FORScan is a specialized software scanner designed specifically for Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. Unlike generic OBD2 scanners, FORScan delves deeper into your vehicle’s systems, offering unparalleled diagnostic and configuration capabilities when paired with compatible ELM327 or J2534 Pass-Thru adapters.
What Sets FORScan OBD2 Apart from Standard Scanners?
While numerous OBD2 scanners are available on the market, FORScan distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury automobiles. This specialization allows Forscan Obd2 to tap into manufacturer-specific protocols, granting users access to advanced features not found in universal OBD2 scanners.
For instance, FORScan OBD2 can detect modules that remain invisible to generic scanners. It can read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that standard OBD2 tools often miss. Furthermore, FORScan OBD2 can access Parameter IDs (PIDs) unique to these vehicle brands and perform specialized tests and service procedures. Notably, the Windows version of FORScan expands functionality even further, enabling vehicle configuration and programming. In essence, FORScan OBD2 empowers you to perform tasks far beyond the reach of conventional OBD2 scanners.
Key Capabilities of FORScan OBD2
FORScan OBD2 is packed with features to give you comprehensive control over your vehicle’s diagnostics and maintenance:
- Automatic Vehicle Configuration Detection: FORScan OBD2 intelligently identifies your vehicle’s on-board network configuration, streamlining the diagnostic process.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Trouble Code Management: Read and reset DTCs from all modules within your vehicle’s system. This includes modules often inaccessible to generic OBD2 scanners, providing a more complete picture of your vehicle’s health.
- Real-time Module Sensor Data Monitoring: Access live data from your vehicle’s sensors, allowing you to monitor performance and pinpoint potential issues as they arise.
- Advanced Diagnostic Test Procedures: Run specialized diagnostic tests to evaluate the functionality of various vehicle systems and components.
- Essential Service Procedures: Perform critical service procedures such as oil resets, electronic parking brake service, diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration, and more, depending on your vehicle’s capabilities.
- Vehicle Configuration and Programming (Windows Version): Unlock advanced customization and programming options with the Windows version of FORScan, requiring an Extended License for certain functions.
FORScan software suite including FORScan Lite for iOS, FORScan for Windows, and FORScan Lite for Android platforms.
Vehicle Compatibility: Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury (1996-2023 MY)
FORScan OBD2 supports a wide range of models from Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury manufactured between 1996 and 2023 model year. Some older models from 1994-1995 MY may also be compatible.
Important Compatibility Notes:
- 2023 Ford Models: While most 2023 models are supported, some very recent releases might not be fully identified yet. Development is ongoing to expand support for these models. Functionality for brand-new 2021-2023 MY models may be initially limited.
- 2024 Ford and Lincoln Models: Currently, 2024 model year Ford and Lincoln vehicles are not supported by FORScan OBD2.
- Mazda Vehicles (Up to 2022 6G): Mazda models from 1996 to 2022 (up to 6th generation) are supported.
- Mazda 7G and Newer: Mazda 7th generation models (including new Mazda 3, CX-30, MX-30, CX-50, etc.) have limited or no support at this time.
- Non-Supported Brands: Vehicles from manufacturers other than Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury are not compatible with FORScan OBD2.
Before purchasing any adapters or licenses, always verify that FORScan OBD2 supports the specific functions you require for your vehicle.
Recommended OBD2 Adapters for FORScan
Choosing the right OBD2 adapter is crucial for optimal FORScan OBD2 performance. While ELM327-compatible adapters are supported, it’s important to be aware of potential limitations, especially with newer FORScan features.
Recommended Adapters:
- OBDLink EX USB: This USB adapter is highly recommended for the Windows version of FORScan OBD2, particularly for configuration and programming tasks due to its reliable and fast connection.
- OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth: For FORScan Lite versions (iOS and Android), the OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth adapter is the recommended choice, offering a stable wireless connection and robust performance.
- Other Compatible Adapters: OBDLink SX/LX/MX, ELS27 (STN1170/2120), and ELM327-compatible adapters (with caveats) are also supported.
A Word of Caution Regarding ELM327 Adapters:
Over time, the quality and reliability of many ELM327 adapters have declined significantly. Many adapters marketed as “ELM327” are of dubious quality and may not meet FORScan OBD2’s requirements for full functionality. Therefore, we no longer recommend generic “ELM327” adapters. If possible, prioritize the OBDLink adapters recommended above to ensure the best FORScan OBD2 experience. While FORScan OBD2 will continue to support ELM327 adapters to some extent, newer features may be limited or unavailable when using these older, less reliable adapters.
Supported Protocols and Vehicle Networks
FORScan OBD2 is compatible with the following Ford vehicle network protocols:
- FORD HS CAN
- FORD MS CAN (requires J2534-2, CANtieCAR, OBDLink EX/MX/MX+, ELS27, or modified ELM327 for full support)
- FORD SCP
- FORD 9141
- FORD UBP (Ford VCMII adapter only)
Extensive Module Support
FORScan OBD2 is designed to communicate with virtually all modules accessible through the supported protocols in compatible Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. A comprehensive list of supported modules can be found here.
FORScan OBD2 Platform Compatibility
FORScan OBD2 offers cross-platform compatibility to suit your device preferences:
- Windows: Compatible with Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10 (x86/x64 architectures only). Supports ELM327-compatible adapters (COM, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi), and J2534 PassThru adapters. ARM architecture is not supported for Windows.
- iOS: Compatible with iOS v9.0 and higher. Requires OBDLink MX+, ELM327 BLE, or WiFi adapters.
- Android: Compatible with Android v4.0 and higher. Supports ELM327 Bluetooth and WiFi adapters.
Discontinued Platform:
- Windows Phone 8: Development for Windows Phone 8 has been discontinued.
By choosing FORScan OBD2 and a recommended adapter, you gain access to a powerful diagnostic tool tailored for your Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, or Mercury vehicle, surpassing the capabilities of generic OBD2 scanners and empowering you to take control of your vehicle maintenance and diagnostics.
