Before installing CarChip, be sure to review the list of known exclusions, conflicts, and anomalies below. Unless specified otherwise, the list applies to all versions of CarChip, whether they are downloaded via serial port or USB.

This list is current to the best of our knowledge as of the time of publication. However, given the thousands of vehicle models produced since 1996, no list can be completely comprehensive. For more information on OBDII issues and anomalies in general, we recommend The Equipment and Tool Institute's website.

While our testing and the experience of thousands of CarChip users have shown the unit to be safe and reliable, there is an inherent risk in adding any aftermarket product that may potentially affect the operation or drivability of your vehicle. Should you be concerned about the operation of your vehicle at any time while using CarChip, you should pull over off the roadway immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so. Remove CarChip from the OBDII port and consult a licensed mechanic or automobile service center.

Ford 7.2L CAT 3126 Diesel Engines

CarChip is not supported in these vehicles.

Hybrid Gas/Electric Vehicles

CarChip is not supported in hybrid gas/electric vehicles, including the hybrid models of the Ford Escape, Honda Accord, Lexus RX400, Toyota Highlander, Toyota Prius, and Toyota Sienna.

Tiptronic ® Transmissions

CarChip may cause vehicle hesitation or stuttering when used in 2003 or earlier model-year vehicles with Tiptronic transmissions. Developed by Audi and included on many of their vehicles, a Tiptronic transmission is one in which the driver may switch from a manual transmission to an automatic transmission while driving. Please check your vehicle's owner's manual to see if your vehicle has a Tiptronic transmission. We have not resolved this issue, and we recommend that you not use CarChip in vehicles with Tiptronic transmissions.

Incomplete Data Collection

Some drivers of 1997-1998 Fords and Mazdas have reported that the trip time and selected engine parameters are recorded by CarChip, but vehicle speed is not.

CarChip Conflicts & Exclusions

Isolated or Intermittent Issues

Some drivers have reported occasional incidences of the following. If these or any other issues occur while you are driving, please remove the CarChip immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so, and contact our Technical Support Department.

Chevrolet, Dodge, GMC, Pontiac, Toyota Highlander, or Toyota Celica: May cause some or all of the dashboard lights to flash occasionally in some models.

1996 Mercedes Benz "C" Class: May cause the "Check Engine" light to turn on when the CarChip is inserted.

2002-2004 Chrysler and Dodge: May cause a momentary loss of engine power in some models.

2002 Mitsubishi Lancer and Evolution: May cause vehicle instrument gauges to "freeze up."

Using CarChip with Other Aftermarket Products

CarChip may not operate properly or may cause unexpected vehicle behavior if it is used in conjunction with other aftermarket products that also use the ODBII port or communicate with the vehicle's on-board computers. Examples of these include remote starters, keyless entry systems, and some alarm systems. If you are using any of these aftermarket products, we recommend that you remove them from your vehicle before using CarChip.

Vehicles Manufactured for Sale Outside the US & Canada

While vehicles manufactured for sale outside the US and Canada may appear to have an ODBII port, they may not use the same protocols, and thus may not be compatible with CarChip. For vehicles manufactured for sale in Europe, some 1996-1999 vehicles may be compatible; most 2000 and later vehicles should be compatible. Since requirements vary by country, vehicles manufactured for sale elsewhere in the world may or may not be compatible.

Additional Exclusions for the Serial-Port Version of CarChip

Our original CarChip models (# 8210, 8220, and 8240), which are downloaded using a serial-port cable, are not compatible with the new CAN (ISO 11898) protocol, which is being phased on newer vehicles. Download a chart of known CAN (ISO 11898) protocol vehicles. Our current CarChip models (# 8211, 8221, 8225, 8241, and 8245), which are down-loaded via a USB cable, are compatible with the CAN protocol. If you have a vehicle that uses the CAN protocol, you cannot use a serial-port version of CarChip; you must use a USB-version. Information for 2006 vehicles is not yet available; check our website for updates over the coming year.