Upgrading to larger tires on your vehicle, particularly a Jeep Patriot, can significantly impact the accuracy of your speedometer and odometer. This discrepancy arises because the larger tire circumference changes the distance traveled per tire revolution. While visually appealing, inaccurate readings can lead to speeding tickets and incorrect mileage tracking. Fortunately, you can rectify this issue using a Bluedriver OBD2 scanner and the right technique. This guide outlines the process of correcting your speedometer after installing new tires, specifically focusing on using a Bluedriver OBD2 adapter.
Why Tire Size Matters for Your Speedometer
Your vehicle’s speedometer relies on the factory-programmed tire size to calculate speed and distance. When you switch to a different tire size, especially a larger one, the actual distance traveled per tire rotation increases. Since the speedometer is still using the old calculations, it underestimates your true speed and distance covered. This discrepancy means you might be driving faster than your speedometer indicates, potentially leading to speeding tickets. Moreover, your odometer will record fewer miles than actually driven, affecting vehicle maintenance schedules and resale value.
Correcting Your Speedometer with a Bluedriver OBD2 Scanner
A Bluedriver OBD2 Bluetooth adapter, paired with the appropriate app, provides a user-friendly solution to adjust your vehicle’s tire size setting. This allows the computer to accurately calculate your speed and mileage based on the new tires.
Measuring Your New Tire Diameter
While online tire size calculators can provide estimates, physically measuring your new tires ensures the most accurate adjustment. Use a tape measure to determine the diameter of your tire from the top to the bottom of the tread, ensuring the tire is properly inflated. This measurement, often expressed in inches, is crucial for inputting the correct value into the Bluedriver app.
Using the Bluedriver App to Adjust Tire Size
Connect the Bluedriver OBD2 sensor to your vehicle’s OBD2 port. Then, pair your smartphone with the Bluedriver sensor via Bluetooth and launch the Bluedriver app. Navigate to the vehicle settings and locate the tire size or circumference setting. Enter the precise diameter you measured earlier. After saving the new tire size, the Bluedriver will communicate with your vehicle’s computer, updating the necessary parameters.
Verifying the Adjustment
After making the changes with your Bluedriver, verify the accuracy of your speedometer using a GPS device or a reliable speed-measuring app on your smartphone. Drive at a known speed and compare the readings on your speedometer with the GPS or app. Minor adjustments might be necessary to achieve perfect calibration.
Conclusion
Adjusting your vehicle’s tire size setting after installing new tires is essential for maintaining accurate speed and mileage readings. A Bluedriver OBD2 scanner, coupled with careful tire measurement and the user-friendly Bluedriver app, provides a straightforward and effective solution for this task. This DIY approach empowers you to ensure accurate speedometer and odometer readings, ultimately enhancing safety and maintaining the integrity of your vehicle’s records. Remember to always double-check your work and consult a professional mechanic if you encounter any difficulties.
