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diagnostics code readers
- 06-01-2009
posted on June 1, 2009, 8:02 am
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I'm a bit confused about these diagnostic code readers. The more
googling I do, the more confused I become.
I thought that all cars after 2000-ish had to be OBD-II compliant?
Doesn't that mean that any car of that age will work with any code
reader?
From what I have read on the net, there seem to be two groups: VAG and
everyone else. VAG needs different software and is VW and Audi
Group. Is that right?
I was also looking at Vauxhalls and web sites seemed to be suggesting
that they used a different system too.
Am I getting older and newer cars mixed-up? Is it that before 2000-ish
there was not agreed standard so that VAG used something different to
vauxhall, who used something different to everyone else?
Will all post 2000 cars be OBDII and work with any old ELM CANBUS
interface off ebay?
I appreciate that each manufacturer will have their own specialised
software to work magic but just for reading fault codes etc?
Thanks.
Re: diagnostics code readers
[...]
Nope; 2001 MY for petrol, but not until 2003 for diesel.
The original OBD systems were US; some manufacturers pre-2001 used the US
system on European cars in the expectation that it would be adopted here.
However, the standard was altered here to become E-OBD.
That means three broad groups, although that is a simplification.
If only!
All post-2001 petrols, and all post-2003 diesels should be capable of
basic fault code interrogation using the same equipment.
Trouble is, from the POV of fault diagnosis you need more. And the
equipment you then need is vehicle specific.
There is a lot of useful information about this on the 'net if you Google
for it.
Chris
--
Remove prejudice to reply.
Re: diagnostics code readers
No, not really. All cars after a certain date will do ODB-II, but most
manufacturers have extensions to the diagnostics, so a basic reader will
only read a subset of codes. Also, the manufacter-specific software will
allow you to reprogram some controllers in the car.
Re: diagnostics code readers
My '96 Volvo uses OBDII.
I've got a Snap-On OBD diagnostic gubbin, there are around 30 'code
keys' with it for different vehicles. Can read almost everything, can't
reset the bloody service light on my Volvo with it though.
Got a proper VAG-COM box as well. Its rubbish.
--
Pete M - OMF#9
Range Rover V8 Turbo
Volvo 850 T5 CD Estate
"In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of
people very angry and is widely regarded as a bad move."
Re: diagnostics code readers
Indeed there is. Not on a '96 850 though. Mine's got the old mechanical
trip meter and no rubber grommet. It's not got the Volvo diagnostic
gubbin under the bonnet with "Plug A/B Socket 1/2" either as it is one
of the in-betweenys. Has to be done through the OBDII, but with a
special Volvo reset tool. Bit annoying that.
--
Pete M - OMF#9
Range Rover V8 Turbo
Volvo 850 T5 CD Estate
"In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of
people very angry and is widely regarded as a bad move."
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