called scan-tools, they come in full-featured versions with built-in software/display/buttons, and dumb versions that must be connected to a PC/Mac/tablet/phone to be useful. this meant that tools to interface with those networks could also become standardized and inexpensive. The good thing about OBD-II was it defined a limited set of network types that a car maker could implement for the emissions related diagnostics. the OBD regulations were put in place by the EPA for monitoring emissions related components, but the systems have evolved to be much more capable. In 1996 a federal law took effect requiring most new consumer vehicles in the US to have standards-based On Board Diagnostics, called OBD-II. we want to control and get info from accessories attached to the more interesting buses. Note: we’re not talking about “pulling codes” or clearing the check engine light, that’s everyday stuff. however, this article is about getting started quickly and cheaply by leveraging a standard ELM327-based OBD-II scan tool (~$25) and your laptop, tablet, phone, Raspberry Pi, etc.

depending on your end goal, a microcontroller could be the best approach. It seems people often approach this concept with an Arduino/NetDuino/PIC/etc, plus a shield or some custom circuitry, and a bit of custom code.

or maybe you’d like to make your key fob roll up windows or remote-start. Why hack it? because you can! maybe you want to install your own car-puter that will replace the radio and climate controls. Modern vehicles have internal networks that provide access to nearly every major component and accessory – everything from the transmission to the cd-changer. Software, hardware | Maa complete guide to hacking your vehicle bus on the cheap & easy – part 1 (hardware interface)

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