FAQ
TL;DR: Forum fixes show “almost 90%” of CAN Clip disconnects trace to a broken probe‑side USB connector; “secure the connector” and try a new USB A–B cable before deeper repairs. Replace crystals only after connector checks. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16657761]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Renault CAN Clip users stop random USB dropouts quickly, cheaply, and safely for DIY and shop use.
Quick Facts
- Typical first fix: swap the bundled USB A–B cable with a standard printer cable. [Elektroda, sadek1979, post #16649886]
- Approx. cost for a basic printer cable: PLN 10. [Elektroda, sadek1979, post #16655743]
- Probe-side connector can loosen at the head; secure it against breakout. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16649891]
- Replacing the “quartz” (crystal resonators) improved stability for one user. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16654337]
- Higher‑quality “gold version” Clip boards show fewer problems than the cheapest clones. [Elektroda, tomrom1985, post #19064655]
Why does my Renault CAN Clip keep disconnecting?
The most common cause reported is a cracked or loose probe‑side USB connector. One repairer noted “almost 90%” of faults are that connector. Cable swaps can help, but prioritize reinforcing or re‑soldering the probe USB jack first to restore stability. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16657761]
Will changing the USB cable fix the “peripheral device disconnected” error?
Often, yes. Replace the bundled lead with a known‑good USB A–B printer cable. Poor cables cause intermittent power or data loss, which Windows then reports as a disconnection. Test with a short, quality cable before opening the probe. [Elektroda, sadek1979, post #16649886]
What cable should I buy for Renault CAN Clip?
Use a standard USB A–B printer cable. Keep it short and undamaged. A basic replacement is inexpensive, around PLN 10 in local shops. You do not need exotic materials or audiophile features. [Elektroda, sadek1979, post #16655743]
Do I need double shielding and ferrite chokes on the cable?
No. A normal accessories‑store cable is sufficient for stable operation. As one moderator summarized, skip the “wired voodoo” and focus on a decent, ordinary cable and a sound connector. [Elektroda, Anonymous/mod robokop, post #16656704]
How do I secure the probe-side USB connector to stop dropouts?
Inspect the probe head for a loosened USB jack. Reinforce the jack mechanically and protect it against breakout with strain relief or epoxy, then re‑seat the plug firmly. “They must be secured against breaking out.” [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16649891]
What do the CAN LEDs mean when the tool disconnects?
If CAN LEDs go dark during a dropout and later return, the probe lost power or logic sync. After changing crystals, one user saw LEDs stay on while software still lost signal, pointing to data‑path issues instead of power. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16654337]
Should I replace the “quartz” crystals to fix instability?
Consider it only after cable and connector fixes. One user reported better stability after swapping the crystal resonators, but residual dropouts remained until other issues were addressed. Replace crystals if timing looks suspect. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16654337]
Could my PCs USB port be the culprit?
Yes. The OP observed the tool went dead until reassembled, then revived, and asked about a damaged USB port. Test on another USB port and a different PC to confirm port integrity. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16702356]
Which laptops pair best with Clip clones?
Some users report better stability with older Dell and IBM laptops; one cited an IBM R40e as most reliable. Testing on legacy hardware can isolate host‑side compatibility issues. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16657761]
How can I diagnose Clip disconnects in 3 quick steps?
- Replace the USB A–B cable with a short, good printer cable.
- Inspect and secure the probe‑side USB jack for cracks or movement.
- Test on a second laptop/port to rule out the host.
“90%” point to the connector. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16657761]
Is the gold version Clip more reliable than the cheapest clone?
Yes. Community feedback notes that the lowest‑cost clones are prone to hangs, while the “gold version” boards reduce such problems. If buying, favor the better‑built variant. [Elektroda, tomrom1985, post #19064655]
What is CAN bus in this context?
CAN bus is the vehicle network the Clip monitors. When the tool loses USB stability, the software may show CAN signal loss and CAN LEDs may extinguish, even if the car network is fine. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16654337]
What is the “RLT2002 head” reference about?
A user warned the connector can drop at the head side and must be secured against breaking out. If your head assembly uses that style, reinforce it to prevent intermittent contact. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16649891]
Which crystals did you replace? Any part numbers?
The thread mentions replacing the “quartz” resonators but does not list part numbers. Inspect your board to read frequency markings, then match replacements accordingly. [Elektroda, tomrom1985, post #17040255]
Edge case: Why do disconnects persist after new cable and crystals?
One user still saw dropouts until reassembling the probe, after which it revived. That points to intermittent internal connections or mechanical stress. Reflow suspect joints and add strain relief. [Elektroda, zbiniu85, post #16702356]
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