ELM327 OBD2 USB v1.5 – PIC18F25K80 + FT232RL (Windows) fault code reader for OBD2 cars

Short version

The USB ELM327 v1.5 is a classic OBD2 diagnostic cable for Windows that allows you to read and clear fault codes, turn off the check engine light (MIL/Check Engine), and view live data from the car's ECU – directly on your computer via USB. It is built with PIC18F25K80 as the main chip and is also listed with FT232RL in the product name, which is a common USB-serial solution for stable communication (note: the specification also mentions CH340T as the driver IC; exact components may vary between batches).

The adapter works on OBD-II compatible vehicles and supports common OBD2 protocols, including CAN, ISO 9141-2, KWP2000, and SAE J1850 VPW/PWM. It connects to the car's 16-pin OBD2 port and to the computer via USB. You then use a compatible diagnostic program (e.g., ScanMaster-ELM or other ELM327-compatible software) to read fault codes and view data.

Functions include reading both generic and some manufacturer-specific DTC codes (the product text mentions 3000+ generic definitions), clearing fault codes, and displaying common sensor data such as RPM, coolant temperature, speed, fuel trims, intake manifold pressure, timing advance, intake air temp, air flow rate, TPS, and O2 sensor values (car-dependent).

• Type: OBD2 USB ELM327 v1.5
• System: Windows
• Connection: USB
• Chip: PIC18F25K80 (main chip according to text)
• Protocols: CAN, ISO9141-2, KWP2000, J1850 VPW/PWM, etc.

Who is it for?

This ELM327 USB cable is suitable for those who want to use their computer as a diagnostic tool, for example, to:

• read fault codes when the check engine light comes on
• clear fault codes after repair
• monitor live data and troubleshoot sensors
• log data via Windows programs

It is particularly useful if you prefer USB over Bluetooth/WiFi and want a stable connection for logging.

Functions (what you can do)

1. Read fault codes (DTC) – generic and some manufacturer-specific, with explanations (the product text mentions 3000+ generic definitions).
2. Clear fault codes and turn off MIL/Check Engine.
3. View live data from the ECU (car-dependent).

Tip: Save fault codes and freeze frame (if the program displays it) before clearing – it makes troubleshooting easier.

Examples of live data (according to product text)

• Engine RPM
• Calculated Load Value
• Coolant Temperature
• Fuel System Status
• Vehicle Speed
• Short/Long Term Fuel Trim
• Intake Manifold Pressure
• Timing Advance
• Intake Air Temperature
• Air Flow Rate
• Absolute Throttle Position
• O2 sensor voltages / associated trims
• Fuel Pressure
• …and more (depending on the car)

Supported protocols

1. SAE J1850 PWM (41.6Kbaud)
2. SAE J1850 VPW (10.4Kbaud)
3. ISO 9141-2 (5 baud init, 10.4Kbaud)
4. ISO 14230-4 KWP (5 baud init, 10.4Kbaud)
5. ISO 14230-4 KWP (fast init, 10.4Kbaud)
6. ISO 15765-4 CAN (11bit ID, 500 Kbaud)
7. ISO 15765-4 CAN (29bit ID, 500 Kbaud)
8. ISO 15765-4 CAN (11bit ID, 250 Kbaud)
9. ISO 15765-4 CAN (29bit ID, 250 Kbaud)

Compatibility & important limitations

OBD2 = primarily engine/emissions

ELM327 is primarily an OBD2 tool and typically provides the best support for engine-related systems (ECM) and emissions. For ABS, airbag, transmission, and other brand-unique systems, a more advanced tool or brand-specific software is often required.

Windows

The product is stated to work on Windows. You need to install the correct driver for the USB chip (FT232RL or CH340T depending on the version), and then select the correct COM port in your diagnostic software.

OBD2 port (16-pin)

Works on cars with a standard 16-pin OBD2 port. For vehicles with other connectors, an adapter cable is required.

Step-by-step: installation & use in Windows

1) Install driver

1. Connect the ELM327 USB to the computer.
2. Install the driver for the USB chip (FT232RL or CH340T depending on the device version).
3. Open Device Manager and note the COM port assigned to the adapter.

2) Install diagnostic software

1. Install an ELM327-compatible program on Windows (e.g., ScanMaster-ELM or similar).
2. Select the correct COM port and communication settings in the program.

3) Connect to the car

1. Plug the cable into the car's OBD2 port (16-pin).
2. Turn the ignition ON.
3. Connect in the program and read fault codes/live data.

4) After troubleshooting

• Save fault codes before clearing.
• Clear fault codes only after the root cause has been addressed.
• Verify with a new reading that the codes do not return.

Troubleshooting

The program cannot find the adapter

• Check that the driver is installed and that the COM port is visible in Device Manager.
• Select the correct COM port in the program.
• Try a different USB port and avoid using a USB hub.

No connection to the car

• Check that the ignition is ON.
• Check that the car is OBD2 compatible and that the OBD2 port has power.
• Try a different OBD2 program.

Fault codes can be read but not other systems

• Normal with ELM327 – it is primarily for engine/OBD2. For ABS/SRS/TCM, another tool is often required.

Specifications

Note: The product name mentions FT232RL, while the specification mentions CH340T as the driver IC. Components may vary between batches. The principle is the same: install the correct driver and select the correct COM port in the software.

Package contents

• 1 × USB ELM327 OBD2 cable (v1.5, PIC18F25K80)

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1) Does it work on Mac?

The product is specified for Windows. For Mac, another solution or a virtual Windows environment is required.

2) Does it work on iPhone/Android?

This is a USB cable for Windows computers, not a Bluetooth/WiFi dongle for mobile.

3) Can it read ABS and airbag?

Often not via standard OBD2. ELM327 is primarily for engine/emissions.

4) Do I need to install a driver?

Yes, you need a driver for the USB chip (FT232RL or CH340T depending on the version).

5) Which cars does it work on?

OBD2-compatible cars with a 16-pin OBD2 port. Functions and data vary between car brands and model years.

6) Why doesn't the program find the adapter?

Usually, it's an incorrect COM port or missing driver.

7) Can I turn off the check engine light?

Yes, it can clear DTCs and turn off the MIL if the fault is no longer active.

8) What does "V1.5" mean?

It's a firmware/hardware designation often used for ELM327 variants. Consider it the vendor's version line.

9) What does PIC18F25K80 mean?

It's the main chip in the adapter, often requested for better compatibility/stability.

10) Can I use it for tuning/remap?

No, this is a diagnostic cable for OBD2 reading/monitoring. ECU programming requires other tools and software.

Notes & disclaimer

• OBD2 Limitation: Primarily engine/emissions. For other systems, another tool may be required.
• Do not clear codes blindly: Save codes before clearing and address the root cause.
• Drivers: The correct USB driver is required (FT232RL/CH340T depending on the version).
• Safety: Do not use the program while driving. Troubleshoot in a safe location.

Summary

The USB ELM327 v1.5 with PIC18F25K80 is a good choice for those who want to perform OBD2 diagnostics on Windows: read/clear fault codes, turn off the check engine light, and monitor live data. With a USB connection, you get stable communication for logging and troubleshooting, and support for the most common OBD2 protocols makes it compatible with many OBD2 cars.