Phone (TEL): 86-755-21612590, 1-833-629-4832 (NORTH AMERICA), +34 930 038 094 (Europe)
• Email (EMAIL): SUPPORT@TOPDON.COM
• Website (WEBSITE): WWW.TOPDON.COM
• Facebook (FACEBOOK): @TOPDONOFFICIAL
• X (Twitter): @TOPDONOFFICIAL

Compliance markings: FCC, CE, UKCA, RoHS. Recycling symbols are also present.