Code reader (and writer?)

[Billy_Rosewood]

Sorry, I know this topic pops up now and again but some of the ones I found didn't answer everything.

Looking for-
-ideally not more than £150
-can read multi manufacturer specific codes (ideally bmw and Mercedes)
-be able to reset service indicators
-ideally can do other diagnostic stuff like purge abs pumps, air suspension diagnostic/tests etc

Any reccomendations? Chatgpt reckons Topdon or launch something or another

[MDT]

After a long time looking at these with the same criteria as you, I was getting quite frustrated not being able to find something that matched your / my requirement.

The other big issue you should consider is if there is any annual subscription, these to me took the shine off some.

icarsoft make manufacture specific readers which will provide proper bi-directional control and the ability to work with all the ECU's ABS, Air Bags and code in new parts and force DPF regen etc

like this
https://www.amazon.co.uk/iCarsoft-Bidirectional-Di...

But this will only do BMW's. you can go the next level up and select 10 manufactures which you can work with. Think they are about £270. I was going to go this route then I worked out my cars plus friends and family 10 would not cover them. so went for the one which will do all manufactures... The CR Max. it's been great and no subscription and free updates.

[Belle427]

I have an icarsoft cr pro and its a good bit of kit, cant say I have looked if it has bi directional control though.
Topdon are worth a look too but you may struggle with that budget.

[Tymb]

I've had an OBDeleven dongle for a few years and use the app on my phone. It's worked fine and given me much more info than my basic scanner. I've only used the basic level which is free but you can buy one off credits to do more advanced stuff depending on the make and model.

[LordLoveLength]

Topdon artidiag EU - should be able to get one within budget.
Does all VAG stuff, BMW/Mini and Mercedes with full bi directional control and lifetime upgrades.

Decent bit of kit which seems well supported.

[Billy_Rosewood]

MDT said:

After a long time looking at these with the same criteria as you, I was getting quite frustrated not being able to find something that matched your / my requirement.

The other big issue you should consider is if there is any annual subscription, these to me took the shine off some.

icarsoft make manufacture specific readers which will provide proper bi-directional control and the ability to work with all the ECU's ABS, Air Bags and code in new parts and force DPF regen etc

like this
https://www.amazon.co.uk/iCarsoft-Bidirectional-Di...

But this will only do BMW's. you can go the next level up and select 10 manufactures which you can work with. Think they are about £270. I was going to go this route then I worked out my cars plus friends and family 10 would not cover them. so went for the one which will do all manufactures... The CR Max. it's been great and no subscription and free updates.

What's the difference between something like the icarsoft and this topdon? It seems like a bit of a maze

The topdon ad500 seems a good price on amazon

https://amzn.eu/d/0ckMbRRL

But I always feel like I'm missing something in the details?

Will something like this talk to all the ecus in the car? I'm guessing that'll be quite limited.

I don't mind being limited to 10 manufacturers tbh, I'll have a search around for that model?