Changing your car battery might seem straightforward, but for modern vehicles, it can lead to a frustrating loss of crucial settings. From radio presets to anti-theft systems and even engine and transmission computer settings, disconnecting power can wipe out important memory. This is where OBD2 memory savers come into play, often powered by power banks. But how long can a power bank reliably keep your OBD2 memory alive during a battery swap, and is it even a safe approach? Let’s dive into the details and explore the realities of using power banks for OBD2 memory preservation.
The concept behind OBD2 memory savers is simple: they plug into your car’s OBD2 port – the same port used for diagnostics – and provide a temporary power source while you disconnect the main battery. The idea is that this continuous power supply prevents the vehicle’s computer systems from losing their volatile memory. Power banks, essentially portable batteries, are a convenient power source for these memory savers, offering a cordless solution. However, the effectiveness and safety of this method are not as straightforward as they might seem.
One of the biggest questions is the duration. How Long Can A Power Bank Keep Obd2 Memory alive? The answer is heavily dependent on several factors, making it difficult to give a precise timeframe. The capacity of the power bank itself is crucial. A larger capacity power bank, measured in amp-hours (Ah) or milliamp-hours (mAh), will theoretically last longer. However, the power draw of your car’s computer systems while in memory-saving mode also plays a significant role. Modern cars, packed with electronics, can still draw a noticeable amount of power even when “off.” This drain varies significantly between makes and models. Furthermore, the efficiency of the memory saver device and the condition of the power bank itself (age, charge level, temperature) will all affect the runtime.
In practical terms, a small power bank might only provide power for a very limited time – perhaps just a few minutes, or even less if the car has a significant parasitic draw. For a simple battery replacement, this might be sufficient if you work quickly. However, if you encounter any delays or complications during the battery swap, the power bank could deplete, and you could still end up losing your car’s memory. There’s no guarantee that a power bank will last long enough for a typical battery replacement, especially if you are not experienced.
Beyond the duration, there are also significant risks associated with using OBD2 power banks for memory saving. As the original article correctly points out, backfeeding power into your car’s computer system through the OBD2 port is not how the system is designed to be powered. OBD2 ports are intended for diagnostic communication, not for supplying main system power. Introducing power this way could potentially damage sensitive electronic components. While many OBD2 memory savers claim to be safe, the risk of electrical issues or computer malfunctions is not negligible.
Moreover, the quality and safety of these power bank-based memory savers can be questionable. Many are cheaply made, and relying on an unknown device to power your car’s expensive electronics is inherently risky. A faulty device could deliver unregulated power, causing damage. The original article’s hesitation to recommend these devices due to their potentially risky nature is well-founded.
Instead of relying on potentially unreliable and risky OBD2 power banks, consider safer and more proven alternatives. One method, as mentioned in the original text, involves using a low-power source directly connected to the car’s battery cables, bypassing the OBD2 port altogether. Using a set of AA batteries with appropriate wiring and alligator clips, while being mindful of safety precautions to prevent shorts, can provide a safer, low-current power source to maintain memory. This method directly powers the car’s system as intended, through the battery terminals.
Another important recommendation is to check your car’s specific requirements before changing the battery. Consult your owner’s manual or online resources specific to your car’s make and model to determine if it’s particularly sensitive to battery disconnection or requires any special procedures after battery replacement. Some vehicles may indeed require dealer-level tools for reprogramming after a battery change, making memory saving less critical than proper recalibration.
In conclusion, while power banks offer a convenient power source for OBD2 memory savers, their reliability in maintaining memory for a sufficient duration is questionable. More importantly, the safety of backfeeding power through the OBD2 port is a valid concern. For most car owners, exploring safer alternatives like direct battery terminal power sources or simply accepting the need to reset some settings after a battery change might be a more prudent approach. Always prioritize safety and vehicle-specific recommendations over potentially risky shortcuts when dealing with your car’s electrical system.
