AlfaOBD is a specialized diagnostic software designed for vehicles manufactured by Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles FCA). Specifically, it offers in-depth diagnostics for 1994 – 2023 Fiat / Alfa Romeo / Lancia, and 2005 – 2023 Chrysler / Dodge / Ram / Jeep vehicles. For a detailed list of supported models, you can refer to the Supported Vehicles list.
While created with car owners in mind, AlfaOBD boasts features comparable to professional-grade scanners. Unlike generic OBDII/EOBD diagnostic applications that offer limited access to engine and transmission modules (and sometimes ABS), AlfaOBD natively supports Electronic Control Units (ECUs). This key difference provides users with significantly deeper diagnostic capabilities.
AlfaOBD is available for both Windows PC (OS XP / 8 / 8.1 / 10 / 11) and Android (OS 4.0.3 and above) platforms. Both versions offer identical functionality, allowing users to choose based on their convenience.
Important Note: Be aware that an “Alfa OBD2 app” exists on the Apple App Store, but it is not an official AlfaOBD product for iPhones and is unrelated to AlfaOBD software.
For Mac users, the Windows version of AlfaOBD can be used through Parallels or Bootcamp Windows installations. It’s important to note that only WiFi OBD interfaces are compatible with Parallels on M1 Macs. Intel Macs using Parallels can utilize both USB and WiFi interfaces, while Bluetooth/USB/WiFi interfaces are supported on Intel Macs when using Bootcamp Windows.
Key Features of the AlfaOBD Scanner
AlfaOBD is packed with features that go beyond basic OBD2 scanners, offering comprehensive control and insight into your FCA vehicle’s systems:
- Real-time Parameter Monitoring: Monitor a wide range of dynamic parameters from engine, transmission, body, dashboard, ABS, climate control, and more. Data can be displayed graphically as customizable plots for easy analysis.
- Static Data Reading: Access static data such as ECU identification, system status, and fault codes (DTCs). When applicable, you can also retrieve probable causes and environmental information (freeze frames) associated with fault codes.
- Fault Code Management: Clear stored fault codes (DTCs) and continuously monitor the system for the appearance of new faults, enabling proactive maintenance.
- Active Diagnostics and Configuration Procedures: Perform active diagnostic tests and configuration procedures for various vehicle components controlled by ECUs. This includes service light resets, engine oil change procedures, DPF regeneration, ABS bleeding, air suspension maintenance, transmission calibration, and many other service functions.
- Electronic Key and RF Remote Programming: On select vehicle models, AlfaOBD enables electronic key and RF remote control programming.
- Car Configuration Adjustment: Modify vehicle configuration settings. This is crucial for activating newly installed equipment within the Body Computer configuration through Proxy Alignment.
Hardware Requirements for Using AlfaOBD
To utilize the AlfaOBD app with your vehicle, you will need specific hardware components:
1. Security Gateway Bypass (SGW) – For 2018 and Newer Models
Starting with the 2018 model year (2017 Fiat 500L), Stellantis (FCA) implemented a Security Gateway Module (SGW) that restricts unauthorized third-party diagnostics. Currently, AlfaOBD does not offer a software bypass solution. Therefore, a hardware SGW bypass module is necessary for these vehicles.
Owners of Alfa Romeo Giulia / Stelvio, Fiat 500X / Argo / Chronos / Toro, Jeep Renegade / Compass MP, Ducato Serie 8, RAM ProMaster 2022+, must ensure the bypass module supports the second high-speed CAN bus. This CAN bus is connected to pins 12 and 13 of the vehicle’s OBD socket.
Recommended SGW Bypass Modules:
North America:
- z Automotive 2018+ Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep Bypass – Specifically for 2018+ Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep vehicles.
- z Automotive All FCA Vehicles Bypass – Compatible with all Stellantis (FCA) vehicles, including Alfa Romeo and Fiat platforms with the second High-Speed CANBUS (e.g., Alfa Romeo Giulia / Stelvio, Fiat 500X / Toro / Jeep Renegade / Compass MP).
- KaodTech Security Module Bypass – For RAM/Dodge/Jeep vehicles.
- ECRI Security Module Bypass – For 2018+ Jeep/Ram vehicles.
Europe:
- Electronic Fuchs Bypass Modules
- OBDAuto SGW Bypass Box – Special bypass box for FCA vehicles.
- OBDAuto SGW Bypass Cable – Special SGW bypass cable for FCA vehicles.
Any compatible SGW bypass should function correctly. If you are uncertain about compatibility, confirm with the bypass distributor or manufacturer.
For guidance on SGW location and bypass installation, refer to resources like:
It is advisable to disconnect the SGW bypass before taking your vehicle to a dealership, as dealer diagnostic tools may not function correctly with the bypass installed.
2. OBD Interface
To establish communication with your vehicle, you will need a compatible OBD interface. Colored adapters may also be necessary depending on your vehicle model and the chosen interface (see below).
Consult the Supported Vehicles list for recommended OBD interface and adapter options specific to your vehicle model.
AlfaOBD currently supports the following interface types:
- ELM327: Bluetooth, WiFi, or USB
- OBDLink: MX+, MX, LX, EX, SX, Bluetooth, WiFi, or USB
- STN11xx/STN21xx: Bluetooth, WiFi, or USB
- OBDKey: Bluetooth or USB
- Vgate vLinker: MC, MC+, FD, FD+, Bluetooth or USB
- ELS27: USB
Important Notes on OBD Interfaces:
- KLLine USB interfaces are not supported on Android due to OS limitations.
- CAN USB interfaces are supported on Android devices via On-The-Go (OTG). Verify OTG compatibility of your Android device and acquire a suitable adapter.
- Some WLAN interfaces (like OBDLink MX+ WiFi) offer built-in Android support. WLAN connection with other interfaces from Android devices requires ad-hoc Wi-Fi support. Before purchasing a WLAN interface for Android, confirm your device’s ad-hoc Wi-Fi capabilities. This often necessitates rooting the device and replacing the Wi-Fi driver.
3. Colored Adapters
Depending on your car model, production year, and OBD interface, additional colored adapters (or adapter sets) might be required.
Refer to the Supported Vehicles list for recommended OBD interface and adapter options for your specific vehicle.
Within the AlfaOBD app, the adapter type required for connecting to the car’s OBD socket and the suggested OBD interface are displayed on the selection screen. The app also shows a “Connect adapter…” message before initiating connection to a control module.
Note: A “blue” adapter is not needed when using OBDLink MX+ / EX, ELS27, Vgate vLinker FD / FD+ / MC / MC+ / FS interfaces. Simply close the “Connect blue adapter” message and proceed with the connection.
“Grey” Adapter Required Vehicles: (regardless of OBD interface, except OBDKey multipin)
- Alfa Romeo Giulia / Stelvio
- Fiat 500E (2020+) / 500X / Argo / Chronos / Ducato Serie 8 (2022+) / Toro
- Jeep Renegade / Compass (MP)
- RAM Pro Master (2022+)
“Yellow” Adapter Required Vehicles: (regardless of OBD interface, except OBDKey multipin)
- Alfa Romeo Giulietta / Mito / 4C
- Fiat 500 / 500E (before 2020) / 500L / Panda 2012+ / Punto EVO / Grande Punto
- Fiat Professional Ducato (types 250 and 290 before 2022) / Doblo (type 152 / 263)
- RAM Pro Master (before 2022) / Pro Master City
These adapters are available from various suppliers: Electronic-Fuchs.de, Obdauto.fr, Gendan.co.uk, as well as on Amazon and eBay.
For detailed information on features, installation, and usage of AlfaOBD for Windows, consult the help documentation, which is included in the software download package.
Help documentation for AlfaOBD for Android is available here (English) and here (German).
Explore vehicle-specific forums (e.g., www.ramforum.com/) and YouTube for typical use cases and user tips for applying the app to specific vehicle models.
For further inquiries or support, contact [email protected].
