Hi 

Could anyone recommend a good obd 2 code reader that can be used for most diagnostics etc on a 2011 Octavia that won't break the bank?

Thanks

I bought the Launch 129 EVO. It works and is fairly good, with free lifetime updates. I bought it from Launch UK. If you buy the Chinese version you will not get support from Launch UK. It will do the obligatory engine and safety systems scanning, but not comfort or body control etc. For that you have to have a much more expensive machine which usually have annual update subscriptions. 

 

I’ve stumbled across the Mechanic Mindset channel on youtube. There’s a lot to learn, and they do things in a straightforward way. The OBD scanner is only one gadget, two more important ones are a multimeter and a couple of test lights

 

If you’re just starting another couple of channels aer Diagnose Dan and South Main Autos,  and Milligan (he’s from Glasgow but I can’t remember the full channel name.

1 hour ago, MrRedSquirrel said:

 and Milligan (he’s from Glasgow but I can’t remember the full channel name.

Milligan Auto Diagnostics - https://www.youtube.com/@mrautoservices7354

 

Vgate iCar Pro elm327 V2.3 + Car Scanner app for iOS or Android.

The Vgate is described as a fit and forget. It’s a useful tool, but the obd port was not designed to have anything permanently attached, so it would be better to remove it when not in use.

I don't use the Vgate as a fit and forget. I use it as I would use OBDeleven or VCDS. When I need to do something in my car, I plug in, do it, and then unplug.

A friend is getting a Launch C-reader Elite which has a bundle package that includes the VAG brands.

Does anyone knows if this is appliable to a Superb III FL at the level of VCDS/OBD11 for what regards coding and adaptations?

Thanks!

The name C-reader Elite could cover a number of options and may vary depending on which country it is sold to so you need to ask or see from your friend which model it actually is and see or research yourself what the one he is getting actually claims it can do. If it is a bi-directional tool then it will probably cover some 'coding', activations and adaptations and service stuff, what exactly depends on the exact model and package bought.

If VAG brands are covered then it will probably cover a 2021 VWŠkoda Superb Mk3 for some 'coding', activations and adaptations and service stuff, what exactly depends on the exact model and package bought. Your friend and you if either of you are using it on your car will need to ensure the programs on the C-reader Elite (or any other scale tool) are up to date before using and that the car's 12v battery is in a good state of charge and health otherwise on long use you might have issues.

It is very doubtful that the C-reader Elite will be at the same level as OBDEleven and certainly not VCDS but it depends at what level you want or need to operate as to what it covers. The package that your friend has bought with it will detail what service stuff it can do and possibly other bits but this might not be across all ages and marques and models or ages and models of VAG.

What is it you want it to do?

5 hours ago, nta16 said:

The name C-reader Elite could cover a number of options and may vary depending on which country it is sold to so you need to ask or see from your friend which model it actually is and see or research yourself what the one he is getting actually claims it can do. If it is a bi-directional tool then it will probably cover some 'coding', activations and adaptations and service stuff, what exactly depends on the exact model and package bought.

If VAG brands are covered then it will probably cover a 2021 VWŠkoda Superb Mk3 for some 'coding', activations and adaptations and service stuff, what exactly depends on the exact model and package bought. Your friend and you if either of you are using it on your car will need to ensure the programs on the C-reader Elite (or any other scale tool) are up to date before using and that the car's 12v battery is in a good state of charge and health otherwise on long use you might have issues.

It is very doubtful that the C-reader Elite will be at the same level as OBDEleven and certainly not VCDS but it depends at what level you want or need to operate as to what it covers. The package that your friend has bought with it will detail what service stuff it can do and possibly other bits but this might not be across all ages and marques and models or ages and models of VAG.

What is it you want it to do?

It looks to be a knock-off Autel style unit. FWIW, OBD11 is very good, but it's not on the same level as VCDS.

Wow thanks extensive answers.

I did not know there were so many variants (after all I've used only VCDS really) but here is the article that illustrates it:

https://www.x431shop.eu/service/what-is-the-difference-between-launch-creader-elite-2.0-and-other-launch-creader-tools.html

For me, I do have VCDS and I have made most of the possible coding/adaptations is so far as is possible within the SIII FL capabilities, which are less than on earlier models. Unless I get a Citgo/Up as a runaround, I do not see any other use for a VAG-specific tool, and if my mates' tool is suitable enough, I could ditch the VCDS and associated laptop need, nevermind its much unpleasant 3-10-unlimited VIN policy (I understand their reasons, but still do not accept them).

Finally, trying to overcome what I thought it was limited access from VCDS to my Superb, I got myself an OBD11 as well, and honestly I did not gain anything at all. Everything that VCDS can do, same - unless you pay, and I do not like the subscription scheme.

Plus it is even more cumbersome to me because of the phone, app, and BT, I always lose connection, does not work with the other three cars in the family ... so it was a futile exercise.

My idea was, if proven, to adopt this unit as occasion arises (DTCs, some coding, etc.) and get rid of all the rest, I do not need all the paraphernalia for just one car ...

I am not an expert in anything, so that includes scan tools.

If I remember correctly as far as I have seen the Launch is nearer TopDon programing but I might be wrong. These and Autel are Chinese and may share or copy each others machine casing (and carrying cases) from the same Chinese suppliers, I always imagine that they got much of their original programing from it being 'gifted' by arrogant Western car manufactures or their contractors.

Lifetime updates is good but that might depend on the country the unit is sold to and the price of unit at point of sale.

The small screen and speed of operation of the basic Elite might be a bit annoying if you are used to larger screens and quicker operation but fine for our DIY use if your eyes are OK.

I can not imagine that the basic Elite will be able to do as much as the VCDS on a VW vehicle but of course if you can load more brands on and unrestricted VINs those are advantages. The basic level OBDEleven I am not sure how restricted or not that is.

There are lots and lots of different makes and models of scan tools and the models seem to still change so good prices being offered for new unused previous models, to clear stocks, that are fine other than not being the latest model.

All scan tools even the very expensive professional ones have their pros and cons and some garages and diagnostics professionals will have a collection of various priced scan tools finding some better and/or more convenient to use on some vehicles than some of their other scan tools.

You are in the ideal position of being able to compare your friend's Elite against the VCDS and basic OBDEleven on your Superb MK3 so perhaps then you could report back and tell us how you find the comparison on the Superb and perhaps on your friend's and other vehicle makes and models it can work on.

Do remember to make sue the scan tool is fully updated before you use it on a vehicle and that the vehicle's 12v battery is in a reasonable state of charge and health.

Edited 27 February27 Feb by nta16

You have actually stated what I think will be my course of action ... the Elite comes with lifetime update, and with the bundle with the 'triad' VAG-BMW-Mercedes (He needs it for his Mom's MB) comes at a fairly reasonable 190 euro.

I will snatch it from him once it comes and will try to do the usual stuff, and try to code/recode/adapt some stuff I've done already with VCDS - safe stuff of course 😁

If it works, I will donate to his cause.

Will come back to report of course, this will be in some couple weeks, I am actually very curious myself ...

Thanks for the attention to the subject!