The entire OBD scan tool and software issue is somewhat of a moving target. Unfortunately there is rarely a single, simple to use, tool that will do everything a vehicle owner needs. OBD tools are mostly generic and will usually read, display and clear the CEL for most all OBD compliant vehicles. Some vehicles have ""manufacturer" specific codes which standard OBD tools should read, however, sometimes the code and/or description is not accurate or misleading.
In general I find that most owners needs both a generic OBIID tool, a manufacturer specific tool and/or software and possibly even some generic software that is able to log and graph data in order to chase and identify difficult issues
Also a FAIR WARNING to all owners. With labor rates typically in the $75-$100+ range for most of the country, many states and cities now requiring SMOG/Emission/Safety inspections it is imperative that your vehicle be in top operating condition and not have a constant CEL/Airbag/ABS light lit on the dashboard. Too many people are "reactive" and only purchase a scan tool when they need one. TRUST me, you want to have a scan tool on hand and at your disposal, you need to know how to use it, be aware of what the "normal" values are and if you have a scan tool on hand, you WILL use if for you car and you WILL find many other friends and family members that the tool will come in handy for. The more you use one of these tools, the better understanding you will have of the codes they generate and you will "hopefully" not knee jerk like the local corner mechanic that only reads part of the DTC description with tunnel vision and if the word O2 sensor or MAF is mention, they immediately replace the part mentioned in the DTC code rather than taking 5 minutes to thing through what the code is trying to convey and identify.
One MAJOR problem I am seeing on a regular basis are cool running engines that are due to soft thermostats with weak springs. I am seeing about 25-30% of the cars/trucks I run across that have soft thermostats. Cool running engines cause reduced fuel economy, reduces overall engine performance, causes crank case water vapor and fuel dilution, oil life reduction and accelerated engine wear. All these issue cost you, the owner/driver money. And for the low cost of a thermostat and the limited time it takes to change the thermostat it is foolish to drive around for years with a cold engine. Note that most engines should operate close to 205F, even if they have a 180-185F thermostat. This is due to the location of the coolant temperature sensor on the output side of the cylinder head in most cars and trucks. Also beware that after outside air temps rise about 70F, a soft thermostat is very hard to identify without quenching the radiator with a spray from a garden hose to super cool the radiator.
Having a OBD tool that can read real time data is IMPORTANT. This means you likely will have to purchase more than one tool. You can have problems with the car and the CEL light never comes on. Lean conditions and coolant temperature problems are some of the very common problems that do not light a CEL light. Engine fuel trims should typically run between 0-3% max. I prefer to see the fuel trims consistently under 2% if possible. Engine coolant temps should typically operate between 200-210F/93-99C under most circumstances. Engines should warm up to operating temperature in approximately 5-7 miles of driving even in the dead of Winter.
So here goes some of the options I have run across and some of which I own and use either daily or weekly.
So for the VW community VCDS(aks VAG-COM) is the defacto OBDII tool and vehicle diagnostic software.
It is a bit tricky to fully use and understand for the true novice, but is a very good tool, but not a cheap option for some. It also requires a Windows laptop or some form of a laptop running Windows to be in the car which can be very cumbersome to use while driving and this is not something you can typically leave in the car like a $15-$20 OBDII wireless interface.
Ross-Tech: VCDS
Other options do exist and at cheaper prices, but may not offer the level of detail as VCDS, but can be a great help in reading DTC codes and clearing CEL light or other modules depending on the tool.
For $46 at the time of this post, the VAG405 generic OBD scan tool with VW specific ability to read and clear OBD DTC codes, airbag codes, ABS codes and possibly even some climate control, convenience module codes and convertible top codes. The only real downside to this specific tool is it does not read real time data such as Fuel Trims, Temperature, MAF reading, etc.
Amazon.com: Hot MaxScan VAG405 Code Reader OBD2 EOBD CAN BUS VW Audi: Car Electronics
Other Autel tools that can read and display real time date are the MaxiScan MS509 and the Autel AL619:
Autel MaxiScan MS509 OBD-II/EOBD Scanner : Amazon.com : Automotive
Amazon.com: Autel AL619 OBDII/CAN Scan Tool: Automotive
So for anyone that has a PC based laptop (Might be able to also run on Apple with Parallels or other Windows boot option as well, but I have not tried this) you may want to consider this ELM Scan 5 USB interface with free OBDWiz software for around $25 on Amazon.
ScanTool 423001 ElmScan 5 Compact OBD-II Scan Tool and OBDwiz Diagnostic Software : Amazon.com : Automotive
Note this is not a VW specific tool, this is a generic OBD__ scan tool program that also will display real time data, graph, record and playback data.
Is this a great tool? No, but it does what is claims
Is this a decent tool that will be helpful? Yes
Is this tool worth around $25? Yes
Note that Amazon pricing can vary wildly at times, but I just looked at this tool the other day and it was around $26. I think when I purchased it a year or more ago, it was close to $30.
I found this tool was adequate, not great, not totally intuitive, but it worked and was able to provide, graph and gather data.
With this kind of price for an OBDII tool that can read and clear codes, read and graph real time data, there is no excuse for everyone not to have one of these in their tool kit.
You can also update the software if you like it and need more advanced features for $90.
ScanTool.net LLC - Premium OBD-2 software for cars and light trucks. - ScanTool.net
As usual, the price will likely increase and you will not have the software installed and working and be familiar with it when you have a problem.
Suggest you be prepared and be ready to address your upcoming issues and have this tool and/or other tools installed, ready and working.
Additional Info for people that are looking for something other than this software. If you have a smart phone or tablet there are some low cost options on the market to consider as well.
Now on to SMART PHONE/TABLET OPTIONS.
There has been a lot of improvement in smart phone/tablet options lately and even some new releases. After using and supporting people using both Android and iProducts for OBDII I am currently a fan of OBDFusion (formerly Touch Scan) for Android and OBDFusion for iProducts. These Apps are from the same vendor and this vendor is very responsive and has made many great improvements and added new features.
Get an OBDII smart phone/tablet App and interface, typically $30 or less. These Apps are usually best for drivability issues and they support Emission Readiness Monitor Status, Freeze Frame and Live/Realtime data. They are also great for Logging data for review after the car has been driven and can really help find usual problems.
Android - OBDFusion (Formerly Touch Scan) for $3.95 and ELM327 OBDII to Bluetooth interface.
iProduct - OBD Fusion for $9.95 and ELM327 OBDII to Wifi interface.
I usually suggest getting the OBDII interfaces from Amazon if you are located in the US/North America. Make sure you choose an interface that indicates that the order will be "Fulfilled by Amazon" otherwise you may be waiting for WEEKS for an interface to arrive from Asia. Ebay is another option, but pay attention where the interface will be shipped from, again weeks for an interface from Asia, so if you can wait and want to try to save some money, go for it, but if you need an interface soon, choose wisely.
UPDATE - Torque used to be the primary Android OBDII App, however, I HIGHLY suggest OBDFusion (Formerly TouchScan) which is easier to use, more reliable and is $1 less than Torque Pro
If you own a Droid Phone or tablet, the OBDFusion (Formerly Touch Scan) App for $3.95
http://newbeetle.org/forums/1-8-liter-turbo/58882-coolant-temp-sensor.html
For $4 coupled with a $15 ODB to Bluetooth adapter like the ELM327 from Amazon is a good alternative or something to have as well as the software mentioned above. This will give you a $20 scan tool that can graph sensors and data, read and clear codes as well as track your driving via GPS and even provide some vehicle performance data.
If you own an iProcuct (iPhone, iTouch or iPad) you can check out OBDFusion for $9.95. Note this App REQUIRES an OBDII to WiFi interface. There are ELM327 WiFi interfaces, make sure you choose the correct WiFi interface for OBDFusion and iProducts.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/obd-fusion-obd2-vehicle-scan/id650684932?mt=8
There are also other Apps such as Rev, Dash Commander, Automatic and others. But search for yourself, read the reviews. In my opinion they can be rather costly as compared to other options and require special and/or expensive interfaces. Additionally I do not think any of these Apps out perform OBDFusion in any way.
Another interesting tool/monitoring device that is reasonably prices is the UltraGuage. Again, this is a generic tool that displays real time data, allows you to track fuel usage, oil change intervals, set threshold alarms for things like Voltage and Temperature. So for under $80, this is another useful device that can be used on any car with a OBDII interface and can even be connected permanently in the car if desired.
UltraGauge Automotive Information Center and OBDII Scan Tool
My current favorite stand alone generic scan tool is the Launch CReaderVI for around $65 best price I have found out of Asia. Unfortunately via even Amazon this tool is a bit over $125 as of this post - LAUNCH 301050074 Diagnostic Code Reader VI : Amazon.com : Automotive
This is one of the few stand along generic scan tools that has a color display and will provide real time graphing of sensors within the tool. The on tool graphing is limited, unfortunately you cannot export it to rescale and play with the graphing data like with OBDFusion or other software based programs.
Even with the limitations on on tool graphing, this is more than most tools offer. The CReader VI also records and will play back the OBD data stream. The only downside is the tool does not have batteries, so you either have to review the recorded data while connected to a OBD port that has power available or use the supplied USB update cable and plug this cable into either a USB port on a computer or some form of USB powered socket similar to ones that are used to charge phone or other portable USB devices.
Search around for info and availability on these and other Launch products.
Some other low cost options that support Emission Readiness, Freeze Frame and Live/Real Time Data-
$33 - Autel AULMS310 - http://www.amazon.com/Autel-AULMS31...=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384296651&sr=8-1&keywords=Autel-AULMS310&tag=5336612389-20
$45 - Autel AutoLink AL319 - http://www.amazon.com/Autel-AutoLin...8822/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384297209&sr=8-1&keywords=al 319&tag=5336612389-20
This looks like an interesting tool, Live Data, Freeze Frame, Emission Readiness Monitor Status, Basic Grasping and Volt/Ohm Meter all in one for under $125 at the moment.
Basic Summary of Features:
Retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes and pending codes
Reads live PCM datastream, live O2 sensor test data, and freeze frame data
Built in Amp/Volt/Ohm multimeter allows you to test amperage (20A max), voltage, resistance, wiring, switched, duty cycle and more
Built in Starting/Charging system testing easily diagnoses vehicle electrical systems
Multilingual menu and DTC definitions (English, Spanish, and French)
The AutoLink AL539 OBD II and Electrical Test tool supports all 10 modes of OBD II for a complete diagnosis. Featuring the unique patented One-Click I/M Readiness Key, graphing digital Multimeter, starting and charging system tests, TFT color display, and a built-in speaker, the versatile, easy-to-use AL539 will streamline automotive service and help ensure a rapid, accurate diagnosis and timely repair.
Autel AL539 OBDII and Electrical Test Tool with AVO Meter : Amazon.com : Automotive
In the short term, for anyone that does not have a scan tool yet and needs to have codes read, a few option, except for some within the State of California, you should be able to check with your local auto parts store to see if they have a scan tool you can borrow that will allow you to read the codes on your car and possibly reset the CEL. Most Auto Zone, Advance, Pep Boys, O'Rielly Auto Parts store have scan tools they will loan you to use at least in their parking lots. Also Aamco Transmission advertise that they will read your codes for free on TV. This may be the only option that some have in California, as for some reason California may have a law that will not allow local parts stores to loan scan tools to reset CEL on cars either due to SMOG laws or to try and force people into SMOG shops. Not totally sure about the California situaiton, but I do realize there are some challenges about borrowing a scan tool in that state.
In general I find that most owners needs both a generic OBIID tool, a manufacturer specific tool and/or software and possibly even some generic software that is able to log and graph data in order to chase and identify difficult issues
Also a FAIR WARNING to all owners. With labor rates typically in the $75-$100+ range for most of the country, many states and cities now requiring SMOG/Emission/Safety inspections it is imperative that your vehicle be in top operating condition and not have a constant CEL/Airbag/ABS light lit on the dashboard. Too many people are "reactive" and only purchase a scan tool when they need one. TRUST me, you want to have a scan tool on hand and at your disposal, you need to know how to use it, be aware of what the "normal" values are and if you have a scan tool on hand, you WILL use if for you car and you WILL find many other friends and family members that the tool will come in handy for. The more you use one of these tools, the better understanding you will have of the codes they generate and you will "hopefully" not knee jerk like the local corner mechanic that only reads part of the DTC description with tunnel vision and if the word O2 sensor or MAF is mention, they immediately replace the part mentioned in the DTC code rather than taking 5 minutes to thing through what the code is trying to convey and identify.
One MAJOR problem I am seeing on a regular basis are cool running engines that are due to soft thermostats with weak springs. I am seeing about 25-30% of the cars/trucks I run across that have soft thermostats. Cool running engines cause reduced fuel economy, reduces overall engine performance, causes crank case water vapor and fuel dilution, oil life reduction and accelerated engine wear. All these issue cost you, the owner/driver money. And for the low cost of a thermostat and the limited time it takes to change the thermostat it is foolish to drive around for years with a cold engine. Note that most engines should operate close to 205F, even if they have a 180-185F thermostat. This is due to the location of the coolant temperature sensor on the output side of the cylinder head in most cars and trucks. Also beware that after outside air temps rise about 70F, a soft thermostat is very hard to identify without quenching the radiator with a spray from a garden hose to super cool the radiator.
Having a OBD tool that can read real time data is IMPORTANT. This means you likely will have to purchase more than one tool. You can have problems with the car and the CEL light never comes on. Lean conditions and coolant temperature problems are some of the very common problems that do not light a CEL light. Engine fuel trims should typically run between 0-3% max. I prefer to see the fuel trims consistently under 2% if possible. Engine coolant temps should typically operate between 200-210F/93-99C under most circumstances. Engines should warm up to operating temperature in approximately 5-7 miles of driving even in the dead of Winter.
So here goes some of the options I have run across and some of which I own and use either daily or weekly.
So for the VW community VCDS(aks VAG-COM) is the defacto OBDII tool and vehicle diagnostic software.
It is a bit tricky to fully use and understand for the true novice, but is a very good tool, but not a cheap option for some. It also requires a Windows laptop or some form of a laptop running Windows to be in the car which can be very cumbersome to use while driving and this is not something you can typically leave in the car like a $15-$20 OBDII wireless interface.
Ross-Tech: VCDS
Other options do exist and at cheaper prices, but may not offer the level of detail as VCDS, but can be a great help in reading DTC codes and clearing CEL light or other modules depending on the tool.
For $46 at the time of this post, the VAG405 generic OBD scan tool with VW specific ability to read and clear OBD DTC codes, airbag codes, ABS codes and possibly even some climate control, convenience module codes and convertible top codes. The only real downside to this specific tool is it does not read real time data such as Fuel Trims, Temperature, MAF reading, etc.
Amazon.com: Hot MaxScan VAG405 Code Reader OBD2 EOBD CAN BUS VW Audi: Car Electronics
Other Autel tools that can read and display real time date are the MaxiScan MS509 and the Autel AL619:
Autel MaxiScan MS509 OBD-II/EOBD Scanner : Amazon.com : Automotive
Amazon.com: Autel AL619 OBDII/CAN Scan Tool: Automotive
So for anyone that has a PC based laptop (Might be able to also run on Apple with Parallels or other Windows boot option as well, but I have not tried this) you may want to consider this ELM Scan 5 USB interface with free OBDWiz software for around $25 on Amazon.
ScanTool 423001 ElmScan 5 Compact OBD-II Scan Tool and OBDwiz Diagnostic Software : Amazon.com : Automotive
Note this is not a VW specific tool, this is a generic OBD__ scan tool program that also will display real time data, graph, record and playback data.
Is this a great tool? No, but it does what is claims
Is this a decent tool that will be helpful? Yes
Is this tool worth around $25? Yes
Note that Amazon pricing can vary wildly at times, but I just looked at this tool the other day and it was around $26. I think when I purchased it a year or more ago, it was close to $30.
I found this tool was adequate, not great, not totally intuitive, but it worked and was able to provide, graph and gather data.
With this kind of price for an OBDII tool that can read and clear codes, read and graph real time data, there is no excuse for everyone not to have one of these in their tool kit.
You can also update the software if you like it and need more advanced features for $90.
ScanTool.net LLC - Premium OBD-2 software for cars and light trucks. - ScanTool.net
As usual, the price will likely increase and you will not have the software installed and working and be familiar with it when you have a problem.
Suggest you be prepared and be ready to address your upcoming issues and have this tool and/or other tools installed, ready and working.
Additional Info for people that are looking for something other than this software. If you have a smart phone or tablet there are some low cost options on the market to consider as well.
Now on to SMART PHONE/TABLET OPTIONS.
There has been a lot of improvement in smart phone/tablet options lately and even some new releases. After using and supporting people using both Android and iProducts for OBDII I am currently a fan of OBDFusion (formerly Touch Scan) for Android and OBDFusion for iProducts. These Apps are from the same vendor and this vendor is very responsive and has made many great improvements and added new features.
Get an OBDII smart phone/tablet App and interface, typically $30 or less. These Apps are usually best for drivability issues and they support Emission Readiness Monitor Status, Freeze Frame and Live/Realtime data. They are also great for Logging data for review after the car has been driven and can really help find usual problems.
Android - OBDFusion (Formerly Touch Scan) for $3.95 and ELM327 OBDII to Bluetooth interface.
iProduct - OBD Fusion for $9.95 and ELM327 OBDII to Wifi interface.
I usually suggest getting the OBDII interfaces from Amazon if you are located in the US/North America. Make sure you choose an interface that indicates that the order will be "Fulfilled by Amazon" otherwise you may be waiting for WEEKS for an interface to arrive from Asia. Ebay is another option, but pay attention where the interface will be shipped from, again weeks for an interface from Asia, so if you can wait and want to try to save some money, go for it, but if you need an interface soon, choose wisely.
UPDATE - Torque used to be the primary Android OBDII App, however, I HIGHLY suggest OBDFusion (Formerly TouchScan) which is easier to use, more reliable and is $1 less than Torque Pro
If you own a Droid Phone or tablet, the OBDFusion (Formerly Touch Scan) App for $3.95
http://newbeetle.org/forums/1-8-liter-turbo/58882-coolant-temp-sensor.html
For $4 coupled with a $15 ODB to Bluetooth adapter like the ELM327 from Amazon is a good alternative or something to have as well as the software mentioned above. This will give you a $20 scan tool that can graph sensors and data, read and clear codes as well as track your driving via GPS and even provide some vehicle performance data.
If you own an iProcuct (iPhone, iTouch or iPad) you can check out OBDFusion for $9.95. Note this App REQUIRES an OBDII to WiFi interface. There are ELM327 WiFi interfaces, make sure you choose the correct WiFi interface for OBDFusion and iProducts.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/obd-fusion-obd2-vehicle-scan/id650684932?mt=8
There are also other Apps such as Rev, Dash Commander, Automatic and others. But search for yourself, read the reviews. In my opinion they can be rather costly as compared to other options and require special and/or expensive interfaces. Additionally I do not think any of these Apps out perform OBDFusion in any way.
Another interesting tool/monitoring device that is reasonably prices is the UltraGuage. Again, this is a generic tool that displays real time data, allows you to track fuel usage, oil change intervals, set threshold alarms for things like Voltage and Temperature. So for under $80, this is another useful device that can be used on any car with a OBDII interface and can even be connected permanently in the car if desired.
UltraGauge Automotive Information Center and OBDII Scan Tool
My current favorite stand alone generic scan tool is the Launch CReaderVI for around $65 best price I have found out of Asia. Unfortunately via even Amazon this tool is a bit over $125 as of this post - LAUNCH 301050074 Diagnostic Code Reader VI : Amazon.com : Automotive
This is one of the few stand along generic scan tools that has a color display and will provide real time graphing of sensors within the tool. The on tool graphing is limited, unfortunately you cannot export it to rescale and play with the graphing data like with OBDFusion or other software based programs.
Even with the limitations on on tool graphing, this is more than most tools offer. The CReader VI also records and will play back the OBD data stream. The only downside is the tool does not have batteries, so you either have to review the recorded data while connected to a OBD port that has power available or use the supplied USB update cable and plug this cable into either a USB port on a computer or some form of USB powered socket similar to ones that are used to charge phone or other portable USB devices.
Search around for info and availability on these and other Launch products.
Some other low cost options that support Emission Readiness, Freeze Frame and Live/Real Time Data-
$33 - Autel AULMS310 - http://www.amazon.com/Autel-AULMS31...=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384296651&sr=8-1&keywords=Autel-AULMS310&tag=5336612389-20
$45 - Autel AutoLink AL319 - http://www.amazon.com/Autel-AutoLin...8822/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384297209&sr=8-1&keywords=al 319&tag=5336612389-20
This looks like an interesting tool, Live Data, Freeze Frame, Emission Readiness Monitor Status, Basic Grasping and Volt/Ohm Meter all in one for under $125 at the moment.
Basic Summary of Features:
Retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes and pending codes
Reads live PCM datastream, live O2 sensor test data, and freeze frame data
Built in Amp/Volt/Ohm multimeter allows you to test amperage (20A max), voltage, resistance, wiring, switched, duty cycle and more
Built in Starting/Charging system testing easily diagnoses vehicle electrical systems
Multilingual menu and DTC definitions (English, Spanish, and French)
The AutoLink AL539 OBD II and Electrical Test tool supports all 10 modes of OBD II for a complete diagnosis. Featuring the unique patented One-Click I/M Readiness Key, graphing digital Multimeter, starting and charging system tests, TFT color display, and a built-in speaker, the versatile, easy-to-use AL539 will streamline automotive service and help ensure a rapid, accurate diagnosis and timely repair.
Autel AL539 OBDII and Electrical Test Tool with AVO Meter : Amazon.com : Automotive
In the short term, for anyone that does not have a scan tool yet and needs to have codes read, a few option, except for some within the State of California, you should be able to check with your local auto parts store to see if they have a scan tool you can borrow that will allow you to read the codes on your car and possibly reset the CEL. Most Auto Zone, Advance, Pep Boys, O'Rielly Auto Parts store have scan tools they will loan you to use at least in their parking lots. Also Aamco Transmission advertise that they will read your codes for free on TV. This may be the only option that some have in California, as for some reason California may have a law that will not allow local parts stores to loan scan tools to reset CEL on cars either due to SMOG laws or to try and force people into SMOG shops. Not totally sure about the California situaiton, but I do realize there are some challenges about borrowing a scan tool in that state.
