Ryan218 Posted April 29, 2012 Report Share Posted April 29, 2012 what all scan tools do you all use? i was looking into something like what this company offers and was wondering if anyone has used this software on there labtop? scantool.net Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
craig71188 Posted April 29, 2012 Report Share Posted April 29, 2012 OK, so I'm biased as I work for Standard Ignition and we sell the PC based OttoTest scan tool & J2534 device. You can see more information here: http://www.ottotest.com/ It will set you back about $2500-$2600 if you use your own PC (I would recommend) or add another $900-$1000 for their touch screen tablet (no). What you need to know is the inexpensive tools like those on the site you listed typically only access the "global" OBDII data. They do "pretty it up" in their displays and it is usefull (we only offer global data on european models). This global data has to be offered in a standard format by law. The "big dollar" scan tools offer "enhanced" data that must be purchased from the manufacturers. This "data" includes specific manufacturer's tests, bi-directional control of many components, access to body and chassis modules (global is main PCM only), and access to things like "GM Configuration" ot "Toyota Preference" settings (radio installs, set the door locks to all unlock in park, only one unlock, etc). Our tool is also a fully functional J2534 Global Programmer. This allows you to do any factory reprogramming of modules on the car. In many cases you can change wheel/tire size & final drive ratio (to correct speedometers), and work with Ford PATS security. No, it does not support performance "custom" programming, sorry. Just a little background that helps you kno what you're looking at. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crummer Posted April 29, 2012 Report Share Posted April 29, 2012 You didn't describe the application or how often you would be using the tool. But I downloaded this app on my droid and purchased the OBD II bluetooth adapter off of ebay. All in I spent ~$70 and it works on just about everything OBD II. You can clear codes, log data, and monitor engine vitals in real time. Webpage http://torque-bhp.com/ OBD II adapter options http://torque-bhp.com/wiki/Bluetooth_Adapters Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ryan218 Posted April 29, 2012 Author Report Share Posted April 29, 2012 i have an iphone but i was looking into that. i manily just want to be able to clear codes and monitor engine vitals. but i want to be able to use my latop to do so. being able to have that much controll into the cars computer system i feel like id really mess some things up. for my next project i want to build another foxbody but that will be in a year or so and ill get maybe something like efi live. ( want to do a single turbo setup ) but for now i just want to be able to clear codes and monitor live engine data. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thorne Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 @ the shop we have the snap on one. I use Dash commander+ elm327 adapter with my phone to do code pulls and resets and basic data logging Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EssFo Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 Scoob = Access Port Audi = The VAG COM Truck = BFH Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gillbot Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 I have one of the ELM327's if you wanna try that. I'd let it go cheap, new in package, I never used it since I ended up with EFI Live scan & tune. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Crossle Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 I use an OTC Genysis at the house. We have probably at least 10 different ones at the shop. There is not one that does a "perfect" job at everything, but there are some that are much better than others. What sort of application are you looking to use it for? The best one for your VW would be the VAGCOM being the factory tool. It is laptop based, you need to buy the OBDII cable that plugs into the USB port on your laptop. On your Asian and American cars I would use the Genysis, or our Snap-on Verdict, neither of which are in-expensive for day to day personal use. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CRed05 Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 Scoob = Access Port Audi = The VAG COM Truck = BFH Yeah I noticed you have a Jetta. That's the way to go. It will also scan and clear regular OBDII codes on other vehicles. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EssFo Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 Yeah I noticed you have a Jetta. That's the way to go. It will also scan and clear regular OBDII codes on other vehicles. "Had" a Jetta. Down to just the TT in the VAG department. :fuckyeah: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Hal Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 I use an OTC Genysis at the house. We have probably at least 10 different ones at the shop. There is not one that does a "perfect" job at everything, but there are some that are much better than others. What sort of application are you looking to use it for? The best one for your VW would be the VAGCOM being the factory tool. It is laptop based, you need to buy the OBDII cable that plugs into the USB port on your laptop. On your Asian and American cars I would use the Genysis, or our Snap-on Verdict, neither of which are in-expensive for day to day personal use. This. I prefer the Genysis/Mentor just because I've used them for so long. The manufacturers simply cannot address all models of cars and have a reasonably priced tool. For that reason, you have to look at what you will be working on for the most part, and then buy a tool that lines up with that. There are tons of options out there, but I haven't dealt with the tech behind their designs for a couple years now so I doubt I can answer too many questions about them anymore. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tractor Posted April 30, 2012 Report Share Posted April 30, 2012 I picked up a cheap cable on amazon for 25 bucks that hooks to my laptop and does what your wanting. Can't remember brand now I'm out on the road. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
criitter7 Posted May 1, 2012 Report Share Posted May 1, 2012 i own a snap on solus..but am looking to trade in for a verdict Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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