# OpenVehicleDiag

> Open Source software for working with cars onboard computers

**Wikidata**: [Q128034409](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q128034409)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/openvehiclediag

## Summary
OpenVehicleDiag (OVD) is an open-source software tool designed for interacting with and diagnosing vehicles' onboard computers. Developed by Ashcon Mohseninia, it provides libre access to its source code under a permissive license, enabling users to work with automotive systems without relying on proprietary solutions. The software supports features like SocketCAN for Raspberry Pi integration, facilitating DIY and professional vehicle diagnostics.

## Key Facts
- **Developer**: Ashcon Mohseninia.
- **Initial Release**: Version 1.0.0 on April 21, 2021.
- **Latest Stable Version**: 1.0.5 (released May 15, 2021).
- **Source Code Repository**: Hosted on GitHub at [https://github.com/rnd-ash/OpenVehicleDiag](https://github.com/rnd-ash/OpenVehicleDiag).
- **Short Name**: OVD (Open Vehicle Diagnostics).
- **Key Features**: Supports SocketCAN for Raspberry Pi, enabling ECU diagnostics.
- **License**: Permissive open-source license (source code access guaranteed, modification terms unspecified).
- **Documentation URLs**: Discussed on [mhhauto.com](https://mhhauto.com/Thread-Open-Vehicle-Diagnostics-OVD) and [hackster.io](https://www.hackster.io/news/ashcon-mohseninia-s-openvehiclediag-hits-1-0-0-adds-socketcan-support-for-raspberry-pi-ecu-diags-4ec7e27ad6ce).

## FAQs
### Q: What is OpenVehicleDiag used for?
A: OpenVehicleDiag is used for diagnosing and communicating with vehicles' onboard computers (ECUs), providing an open-source alternative to proprietary automotive diagnostic tools.

### Q: Who developed OpenVehicleDiag?
A: The software was developed by Ashcon Mohseninia, with active maintenance and updates reflected in its GitHub repository.

### Q: Does OpenVehicleDiag support Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, as of version 1.0.0, it includes SocketCAN support for Raspberry Pi, enabling users to perform ECU diagnostics using the device.

## Why It Matters
OpenVehicleDiag addresses the need for affordable, accessible automotive diagnostic tools in a field dominated by proprietary software. By offering open-source code and support for low-cost hardware like Raspberry Pi, it democratizes vehicle diagnostics for hobbyists, researchers, and small workshops. Its development timeline, with rapid updates from 1.0.0 to 1.0.5 in under a month, reflects active community engagement and responsiveness to user needs. This tool not only reduces reliance on expensive commercial solutions but also fosters innovation in automotive technology by enabling customization and reverse engineering of vehicle systems.

## Notable For
- **SocketCAN Integration**: First to add Raspberry Pi support via SocketCAN for ECU diagnostics.
- **Open-Source Accessibility**: Provides free, modifiable code under a permissive license, unlike proprietary tools.
- **Rapid Development**: Released two stable versions (1.0.0 and 1.0.5) within a month in 2021, indicating strong developer commitment.
- **Community Recognition**: Featured on platforms like Hackster.io and mhhauto.com, highlighting its relevance to automotive enthusiasts.

## Body
### Development History
- **Version 1.0.0**: Released on April 21, 2021, introducing foundational diagnostic capabilities and SocketCAN support for Raspberry Pi.
- **Version 1.0.5**: Launched on May 15, 2021, as the latest stable release, incorporating bug fixes and improvements.

### Technical Features
- **SocketCAN Compatibility**: Enables communication with vehicle ECUs using Raspberry Pi hardware.
- **Target Audience**: Designed for DIY enthusiasts, automotive technicians, and researchers requiring customizable diagnostic tools.

### Licensing & Access
- **Source Code**: Hosted publicly on GitHub under a permissive license, ensuring free access to the original code.
- **Modification Rights**: While the license guarantees source code access, specific terms for modification and redistribution are not detailed in the provided sources.

### Community & Support
- **Documentation**: Supplementary resources available via threads on mhhauto.com and news coverage on Hackster.io.
- **Development Status**: Actively maintained by Ashcon Mohseninia, with updates tracked through GitHub releases.

## References

1. [Release 1.0.0. 2021](https://github.com/rnd-ash/OpenVehicleDiag/releases/tag/v1.0.0)
2. [Release 1.0.5. 2021](https://github.com/rnd-ash/OpenVehicleDiag/releases/tag/v1.0.5)