Bosch Obd Ii scanners were once a staple in the automotive diagnostic market. Although the product line has been discontinued, these tools remain valuable for vehicle troubleshooting. This guide explores the features and capabilities of the Bosch OBD 1350, a powerful example of Bosch’s commitment to diagnostic excellence.
Bosch OBD 1350: Key Features and Benefits
The Bosch OBD 1350 offered a wide range of functionalities designed for efficient and accurate vehicle diagnostics. One of its standout features was its comprehensive code reading capabilities. The OBD 1350 could read ABS codes for a broad spectrum of vehicle makes, including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, BMW, Mercedes, Smart, VW, Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Volvo. It also provided access to SRS/airbag codes for most of these manufacturers.
Beyond basic code reading, the Bosch OBD 1350 boasted enhanced Powertrain/ABS datastream functionality for Domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. This allowed mechanics to access real-time data from critical vehicle systems, enabling deeper analysis and more accurate diagnosis. The inclusion of Ford ‘On Demand’ tests provided the ability to activate switches and actuators, further aiding in pinpointing issues.
Advanced Diagnostics and Convenience
The Bosch OBD 1350 integrated CodeConnect, a vast database containing over 26 million potential fixes linked to specific trouble codes. This invaluable resource helped technicians quickly identify the most likely cause of warning lights, saving diagnostic time. The scanner also offered enhanced live datastream for GM and Ford transmissions, and could monitor fuel consumption metrics such as MPG, average MPG, elapsed time, distance traveled, fuel used, and average speed.
Convenience features like AutoID automatically populated vehicle data for most models from 2000 onwards. The tool also enabled essential maintenance tasks such as resetting oil lights, clearing check engine lights, and performing battery life resets after replacements. The OBD 1350 provided access to all modes of OBD II global data, including Mode 6 and O2 monitor tests. It also facilitated the monitoring of battery, alternator, and charging systems. Graphing data (for 1996 and newer vehicles) and the ability to read, record, and playback live sensor data were further benefits.
Multilingual Support and Comprehensive Compatibility
The Bosch OBD 1350 offered multilingual support, with menus and options available in English, French, and Spanish. The device could read, display, and erase generic and enhanced diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Additional features included freeze frame data capture, emissions readiness status checks (I/M readiness monitors), a built-in OBD II code library, PC compatibility, and a large, backlit graphic LCD screen. Its battery-powered operation allowed for off-vehicle data review. Importantly, the OBD 1350 was compatible with all 1996 and newer import and domestic vehicles equipped with OBD II, as well as compliant 1994 and 1995 models.
Conclusion
While no longer in production, the Bosch OBD II scanners, exemplified by the OBD 1350, were powerful diagnostic tools that provided technicians with a comprehensive suite of features. From comprehensive code reading and datastream analysis to convenient functions like AutoID and CodeConnect, these scanners empowered users to quickly and accurately diagnose vehicle issues.
