How do I control a car with a joystick using opendbc?

Use the `examples/joystick.py` script, which maps joystick inputs to CAN messages for steering, gas, and brakes. You'll need compatible comma hardware and a supported car model to run it effectively.

What's the difference between opendbc and openpilot?

opendbc is the CAN database and Python API for vehicle interfacing, providing the low-level control layer. openpilot is the full ADAS system that uses opendbc to implement features like lane keeping and adaptive cruise control.

Can I use opendbc without buying comma hardware?

While possible with generic CAN interfaces, opendbc is tightly integrated with comma hardware like the panda for safety firmware. Using other hardware may require significant adaptation and lack official support.

How long does it take to add support for a new car model?

It varies widely based on car complexity, but a basic lateral control port can take weeks of reverse engineering and tuning. Community contributions and existing similar car ports can reduce this time.

Is opendbc safe to test on public roads?

The safety firmware enforces controls to prevent unsafe actions, but testing should be done cautiously in controlled environments. Always adhere to local regulations and use the safety modes appropriately.

Which cars have the most complete support in opendbc?

Check the supported cars list in docs/CARS.md; popular models with active community contributions, like many Toyotas and Hondas, often have more complete ports including lateral and longitudinal control.

Open-Awesome

opendbc

MITPythonv0.3.1

A Python API and CAN database for controlling and reading data from modern cars with ADAS interfaces.

GitHub

3.2k stars2.0k forks0 contributors

What is opendbc?

opendbc is a Python API and database for interacting with a car's internal network (CAN bus). It allows developers to read vehicle data like speed and steering angle, and send commands to control steering, acceleration, and braking. The project serves as the foundational layer for the openpilot ADAS system, enabling aftermarket advanced driver-assistance features on supported vehicles.

Target Audience

Automotive engineers, researchers, and hobbyists interested in vehicle reverse engineering, developing ADAS features, or integrating custom software with modern car electronics. It's particularly relevant for those contributing to or building upon the openpilot ecosystem.

Value Proposition

Developers choose opendbc because it provides a well-documented, safety-focused, and community-vetted open-source interface to vehicle CAN buses. Its extensive library of DBC files and structured porting framework significantly lowers the barrier to adding support for new car models compared to starting from scratch.

Overview

a Python API for your car

Use Cases

Best For

Adding openpilot support to a new car model
Reverse engineering CAN messages for vehicle data logging
Building custom vehicle automation or research platforms
Developing aftermarket ADAS or driver-assistance features
Educational projects about automotive networks and control systems
Creating a vehicle management app that reads EV charge status or locks doors

Not Ideal For

Commercial automotive projects requiring certified, vendor-supported CAN interfaces for production vehicles
Hobbyists seeking plug-and-play OBD-II data logging without custom hardware integration
Teams developing infotainment systems that don't require direct control over steering or braking
Projects targeting vehicles without Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) or Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) interfaces

Pros & Cons

Pros

Extensive DBC Library

Includes a large repository of standardized DBC files for various car models in the `opendbc/dbc/` directory, reducing the need to reverse engineer CAN messages from scratch.

Safety-Critical Design

Features functional safety firmware in `opendbc/safety/` that enforces safe message passing, with rigorous testing including MISRA C compliance and 100% line coverage.

Community Porting Framework

Provides a structured library (`opendbc/car/`) and documentation for adding new car support, backed by bounties to incentivize contributions, as highlighted in the roadmap.

Integration with Openpilot

Seamlessly supports the openpilot ADAS system, offering a proven platform for advanced driver-assistance features and access to tools like cabana for reverse engineering.

Cons

Hardware Lock-In

Optimized for comma hardware like the panda and comma four, requiring specific devices for full functionality, which can limit accessibility and increase cost.

Steep Learning Curve

Porting a new car involves reverse engineering CAN messages using tools like cabana and extensive tuning, demanding automotive expertise and time, as acknowledged in the porting guide.

Incomplete Documentation

The roadmap admits car ports need to be made easier, and some aspects rely on community resources like Discord, rather than comprehensive, beginner-friendly guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

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