The Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner is a popular tool for both professional mechanics and car owners looking to diagnose vehicle issues themselves. This handheld device provides a straightforward way to read and understand your car’s Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), helping you pinpoint problems and potentially save money on repairs. This guide will walk you through how to effectively use the Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner to troubleshoot your vehicle.
Getting Started with Your KW808
Before you begin diagnosing your car, it’s important to understand the basics of your Konnwei KW808.
Unboxing and Initial Setup
When you receive your Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner, the package should include:
- The KW808 Main Unit
- An OBD II Cable
- A Carrying Bag
- A CD (likely containing software or manuals – though often not needed for basic operation)
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the scanner and its components. The device is designed to be user-friendly, with clearly labeled buttons and an easy-to-read LCD screen.
Understanding the Components
The KW808 scanner is relatively simple in its design. Key components include:
- LCD Display: This backlit screen displays codes, definitions, and live data.
- OBD II Cable: This cable connects the scanner to your vehicle’s OBD II port.
- Control Buttons: These buttons allow you to navigate the menu, select options, and read data. Typically, you’ll find buttons like “Scroll Up/Down,” “Enter,” “Exit,” and potentially “Help.”
Alt: The Konnwei KW808 OBD2 Scanner device, highlighting its handheld design and user-friendly interface.
Connecting to Your Vehicle
To use the KW808, you’ll need to connect it to your vehicle’s OBD II port. This port is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Locate the OBD II Port: Look under your steering wheel and dashboard area. It’s typically a 16-pin trapezoidal connector.
- Turn Off Ignition: Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is turned OFF before connecting the scanner.
- Connect the Scanner: Plug the OBD II cable into your car’s OBD II port and then connect the other end to the KW808 scanner.
- Turn Ignition ON: Turn your vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine. This provides power to the car’s computer and the scanner.
Alt: Close-up view of connecting the Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner cable to a vehicle’s OBD2 port located under the dashboard.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the KW808
Once connected, the KW808 scanner will power on and be ready to use. Here’s how to perform common diagnostic tasks:
Reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Reading DTCs is the primary function of the KW808. These codes indicate problems detected by your car’s onboard computer, often triggering the “Check Engine Light.”
- Select “Read Codes” or similar option from the Main Menu. Use the scroll buttons to navigate the menu and press “Enter” to select.
- The scanner will communicate with your vehicle’s computer and retrieve any stored DTCs.
- View the Codes: The KW808 will display the DTCs on the screen. These codes are typically in a format like “P0123” (Generic codes) or “P1XXX” (Manufacturer-specific codes).
- Understand the Code: The KW808 has a built-in DTC lookup library. It will often display a brief definition of the code directly on the screen. For more detailed information, you can consult online resources or repair manuals.
Alt: The LCD screen of the Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner displaying a list of diagnostic trouble codes detected in a vehicle.
Clearing DTCs and Resetting Check Engine Light
After diagnosing and potentially fixing the issue causing the DTC, you can use the KW808 to clear the codes and turn off the “Check Engine Light.”
Caution: Only clear codes after you have properly diagnosed and addressed the underlying problem. Clearing codes without fixing the issue will only temporarily turn off the light, and it will likely reappear.
- Select “Erase Codes” or “Clear Codes” from the Main Menu.
- Confirm Clearing: The scanner may ask for confirmation before clearing codes. Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Codes Cleared: Once confirmed, the KW808 will send a command to your vehicle’s computer to clear the DTCs.
- Check Engine Light Status: If the underlying issue is resolved, the “Check Engine Light” should turn off.
Viewing Live Data Stream
The KW808 can display a live data stream from your vehicle’s sensors and systems. This is useful for monitoring engine performance in real-time.
- Select “Live Data” or “Data Stream” from the Main Menu.
- Select Data Parameters (Optional): Some scanners allow you to select specific parameters to monitor (e.g., engine RPM, coolant temperature, O2 sensor readings). The KW808 may automatically display a set of common parameters.
- View Live Data: The scanner will display real-time readings from your vehicle’s sensors. This data updates continuously as the engine runs.
Accessing Freeze Frame Data
Freeze frame data captures a snapshot of sensor values when a DTC is triggered. This can provide valuable context for diagnosing intermittent issues.
- Select “Freeze Frame” from the Main Menu.
- View Freeze Frame Data: If freeze frame data is available for a stored DTC, the KW808 will display the recorded sensor values at the moment the fault occurred.
Performing O2 Sensor Tests
The KW808 supports O2 sensor tests, allowing you to check the performance of your vehicle’s oxygen sensors, which are crucial for emissions control and fuel efficiency.
- Select “O2 Sensor Test” or “Oxygen Sensor Test” from the Main Menu.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The scanner will guide you through the O2 sensor test procedure.
- View Test Results: The KW808 will display the results of the O2 sensor test, indicating if the sensors are functioning correctly.
Using the Built-in DTC Lookup
The KW808 has a built-in library to help you understand DTCs.
- When a DTC is displayed, the KW808 often provides a brief definition.
- For more detail, you may need to consult external resources. However, the built-in definition is a helpful starting point.
Navigating the Menu and Options
The KW808 menu is designed to be intuitive. Use the scroll buttons to navigate through the options and the “Enter” button to select. The “Exit” button will typically take you back to the previous menu.
Advanced Features and Benefits
Beyond basic code reading, the Konnwei KW808 offers several benefits:
Wide Vehicle Compatibility
The KW808 is compatible with most 1996 and newer OBDII compliant vehicles, including US, European, and Asian models. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile tool for various car makes and models.
Multilingual Support
The KW808 often includes bilingual interface options, such as English and Spanish, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
Software Updates
Some versions of the KW808 are software upgradeable via the internet, which can add new features and improve compatibility over time. Check the manufacturer’s website for update instructions.
Conclusion
The Konnwei KW808 OBD2 scanner is a valuable tool for anyone wanting to understand and address their vehicle’s issues. By following these steps, you can effectively use the KW808 to read and clear DTCs, view live data, and perform basic diagnostics, empowering you to take a more proactive role in your car’s maintenance and repair. This can save you time and money by allowing you to identify problems early and potentially fix them yourself or communicate more effectively with your mechanic.
