What Code reader (Generic)

[Sloppysod]

I thought I would start this topic here, as its not really anything to do with PSA Vehicles.

I am looking for a relatively inexpensive ( < £50 ) code reader to read & reset diagnostic codes on other vehicles (Vauxhall), do the bluetooth devices that connect a car OBDII socket to your phone work, or should I go for a better handheld device?
Any suggections, comments & experiences welcome.
Thanks in advance

[mickthemaverick]

I use a Memoscan OBD2 reader which works on all the cars I've used it on. Reads the codes and can reset the EML and clear codes but no programming facility. It cost me about £30 I believe. This is a link to the current model:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/273229665059 ... R5yO2detYQ

[Ross_K]

Topdon AL500. You can get one for under 50 quid on Amazon. The software's updateable and you can print reports through your PC

https://uk.topdonscanner.com/products/t ... k500-al500

I wouldn't waste time with the Bluetooth ones that connect to your phone. There are a lot of fakes, and some will only work with either an Android or Apple phone. And depending what software you're using on your phone, you may need to pay more money for an unrestricted version of the software

[bobins]

I bought myself a little bluetooth OBD2 dongle years ago and it's never failed to work as described, so it is possible to get good ones....... but I wouldn't know which one to recommend these days I've used it with the Torque Pro Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/deta ... n_GB&gl=US and all has worked as described, and I've also found it useful with the Citroen/Peugeot specific FapLite App https://play.google.com/store/apps/deta ... n_GB&gl=US. I've also used it both on a phone and via a Windows laptop with a Ford/Mazda specific App/program - it allowed me to code in some injectors without any problems - so don't give up on a bluetooth dongle just yet.... just make sure you get a good one
Out of personal preference, I steer clear of any OBD readers that require a subscription, as for the most part I'd not be using the reader so wouldn't be making use of the subscription. Another + vote for Topdon kit - I've got an ArtiDiag 800BT and it seems quite capable, though I'm under no illusions that within a few years they'll stop updating them - but it'll have earned its keep by then so I'll be less worried about losing functionality.

[mickthemaverick]

Yes I should have said, I have a bluetooth dongle too which works with the phone for live data but I've not used it to actually "do" anything. With the stricter regulations on using a mobile while driving including touching it I found it not much use for live data whereas the cable connected reader is not subject to that legislation