Budget fault code readers?
Budget fault code readers?
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Discussion

tight fart

Original Poster:

3,249 posts

290 months

Tuesday 19th December 2017
quotequote all
Any recommendations for fault code readers?
Would like something that's either android phone or windows lap top based.
And if possible to cover a few different makes, Audi VW, Fiat and if possible Iveco.
Happy to buy from China and wait as it's not urgent so something on eBay would be good.
Budget? Say £50 or less.


brrapp

3,701 posts

179 months

Tuesday 19th December 2017
quotequote all
I've previously just bought an OBD11 cable and appropriate software on eBay and used an old laptop. Some software is better than others, I've had pirated copies of VAG. and Volvo stuff which were brilliant and other cheap programs which just did the very basics. Never paid more than £10 .
Recently bought a Bluetooth interface from China (£6.99) along with torque software, which I downloaded as an app to my phone. Haven't used it a lot yet but it seems fine and had the advantage that I can leave it permanently in place and access the info anytime.

ooo000ooo

2,628 posts

211 months

Tuesday 19th December 2017
quotequote all
I have an El cheapo Bluetooth one permanently in my obd. Iirc it was less than a fiver on eBay. Torque lite app is free on android and lets me clear the engine warning light every couple of days.

Mr2Mike

20,143 posts

272 months

Thursday 21st December 2017
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The cheap bluetooth interfaces in an OBD2 plug are convenient, but are limited to engine only diagnostics.

With a £50 budget and wanting a laptop based system there is one clear choice provided you don't mind a cloned device; the Delphi DS150E. This will cover almost all the systems on the car, not just the engine. Get one with a USB connection, the Bluetooth interface versions can be flaky.