Vgate VLinker FD+ Software

Guide: Software for Vgate vLinker FD+

Vgate vLinker FD+ is an advanced OBD2 adapter designed to work with diagnostic applications, primarily FORScan for Ford and Mazda, but also with several general OBD2 apps. Below you will find a practical guide to suitable software and how to get started on Android, iOS, and Windows.

Overview – what does Vgate vLinker FD+ do?

Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) on OBD2-compliant cars.
Provides live data from the car's sensors (e.g., temperature, boost pressure, fuel trim).
Supports HS-CAN and MS-CAN (important for Ford/Mazda).
Works with several popular apps for both simple OBD2 reading and advanced diagnostics.

Recommended apps & software

1. FORScan – for Ford & Mazda

FORScan is the most common choice if you own a Ford or Mazda. It provides significantly more data and functions than a standard generic OBD2 app.

Windows (PC/laptop): Full version with support for advanced diagnostics, service functions, and coding.
Android: Mobile app that provides fault code scanning, live data, and some service functions.
iOS: App with similar functions to the Android version (requires Bluetooth/BLE support).

For many of the more advanced functions in the PC version, an Extended License is required, which you obtain directly through FORScan.

2. General OBD2 apps (all brands)

For simpler engine diagnostics, live data, and dashboards, you can use vLinker FD+ with general OBD2 apps. Examples:

Car Scanner ELM OBD2 (Android/iOS) – clear dashboards and good fault code management.
Torque / Torque Pro (Android) – popular app for live data, logging, and custom gauges.
OBD Fusion (Android/iOS) – good overview of fault codes, sensor data, and logs.
OBD Auto Doctor – focuses on fault code reading and standard OBD2 data.

These apps are primarily used for engine-related diagnostics (OBD2) and are not as brand-specific as FORScan.

Get started – step by step

Connection via Android

Start the car so that the ignition is on (engine can be off or running according to app recommendation).
Insert the OBD2 adapter into the car's OBD2 port (usually under the dashboard, near the driver's seat).
Activate Bluetooth on your Android phone.
Open the app you want to use (e.g., FORScan, Car Scanner, Torque).
Go to the app's connection settings and select:
- Adapter type: Bluetooth/ELM327/vLinker (naming varies between apps).
- Device: select your vLinker FD+ from the list of available Bluetooth devices.
Once connected, you can scan for fault codes, read live data, and use the app's other functions.

Connection via iOS (iPhone/iPad)

Start the car and turn the ignition to the ON position.
Plug the vLinker FD+ into the car's OBD2 port.
Activate Bluetooth on your iPhone/iPad.
Open your OBD2 app (e.g., FORScan, Car Scanner, OBD Fusion).
Go to the connection settings in the app and select the correct adapter:
- Select Bluetooth/BLE as the connection type if needed.
- Then select your vLinker FD+ from the list of devices (name may vary slightly).
Confirm the connection and wait until the app indicates it has established contact with the car (ECU/ECM).

Connection via Windows computer (FORScan PC)

Download and install FORScan on your computer.
Start the car and plug the vLinker FD+ into the OBD2 port.
Ensure that the computer has Bluetooth active (or that you are using the correct connection method as per the vLinker manual).
Pair the adapter with the computer via Windows Bluetooth settings if required.
Start FORScan and go to Connection Settings:
- Select the correct port/connection (the Bluetooth device for vLinker).
- Save the settings and click Connect.
Once FORScan has found all modules, you can read fault codes, run tests, and use service functions.

Tips for stable connection

Ensure the car's battery is in good condition – a weak battery can cause communication interruptions.
Close other apps that are also trying to use Bluetooth, so they don't interfere with the connection.
Use a phone or computer with a strong enough Bluetooth signal and keep it close to the car.
If the app doesn't find the car immediately – disconnect, wait a few seconds, and try again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does vLinker FD+ only work with Ford and Mazda?

No. vLinker FD+ is optimized for FORScan and Ford/Mazda, but can also be used as a standard ELM327-compatible adapter with general OBD2 apps for many other brands.

Do I have to use FORScan?

No, but if you have a Ford or Mazda and want to do more than just read/clear fault codes (e.g., coding and advanced service functions), FORScan is the best choice. For simple OBD2 diagnostics, you can use any compatible OBD2 app you like.

Do I need a special license?

For mobile apps, the free or paid version of the app itself is usually sufficient. On FORScan PC, an Extended License is required for certain advanced functions, which you apply for directly from FORScan.

The app can't find the adapter – what should I do?

Check that:

The car is turned on (ignition in the ON position).
The vLinker FD+ is properly seated in the OBD2 port (indicator lights should be on).
Bluetooth is enabled on your phone/computer.
The correct adapter type and device are selected in the app's settings.

If that doesn't help – unplug the adapter, wait 10–15 seconds, and try again.

Can I damage the car with the wrong app or setting?

Simply reading data and fault codes is usually safe. However, coding, programming, and certain service functions can pose a risk if you don't know what you're doing. Always follow the instructions in the app's documentation and make changes at your own risk.

Summary

Vgate vLinker FD+ is a flexible and powerful adapter that, together with the right software, can provide everything from simple fault code reading to advanced diagnostics. Choose FORScan if you have a Ford/Mazda and want the most functionality, or a generic OBD2 app if you only need basic information about the engine. Follow the steps above, and you'll be up and running in minutes.