How to Use ScanFixAI

Ask a question or select a feature from the dropdown.

Installing on Windows

1Download the ZIP file

Go to scanfixai.com and click Windows 64-bit (or 32-bit for older computers). About 110 MB.

2Extract the ZIP

Right-click the downloaded file and select Extract All. Choose where to put it (Desktop works fine).

3Run ScanFixAI

Open the folder and double-click ScanFixAI.exe. The app opens in its own window.

Windows SmartScreen:

First time only — click More info then Run anyway. Normal for all new software.

Tip:

Right-click ScanFixAI.exe and select Pin to taskbar for quick access.

Installing on Android

1Download the APK

On your phone, go to scanfixai.com and tap Android. About 66 MB.

2Allow unknown sources

When prompted, tap Settings and enable Allow from this source.

3Install and open

Open the downloaded file, tap Install, then Open.

4Grant Bluetooth permissions

Tap Allow when asked — required to communicate with your OBD adapter.

Connecting Your OBD Adapter

1Plug in the adapter

Find the OBD2 port under your dashboard (near the steering column). Push the adapter in firmly. A light on the adapter indicates power.

2Turn the key to ON

Turn ignition to ON (or press start without the brake). Engine doesn't need to be running for scanning, but should be running for live data.

3Connect in the app

Windows: Click Connect, select your adapter's COM port, click Connect.
Android: Make sure Bluetooth is on, tap Connect, select your adapter. If not listed, pair it first in Bluetooth settings (code: 1234).

4Wait for "Connected"

Takes a few seconds. You'll see "Connected" at the top when ready.

Recommended adapters:

OBDLink MX+ ($99) for best experience, or OBDLink CX ($59) for great value. Basic ELM327 adapters ($15-25) work for standard diagnostics.

Activating Pro License

1Purchase Pro

Go to scanfixai.com/pricing. Choose Monthly ($29.99) or Annual ($249.99). Enter your email and pay.

2Get your key

Your license key appears on screen (SFAI-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX) and is emailed to you. Save it!

3Activate in the app

Open ScanFixAI, go to the License tab, paste your key, click Activate. All Pro features unlock immediately.

One device at a time:

To switch devices, deactivate on the old device first (License tab → Deactivate), then activate on the new one.

Dashboard

The Dashboard is your home screen. It shows your connection status, vehicle info, and quick actions.

1Connection status

Shows whether you're connected to a vehicle and which adapter you're using. Click Connect or Disconnect here.

2Vehicle information

After connecting, shows your VIN, year, make, model, and engine. This is read directly from your vehicle's computer.

3Full Scan button

Click Full Scan to scan every module in your vehicle. Results appear in the Trouble Codes tab.

4Quick stats

Shows scan results at a glance — number of modules found, codes detected, and overall vehicle health.

Trouble Codes

1View your codes

After scanning, all trouble codes appear here grouped by module (Engine, Transmission, ABS, Airbags, Body, etc.).

2Code types
  • Stored — confirmed problem, check engine light is on
  • Pending — seen once but not confirmed yet
  • Permanent — cannot be cleared until the vehicle detects the fault is resolved
3Plain English explanations

Each code shows what it means, the most common causes, and what to check first.

4Clear codes

After fixing the issue, click Clear Codes to turn off the check engine light. Only clear after the repair is done.

Note:

Clearing codes resets emissions monitors. If you have an upcoming emissions test, drive 50-100 miles after clearing for monitors to complete.

Live Data

1Start the engine

Live data requires the engine to be running. Connect to the vehicle and start it.

2Select PIDs to monitor

Check the boxes next to the parameters you want: RPM, Coolant Temp, Fuel Trims, MAF, Throttle Position, Battery Voltage, Oil Temp, and more.

3Watch in real time

Values update continuously. Toggle between bar gauges and numeric display. Great for diagnosing intermittent issues while driving.

Free vs Pro:

Free: 5 PIDs. Pro: all 68+ PIDs including manufacturer-specific data.

AI Analysis

1Scan first

Run a Full Scan so the AI has your codes, module data, and vehicle info.

2Click AI Analysis

The AI cross-references all codes across all modules to find the root cause, not just what each individual code means.

3Review the report

Includes: root cause, confidence level, recommended fixes in order of likelihood, estimated repair cost, and severity (safe to drive or not).

Free: 1/day. Pro: unlimited.

AI Mechanic (Chat)

1No connection needed

You can use AI Mechanic anytime — it doesn't require a vehicle connection or adapter.

2Ask any car question

Type your question: "What does P0171 mean on a 2015 F-150?", "How do I change spark plugs on a 2018 Camry?", "Is it safe to drive with ABS light on?"

3Get expert answers

The AI mechanic gives detailed, vehicle-specific answers with step-by-step repair guidance.

Modules PRO

Shows every computer module in your vehicle that responded to the scan.

1Module list

After scanning, see all responding modules: PCM (engine), TCM (transmission), ABS, ACM (airbags), BCM (body control), IPC (instrument cluster), and more.

2Module details

Click any module to see its part number, software version, hardware version, and calibration ID.

Active Tests PRO

Command your vehicle's systems to perform specific tests. Engine must be running.

1Select a test

Browse available tests for your vehicle: fuel injector tests, relay activation, solenoid tests, fan control, etc.

2Run the test

Click to activate. The vehicle's computer will perform the test. Listen/watch for the component to respond.

Caution:

Active tests command real vehicle components. Use only when the vehicle is safely parked with the parking brake set.

Fixes & Coding PRO

1Browse options

Organized by category: Lighting, Comfort, Displays, Locks, Sound, etc. Shows options available for your specific vehicle.

2Read before changing

Each option describes what it does, which module it modifies, and whether it's been verified on real vehicles.

3Apply changes

Select the new value and click Apply. Changes take effect immediately and can be reversed.

Popular changes:

DRL brightness, needle sweep, comfort turn signals, auto-fold mirrors, digital speedo, disable seatbelt chime.

As-Built Data PRO

Read and write the factory configuration stored in your vehicle's modules. Similar to FORScan's as-built feature.

1Read as-built

Select a module and click Read. Shows the raw hex configuration data stored in that module.

2Compare with factory

Compare your vehicle's current configuration against the factory default to see what's been changed.

3Write changes

Modify specific bytes and write them back. Field descriptions explain what each byte/bit controls.

Advanced feature:

Incorrect as-built changes can affect vehicle operation. Only modify values you understand. Always save a backup of the original data first.

Service Resets PRO

Reset service indicators and perform maintenance procedures.

1Select a reset

Available resets include: Oil Life Reset, Battery Registration, Brake Pad Reset, Steering Angle Calibration, Throttle Relearn, Transmission Adaptation Reset, and more (59 total across all makes).

2Follow the instructions

Each reset shows prerequisites (engine on/off, wheels straight, etc.) and what the reset does.

3Click to execute

The reset is sent to the vehicle's module. Confirmation appears when complete.

TPMS PRO

Read tire pressure monitoring system data and perform sensor relearn procedures.

1Read TPMS data

See real-time tire pressures, temperatures, and sensor IDs for all four tires (plus spare if equipped).

2Sensor relearn

After rotating tires or replacing sensors, use the relearn procedure to teach the vehicle the new sensor positions.

Vehicle Inspection (PPI) PRO

1Run a Full Scan

Scan the vehicle to get all codes, module data, and VIN information.

2Generate the report

Click to create a Pre-Purchase Inspection PDF. Includes health score, all codes, mileage verification across modules, and a BUY / CAUTION / DON'T BUY verdict.

3Check for odometer fraud

The report compares mileage stored in different modules (engine, transmission, ABS, cluster). Mismatches indicate possible odometer rollback.

4Check readiness monitors

If most monitors show "Not Ready," someone recently cleared codes to hide problems — major red flag.

Test Drive PRO

Voice-guided diagnostic drive — ScanFixAI monitors your vehicle, finds issues, pulls you over, fixes them, and verifies the fix.

1Select your tests

Choose from Quick Health Check, Test Everything, Used Car Inspection, Smog Pre-Check, or pick individual tests.

2Start driving

ScanFixAI monitors your vehicle in real time — fuel trims, transmission, boost, O2 sensors, idle stability, and more.

3AI finds an issue

The AI speaks to you: "I found a fuel trim imbalance. Please pull over safely when you can." It waits until you've stopped.

4Automatic fix

Once stopped, ScanFixAI applies the correction — clears codes, runs relearns, writes as-built adjustments, or recalibrates sensors. You'll hear "Fix applied."

5Verify the fix

"Please resume driving." The AI monitors to confirm the fix worked. If the issue is resolved, it moves to the next test. If not, it tries an alternative approach.

6Session report

When all tests are complete, get a full report of everything tested, issues found, fixes applied, and verification results.

Live Data Chart PRO

Graphs live data over time so you can spot patterns and intermittent issues.

1Select PIDs to graph

Choose up to 4 parameters to plot on the same time axis.

2Watch the waveform

Data scrolls across the screen like an oscilloscope. Spikes, drops, and patterns become visible that you'd miss in numeric view.

3Record and export

Record a session and export to CSV for analysis in Excel or other tools.

Performance Timers

Time your 0-60 mph, quarter mile, and other acceleration runs using real OBD data.

1Select a timer

Choose 0-60, 0-100, quarter mile, or custom distance.

2Stage and launch

Come to a complete stop, arm the timer, then go. The timer starts automatically when you move and stops at the target.

Fuel Economy

Track your fuel consumption, MPG, trip costs, and driving efficiency.

1Monitor while driving

Shows real-time MPG, average MPG, fuel used, and estimated range remaining.

2Log fill-ups

Record when you fill up to track cost per mile and fuel economy trends over time.

G-Force Meter

Uses your phone's accelerometer to measure lateral and longitudinal G-forces.

1Calibrate

Place your phone on a flat surface and tap Calibrate to zero out the sensors.

2Drive and measure

See real-time G-forces during acceleration, braking, and cornering displayed on a skidpad visualization.

Custom Dashboard

Create your own gauge layout with the data you care about most.

1Add gauges

Pick which PIDs to display and choose the gauge style (radial, bar, numeric).

2Arrange the layout

Drag and resize gauges to create your perfect dashboard view.

3Save profiles

Save multiple dashboard layouts and switch between them.

Trip Logger

Record GPS trips with OBD data correlation. Export as GPX or CSV.

1Start a trip

Tap Start Trip when you begin driving. GPS location and OBD data are recorded together.

2Stop and review

See your route on a map with speed, RPM, and engine data overlaid at each point.

Flight Recorder PRO

Continuously records OBD data in the background. Like a dashcam for your engine.

1Enable recording

Turn on the flight recorder. It continuously saves OBD data in a rolling buffer.

2Review after an issue

If something goes wrong (stall, misfire, warning light), review what the engine was doing in the moments before. Invaluable for diagnosing intermittent problems.

Recalls

1Check automatically

After scanning, ScanFixAI checks your VIN against the NHTSA recall database (95,000+ complaints, 1,200+ recalls).

2View active recalls

See any open recalls for your specific vehicle, what's affected, and what the dealer will fix for free.

3Park It Now alerts

Critical recalls that mean you should stop driving immediately are highlighted in red.

Maintenance

Maintenance schedule based on your vehicle's make, model, and mileage.

1View your schedule

Shows what's due now and what's coming up: oil changes, filters, spark plugs, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, timing belt, etc.

2Based on your mileage

Intervals are specific to your make/model. Covers 22 makes and 16 maintenance items.

Cylinder Tests PRO

Compare cylinder performance using live misfire data and relative compression.

1Run the test

Engine must be running. The test reads misfire counters and cranking RPM variations across all cylinders.

2Compare results

Weak cylinders show up immediately. Helps identify worn rings, bad valves, or failing head gaskets without a compression tester.

NVH Diagnosis PRO

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness diagnostic guide. Helps identify the source of unusual sounds or vibrations.

1Describe the symptom

Select when the noise/vibration occurs: at idle, while driving, during braking, when turning, etc.

2Follow the diagnostic path

The system walks you through likely causes based on your symptoms and vehicle data.

CEL Monitor

Background monitoring that alerts you if a new check engine code appears.

1Enable monitoring

Turn on CEL Monitor while connected. It periodically checks for new codes in the background.

2Get notified

If a new code appears, you'll get an alert with the code explanation immediately — no need to manually scan.

Wiring Diagrams PRO

Reference wiring diagrams and connector pinouts for common circuits.

1Select a system

Choose from engine, lighting, charging, starting, sensors, and more.

2View the diagram

Shows wire colors, connector locations, and pin assignments. Use alongside a multimeter for electrical diagnosis.

Component Locator PRO

Find where sensors, relays, and modules are physically located on your vehicle.

1Search for a component

Type what you're looking for: "MAF sensor", "fuel pump relay", "BCM location", etc.

2Get the location

Shows where the component is located with description and a link to view reference photos.

Adapter Guide

Help choosing the right OBD adapter for your needs.

1Best overall: OBDLink MX+

Bluetooth, works with all makes, fast, reliable. $99. Our top recommendation.

2Best value: OBDLink CX

Bluetooth, great performance at a lower price. $59.

3Budget option: ELM327 Bluetooth

$15-25. Works for standard OBD-II diagnostics. May be slower and miss some enhanced features.

Avoid:

Cheap $5-10 ELM327 clones from Amazon/eBay. They often have firmware issues that cause connection problems and incomplete data.

Key Programming PRO

Program new keys and fobs to your vehicle. Availability depends on make/model and security level.

1Check compatibility

Not all vehicles support key programming via OBD. ScanFixAI shows whether your vehicle supports it.

2Follow the procedure

The app walks you through the steps. You'll typically need the new key physically present and may need an existing working key.

Advanced feature:

Key programming involves vehicle security systems. Follow all instructions carefully.

ECU Programming PRO

Read and write ECU calibration data. For advanced tuning and module replacement.

1Read calibration

Download the current calibration file from your ECU. Always make a backup before any changes.

2Write calibration

Upload a modified calibration file. Used for performance tuning or restoring a replacement module to your vehicle's configuration.

Professional use only:

Incorrect ECU flashing can render your vehicle inoperable. This feature is for experienced technicians and tuners only. Always backup first.

AI Tuning PRO

AI-assisted performance tuning. Analyze your current tune and get optimization suggestions.

1Read your current tune

ScanFixAI reads your ECU's current calibration and identifies key parameters (timing, fueling, boost, rev limits).

2Get AI recommendations

The AI analyzes your parameters and suggests safe optimizations based on your engine platform and modifications.

Advanced feature:

Tuning changes can affect emissions compliance and engine longevity. Use at your own risk.

ADAS Calibration PRO

Advanced Driver Assistance System calibration after windshield replacement or camera/sensor work.

1Check which systems need calibration

After windshield replacement or body work, ADAS cameras and sensors may need recalibration. ScanFixAI shows which systems are affected.

2Follow calibration procedure

Static calibrations can be done in a controlled environment. Dynamic calibrations require a test drive on specific road types.

My Garage

Save and manage multiple vehicles. Give each one a nickname and track its history.

1Vehicles are saved automatically

When you scan a vehicle, it's automatically added to your garage with its VIN, year, make, and model.

2Add a nickname

Tap on a vehicle in the garage to give it a name like "Dad's Truck" or "Shop Car #3".

3Switch between vehicles

View scan history, codes, and reports for any vehicle you've previously scanned.

Vehicle History

Track codes and repairs over time for each vehicle in your garage.

1View history timeline

See every scan, every code, and every action taken on this vehicle in chronological order.

2Track repair progress

Compare scans before and after repairs to verify the fix worked.

Scan History

View results from all previous scans.

1Browse past scans

Each scan is saved with date, vehicle, modules found, and codes detected.

2Compare scans

Compare two scans side by side to see what changed — new codes, cleared codes, or module differences.

Ford MS-CAN PRO

Access Ford's Medium-Speed CAN bus for body modules that aren't on the standard high-speed bus.

1Requires compatible adapter

MS-CAN access requires an OBDLink MX+ or OBDLink EX adapter. Standard ELM327 adapters cannot switch buses.

2Access additional modules

Read BCM, IPC, HVAC, DDM, PDM, and other body modules on Ford vehicles that only communicate on the MS-CAN bus.

Heavy Duty / Diesel PRO

Diagnostics for diesel trucks and heavy-duty vehicles using J1939 protocol.

1Supported vehicles

Ford Super Duty (6.7L Power Stroke), RAM (6.7L Cummins), GM (Duramax), and Class 4-8 trucks.

2Diesel-specific data

DPF status, regen cycles, DEF levels, turbo boost, exhaust temps, injection timing, and more.

3Forced DPF regen

Initiate a parked DPF regeneration when the filter is clogged. Requires specific conditions (engine temp, parking brake, etc.).

License Management

1View license status

Shows your current tier (Free or Pro), expiration date, and device binding.

2Activate a new key

Paste your license key and click Activate. Pro features unlock immediately.

3Deactivate this device

Click Deactivate to free up your license for use on another device.

4Check expiration

Monthly licenses last 30 days. Annual licenses last 365 days. No auto-renewal — repurchase when expired.

Troubleshooting

Can't connect to adapter

1Check the basics
  • Adapter plugged in firmly? Light should be on.
  • Ignition turned to ON?
  • Bluetooth on? (Android)
  • Adapter paired in Bluetooth settings? (Android — code: 1234)
2Disconnect and reconnect

Click Disconnect, wait 5 seconds, click Connect again.

3Restart the app

Close ScanFixAI completely and reopen it.

Scan found 0 modules

4Check ignition

Must be ON, not just accessory mode. Some vehicles need the engine running.

App won't open (Windows)

5Check antivirus

Add ScanFixAI.exe to your antivirus exceptions list. Some antivirus software blocks new applications.

Activation failed

6Check your key
  • Full key copied? (SFAI-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX)
  • Internet connection working?
  • Already active on another device? Deactivate there first.
  • License expired? Check your email for the expiration date.

Still need help?

7Contact support

Email support@scanfixai.com with your issue, vehicle (year/make/model), and adapter type. We respond within 24 hours.