If you’re troubleshooting like having a P0300 fault code “Random or multiple cylinder misfire detected”, you’ll typically need to find a misfiring cylinder. This test is called “Control selected cylinder fuel cut” thatAutel MaxiAP AP200can do it.
It’ll drop each cylinder in the test. The misfiring cylinder would have the least effect on the vibration of the engine. When you drop a cylinder that’s working well, the tone of the engine should change, and it should vibrate a bit more.
Reasons for isolated cylinder misfire
There are a number of reasons for isolated cylinder misfires:
Dirty, clogged, leaky or broken fuel injector.
Weak/defective ignition coil.
Worn spark plug, especially for people who don’t replace back plugs as a set.
Mechanical issues: burn exhaust valve, blown head gasket.
How to find a misfiring cylinder via Autel AP200?
This is test on 2017 Honda Accord EX as an example.
Service >> Injector >> Honda >> Manual selection >> USA >> Hot function >> One injector stop
This function manually stops one injector.
Press “Yes” to continue.
Follow the tips to operate:
Start the engine.
Note: PHEV, FHEV and RLX hybrid vehicles must be put into maintenance mode for the engine to run. Refer to the service manual for detailed instructions.
I don’t have any of those models, so I’ll just start the engine.
It needs to get up to operating temperature for this test to happen.
ECT sensor 1: 86.0℃(186.8°F)
Keep the engine speed between 2000 RPM and 3000 RPM.
Engine speed: 727RPM
Engine coolant temperature: 82.0℃(179.6°F)
Do not press the throttle pedal.
Here are 4 injectors.
I’m going to dropping the cylinders one by one.
The car is going to vibrate a bit more, listen to the tone of the engine.
Press “No.1 injector”, the car is vibrating a bit more.
I can see it in the RPM, it just dropped.
Press “OK” to stop. The car is back to normal.
Test the 4 cylinders, there’s no noticeable effect, that would be the problem cylinder.
Same effect all across.
That means there’s not problem cylinder on the car.
Just bought one portable scan tool device, Autel MaxiAP AP200. It is made to work with mobile phone. I’m excited about this device because for do-it-yourselfers who are on a budget, but want a professional level scan tool, AP200 is one good solution to look at.
The packing covers a quick reference guide, basically tells you how to set it up. It looks easy. To set it up, please refer to
This is an all system scanner, which will give you access to all modules, ABS, SRS, transmission, immobilizer...etc. It can work on Android & IOS system.
Compare to Autel MK808 scan tool, AP200 supports to do all the things that the MK808 is able to do. The only difference is that you’re doing it from your phone. In addition, AP200 is a very affordable device. I got this for, roughly, less than $60 from Auteldiag.com.
There are 4 main function on home page: diagnostics, service, history and repair reports.
Diagnostics
Let’s connect with a Honda to do a all system diagnosis, that took about 3-4 minutes in real time. And it has gone through all the modules. There is a fault code B1175, it gives you a description of the DTC, and also tells you possible failures.
You can check ECU info, read codes, erase codes, or check live data here.
Service
Go back to check special service, it supports to do oil reset, EPB, TPMS, BMS, brake bleed, DPF, IMMO keys, injector, SAS, suspension and throttle.
For TPMS service, you’re able to read TPMS codes, but you’re not able to relearn TPMS sensors. Because you’ll need a TPMS device like Autel TS508 to activate the TPMS sensors in tires.
History
Here you can check all the cars that you’ve scanned.
Repair Reports
If you’ve done repairs, you can get the reports here.
In summary, Autel AP200 is a very good all-system scanner dongle.
As you saw, AP200 took about 4 minutes for a full system diagnosis. Full system scans generally take time, even on my larger scan tool like Autel MP808TS, it does take a couple of minutes. So 4 minutes is not really a major issue for AP200.
Generally, I think AP200 is worth at its price point. Especially for DIYers. I don’t see any tools that would match this. There are a number of options out there, but some of them actually need to pay every single year to keep access to certain functions.
Need:
OBD2 scanner that will Bluetooth to an Iphone / IPad. And the device is suitable for taking on the road.
I want one for the peace of mind it provides while on the road... also it allows me to validate what is actually wrong versus what a mechanic, that wants to take advantage of me, might say.
OBD2 scanner advice: Autel AP200
Bluetooth access. My guess is that the Autel AP200 is your best shot. It may not list your model year, but it still should access your Sprinter.
Still Autel AP200: on T1N Sprinter
The Autel AP200 can provide "generic" readings right out of the box ... no need to install the "model specific" software.
As such, it can issue the generic "clear all codes" command ... which will affect the ECM. I do not know if that will also fan out to the subsystems in an NCV3/VS30 ... in the T1N the subsystems were not "on" the CANbus, they used multiple separate wires (8 more pins in the OBD socket) and required MB-specific scanners to reach those.
By the same token, generic gadgets like the ScanGauge will be able to report its usual group of displays, plus it has their "X-gauge" feature where you can program in additional OBD commands and conversions to see other stuff beyond their 16 usual displays. It also provides a "clear all codes" function.
Here, for example, is what the AP200 saw in my T1N Sprinter under its "generic" programming (a day before i loaded the Benz_Sprinter package):
--dick (that's the "save as PDF" rendition) p.s. i don't know if it offered MPG or GPH on other screens ... this was a rushed first "jelly on the wall" session. It had a LOT more to say about my Kia.
If you give up on Bluetooth connections then the Autel MD802 All Systems or MD808 Pro should access the 3.0L diesel. Those scan tools work for other NCV3 owners.
As a T1N owner I really have no reason to do further research as to the NCV3 capabilities. For the price point, the MD808 Pro provides what I anticipate needing. Image 6: AUTEL MaxiDiag MD808 Pro
So far this is the one at the top of our list.
iCarsoft MBII for Mercedes Benz/Sprinter/Smart Professional Diagnostic Tool Scanner.
Maybe buy a emergency tow package
Also to the OP, it would seem blue tooth dongles usually do not go very deep into modules and erase codes etc. Not being able to reset the SRS module is not a good way to determine if a scanner is for you as SRS reset is a complicated and rare procedure and usually people replace a SRS module that trips (there are hackers who know how to reset SRS modules). My main concern would be to have a scanner that could force a regen and read/clear codes that cause LHM. You are correct that on a long trip such as the one you are anticipating being stuck would suck, however with a brand new rig it is unlikely and presumably MB warranty should get you serviced ASAP (maybe buy a emergency tow package)
Last thought you say your Sprinter is 2019 but built up RVs often have an older chassis (2016/17/18 or even older) but are registered from the RV production date. This may help you as the slightly older models have more scanner support.
Autel MaxiAP AP200 is an OBD2 diagnostic and service reset tool. It is a small adapter but covers a wide range of car models. It features in running with one IOS phone or Android phone via Bluetooth; Autel MaxiAP AP200 is more suitable for home user because it comes with one free car diagnostic software and allow user to add more whenever you need. If you want to have Autel MK808 or Autel MX808, but consider the price is beyond your budget, Autel MaxiAP AP200 is good choice.
8 steps to use Autel MaxiAP AP200
MaxiAP200 APP download & setup
Search for MaxiAP200 in Google Play or App Store to download and install the app to your device.
Or scan the QR code to download the MaxiAP200 app.
Register & log in MaxiAP200
Open the MaxiAP200 app and select Register near the top right of the screen.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the registration.
Log in with your registered email address and password.
NOTE: If you have a previously created Autel ID, please use it to log in.
Autel MaxiAP AP200 Language: Polish , Korea , German , Italian , Russian , Dutch , Portuguese , Japanese , Spanish , Swedish , English , French
Bind VCI of MaxiAP200
Select Me > VCI Management. Scan the QR code on the MaxiAP AP200 Bluetooth
dongle to enter the serial number. Check if the email information is correct. Select
Bind to bind VCI.
Purchase & install software for Maxi AP200
Select Mall or the plus sign below the Diagnose list to purchase and install vehicle-specific software. (For iOS devices, the purchased vehicle-specific software will display in the Diagnose list, tap it to another application for diagnosing.) Full OBDII functions included at no charge. One vehicle software is free and permanently valid, you can get it through Mall after successfully binding VCI for the first time.
Hook the connector of the MaxiAP200 tool up the vehicle's Data Link Connector
(DLC).
The vehicle's DLC is generally located under the vehicle dash.
Turn the vehicle ignition to Key On, Engine Off position.
The LED on the tool will light solid green when connected.
Autel MaxiAP AP200 VCI Connection
For Android devices, select Me > VCI Connection or the VCI button near the top right
of the Home screen.
For iOS devices, tap Setting > Bluetooth of your iOS device to open the Bluetooth function.
Select the Bluetooth name of the MaxiAP AP200 tool to pair it with the device. The Bluetooth name starts with AP, followed by the serial number of the tool.
Ensure your Android device's Bluetooth is turned on.
When the device is successfully paired with the tool, the LED on the tool will light
solid blue.
Check if the communication status turns to VCI connected. Select Done near the
top left to return to the Home screen.
Your MaxiAP200 APP is now ready for use
① Dynamic Rotation Banner – display information about other popular Autel
products, tap the banner to visit the product page on Autel websites,
www.autel.com or www.maxitpms.com.
② Application Buttons.
③ Purchased vehicle-specific software (EOBD and Demo are included for free).
④ Plus Icon – Tap to purchase and install vehicle-specific software.
⑤ Navigation Buttons.
2: "Eobd" is free to use
A fast-access option for OBD II/EOBD vehicle diagnosis is available on the Home screen. This option presents a quick way to check for DTCs, isolate the cause of an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), check monitor status prior to emissions certification testing, verify repairs, and perform a number of other services that are emissions-related. The OBD direct access option is also used for testing OBD II/EOBD compliant vehicles that are not included in the Diagnostics database.
General Procedure for OBD II/EOBD diagnostics functions:
To access the OBD II/EOBD diagnostics functions
Select the EOBD button. There are two options to establish communication with the vehicle.
Auto Scan – when this option is selected the diagnostic tool attempts to establish communication using each protocol in order to determine which one the vehicle is broadcasting on.
Protocol – when this option is selected the screen opens a submenu of various protocols. A communication protocol is a standardized way of data communication between an ECM and a diagnostic tool. Global OBD may use several different communication protocols.
Select a specific protocol under the Protocol option. Wait for the OBD II Diagnostic Menu to display.
Select a function option to continue.
DTC & FFD I/M Readiness Live Data On-Board Monitor Component Test Vehicle Information Vehicle Status
NOTE: Some functions are supported only on certain vehicle makes.
This section describes the various functions of each diagnostic option:
DTC & FFD
When this function is selected, the screen displays a list of Stored Codes and Pending
Codes. When the Freeze Frame data of certain DTCs are available for viewing, a snowflake button will display on the right side of the DTC item.
The erase codes function can be applied by tapping the Clear DTC button at the bottom
of the screen.
Stored Codes
Stored codes are the current emission related DTCs from the ECM of the vehicle. OBD II/EOBD Codes have a priority according to their emission severity, with higher priority codes overwriting lower priority codes. The priority of the code determines the illumination of the MIL and the codes erase procedure. Manufacturers rank codes differently, so expect to see differences between makes.
Pending Codes
These are codes whose setting conditions were met during the last drive cycle, but need to be met on two or more consecutive drive cycles before the DTC actually sets. The intended use of this service is to assist the service technician after a vehicle repair and after clearing diagnostic information, by reporting test results after a driving cycle.
a) If a test failed during the driving cycle, the DTC associated with that test is reported. If the pending fault does not occur again within 40 to 80 warm-up cycles, the fault is automatically cleared from memory.
b) Test results reported by this service do not necessarily indicate a faulty component or system. If test results indicate another failure after additional driving, then a DTC is set to indicate a faulty component or system, and the MIL is illuminated.
Freeze Frame
In most cases the stored frame is the last DTC that occurred. Certain DTCs, which
have a greater impact on vehicle emission, have a higher priority. In these cases,
the top prioritized DTC is the one for which the freeze frame records are retained.
Freeze frame data includes a “snapshot” of critical parameter values at the time the
DTC is set.
Clear DTC
This option is used to clear all emission related diagnostic data such as, DTCs, freeze frame data and manufacturer specific enhanced data from the vehicle's
ECM.
A confirmation screen displays when the clear codes option is selected to prevent accidental loss of data. Select Yes on the confirmation screen to continue or No to exit.
I/M Readiness
This function is used to check the readiness of the monitoring system. It is an excellent
function to use prior to having a vehicle inspected for compliance to a state emissions
program. Selecting I/M Readiness opens a submenu with two choices:
Since DTCs Cleared – displays the status of monitors since the last time the DTCs
are erased.
This Driving Cycle – displays the status of monitors since the beginning of the current
drive cycle.
Live Data
This function displays the real time PID data from ECU. Displayed data includes analog
inputs and outputs, digital inputs and outputs, and system status information broadcast
on the vehicle data stream.
Live data can be displayed in various modes.
On-Board Monitor
This option allows you to view the results of On-Board Monitor tests. The tests are
useful after servicing or after erasing a vehicle’s control module memory.
Component Test
This service enables bi-directional control of the ECM so that the diagnostic tool is able
to transmit control commands to operate the vehicle systems. This function is useful in
determining whether the ECM responds to a command well.
Vehicle Information
The option displays the vehicle identification number (VIN), the calibration identification,
and the calibration verification number (CVN), and other information of the test vehicle.
Vehicle Status
This item is used to check the current condition of the vehicle, including communication
protocols of OBD II modules, retrieved codes amount, status of the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL), and other additional information.
Exiting Diagnostics
The Diagnostics application remains open as long as there is an active communication
with the vehicle. You must exit the diagnostics operation to stop all communications with
the vehicle before closing the Diagnostics application.
NOTE
Damage to the vehicle electronic control module (ECM) may occur if communication is
disrupted. Make sure the wireless connection is properly connected at all times during
testing. Exit all tests before disconnecting the test connection or powering down the tool.
3: Autel MaxiAP AP200 service reset functions details
The Service section is specially designed to provide you with quick access to the vehicle
systems for various scheduled service and maintenance performances. The typical
service operation screen is a series of menu driven executive commands. By following
the on-screen instructions to select appropriate execution options, enter correct values
or data, and perform necessary actions, the system will guide you through the complete
performance for various service operations.
The most commonly performed service functions include:
Oil Reset Service EPB Service BMS Service SAS Service DPF Service TPMS Service IMMO Service
After entering each special function, the displayed screen consists of two applications:
Diagnosis and Hot Functions. The Diagnosis is for you to read/clear data since this is
necessary after some special functions. Hot Functions consists of sub functions of the
selected special function. Autel MaxiAP AP200 scanner overview:
