Before you start
A datalog records vehicle sensor information for your tuning technician to review. AutoCal V3 can save this data directly to the device while you drive. Once finished, you can copy the recording to your computer and send it to your technician.
Your AutoCal must already have the correct logging configuration installed. Ask your technician which controller/PID selection, tune level, and driving conditions to use.
NOTE: These steps use EFILive’s standard menu. If your AutoCal has a custom menu supplied by your tuner, the options may be named differently. Follow the instructions supplied with that configuration.
CAUTION: Set up the device while parked. Do not operate the AutoCal while driving. Have a passenger manage the recording or start and stop it while safely parked. Secure the device and cable away from the pedals and steering controls.
What you need
- An EFILive AutoCal V3 with the correct logging configuration installed.
- The AutoCal’s OBD-II cable and USB data cable.
- A Windows computer to retrieve the recording.
- Internet access to send the file to your technician.
- Any specific logging instructions supplied by your technician.
Datalog Procedure
1. With the vehicle parked, connect your AutoCal V3 to the vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic port.
2. Turn the ignition to ON / RUN, leaving the engine off while you select the logging configuration.
3. On the AutoCal, open Scan Tool > F1: Select PIDs.
4. Select the controller/PID configuration specified by your technician.
NOTE: PIDs are the individual readings captured in the log. If the required selection is missing, contact your technician for the correct setup before continuing.
5. Open Scan Tool > F2: Data Logging > F1: Record Data.
6. Confirm that the screen shows recording activity, including elapsed time and an increasing frame count.
NOTE: Display Data only shows live readings. It does not save a datalog.
7. Start the engine and record the conditions requested by your technician. For a warm-engine test, allow the vehicle to reach normal operating temperature before the requested driving portion. If a cold-start log was requested, begin recording before starting the engine.
8. Keep the recording focused on the requested test or concern. Note approximately when the issue occurs so your technician can locate it in the log.
CAUTION: Stop the test if the vehicle develops abnormal temperatures, severe misfires, unusual noises, or other signs of a mechanical problem. Perform any requested full-throttle testing only in a suitable controlled environment.
9. Once the test is complete and you are safely parked, press X to stop recording and save the log. Allow saving to finish before switching off the ignition or unplugging the device.
NOTE: The ✓ button pauses or resumes recording. Use X when you are finished and want to save the file.
Retrieve the Datalog
10. Disconnect the AutoCal from the vehicle and connect it to your Windows computer using the USB data cable.
11. On the AutoCal, select Options > F2: File System > F3: USB Thumb Drive.
12. Open File Explorer on your computer and locate the AutoCal’s removable drive. This mode lets you copy files using Windows without opening EFILive software.
13. Open the EFILive > Scan folder and locate your recording. AutoCal V3 datalogs use the .pld file format. Use the recording time and filename to identify the correct file.
14. Copy the datalog to a folder on your computer where you can easily find it. Keep the original on the AutoCal until you have confirmed that the copy was saved successfully.
15. Eject the AutoCal drive through Windows before unplugging the USB cable.
Send the Datalog
16. Attach the saved .pld file to your email or support ticket using the contact method supplied by OCDiesel or your tuning technician. Send the actual recording file so the technician can review the data.
17. Include your order number, vehicle details, tune or power level used, and a description of what you want reviewed. If the concern occurred at a particular point in the log, include the approximate time.
NOTE: Recording and sending a datalog does not change the tune installed in your vehicle. Wait for your technician’s review and any further instructions.