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Since it does so much, we should have a subforum for using ForScan. 

 

What kind of hardware are you using?  Apple, Mac, PC, laptop, Android tablet, Microsoft phone, Motorola, Samsung, et cetera?  Bluetooth, WiFi, physical cable from OBDII to your computer?  Which brand or source for your OBDII connection equipment.  What did you do with the application?  Step by step to help the next guy.  Maybe screenshots.  

 

Looking forward to Transit Connect specific task performed with ForScan.  Or maybe some other app or program which you are using, and care to share the knowledge with the next guy.

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Fifty,

Other forums (Fusion, Escape etc) have tried this without much success. The F150 forum was the most successful. But the F150 has a different program structure from the TC, Focus and other euro models.  Forscan is not as universally configurable on these platforms that use a Central Configuration architecture.

 

The challenge is learning what Forscan can do with the configurationsc that have been configured in CC. My TC has almost all the factory options so I don't know if Forscan can add them to a plain vehicle. Then there are the changes from model year to model year. So essentially, you simply need to try something on your vehicle to learn if it will work.

 

I read the Forscan forum and many questions go unanswered because nobody with the exact model, year and options has tried or experienced the issue.

 

But, Forscan is a great diagnostic tool and has many service features like resetting computer modules that can be very useful.

 

.

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I'm not sure what I will actually do with it.  I've got other "toys" that can read diagnostic trouble codes and reset the check engine light.  By the way, for anyone who cares, nobody is in the business of writing a custom tune for the Transit Connect.  Don't hold your breath waiting for me to get the Transit Connect dyno-tuned at the local hot rod shop.  For the record, they're not done laughing at me yet.   It looks neat.  It looks like it is capable of doing a lot more than I would know how to do.  Nonetheless, I'm still hopeful that if someone actually does do something productive with the application, that they will post and share.  At this point, I don't think that I will drive around with a laptop glued to my dashboard, plugged into the OBD II port, just so that I can the engine RPM, transmission gear, transmission temperature, et cetera.

image.thumb.png.c1fd26ac647d644dd48a71c6719f73b1.pngIMG_20190201_172100456.thumb.jpg.604dbbad90cb5d81905c7c69f6946220.jpg

 

For anyone who wants men to laugh at them, and have produce thrown at them , bring your Transit Connect to San Francisco, and ask for a dyno tune.  Just let me know when, so that I can meet you there.  I've got some some fast food packaging in my truck bed that I want to throw at you.

Ditos Motors Inc.
(650) 991-0400
ditosmotors@gmail.com
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DYNO TUNING

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Contact ditosmotors@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.

We serve South San Francisco, CA, San Francisco, CA, San Mateo County, CA, and surrounding areas.

 

 

 

Edited by Fifty150
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I can tell you personally that Forscan can turn on (activate) cruise control in a TC2 that was not equipped with it from the factory. I swapped my steering wheel, used Forscan to enable "Cruise Control" AND "Adaptive Speed Control" - I found out the ASC the hard way when CC wouldn't work when I hit the buttons, lol. I've also tried enabling global open/close on the windows, but it didn't work for me... I'd love to correct my tire size, but the 5 or 6 options in the computer are all too small for the size tires that I'm running (215/65R16 General Grabber AT2). 

 

Lenovo ThinkPad with Windows 10, and I used this OBDII wired USB converter from Amazon - I'm a computer tech and I prefer wired instead of wireless, whenever possible, except for keyboard/mouse lol.

 

I've used my laptop & converter for my 2015 TC2 and my e-1999 & 2000 F350's with 7.3L ZF6. 

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For whatever it's worth, this is what I am using with my "netbook".  A small, underpowered computing device, like a mini-laptop.  As the name implies, it was only meant for surfing the web, while you were sitting in a cafe.  This is what we had before tablet computers with touchscreens.  12 years old.  A lot less expensive & less sophisticated than whatever it is that they recommend that you buy for $75.  But it works.  

 

 

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In case it is relevant, these are the specs for the computer.

 

 

Thus-far,  without knowing what to expect, I haven't been able to do much.  But then again, I don't have any problems to fix.  So FORScan isn't going to tell me much of anything, except that nothing is wrong.

 

 

 

So these screenshots are of little to no value to me.  But for someone thinking about FORScan, this will give you an idea of what you might see.

 

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On 2/4/2019 at 7:57 AM, jrm223 said:

 

Lenovo ThinkPad with Windows 10, and I used this OBDII wired USB converter from Amazon - I'm a computer tech and I prefer wired instead of wireless, whenever possible, except for keyboard/mouse lol.

 

Good information.  You are a computer tech, and you were able to make this work for you, without the very expensive OBD II hardware that some people believe is necessary.  

 

I also see an inexpensive kit which includes FORScan.  

 

I suppose a $100 investment into a cable is not always "must have".

 

 
  • ELM327, Forscan ELM 327- HS-CAN and MS-CAN Modified ELM327 OBD Self Diagnostic Tool Compatible with Forscan Focccus ELMconfig FF2 Software for Focus Mondeo Kuga Edge Exploror F50 Taurus Everest Escort
Roll over image to zoom in
 
 

ELM327, Forscan ELM 327- HS-CAN and MS-CAN Modified ELM327 OBD Self Diagnostic Tool Compatible with Forscan Focccus ELMconfig FF2 Software for Focus Mondeo Kuga Edge Exploror F50 Taurus Everest Escort

by OTKEFDI
 
 
 
 
 
 

Price: $29.99  | FREE One-Day
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I have Forscan and Focccus already, both are free. I'll have to look into those FF2 and ELMconfig programs to see what other features they might offer. I still need to find a way to change tire size to correct for my 215/65's and I don't think any programmers are made for our vans like more popular vehicles. The two programs I have only have a few options for tire size, which are various factory options.

 

My cheap ELM327 device has the MS-CAN/HS-CAN switch like that last one, I was surprised to not see a switch on yours (Fifty150). Maybe the unit you have has firmware programming that automatically switches between the two CAN-bus types, if not you'll be limited on what parts of the computer you can access. 

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4 hours ago, jrm223 said:

My cheap ELM327 device has the MS-CAN/HS-CAN switch like that last one, I was surprised to not see a switch on yours (Fifty150). Maybe the unit you have has firmware programming that automatically switches between the two CAN-bus types, if not you'll be limited on what parts of the computer you can access. 

 

 

Mine is from 2007.  It's 12 years old.

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On 2/10/2019 at 3:58 PM, jrm223 said:

 

 

My cheap ELM327 device has the MS-CAN/HS-CAN switch

 

 

Okay.  So I really didn't know what that means.  I had to look it up.  

 Here is what I found @:  https://www.ecoboostperformanceforum.com/index.php?topic=651.0

 

HS-CAN modules:
-PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
-ABS (Anti-lock Brake System, includes AdvanceTrac and Traction Control)
-RCM (Restraint Control Module, AKA airbags and seatbelts)
-AWD (All Wheel Drive module, if equipped)
-OCSM (Occupent Classification System Module, AKA Passenger Seat Sensors)
-PAM (Parking Aid Module)
-IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)
-BdyCM (Body Control Module 2013+)
-ACM (Audio Control Module, 2013+)
-FCIM (Front Controls Interface Module, 2013+)
-PSCM (Power Steering Control Module, Hydraulic PS only)
-SECM (Steering Effort Control Module, Electric PS only)
-CCM (Cruise Control Module)
-SCCM (Steering Column Control Module, 2013+)
-APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module AKA SYNC)

MS-CAN modules:
-SJB (Smart Junction Box)
-HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning module)
-ACM (Audio Control Module, pre 2013)
-DSP (Audio Digital Signal Processing Module)
-DSM (Driver Seat Module)
-DDM (Driver Door Module)
-RFA (Remote Function Actuator Module)
-DCSM (Dual Climate Controlled Seat Module)
-SDARS (Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service)
-FCIM (Front Controls Interface Module, pre 2013)
-FDIM (Front Display Interface Module)
-ILCM (Interior Lighting Control Module)
-HCM-2 (High Beam Control Module)
-SOD-R/L (Side Obstacle Detection Control Module AKA BLIS, a module for each side of the vehicle)
-IPC-MS (Instrument Panel Cluster, MS-CAN)
-GPSM (Global Positioning System Module)
-APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module AKA SYNC)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I'm using an ancient cheap o netbook and VXDIAG VCX NANO for V112 Ford/V112 Mazda that I ordered directly from the manufacture's website vxdiagshop.com  At about $87 it works flawlessly with Forscan and does both HS-CAN and MS-CAN automatically. Just select j2534 for the connection type. I should note that I do not use the VXDIAG VCX with Ford IDS or any other program besides Forscan. Most people buy the vxdiag for IDS but from what I understand Ford periodically tries to block j2534 adapters except for the official one that costs a lot of money. I originally purchased an earlier version on vxdiag when I was in California and my main concern was making sure their were no surprises when it came time for the dreaded SMOG inspection. 

 

If you don't mind spring for the extra $ I recommend the vxdiag. J2534 connection is the superior connection tech for Forscan. It's faster, comprehensive functioning and as far as my experience just works. I should note that I haven't tried anything dicey or fancy with it like hacking the ....

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  • 4 weeks later...
  • 2 months later...

Has anybody found time to drive around with ForScan running?  Just curious if you guys have found any useful information, tips, or tricks.

 

I set up a few monitors today.  Wanted to see what a ScanGauge II would show me.  Kind of neat.  But driving and looking at a laptop is not the best option.  Better to have a partner.

 

 

IMG_20190524_155908389.thumb.jpg.69e3f935c4bffbaed92de9b6052051ac.jpg

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I haven't done any live data with it, but I do have a ScanGauge II hooked up in my van. My four current parameters are MPH (because my built-in digital display does NOT show MPH like some other members say theirs does), I think RPM maybe, voltage & coolant temperature. I have my SG2 in the little cubby hole above the radio since mine is an XL. 

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  • 4 weeks later...
On 2/6/2019 at 9:53 AM, clb3092 said:

At the very least Forscan makes a great obdII reader. If you use a laptop your only cost is really the cable which can run anywhere from $30 for a ELM327 type cable to about $100 and up for a vcm2 clone. Not bad!

 

 

The cable will pay off and pay for itself.  

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On 3/18/2019 at 3:59 PM, phollenback said:

Hi folks, I've been playing with Forscan on my 2018 TC (specifically to disable approach lights).  I wrote up a complete tutorial on my website.

 

I'm just learning Forscan so I'm sure I have some small details wrong, but hopefully that will help others.

 

Your tutorial is awesome and much appreciated. It's a great starting point to figuring out how to navigate Forscan.

 

This past week I had two sessions using Forscan trying to familiarize myself with its use. It's a pretty nifty program.

I've explored some of the options but need more time using it before I'm comfortable with its nuances.

The first session was with the basic level of Forscan. I quickly learned that you really need the Extended License or EL2 version.

You have to join the Forscan Forum to get that download but it's an easy process and worthwhile doing is you want to explore all things Forscan.

 

During my second session, after about 1/2 hour of use, I was attempting to save an 'as built' configuration as a first step to further checking out a few modules (IPC and BCM) and Forscan told me the battery voltage was 8.X volts and if I want to continue. What? Really? I closed out the program and tried to start the van and the battery was indeed too low to start the van. I got a bit nervous thinking the ELM adapter messed up the electronics somehow. I'm not very sophisticated these days when it comes to understanding what's going on under the hood so to speak.

 

I connected a 10amp battery charger and it took about three hours to charge up the battery. The van started with no problems. Granted I don't use the van very much and hadn't turned it on in 10 days, but that infrequent use has never been a problem in the past. The battery is 4.5 years old now. I had the ignition switch in the second position to run Forscan and the daytime running lights are on the whole time, so that was draining the battery.

 

Have other Forscan users run into battery issues? If I plan to use Forscan for an extended period of time should I first either run the engine a while or take it for a spin or connect the charger? Not sure if this was a one-time event or perhaps an indication that my battery is getting weaker. Curious how to proceed going forward. Thanks!

 

BTW - I'm using the OHP ELM327 adapter as some other posters had gotten. Loading the drivers was a bit sketchy per OHP's website instructions but it works so far.

 

https://www.amazon.com/OHP-ELMconfig-Adapter-Compatible-Diagnostics/dp/B01F0GVBWY

 

 

 

 

 

Edited by windguy
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Your experience is normal.

1. Your battery is near the end of its lifetime. My 2016 shows 30% life left in the battery monitoring system (a feature on the 1.6l Ecoboost).

2. The DRLs and "run" position when using Forscan puts a big load on the battery.

3. Now I ALWAYS use a battery charger when making changes using Forscan. When the vehicle was new I got away without using one.

4. Reading data and DTCs don't require any battery backup/protection.

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Approach lights "disabled" and the lights still come on.

 

The whole story;  

1) Took it to a Ford dealer a year ago. They claimed they updated the BCM and turned the approach lights off, but the lights were still on. The service manager tried to charge me for it with some double talk but when I told him I knew they'd get paid for the update by Ford then he backed off (free).

 

2) Second dealer last December was happy to check it out for me since I bought the van through one of their area stores. They confirmed the first dealer did in fact update the BCM but were unable to turn off the approach lights.

 

3) Today......I purchased a used laptop (windows) from a fellow TC owner on this forum and the Forscan adaptor from Amazon. After a bit of time lost linking the extended license to the Forscan I hooked it up to my van. The found the approach lights were "disabled". I cycled through "enabled" and "disabled" 3 times leaving them "disabled" and the approach lights are still ON. This frustrates me to no end. The only permanent solution I know of at this point is the get rid of the van.  

 

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I'd bet the dealer service people didn't actually update the BCM like they say they did.

Mine was built weeks before the BCM change and I've yet to take it to the dealer to get the BCM updated.

I'm just living with the stupid approach lights since I don't use my van for camping.

BTW, do you know about the turn signal stalk trick to turn the lights off once they are on with the door open?

I think you push the stalk forward until it beeps, then push it again to turn the lights off.

Only trouble with this fix is that you have to do it every time a door is opened.

 

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