Installation Notes on Specific Harnesses

HRN-GS16K2, HRN-GS09K2, HRN-GR09K1, and HRN-BD16S5

WARNING! California state law prohibits relocating the in-vehicle diagnostic connector during installation. If you are installing a Geotab harness or adapter, please follow the Direct Plug-In installation instructions in the relevant installation guide to avoid violating state law. Alternatively, you may be able to use an extension or conversion harness to install the GO device directly into the OBDII port or another emissions diagnostic data link connector port. For more information on Geotab harnesses and adapters, please refer to our Harness Identification and Application guide.

1. HRN-GS16K2 Installation - Direct Plug-In
2. HRN-GS09K2 Installation - Direct Plug-In
3. HRN-GR09K1 Installation - Direct Plug-In

Alternatively, telematics devices can be installed directly into the OBDII port using an extension/conversion harness that plugs directly into the OBDII port or other emissions diagnostic data link connector port. For more information on Geotab harnesses and adapters, see Harness Identification and Application.

HRN-CS14S21 & HRN-CS14T2

This harness is designed to draw power from the vehicle from PIN 14. However, in some situations, the vehicle may receive power from PIN 1. To prevent this, please follow these instructions when installing the harness:

1. Install the harness and check that the Telematics Device can power on.
2. If yes, the install is complete.
3. If not, check which PIN is providing power — PIN 1 or PIN 14.
4. If the power is on PIN 14 and the device is still not turning on, contact Support.
5. If the power is on PIN 1, move the PIN on the connector from PIN 14 to PIN 1.

✱ NOTE: This harness is only compatible with Telematics Devices that are on firmware version X.23.XX or newer.

✱ NOTE: If the pins (1 & 14) attached to the harness do not function, or if alternate power is desired, connect the exposed wire on the battery connector to an active power source while the vehicle is off.

16-Pin Harnesses NA, EU and AUS

For heavy-duty trucks, always use a vehicle-specific harness when offered by the Telematics Provider or vehicle manufacturer. Where a heavy-duty truck-specific harness is not offered by the Telematics Provider or the vehicle manufacturer, use the adapter harness (HRN-CG13S1) for any 16-pin (OBDII) installation method to avoid possible Telematics Device damage.

Hardware Selection for Different Physical Environments

You must select the right Telematics hardware suitable for your specific installation environment and vehicle use. For installations where exposure to the elements (for example, liquids, dust, or interior wet cleaning/powerwash) is anticipated, the Rugged Telematics Device is the device to select (version 8 rated IP67, version 9 rated IP68 and IP69K), otherwise the standard Telematics Device may be used. For additional information regarding environmental contaminants, see the applicable Installation Instructions - Important Safety Information & Limitations of Use.

✱ NOTES:

1. Your Telematics provider does not permit third-party enclosures to be combined with standard Telematics Devices to act as a substitute for the IP-rated Rugged Telematics Device.
2. Telematics Devices generation 9 and newer have remote water intrusion sensing capabilities. The moisture detection will result in a device fault (visible in customer database/portal).
3. Resellers are responsible for correct device selection based on their customer’s application.

Installation Notes on Specific Vehicles

Ford Fusion (All Years)

The Telematics Device cannot be installed directly to the ALDL connector (due to the location of the connector). An extension harness is likely needed during installation.

Ford Models with SDLC (2015+)

Use two cable ties to secure the HRN-GS16K22-A to the Factory Ford OBDII module as shown above.

✱ NOTE: Over tightening cable ties may lead to damaging the harness connector

2009 Nissan UD

The Telematics Device must be connected to the 9-pin diagnostic connector (do not connect directly to the 16-pin ALDL connector) in order to receive engine data correctly.

Ford Sterling (Multiple Years)

In some model years, this vehicle may have an ABS Check button near the diagnostic connector. If it exists, ensure the device and/or cable-tie are not installed in such a manner as to obstruct or inadvertently trigger the button (see image below).

Telematics Devices and Third-Party Devices

We have experienced issues with Telematics Devices and certain aftermarket third-party devices from certain manufacturers (e.g. wheelchair lifts and idle mode controllers). Generally, these specific devices do not work well with the Telematics Device or any other devices plugged into the diagnostic port. Symptoms you may experience include the vehicle failing to start or being unable to shift out of park.

To assist with this, some manufacturers provide a Gateway Module connector that allows another device to be plugged into the diagnostic connector. This allows the Telematics Device and other diagnostic tools to work in conjunction with the third-party device.

Wheelchair Lifts

Intermotive/Interlock

When the Advanced Fast Idle System (AFIS Series) is in use, the Telematics Device must be plugged into the Gateway Module (which must be purchased from Intermotive directly), otherwise the device will need to be put into Listen-Only Mode (limited/no engine data). Contact your dealer/Reseller for more information.

Braun/Braunability

Currently no Gateway Module exists. You must keep the device in Listen-Only Mode (limited/no engine data). Contact your dealer/Reseller for more information.

Ricon/Wabtec

Currently no Gateway Module exists. You must keep the device in Listen-Only Mode (limited/no engine data). Contact your dealer/Reseller for more information.

Maxon

Currently no Gateway Module exists. You must keep the device in Listen-Only Mode (limited/no engine data). Contact your dealer/Reseller for more information.

Vehicle/Battery Kill Switch

This is also known as the Emergency/Power off switch. Select vehicles offer the operator the ability to cut off battery power to all the vehicle’s electronic systems. HRN-BD16K1 is available for Positive cutoff only. Your Telematics Provider strongly discourages standard installation of a Telematics Device in these vehicles. For vehicles with such battery switches — Customers are encouraged to seek an alternate method of installation that offers continuous power to the Telematics Device, in the event the Vehicle Kill Switch is engaged. Failing to adhere may result in some engine data being lost until the Telematics Device finishes post-reset provisioning.

Third-Party Car Alarms

Certain third-party car alarms may trigger during ignition off periods when the Telematics Device sends out heartbeats. This occurs because the Telematics Devices turn on at regular intervals to send a hello message and download new parameters, as required. Due to the device turning on, the alarm system may indicate there is activity in the vehicle and cause the alarm to trigger.

There are two solutions to this:

1. Adjust the sensitivity on the third-party car alarm to not set off when the vehicle is turned off and the network is actively communicating.
2. Turn off heartbeats on the Telematics Device so that no communication occurs during ignition-off periods. This can be done through a custom parameter. Please contact your dealer/Reseller for further information.

Other Considerations on Telematics Device and Third-Party Devices

Over time, we have learned that connecting a Telematics Device to a vehicle where a third-party device is present can cause the third-party device to lose functionality. This includes, but is not limited to: wheelchair lifts, idle control modules, PTOs, and scan tools.

If the method of communication for the third-party device does not use standard OBDII commands, or if the third-party device is not interoperable on a vehicle network with a Telematics Device, or another third-party device, the Customer should contact their Reseller Support to enable Listen-Only Mode on the Telematics Device.

Customers are also encouraged to contact the third-party device vendor to inquire about a compatibility mode setting. If a compatibility mode is not available, Customers can request to apply Listen-Only Mode to their devices. If a compatibility mode is available and enabled, Listen-Only Mode is not required. Also, our Telematics Devices have firmware logic to halt requests if excessive errors are detected on the vehicle’s CAN network.

✱ NOTE: When in Listen-Only Mode, all vehicle types (except J1939 or GM) have reduced engine data support. For example, a device cannot request Revolutions per minute (RPM), or calculate idle time accurately.

In the event that a third-party scanning device is connected after the Telematics Device is connected, the Telematics Device will detect the presence of the new hardware, and temporarily stop requesting OBDII parameters (limited/no engine data). This repeats every 10 minutes, until the scanning device is removed. Customers have the option to request parameters that adjust the Telematics Device’s sensitivity, whilst in the presence of other third-party hardware.

Vehicle Specific Bulletins

2012-2017 Camry Hybrid — Potential Dash Warning Lights

We have detected that some 2012–2017 models of the Toyota Camry Hybrid display intermittent dashboard warning lights when connected to a version 7 Telematics Device with product ID 111, or version 8 Telematics Device with product ID 114. Our investigation has determined that the unique electrical characteristics inside the impacted vehicles can cause damage to the device circuitry, leading to the symptoms described. We have designed and tested a new type of Telematics Device (product ID 113 for version 7, and product ID 115 for version 8). Going forward, we will only be producing this new Telematics Device type.

2012-2014 Ford Focus — TSB — Engine Lights

We are aware of a Ford Focus Service Bulletin impacting all 2012–2014 Ford Focuses. The bulletin indicates that there is the potential in these vehicles for the CAN circuit, located on the underside of the front passenger seat, to short to ground. This issue can cause erratic behavior to occur inside the vehicle. Possible symptoms include engine warning lights appearing on the dash, loss of power steering/brakes, failure to start the vehicle, and the potential for the vehicle to stall while moving.

! IMPORTANT: The likelihood of these symptoms occurring is higher with a version 6 Telematics Device installed.

We strongly recommend that any Customer using a version 6 device in a 2012–2014 Ford Focus have the vehicle serviced under the TSB Reference #ASI-44460 before continuing to use the Telematics Device in the vehicle.

More information on this issue is available here:

1. http://www.fordproblems.com/tsbs/Focus/2014/
2. http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues

NHTSA Reference #10055324, TSB Reference #ASI-44460

2009-2010 Blue Bird BB Conventional — Engine Light Flashing

Some Blue Bird vehicles flicker their engine warning lights when confronted with a request for Service Distance Remaining. When this occurs, the engine responds with “0xFFFF'' indicating it cannot support the request. However, the instrument cluster interprets this as a potential engine issue, and triggers a warning. The request is made on all J1939 vehicles during the first installation, and again for each subsequent firmware update. While it is impossible to prevent flickering during the first installation, the request is later stored in the device memory, and cannot be made again if the first installation does not receive a valid response.

2017+ Kenworth and Peterbilt Trucks with Paccar Engines

2017+ Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks with MX-series Paccar engines equipped with a generation 9 or newer Telematics Device require either the HRN-GS09K2 or the HRN-DR09S4, to capture additional engine data. For installations with a Telematic Device prior to generation 9, an additional adapter harness (HRN-BS04A1) is required to gather additional engine data. The adapter harness is not required with version 9 Telematics Devices.

Volvo/Mack HD Truck

For North American Volvo (2004 or newer)/Mack (2019 or newer) heavy-duty trucks , use HRN-CM24Y1 + HRN-CE10K2. HRN-GS16K22-A with HRN-CG13S1-A can be used successfully. Soon, the HRN-GS16K22-HD will be available for Volvo / MACK.

Ethernet Updates on BMW G Series Vehicles

HRN-GS16K22-A harness has an Ethernet bypass disconnect for Pins 3 & 11.

2019+ Subaru Starlink Interference

We have determined that select 2019+ Subaru vehicles equipped with the Starlink system may display a message or alert on the vehicle dashboard when a third-party device is installed. To mitigate this issue, we have developed a firmware fix available on firmware version XXX.28.30. Customers should contact their authorized telematics Reseller to verify the devices are on the latest firmware version.

Mercedes me Interference

Telematics Provider has identified an incompatibility with select light duty Mercedes vehicles model year 2017 or newer equipped with the Mercedes me platform in parallel with a Telematics Devices version 8 or older. A message may appear on the dashboard of the vehicle indicating, “Mercedes me service limited, see user manual” when a version 8 or below Telematics Device initiates a request on the CAN network. To work around this issue, Customers are encouraged to install a version 9 Telematics Device or alternatively, contact their Telematics Service Provider to apply Listen-Only Mode to the affected devices.

John Deere 324K and other Machines

We have identified when a GO-RUGGED is connected with a HRN-GR09K1-A, all bucket controls operation is lost. It is required to cut and cap pins F and G on the HRN-GR09K1-A harness to ensure operation of the machine.

Vehicle Specific Bulletins — Europe

Mercedes Truck & Bus Dash Message

We have identified an incompatibility between our Telematics Device and the following Mercedes-Benz vehicle models: Actros, Antos, Arocs, Atego, and Axor and Tourismo Buses. When a third-party device (i.e. a Telematics Device) is installed into the OBDII port in the vehicles listed above, a message may appear on the dashboard. This message does not indicate an actual DTC or engine fault, rather the message is an Information message. Third-party device installation may interfere with the real-time display of the tachograph Driving Hours data; however, the recorded tachograph data is not affected.

Mercedes-Benz provides two options to circumvent the device incompatibility. However, both options require a qualified Mercedes Engineer to service the vehicle and may impact the engine data available from the vehicle. For more information, please click https://installguides.geotab.com/Guide/HRN-GS16K22-A+Ethernet+Bypass/265 or contact your OEM-authorized service garage. You also have the option to contact and request your Telematics Service Provider to apply the Listen-Only Mode to the affected devices to disable the information alert referenced above.

✱ NOTE: This workaround also minimizes the number of engine data requests from the Telematics Device.

An alternative option is to install a version 9 Telematics Device using HRN-CW03K3 and IOX-UREADER. In this configuration, the Telematics Device will not require Listen-Only Mode and will report engine data.

European Volvo Truck & Bus Interference

We have identified a potential issue when a third-party device (i.e. a Telematics Device) is installed in 2013 or newer Euro 6 Volvo buses. When the CAN line receives multiple VIN requests, the vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) may react by shutting down while idling. To work around this issue, Customers are encouraged to contact their Reseller Support prior to installation to enable a parameter on the Telematics Device to disable the VIN request.

Scania Dashboard Interference

We have identified an interoperability issue between the Telematics Device and select Euro 6 Scania vehicles: a dashboard message may appear as a result of a VIN request. To work around the issue, Customers are encouraged to contact their Reseller Support prior to installation to enable a parameter on the Telematics Device to disable the VIN request.

Device Incompatibility in Select Iveco Euro 6 Bus and Truck Models

There is an incompatibility between Telematics Devices prior to version 9, and select Iveco Euro 6 bus and truck models. When a Telematics Device and an external scan tool are connected simultaneously, tests show that excessive voltage — damage to the device can occur. To workaround the issue, it is recommended that you temporarily remove the device before connecting a scan tool. Improvements in Telematics Device version 9 will prevent this issue from recurring in Iveco vehicles.