Diagnostics/scanning tools - what/how/which

Mar4ix · 28-07-2019 3:00pm #1

Hi folks, looking for car scanning tool for one my friend, who is not really in to electronics, but he needed it, as qiet offten need for his and his miss car. Because he lives good bit distance from me, some times i am unable help him.

So looking to get a tool for him, i think about handheld device, not mad expencive, but pretty much capble.

I am goin tomorow to visit him to do diagnostics and clear faults( recently was oil pump shaft broken and turbo on his audi, after repair audi is in permanent limp mode) so might somebody could advice good and reasonably priced scanner.

Thanks

biko · 28-07-2019 4:23pm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8Xz7-T9wAs

I just use a ELM327 from ebay (ten euro or so) and Torque app myself

Mar4ix · 28-07-2019 6:09pm

biko wrote: »

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8Xz7-T9wAs

I just use a ELM327 from ebay (ten euro or so) and Torque app myself

Yea, thats a good option, but my friend not good with electronics, phones or different connections. Bluetooth for him is too complicated.

Looking more kind of stright foreword, handheld with wire, so would be easy enough me explain for him step by step.

dodzy · 29-07-2019 10:31am

Mar4ix wrote: »

Yea, thats a good option, but my friend not good with electronics, phones or different connections. Bluetooth for him is too complicated.

Looking more kind of stright foreword, handheld with wire, so would be easy enough me explain for him step by step.

No offense, but if BT is too complicated for him............

samjames · 17-08-2019 10:10am

can you get a scanner or laptop software at about few hundred that would erase fault codes of most cars, i was looking at launch and theres alot of scanners to choose from and then autocom but can someone recommend something thats good please

samjames · 17-08-2019 12:02pm

Mar4ix wrote: »

Yea, thats a good option, but my friend not good with electronics, phones or different connections. Bluetooth for him is too complicated.

Looking more kind of stright foreword, handheld with wire, so would be easy enough me explain for him step by step.

http://www.uobdii.com/wholesale/launch-x431-crp429c-auto-diagnostic-tool.html

anyone have this, was thinking of purchasing it but not sure

scannerd · 17-08-2019 8:56pm

pm sent with good source for launch tools

greasepalm · 27-08-2019 10:49pm

I was advised by a mate to get a Autel maxicom mk808 for garage as an upgrade from a brain bee and auto boss and needed to update subscription costing e125 per year something that gets overlooked when buying one.

Did the early elm hook up to laptop and usb port also an idea if he has a laptop.+ many things getting used with android phones.

somorain · 30-10-2019 11:24am

scannerd wrote: »

pm sent with good source for launch tools

@scannerd : Can you recommend a WiFi OBD2 scan tool that supports wireless infrastructure mode?

Wanderer78 · 01-11-2019 6:30pm

im looking for a recommendation for a diagnostic tool, preferably no more than 100 euro, thats capable of checking airbag issues? thanks folks

zilog_jones · 07-11-2019 11:22am

From what I know, for anything outside of the ECU you'd need manufacturer-specific diagnostics stuff, or maybe the high-end professional products from the likes of Snap-on.

Polo_Cluvie · 14-11-2019 2:07am

Hi guys anyone ever used the carista pro app for electronic park brake service etc?

Magown3 · 14-11-2019 10:07am

Hi,

I've a BMW and would like to purchase a hand held odb2 scanner that will show me fault codes and also force a regen of my dpf.

Anyone out there recommend one that's less than 100 yoyo's?

On the other hand, if there's one out there that you can recommend that can also program the car, I'd be willing to push the budget. Want video in motion and maybe add a reverse camera to the screen.

Cheers

biko · 14-11-2019 8:37pm

Magown3, have a look at the youtube video I posted above, maybe something there will suit.

jmreire · 14-11-2019 8:54pm

I use the MB iCarsoft 11 OBD reader, and find it very good for what I need..it allow's you to clear existing faults, but not to go too deep, and do damage. It costs about €150, and if you are interested in it, make sure that you buy from registered iCarsoft dealers, as otherwise, you will not be able to access the updates. I got mine from UK Direct. The one that I have is MB specific, but they make them for several makes, so google them ... www.iCarsoft.com have a look and see if you can find what you need.

FishOnABike · 24-01-2020 11:45am

Can anyone reccomend an android mobile app that can read Ford Focus ABS module error codes or even just read / display the wheel sensor data ?

I'm using a bluetooth OBDII adapter (https://xtrons.com/catalog/product/view/id/901/s/obd-ii-scanner-tool-obd01/). I usually use Torque and find it good but it doesn't read ABS fault codes and neither do any of the several other apps I've tried.

tech · 28-01-2020 10:42pm

looking for good Diag Tool for cars

I have heard of Delphi and found this diag tool

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/R3-CDP-VCI-OBD2-Car-Diagnostic-Tool-Scanning-Apparatus-Bluetooth-For-Software/283705530031?_trkparms=aid%3D1110001%26algo%3DSPLICE.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140131123730%26meid%3D332220d60d5d4f3787b5becc74d3508e%26pid%3D100167%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D15%26mehot%3Dpp%26sd%3D274161745527%26itm%3D283705530031%26pmt%3D1%26noa%3D1%26pg%3D5411&_trksid=p5411.c100167.m2940

just wondering are these any good or what should I be looking for ?

tech · 02-02-2020 1:10pm

anyone?

Row · 02-02-2020 2:23pm

tech wrote: »

anyone?

Its very good on cars/vans/trucks up to 2012 but after that it's not so good even tho its 2016 software.

tech · 02-02-2020 6:02pm

Thanks Row, what would you recommend software and hardware instead of Delphi and the diag tool

Row · 02-02-2020 7:15pm

tech wrote: »

Thanks Row, what would you recommend software and hardware instead of Delphi and the diag tool

Launch X431 is pretty good and is good value plus the sw is up to 2020.
Autel ap 200 is also pretty good but i would put launch ahead of it...both can reset service, program injectors,Wind back rear calipers, Force dpf regeration etc on most new makes models.
Let me know if you need more Info.. ðŸ‘

tech · 02-02-2020 7:21pm

thanks can you give me more info on these many thanks

Row · 02-02-2020 7:27pm

tech wrote: »

thanks can you give me more info on these many thanks

Depends what you will be doing..?
1,Full time mechanic using diagnostics more than 5 times a day.
2,Part time mechanic using diagnostics 5 times per week
3,Diyer using diagnostics Once per month.

tech · 02-02-2020 7:28pm

option 3! tks:)

Row · 02-02-2020 7:31pm

tech wrote: »

option 3! tks:)

Whats your budget..?

tech · 02-02-2020 8:05pm

150 -200

i have the Delphi 2016 software.

Row · 02-02-2020 8:20pm

tech wrote: »

150 -200

i have the Delphi 2016 software.

If your only going using it as diy and you have the 2016 sw then your eBay link is a good starter point...ðŸ‘

tech · 02-02-2020 8:22pm

just need to confirm that ebay link device will work with the Delphi.

Row · 02-02-2020 8:31pm

tech wrote: »

just need to confirm that ebay link device will work with the Delphi.

Yes it should work with delphi autocom and Wurth sw...the quality of these boxes vary so you pay for what ya get.. ðŸ™‚

tech · 04-02-2020 7:12pm

ok thanks

Jonsturbo2 · 12-02-2020 8:08am

Hi ,
Thinking of purchasing an OBD blue tooth reader has anyone any advice or own one they can recommend. I don’t mind paying around 100 Euro for a good one . Or do the 20 Euro ones do the same job ?
Checking for stored error codes is what I want it for as don’t really need the fancy dash display, unless someone says it’s very handy of course

scannerd · 12-02-2020 8:11pm

cheap readers will only read/clear "open" ODB codes & data that manufactures have to allow access to by law, mostly engine / emissions - if that all your after 20 euro one will do with various fee apps such as "torque"

next level up will allow you to access more systems like airbags, ABS etc, (need to carefully check spec)and some manufacturer codes normally 100-400 range

professional level will read data and codes on all systems, plus will allow you to active various systems for testing, run special functions etc, sky is the limit but can be had for 500 up

carly (model specific) Autel and Launch are good new options in the "above 20 euro" range, or you can be into a good used snapon reader for 500

zg3409 · 16-04-2020 6:30pm

FishOnABike wrote: »

Can anyone reccomend an android mobile app that can read Ford Focus ABS module error codes or even just read / display the wheel sensor data ?

I'm using a bluetooth OBDII adapter (https://xtrons.com/catalog/product/view/id/901/s/obd-ii-scanner-tool-obd01/). I usually use Torque and find it good but it doesn't read ABS fault codes and neither do any of the several other apps I've tried.

Depending on model forscan on a windows pc with a USB to ODB adapter with a cable (10 euro) may be able to do this. Forscan is free (mostly) and is a DIY effort for nearly new Mazda and ford cars with odb. Look up your specific car to see if someone has got it to work before. I have programmed additional keys, DPF tests and resets etc.

https://forscan.org/

Its not exactly simple, but is cheap

two wheels good · 04-05-2020 9:28am

Airbag warning light on in a VW Polo 1.2L petrol
OBD reader needed to diagnose and reset.

Any recommendations for a suitable DIY unit that will do this job but also have functionality that might be useful on other likely jobs or other cars in the family.

It seems I need OBDII standard. I don't think I need real-time readings, data plotting or printing.
More inclined to a self-contained unit than a bluetooth-ed plug and downloaded software.

I'm considering this reader (€29) in Mick's Garage and I see stacks of them for sale on Adverts.
Some advice/recommendations welcome. Thanks.

John.G · 04-05-2020 9:56am

I don't think seat belt faults are part of a OBD standard.

scannerd · 04-05-2020 12:59pm

that basic reader will not read airbag / restraint system codes

two wheels good · 04-05-2020 2:00pm

Thanks. Seat belt faults? Didn't know that was a possibility.
I was thinking the likely culprits were: seat/steering wheel connections or disable key-switch. All the more reason to get the right diagnostic.

I'll do some more searching. Any suggestions still welcome.

[Edit]
Looking at that very helpful youtube video posted earlier and a related website. Hard to justify £115 for a unit with the diagnostic facilty.
But I found a youtube video of a cheapo unit (U281) that did reset the airbag light - on a Polo. Tempting...

corollake35 · 29-05-2020 5:12pm

Hi all, I'm looking for a recommendation for an OBD2 scanner / reader that will definitely work on a 2011 opel insignia 2.0 diesel. Something like the Autophix OM123 which I seen being used on YouTube but cannot locate in Ireland. Ideally something cheap €20-€40. I have a reader already, but refuses to read insignia. Any help appreciated. Oh, and I'd like to purchase in Ireland if possible.

Earnshaw · 29-05-2020 5:52pm

Is there likely to be an issue if I use this to erase a code? The code relates to the EGR system.

corollake35 · 29-05-2020 6:27pm

Can't say for sure, but when I delete the fault code, it doesn't do damage, but it will reappear if the fault isn't fixed.

Mad_Mike · 30-05-2020 11:02am

It's similar to clicking a dismiss warning on a PC telling you that you need to reboot or something
It will sometimes clear it for a while, some codes will come up almost instantly again (lambda sensor on a Fiat Punto)
In my own experience, with an EGR warning on a Passat diesel, it used to clear it for a day, maybe two, then would pop up again until like @corollake35 says, the EGR issue is actually fixed and then once cleared, it stays gone

PukkaStukka · 01-06-2020 10:41pm

Anyone recommend a scan tool that does manufacturer as well as OBD engine fault codes and reset oil change on an Opel Vivaro 2ltr diesel. I'd appreciate someone that is certain from personal experience about what works rather then a good guess what might.

Working class heroes · 08-06-2020 6:22pm

Hi all,
Could someone point me in the right direction for a fault code reader for a 2006 Toyota Landcruiser 3.0 D4D please.
Thanks

BavarianCare · 07-07-2020 8:01pm

two wheels good wrote: »

Airbag warning light on in a VW Polo 1.2L petrol
OBD reader needed to diagnose and reset.

Any recommendations for a suitable DIY unit that will do this job but also have functionality that might be useful on other likely jobs or other cars in the family.

It seems I need OBDII standard. I don't think I need real-time readings, data plotting or printing.
More inclined to a self-contained unit than a bluetooth-ed plug and downloaded software.

I'm considering this reader (€29) in Mick's Garage and I see stacks of them for sale on Adverts.
Some advice/recommendations welcome. Thanks.

The pro level tool is available for DIY price but limited to number of VINs.
There is nothing that compares to VCDS. Nothing except Odis

two wheels good · 11-07-2020 11:52am

I opted to ask a local gge reset it - but the light came on again immediately.
Error was driver's seat circuit open circuit. Now diagnosed as faulty ABS ECU unit.
(Almost four weeks later the saga still continues. Might need to start a new thread for advice.)

scannerd · 11-07-2020 11:02pm

Its a big jump from a driver's seat circuit code to faulty abs unit, but not impossible, hopefully that sorts for you. Codes only give you pointers to the real problem.

cena · 03-08-2020 3:57pm

Has anyone tried this one?

https://www.mycarly.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SEM-EN-Defensive-Search&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6575BRCQARIsAMp-ksMFLK_WxNdE5bHodNbaFX9lyFYQ_-5XW3VhTxfhZFlk7miDJre9LRAaAvqeEALw_wcB

scannerd · 04-08-2020 6:33pm

cena wrote: »

Has anyone tried this one?

https://www.mycarly.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SEM-EN-Defensive-Search&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6575BRCQARIsAMp-ksMFLK_WxNdE5bHodNbaFX9lyFYQ_-5XW3VhTxfhZFlk7miDJre9LRAaAvqeEALw_wcB

Carly is good system, also does option coding which is rare in most other systems, its model specific.

Atomic Pineapple · 30-08-2020 10:55pm

scannerd wrote: »

Carly is good system, also does option coding which is rare in most other systems, its model specific.

Seems to have loads of poor reviews on the Google Play page, mainly to do with the subscription model, which looks to be expensive.

knipex · 27-09-2020 4:41pm

Turns out its more complicated than I thought.

rosstech h\ve them for sale on their site and list an Irish agent, who only lists pro version on their site.

Done deal and adverts full of adds for very cheap cables. Actually bought one came supplied with the software a very genuine looking cable that's marked as a hex-v2 but software recognises as an obsolete hex-usb-can that wont work on my car.

contacted seller who told me I should have installed a cracked loader and put on a dedicated laptop with no antivirus or internet connection.

it's gone in the bin and written off as a lesson learnt..

I'm looking for an enthusiast cable, 3 vins is fine, just to play around with and learn.. Also happy to buy a second hand genuine cable.

Any reputable sellers recommended ?/

smuggler.ie · 27-09-2020 7:28pm

knipex wrote: »

Turns out its more complicated than I thought.

rosstech h\ve them for sale on their site and list an Irish agent, who only lists pro version on their site.

Done deal and adverts full of adds for very cheap cables. Actually bought one came supplied with the software a very genuine looking cable that's marked as a hex-v2 but software recognises as an obsolete hex-usb-can that wont work on my car.

contacted seller who told me I should have installed a cracked loader and put on a dedicated laptop with no antivirus or internet connection.

it's gone in the bin and written off as a lesson learnt..

I'm looking for an enthusiast cable, 3 vins is fine, just to play around with and learn.. Also happy to buy a second hand genuine cable.

Any reputable sellers recommended ?/

search "handythings" on adverts, i used them - no issues
Have no need to use but they claim providing some support
Don't update, and antivirus need to be disabled during install or exclusion
If want genuine - go directly to RossTech

Diagnostics/scanning tools - what/how/which

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