Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Vehicle Diagnostic Devices
Which vehicle diagnostic device is right for me?
That depends on the intended use. For private use on a passenger car, an
OBD2 adapter or a handheld device is sufficient. Those who work professionally as mechanics are better off with a
universal diagnostic device for passenger cars
because it covers more brands and control units. For commercial vehicles, there are
separate
truck diagnostic devices, and for
tractors and excavators, suitable
construction machinery diagnostic devices.
What is an OBD2 diagnostic device and how does it work?
OBD2 stands for "On-Board Diagnostics, second generation". The device is plugged into the
standardized 16-pin diagnostic socket in the vehicle and communicates with the
control units. It reads stored fault codes, displays live measurement values such as
engine speed, coolant temperature or lambda values, and reports the status of the
emission monitoring.
From which model year does my car have an OBD2 port?
In the EU, petrol cars from model year 2001 and diesel cars from model year 2004
are mandatorily equipped with an EOBD interface. Many vehicles before that
already have a socket, but use manufacturer-specific protocols – for these,
matching
diagnostic plugs and adapters are needed.
Where is the OBD2 socket located in the vehicle?
As a rule, it is in the driver's footwell below the dashboard, within reach
of the driver's seat. In some models, it is located behind a cover flap, in
the center console or in the glove compartment. The connector is always 16-pin and
trapezoidal.
Can I clear fault codes with a diagnostic device?
Yes, almost all devices can reset the fault memory. This allows you to
switch off the warning light in the cockpit yourself after a completed repair.
Important: Clearing only removes the message, not the cause. If the
defect persists, the fault will return after a few driving cycles.
How much does a good diagnostic device cost?
Simple OBD2 adapters for home use are available from around €40.
Universal diagnostic devices for passenger cars start at around €350.
Truck and bus devices range
between approximately €1,200 and €1,500,
construction machinery diagnostic devices
between approximately €2,300 and €2,900. Professional systems with
workshop software and license packages are open-ended at the upper end.
Which diagnostic device do I need for trucks and buses?
Commercial vehicles use different connector types and data protocols than passenger cars – a
pure OBD2 device is not sufficient. A
truck-capable device plus the
appropriate
adapter cables for MAN, Scania, Renault, Volvo and WABCO are required.
For Scania, we also carry
brand-specific diagnostic devices.
Are there diagnostic devices for construction machinery and tractors?
Yes. For Case, New Holland, Steyr and other CNH brands, there are
special diagnostic systems,
which cover engine, transmission, hydraulics and attachments. Universal
passenger car devices cannot address these control units.
Which diagnostic device is suitable for VW, Audi, Škoda and Seat?
For the VAG Group, the VAS 6154 interface in conjunction with the
ODIS workshop software is the original way. This enables functions that
universal devices do not offer – such as coding, parameterization and
adaptation of individual control units. You can find the right devices under
VAS 6154 & ODIS.
What is the difference between reading, coding and teaching?
Reading means displaying stored fault codes and measurement values –
any OBD2 device can do that.
Coding changes the
configuration of a control unit, for example, to activate features.
Teaching refers to integrating a newly installed part, for
example, after a change of brake pads with electric parking brake.
Coding and teaching require a device with manufacturer protocol.
Which diagnostic device is available for motorcycles?
Motorcycles use different connector types and protocols depending on the manufacturer.
For this, there are dedicated
motorcycle diagnostic devices that
cover fault memory, actuator diagnostics and service interval reset.
Do I need a rugged laptop for vehicle diagnostics?
For workshop and field use, a rugged device is worthwhile. Dust, oil,
vibrations and drops quickly affect normal office laptops. We carry
refurbished
Panasonic Toughbooks as well as
Getac and
Dell Latitude models – significantly
cheaper than new devices and prepared for diagnostic software.
What do I need a vehicle oscilloscope for?
An oscilloscope displays signal waveforms in real-time and finds faults that no
fault code reports – such as intermittent sensors, disturbances on the CAN bus or
defective ignition coils. Suitable
Hantek oscilloscopes and measuring technology
are available from around €150.
How do I check the starter battery and alternator?
For this, there are dedicated
battery testers for cars and trucks.
They measure cold start current, internal resistance and charge status and also check
alternator and starter – values that an OBD2 device does not provide.
Do I get software updates for my diagnostic device?
That depends on the respective device – we provide updates for many models.
Simply contact us with your device type, and we will tell you which updates
are available and how to install them.
How long does delivery take?
Within Germany, we deliver via DHL in 1–3 working days, shipping is free for orders over €50.
International delivery takes 3–7 working days depending on the destination country. As soon as your
order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number.
Do I get help with setup and operation?
Yes. After purchase, you receive 24 months of phone support. If it needs to be faster,
we can connect to your computer directly via remote maintenance using TeamViewer or AnyDesk
and set up the diagnostic device together with you.
What warranty do the devices come with?
We grant a 12-month warranty on all devices. Your statutory
warranty rights remain unaffected and apply additionally.
