Getting Started with the Innova 5210 Entry-Level OBD2 Scanner from a DIY Guy

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So, your brand new Innova 5210 scanner just arrived, and you’re all ready to unbox the device? Congratulations! Innova products are trusted by more than 5 million DIYers and mechanics all over the country. Welcome to the community.

Assuming this is your first time using a device like this, we wanted to provide you with an in-depth primer and getting started guide. Bear in mind, we do have a large database of tutorial videos for the 5210 if there’s anything specific you want help doing.

If you’re curious what the 5210 can handle, you can use it to check engine and ABS scans, dismiss error or diagnostic codes, prioritize which errors must be addressed first, understand what’s happening with freeze frame data, and review real-time performance data. While it’s not quite as advanced as something like, say, the Innova 5610, it’s an excellent entry point for those who want more in-depth under-the-hood diagnostics.

You can even tap into the RepairSolutions2 app, a free mobile companion, to access verified and expert-level fixes with options to order and access authentic parts and review guidance from verified ASE Master Technicians.

Anyway, let’s get into it!

Step 1: Unbox and Prepare the 5210

The first step is a no-brainer. First, you have to take the scanner out of the packaging and prep it for use with your vehicle. But there are also some things you should keep in mind. For example, you’ll want to double-check vehicle compatibility before you plug in the device. The compatibility tool will also tell you exactly what features work with your vehicle, in the event that some don’t.

You’ll also want to peel the protective layer off the display and scan the barcode on there to gain access to and download the RepairSolutions 2 app.

Step 2: Find the OBD2 Port in Your Vehicle

While the 16-pin OBD2 port comes standard in all modern vehicles, the placement of that port varies by manufacturer and model. Most of the time, the OBD2 port is on the driver’s side of the vehicle, underneath the steering wheel, and somewhere in that vicinity. However, another common location is near the center console, under the dash on the passenger’s side, and sometimes tucked away, almost hidden in other makes or models.

If you cannot find the port on your own, be sure to reference the user manual for your vehicle. You can also look this information up online.

Step 3: Install the RepairSolutions 2 App on Your Mobile

While this step is technically optional, if you plan to use the app, we recommend installing it before you plug in the scanner. You’ll also need to register for an account. You can find more information about the app at the official page, as well as download links for Android and iOS devices.

After you register an account, you’ll see the tool pairing screen. Now it’s time to plug in the Innova 5210.

Setting Up RepairSolutions 2

If you opt to download and use RepairSolutions 2, there is an interim series of steps you’ll need to complete to sync the app with the Innova 5210. Don’t worry, it’s intuitive and rather simple to complete.

After registering for an account, you’ll see the option to connect to your scanner via Bluetooth. You’ll want to have the scanner plugged into your vehicle’s OBD2 port with the display on. From there, you select Begin Pairing within the app. Make sure your Bluetooth connection is enabled on your phone, and it should discover and sync with the scanner.

Within the mobile app, you’ll now be asked to:

• Share where you bought or acquired the scanner (you can skip this).
• Scan your vehicle's VIN number using the camera or enter it manually. You can usually find the VIN on a sticker near the dashboard or attached to the car’s frame by the driver's side door.
• Read the odometer and report how many miles are on your vehicle.

After that’s all done, the initial app reports should be generated, and you’ll see both the user dashboard and welcome screen. That’s it! You’re all connected.

Step 4: Plug in Your Scanner and Follow the Initial Setup

Assuming you found the correct port in step 2, now it’s time to plug in your scanner. Doing so is fairly simple; there’s only one way the connector can attach to the port — one side is smaller than the other.

The first thing you’ll see on your scan tool when it powers up is the language selection interface. Choose your preferred language and then choose your preferred unit of measurement: standard or metric.

After that, you’ll have the option to pair the RepairSolutions 2 app with your scanner if you downloaded it in the previous step. You should also see the setup screen on your phone, within the app, if you’ve registered for an account. If you want to skip this, simply press the return ⏎ button on the device.

From there, the scanner will display firmware and diagnostics information for the device itself, and then it will connect with your vehicle. After that, you’ll have the freedom to interact with various tools the scanner provides, read diagnostic information about your vehicle, or check real-time (live) data.

The M or Menu button is your most reliable option to start. The LD button provides access to the live or real-time data. The FF-DTC button shows you any flagged diagnostic codes and allows you to engage the Freeze Frame function.

That’s all there is to it for now. Be sure to access those tutorial videos if there’s something more advanced or specific you want to do with the tool. If you don’t have one yet, go order one! The 5210 is available on Amazon, too. The advanced scanners from Innova are one of the best and most reliable ways to diagnose modern vehicles.

We highly recommend that everyone has access to these tools, regardless of DIY skill.

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