Some of the most widespread cars on the road are made by the carmakers that belong to the VAG group, i.e. VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda. And because they're everywhere, unsurprisingly there's a plethora of scan tools on the market that are specifically designed for these cars. For quite a reasonable sum, you can get a solution that, although highly specialised for VAG Group brands only, provides unmatched compatibility and set of features not found on most universal scan tools.
OBDeleven - Full-Featured Diagnostics With SFD Access (ca. 80€)
Available at an excellent price point, OBDeleven is a fantastic choice for car enthusiasts and workshops alike. Don't let the price fool you, this is a fully-loaded VAG Group diagnostic that offers a wide array of features, including coding, long coding and even retrofits. You'll appreciate the ability to access the secure SFD layer without the need to purchase tokens or external subscriptions - just plug & play. OBDeleven connects to your vehicle via Bluetooth and the app is mobile only, so a phone or a tablet are a must. Android, iOS and Harmony operating systems are all supported.
OBDeleven also has a unique feature called "One-Click Apps", which enable you to perform coding, customisation, service functions and much more without wasting time looking up coding manuals and converting hex codes. One-Click Apps cost credits to use, depending on the product variant purchased:
- NextGen Basic - basic features only and One-Click Apps cost credits, does not support access to SFD
- Pro Pack - advanced features and One-Click Apps cost credits, supports access to SFD
- Ultimate Pack - advanced features and One-Click Apps are completely free without the need for credits, supports SFD access
In addition to VW Group brands, OBDeleven diagnostics also supports BMW/Mini and Toyota/Lexus vehicles.
Pro VAG and Ultimate VAG plans are always valid for 1 year and must be renewed, otherwise your account will default to a "Free" plan with limited features and no access to SFD. You can always purchase a new plan here.
VCP (VAG CAN PRO) (ca. 400€)
VCP is a diagnostic program for Windows and a solid alternative to VCDS. While many features are shared with its competitor, VCP's plug-ins such as video in motion, ESP unit coding and EDC16/EDC17 flasher are proving to be very popular. With each VCP purchase, you get a year of free updates - once they expire, it's not mandatory to renew the update subscription.
Carista - Affordable Scan Tool With SFD Access (ca. 80€)
Carista is a great alternative to OBDeleven not only for VAG Group brands, but also for Ford, BMW, Mini, Toyota, Lexus, Land Rover, Renault and others. Just like OBDeleven, it can seamlessly access VAG's SFD security layer - which requires an active subscription. It offers access to all control units and enables you to perform diagnostic functions such as DPF regeneration, electronic parking brake reset or throttle body calibration. Carista is mobile only, so you'll need a Android or iOS smartphone or a tablet to run it.
Other Diagnostics for VAG Group Cars
Other manufacturers who develop specialised diagnostics for VAG Group cars include DevCom or iCarsoft.