For Kenwood car stereo enthusiasts integrating with their vehicle’s systems, the Maestro module offers a seamless interface. A key aspect of this integration is OBD2 communication, allowing your Kenwood unit to display vehicle data and even interact with vehicle functions. However, conflicts can arise when other OBD2 devices, such as scan tools or data loggers, are also in use. Fortunately, Kenwood’s Maestro module provides several OBD2 communication settings to manage these scenarios effectively. Let’s delve into these settings to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential conflicts.
OBDII Communication Settings Explained
Within the settings menu of your Kenwood gauges screen, you’ll find the “OBDII Communication” options. These settings dictate how your Maestro module interacts with your vehicle’s OBD2 port, especially when other devices might be trying to access the same data. Understanding these options is crucial for a smooth user experience.
1. Auto Disable (Default)
The “Auto Disable” setting is the factory default and is designed for straightforward compatibility. In this mode, the Maestro module will automatically stop communicating via OBD2 if it detects another scan tool or device attempting to establish a connection. This is a cooperative setting, mirroring the behavior of many other OBD2 devices, like SCT data loggers.
In practice, if another device, such as an SCT data logger, initiates communication first, the Kenwood Maestro module will back off, allowing the other device to operate without interference. This is likely what occurred in the original user’s experience where their SCT device seemed to take precedence.
2. Always Enabled
For situations where you need the Kenwood Maestro module to maintain OBD2 communication regardless of other devices, the “Always Enabled” setting is available. When activated, the Maestro module will attempt to force communication even if another device is present.
It’s important to note the limitation: this setting is effective if the Maestro module detects the other device first. If another device initiates communication before the Maestro, “Always Enabled” may not override it. Furthermore, Kenwood explicitly advises users to disable this setting before taking their vehicle in for service. Leaving it enabled could potentially interfere with dealership diagnostic tools.
3. Disabled
The “Disabled” setting is the most direct way to halt OBD2 communication from the Maestro module. Selecting “Disabled” completely turns off the Maestro’s OBD2 interface.
This option serves several purposes. It can be used temporarily to allow exclusive use of other OBD2 devices, such as an SCT data logger, without any conflict. It is also recommended for service appointments to prevent any potential interference with garage equipment.
4. Enabled On Demand (NEW)
The “Enabled On Demand” setting represents a more intelligent and user-centric approach to OBD2 communication. When set to “Enabled On Demand”, the Maestro module only initiates OBD2 communication when you are actively using the gauges screen on your Kenwood receiver.
This setting is particularly beneficial in several scenarios:
- Compatibility with Other Devices: If you need to keep another OBD2 device connected simultaneously and find they don’t operate well together, “Enabled On Demand” can resolve conflicts. The Maestro will only communicate when you are actively viewing gauges, leaving the OBD2 port free at other times.
- Vehicle Health Reports: Some vehicles, like those with Ford’s SYNC system, use OBD2 to generate vehicle health reports. These reports can fail if another device is actively communicating as a scan tool. “Enabled On Demand” allows these reports to run successfully by only engaging OBD2 when necessary.
Side Effects of “Enabled On Demand”
While “Enabled On Demand” offers significant advantages, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects:
- Limited Fuel Economy Data: Fuel economy data collection by the Maestro module is only active when you are on the gauges screen. Consequently, your average fuel economy readings may not reflect your entire driving history, only periods when the gauges screen was active.
- Delayed Check Engine Light Alerts: The check engine light (CEL) alert function is also tied to active OBD2 communication. With “Enabled On Demand”, the Maestro module will not constantly monitor for CEL codes. However, if a CEL illuminates, and you navigate to the Vehicle Info screen on your Kenwood unit, the Maestro will then check the vehicle’s status, making the CEL code reading and reset functions available.
Conclusion
Kenwood’s Maestro OBD2 communication settings provide users with granular control over how their car stereo system interacts with their vehicle’s data network. Understanding the nuances of “Auto Disable”, “Always Enabled”, “Disabled”, and “Enabled On Demand” allows you to optimize your setup for compatibility with other OBD2 devices and vehicle systems.
For most users, “Enabled On Demand” likely presents the best balance of functionality and compatibility, ensuring your Kenwood system works harmoniously with your vehicle and other devices. Remember to consider disabling OBD2 communication entirely using the “Disabled” setting before any vehicle servicing to avoid potential issues with diagnostic equipment. By carefully choosing the right setting, you can ensure seamless integration and enjoyment of your Kenwood Maestro system.
