Determining the transmission fluid temperature (ATF temp) is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health, especially when performing tasks like checking the ATF level or monitoring transmission performance under heavy loads. Many car owners turn to OBD2 scanners like BlueDriver to access live vehicle data. But can BlueDriver OBD2 reliably read ATF temperature? This question has been raised by users, and online forums provide valuable insights based on real-world experiences.
Based on discussions from car enthusiasts and BlueDriver users, it appears that BlueDriver OBD2 scanners do not natively support reading ATF temperature as a standard feature. This conclusion is drawn from user inquiries and direct feedback from BlueDriver support. Let’s delve into the details and explore user experiences to understand the limitations and potential alternatives.
BlueDriver and ATF Temp: Addressing the Core Issue
The initial question arose from a user seeking to monitor ATF temperature on their Toyota 200 series while planning to check the ATF level. The user, “kcjaz,” initially hoped that BlueDriver, which they already owned, would provide this data. However, upon reviewing the BlueDriver app’s “Live Data” options, they couldn’t find A/T temp listed.
This observation led to further investigation and confirmation that BlueDriver might indeed lack this functionality. The user’s initial assumption, common among many, was that a comprehensive OBD2 scanner should cover essential parameters like ATF temperature.
User Experiences and BlueDriver’s Response
Further confirmation regarding BlueDriver’s limitations came from another user, “FrazzledHunter,” who contacted BlueDriver support directly in January 2020. The response from BlueDriver explicitly stated:
“Unfortunately transmission temperature is not part of the OBDII standard live data set and is not currently supported by BlueDriver.”
BlueDriver’s reply further indicated that while they recognized the demand for ATF temperature monitoring, especially for Chrysler and Toyota vehicles, it wasn’t a currently supported feature and had no firm ETA for release. This direct communication clarifies that BlueDriver, at least up to the latest user inquiry in July 2024, does not include ATF temperature readings as part of its standard OBD2 data parameters.
This official response highlights a crucial point: while OBD2 standards provide a wide range of diagnostic data, specific parameters like ATF temperature are not universally mandated. Therefore, the availability of such data depends on the scanner’s capabilities and the vehicle manufacturer’s implementation.
Alternative OBD2 Scanners and Apps for ATF Temp
Faced with BlueDriver’s limitation, users in the forum thread discussed alternative solutions to monitor ATF temperature. These alternatives generally involve using different OBD2 adapters and software applications that offer enhanced data access.
OBD Fusion & ELM327 Adapters
Several users recommended the combination of OBD Fusion app and generic ELM327 OBD2 adapters as a reliable alternative. Specifically, users “afgman786” and “linuxgod” highlighted that OBD Fusion, when paired with Toyota Enhanced PIDs (Parameter IDs), can successfully display ATF temperatures.
OBD Fusion, unlike BlueDriver’s proprietary system, works with a wide range of generic ELM327 adapters, which are often more affordable. The key is purchasing the “Enhanced Diagnostics” or specific manufacturer PID packs within the OBD Fusion app to unlock access to extended parameters like ATF temperature. These enhanced PID packs are vehicle-specific and provide access to data beyond the standard OBD2 parameters.
Users clarified that the cost-effective “Toyota Enhanced Diagnostics” package within OBD Fusion is sufficient for accessing ATF temperature and other Toyota-specific data, rather than the more expensive “Diagnostic” pack.
Carista and VeePeak
Besides OBD Fusion, Carista was also mentioned as another option that offers ATF temperature readings. Additionally, VeePeak was recommended as a compatible OBD2 adapter, particularly for its Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity, which is beneficial for iPhone users.
These recommendations suggest that while BlueDriver may not meet the needs of users specifically seeking ATF temperature monitoring, a variety of alternative OBD2 tools and software solutions are readily available.
Conclusion
For users specifically needing to monitor ATF temperature, especially on Toyota vehicles, BlueDriver OBD2 appears to be insufficient based on user experiences and confirmed by BlueDriver support. While BlueDriver is a capable OBD2 scanner for many standard diagnostic tasks, its lack of ATF temperature support can be a significant drawback for certain applications.
Fortunately, alternative solutions like OBD Fusion paired with an ELM327 adapter and enhanced PIDs, Carista, and VeePeak offer viable options for accessing this crucial data parameter. When choosing an OBD2 scanner, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and verify whether the device supports the parameters you intend to monitor, such as ATF temperature, especially if you own a Toyota or Chrysler vehicle where this data is commonly desired. Exploring user forums and direct product inquiries can provide valuable insights before making a purchase decision.
