If you have successfully  used a diagnostic scanner on an Octavia Petrol, 1600cc,   year 2000,   I would deeply appreciate if you could tell me the make and model of the diagnostic scanner (computer).  

I have tried a number of scanners on the car, so far without success.  I am not looking for guess-work or speculation.   Just if you yourself have successfully used one.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Shawn Og

The only fully featured scanner is VCDS, or are you meaning a hand-held code reader device?.

Sounds like those bluetooth ones, lucky dip with those. I tried 3 with no joy before vcds, as many others have, but on the other hand others have them with no problems. I'd say pick a seller who you can rely on for a reliable exchange or refund in case and keep trying your luck. Try different routines with plug in/ignition/engine on/app on etc

Thanks freedom for a really top class answer. I didn't know about VCDS until you mentioned it.    I had been thinking about hand held scanner less than 100 pounds.    Regarding checking them, (They didn't work),   I have had 4 from Amazon and was able to send them back with them paying the postage and no problem with refunds.  Many thanks again for that answer.   

Anyone with a suggestion for the hand-held scanners?

The thing I have found with the hand held scanners (I have an Autel in my glovebox) is that they are fine for clearing codes, but sometimes a faultcode can be misread by the generic scanners and lead you off the main path to get info.

 

Also the handhelds only do main systems like engine, abs, aurbag, if you get faults on your central locking or other internal areas, the handheld probably wont be able to read it which is where VCDS starts to look attractive.

 

VCDS is not cheap, but it can save you LOADS by not having to use a dealer.

 

Anything else you need to know, just ask away.

 

Welcome to Briskoda by the way.

As above, the handheld can be a decent in between option albeit with limitations. When I get my Saab read at the local it's with a universal scanner and the number codes don't match Saab's diagnostics info, but the text does so just go by that. But as Phil said the generic ones you buy can only go so far.

Thanks Freedom for your welcome and your insightful analysis of the handheld scanners.   Since the points went out and electronic ignition came in I haven't been doing much under the bonnet of my Octavia 1600, petrol.    I have a back-street mechanic for servicing but my problem has been that it was taking three "goes" with the ignition key to get it to start.  In the end when the four hand held scanners didn't work I brought   it to the same mechanic for service.   And emphasized the problem.

Now the car is running at higher revs than usual, a bit jerky when I ease off on the throttle and in idle the engine seems to be "hunting".

So his solution was to increase the revs a bit.  It starts a bit easier but I'm not happy with the situation and so am seeking some kind of a scanner or VCDS to give me feedback on what the problem is.    Any suggestions welcome.

There are several engine sensors that can be faulty without throwing a code, which renders generic fault code readers to be pretty useless. Vagcom/VCDS type software is needed for proper diagnosis. I bought a 3rd party VCDS cable (£25) many years ago, & registered it with Rosstech ($99). It has served me well & paid for itself many times over.

My guess is you could have a failing CTS (coolant temp sensor) or MAF both of which don't always throw fault codes. In particular check to see if you have a black CTS fitted, & if you have replace it with a genuine revised VAG part as the black ones are notorious for failing, hence VAG revising the part. If the CTS ECU output is failing it will cause the ECU to fuel incorrectly usually causing hot or cold starting problems & rough idle.

Edited 17 August, 201510 yr by pauldazzle

^^  couldn't have put it better myself