bsewall

To scan the car's codes, do I need a VAG tool, or will any ODB II scanner (from PepBoys, etc) work?

Thanks!!

jschick

depends what you need to pull, AutoZone can pull and clear engine codes that it. they will give you the generic code.

bsewall

Unfortunately the car doesn't run at the moment, so I need a portable tool (can't take the car somewhere). At this point all I'd like to do is pull and clear engine codes.

With a VAG, can you do more car-specific tasks?

There's no place where I can pick up a OBD II to USB cable in store, is there?

AudiMick

OBD II only covers engine / emission codes. I have a generic scanner I bought for $50 from Harbor Freight that works fine for that kind of thing.

If you want more details and to actually monitor temperatures MAF etc you need a VAG.com. If you want to check the ABS, climate control, central locking etc you need a VAG.com. The shareware versions work fine if you figure out the USB drivers.

Shareware VAG.com will not reset SRI (service reminder indicator) on 96-98.5 A4s.

bsewall

Wow, that's exactly the info I was looking for. Thanks so much.