OBD Connectivity
Thread Starter
Driver
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 83
Likes: 22
OBD Connectivity
My 2008 RX400h failed inspection in NYS because the DMV couldn't connect with my OBD to complete emissions testing. The NYS Vehicle Inspection Report said that the connections were OK, but unable to communicate. I bought the car used last year, but never got the NYS report so I was suspicious that maybe the connection didn't work last year, but I'm told I'd never gotten the inspection sticker if it didn't.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2023
Posts: 904
Likes: 434
From: ID
Advanced Auto is incorrect, a proper OBDII scanner (many well under $100) wil read codes engine running or just in ON position, most read real-time engine data when engine is running as well. I've never heard of a problem with a cars OBD connector not functioing guess there could be a first time though.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 11,231
Likes: 1,591
From: FL
Sorry, I can't help you...
I only talk to members that have an obd scanner.
Just kidding! Lol
SerIously, our cars are old and you NEED your own scanner you can keep in the car at all times.
The reason why is because if you get a check engine code while out on the road, you can know if it's somethjng serious or if it can wait.
AND, you don't need to rely on Advace Auto anymore. 😁 💯
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 438
Likes: 189
From: MA
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
2nd gear
Joined: May 2025
Posts: 2
Likes: 2
This scanner has served me well so far for my 2008 RX350 AWD, if you’re thinking of getting one: Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner Car Check Engine Light Code Reader, Auto Dual Mode Bluetooth Diagnostic Scan Tool for iOS & Android https://a.co/d/2J75F3q.
This is the free app I use it with: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/car-sc...2/id1259933623.
This is the free app I use it with: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/car-sc...2/id1259933623.
Instructor
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 811
Likes: 361
From: CA
My 2008 RX400h failed inspection in NYS because the DMV couldn't connect with my OBD to complete emissions testing. The NYS Vehicle Inspection Report said that the connections were OK, but unable to communicate. I bought the car used last year, but never got the NYS report so I was suspicious that maybe the connection didn't work last year, but I'm told I'd never gotten the inspection sticker if it didn't.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
"Unable to communicate" could have meant a few things. Upload the NYS inspection report if you can.
First steps, please check the 7.5A OBD fuse on your vehicle's left footwell kick panel to see if it has been blown. If the fuse is OK, then go to the next step
Check to see if the OBD connector's pins have lost their tension and/or got pushed back. I have attached few videos for you. HTH!
Lexus Champion
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 11,231
Likes: 1,591
From: FL
What if there is a bluetooth scanner already plugged into the obd port from the last owner and the inspection station said oh well, can't plug in. Lol
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Lexus Champion
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 11,231
Likes: 1,591
From: FL
@Joyous56 , now lay in your back and look under the dash, HERE. 😃
Why they made it so hard, I don't know. Lol
But, that's where the OBD port is.
Ps, after you can see it and know where it is you can then feel for it with your fingers next time you want to plug in, without going under there.
Hint: the plug is polarized(only goes in one way), meaning if the scanner plug won't plug in, flip the plug over and try again.
Why they made it so hard, I don't know. Lol
But, that's where the OBD port is.
Ps, after you can see it and know where it is you can then feel for it with your fingers next time you want to plug in, without going under there.
Hint: the plug is polarized(only goes in one way), meaning if the scanner plug won't plug in, flip the plug over and try again.
Last edited by Margate330; May 6, 2025 at 10:09 AM.
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 2,993
Likes: 608
From: The Jet City
Advanced Auto is incorrect, a proper OBDII scanner (many well under $100) wil read codes engine running or just in ON position, most read real-time engine data when engine is running as well. I've never heard of a problem with a cars OBD connector not functioing guess there could be a first time though.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2023
Posts: 904
Likes: 434
From: ID
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2019
Posts: 2,993
Likes: 608
From: The Jet City
My 2008 RX400h failed inspection in NYS because the DMV couldn't connect with my OBD to complete emissions testing. The NYS Vehicle Inspection Report said that the connections were OK, but unable to communicate. I bought the car used last year, but never got the NYS report so I was suspicious that maybe the connection didn't work last year, but I'm told I'd never gotten the inspection sticker if it didn't.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? >>>(If the fuse is removed or blown from the #5 slot under the dash it wouldn't get power to read a OBD reader)I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
Any clues about why or how the OBD might stop communicating? >>>(If the fuse is removed or blown from the #5 slot under the dash it wouldn't get power to read a OBD reader)I took the car to Advance Auto, and they told me that unless the check engine light was on, they couldn't check the OBD. Don't know if that's generally true, or just a limitation of Advance Auto. Thanks for any insights from anyone.
Lexus Champion
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 11,231
Likes: 1,591
From: FL
Since no check engine light they just hand waved the OP away and didn't even try.
Thread Starter
Driver
Joined: Apr 2024
Posts: 83
Likes: 22
Thank you for the visuals; I'll drag my old body under the dashboard and report back later. And thank you for confirming what I thought. The Advantage guy had another agenda regarding the OBD reader or whatever it's called.