Connecting your iPhone to your car’s OBD2 port allows you to customize and diagnose your vehicle using apps like BimmerCode. While the process might seem straightforward, it can be tricky. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to successfully connect your iPhone using an Apple Lightning Cable To Obd2 adapter, specifically focusing on a setup that worked for an iPhone 12 Pro.
Overcoming Connectivity Challenges with iPhone 12 Pro and Lightning to OBD2
Many users, especially those with newer iPhones like the iPhone 12 Pro, encounter issues when trying to establish a connection. This guide outlines a specific sequence of steps that proved successful in resolving these common connectivity problems. We’ll cover disabling specific network settings, refreshing the connection, and correctly configuring the BimmerCode app.
Step-by-Step Guide for Connecting Your iPhone to OBD2
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Connect Hardware: Begin by connecting your ENET cable to the car’s OBD2 port. Then, plug the RJ45 end of your lightning to Ethernet adapter into the ENET cable. Do not connect the lightning end to your iPhone yet.
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Prepare Your Car: Put your car into auxiliary mode (also known as accessory mode). This allows the car’s electronics to power on without starting the engine. Wait for the car’s systems to fully boot up.
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Configure iPhone Network Settings: On your iPhone, do not enable Airplane Mode. Instead, individually disable the following:
- Cellular Data
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
Crucially, allow approximately 30 seconds after disabling these services. This pause allows the iPhone to fully disconnect from these networks, which is essential for establishing the Ethernet connection.
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Connect to iPhone: Now, connect the Lightning end of the adapter to your iPhone’s Lightning port.
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Verify Ethernet Connection: Check your iPhone’s settings. Below your Apple ID, between “Bluetooth” and “Wi-Fi,” an “Ethernet” option should appear. If it doesn’t, disconnect and reconnect the Lightning adapter until “Ethernet” appears.
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Renew the Ethernet Lease: Tap on “Ethernet,” then select “USB 10/100 LAN.” Finally, tap “Renew Lease” and confirm the renewal on the pop-up prompt.
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Configure BimmerCode: Open the BimmerCode app. Do not immediately click “Connect.” Instead, follow these crucial steps:
- Open BimmerCode settings (gear icon in the bottom right).
- Temporarily select an adapter type that you do not have connected.
- Go back to the main BimmerCode screen and click “Connect.” This will intentionally generate an error.
- Return to BimmerCode settings.
- Select “ENET Cable” as the adapter type.
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Connect to Your Car: Finally, return to the BimmerCode main screen and tap “Connect.” You should now be prompted to select your vehicle’s make and model, and the connection should establish successfully.
Conclusion
Connecting your iPhone with a Lightning to OBD2 adapter can be challenging, but by following these precise steps, you can overcome common hurdles and successfully utilize apps like BimmerCode for vehicle customization and diagnostics. Remember the importance of the 30-second pause after disabling network connections and the specific configuration steps within the BimmerCode app. This detailed guide provides the solution for a smooth and successful connection.
