Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner: Your Comprehensive Guide for Windows Phone, iOS, and Android

Unlock the full potential of your car with the Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner, a powerful and user-friendly tool designed to transform your smartphone or Windows device into a professional-grade car diagnostic system. Forget expensive mechanic visits for simple check-engine light issues. With the Kobra OBD2 scanner, you can diagnose your vehicle like a pro, right from the palm of your hand.

This innovative OBD2 scanner is not just a code reader; it’s a gateway to understanding your car’s health and performance in real-time. Whether you are a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time car owner, the Kobra scanner empowers you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance and care.

Why Choose the Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner?

In a market saturated with OBD2 scanners, the Kobra stands out for its versatility and user-centric design. Here’s what makes the Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner a superior choice:

Universal Compatibility: Unlike many OBD2 scanners that limit you to specific operating systems, the Kobra Wireless OBD2 scanner connects seamlessly via Wi-Fi to iOS, Android, and Windows devices. This broad compatibility ensures you can use your preferred smartphone or tablet without compromise. While the original article highlighted Windows Phone compatibility, it’s important to note that while technically compatible with Windows devices (including potentially older Windows Phones if they support Wi-Fi and relevant apps), modern usage is primarily focused on iOS and Android due to the evolution of mobile platforms.
Extensive Vehicle Coverage: The Kobra OBD2 wireless car code reader works with all cars and small trucks manufactured from 1996 to 2018 in the United States, ensuring broad compatibility for most vehicle owners.
Rich Diagnostic Capabilities: Read both generic and manufacturer-specific trouble codes with ease. The scanner’s extensive database includes over 3000 code definitions, helping you understand the issue quickly and accurately.
App Versatility: The Kobra OBD2 adapter supports a wide range of popular OBD2 apps, both free and paid. Compatible apps include OBD Fusion, DashCommand, and OBD Car Doctor for iOS; Torque Pro for Android; and OBD Auto Doctor for Windows, among many other ELM327-compatible applications. This flexibility allows you to choose the app that best suits your needs and preferences.
Enhanced Performance: The upgraded version of the Kobra WIFI OBD2 Scanner boasts improved Wi-Fi signal range, enhanced app compatibility, and upgraded internal components, ensuring reliable and consistent performance.

Getting Started with Your Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner

Setting up your Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to get connected and start diagnosing your vehicle:

Preparation: Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is turned off. Locate the OBD2 port in your vehicle (typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side).
Connect the Scanner: Plug the Kobra™ OBD Scanner securely into your vehicle’s OBD2 port.
Turn Ignition ON: Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position (one step before starting the engine).
Connect via Wi-Fi: On your smartphone, tablet, or Windows device, go to “Settings” and then “Wi-Fi”. Turn on Wi-Fi and connect to the network named “WiFi_OBDII”.

Note: If your OBD app doesn’t immediately detect the Wi-Fi connection, force quit the app and relaunch it. On Android, use the “Task Manager” to force quit. On iOS, double-press the home button and swipe up to close the app. For Windows, use Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to close the application.*
Launch Your OBD App: Open your chosen OBD app.
App Connection Settings: Depending on the app you are using, it may connect automatically. Some apps require manual configuration to connect to a Wi-Fi OBD scanner. If necessary, navigate to the app’s settings and configure the connection to use Wi-Fi and select the OBD2 device.

For Example: Torque App Settings
- Go to “Settings” within the Torque app.
- Tap “Connection” and select “WIFI”.
- Tap “Device” and choose “OBD2”.
- Force close and relaunch the Torque app for settings to take effect.*

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

Encountering connection problems? Here are some common issues and their solutions:

Issue: Device connected to Wi-Fi, but OBD app doesn’t recognize it.
- Solution: Turn off Wi-Fi on your device. Disconnect the OBD scanner from your car. Force quit the OBD app. Relaunch the app, reconnect Wi-Fi, and try connecting again.
Issue: OBD2 scanner shows no signs of power (no lights).
- Solution: Detach and re-plug the adapter, repeating the setup steps. If the problem persists, check your vehicle’s OBD fuse and replace it if necessary.
Issue: Phone/App connected to Kobra Scanner, but unable to connect to ECU.
- Solution: Turn off Wi-Fi, force close the app, disconnect and reconnect the Kobra Scanner to your car (wait for the red light). Reconnect Wi-Fi, select the “WiFi_OBDII” network, and relaunch the app.
Issue: “Check Engine” light returns after clearing codes, or codes won’t clear.
- Solution: Try clearing codes with the car in ACC mode (second ignition position). Note that clearing a code doesn’t fix the underlying issue; it only resets the indicator. The problem may reoccur if the fault persists.
Issue: “Check Engine” and fault codes on dash, but Kobra Scanner can’t read them.
- Solution: While highly compatible, a very small percentage of vehicles may require specialized diagnostic equipment beyond the Kobra Scanner’s capabilities.
Issue: App detects scanner but won’t connect to the car’s ECU.
- Solution: Verify your vehicle is OBD2 compliant. In the US, vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1996, are typically OBD2 compliant. If your car is older or not OBD2 compliant, you may need a professional mechanic with specialized equipment.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

For older devices or in rare cases, you might need to configure static IP settings for a successful connection:

Follow steps 1-3 of the standard setup.
After connecting to the “WiFi_OBDII” network, access the advanced Wi-Fi settings for that network (usually by clicking a small arrow or settings icon next to the network name).
Set the IP Address to “Static”.
Enter the following static IP settings:
- IP address: 192.168.0.123
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Router: 192.168.0.10
- Leave gateway and DNS fields blank.
Save the settings and exit the Wi-Fi configuration.
Start your car’s engine.
In your OBD app, configure the connection to use a custom TCP connection with IP address 192.168.0.10 and TCP Port 35000.

Recommended Apps for Your Kobra OBD2 Scanner

Maximize the functionality of your Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner with these recommended apps:

For Android:

Free: ScanMaster Lite, Torque Lite, OBD2-ELM327 Car Diagnostics, OBD Dashboard, ScanMyOpel Lite, OBD Car Doctor, Efficiency (free), BMWhat Lite (BMW only)
Paid: DashCommand, Torque Pro, ScanMyOpel, OBD Car Doctor Pro, TouchScan (OBD Diagnostics), Efficiency Pro, BMWhat (BMW only)

For Apple iOS:

Free: OBD Fusion, OBD CarDoctor, EOBD Facile
Paid: DashCommand, EngineLink, REV, NovaScan – The OBD Total Solution, BMWhat (BMW only), OBD2 Scanner
iPad Optimized Apps: DashCommand, iCanOBD2 (VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda only), Engine Link HD

While the original article mentions apps compatible with Windows Phone, it is important to acknowledge that app availability for this platform may be limited or outdated due to the evolution of mobile operating systems. For the most up-to-date app selection and optimal performance, we recommend using iOS or Android devices. However, if you are using a Windows-based tablet or device, apps like OBD Auto Doctor for Windows are compatible.

Important Cautions and Warnings

Always plug the Kobra WiFi OBD2 adapter into your car’s OBD2 port correctly, following the installation instructions.
Never operate the OBD2 scanner or your mobile device while driving. Distracted driving can lead to accidents.

With the Kobra Wireless OBD2 Scanner, you have a powerful and versatile tool at your fingertips. Start diagnosing your car today and experience the convenience and control of having professional-grade diagnostics in your pocket!