Without a doubt, the most widespread cars are those of the VAG group, i.e. VW, Audi, Seat and Škoda. There are a number of diagnostic tools on the market that are specifically designed for these cars. For relatively reasonable money you get a solution that, although it does not handle all brands, provides very wide possibilities in the field of car diagnostics and often goes further than universal diagnostics.
OBDeleven - full-featured diagnostics with access to SFD (from 80 EUR)
With a great purchase price, OBDeleven is an excellent choice for car enthusiasts and garages, while at the same time being a full-featured VAG Group diagnostic that supports all available functions including coding and long coding. A great advantage is the support for secure SFD access without the need to purchase tokens or external subscriptions. Connection to the vehicle is via bluetooth, the app must be downloaded to the mobile phone. Android, iOS and Harmony operating systems are supported. The app supporst multiple languages.
OBDeleven has a special function, "One-Click Apps", in which it is possible to perform service operations or unlock hidden vehicle functions without knowledge of diagnostic procedures. These one-click apps are charged with credits depending on the product variant purchased:
- NextGen Basic - basic features only and One-Click Apps for credits, does not support access to SFD
- Pro Pack - advanced features and One-Click Apps for credits, supports access to SFD
- Ultimate Pack - advanced features and One-Click Apps for free without the need for credits, supports SFD access
In addition to the VAG Group, OBDeleven diagnostics also supports BMW and Toyota vehicles, where One-Click Apps are always available for credits. It is therefore worthwhile to get only the NextGen Basic variant for these two brands. The app for these two brands is separate and must be downloaded separately.
The PRO VAG and Ultimate VAG licenses are always valid for 1 year and must be renewed, as when they expire the device becomes NextGen Basic with limited features and no access to SFD.
VCP (VAG CAN PRO) - alternative to VCDS (from 400 EUR)
VCP is a Polish diagnostic that is used with a computer similar to VCDS, has similar functions and is worthwhile not only for classic service functions, but also when using additional plug-ins such as video unlocking while driving, ESP unit coding or EDC16/EDC17 flasher. There are multiple languages available. You get updates for one year included, after that they are not mandatory and you don't have to renew them.
Carista - diagnostics with access to SFD vehicles (approx. 80 EUR)
Thanks to its excellent price-performance ratio, Carista is a suitable diagnostic not only for the VAG Group, but also for other brands such as BMW, Mini, Toyota, Lexus, Land Rover and others. Like OBDeleven, it has integrated access to the VAG secure gateway (SFD). This only applies if you have an active subscription. Carista works in connection with a mobile phone via Bluetooth, the app has multiple languages. It offers access to all control units and you can perform diagnostic functions such as DPF regeneration , releasing the electric parking brake or adjusting the throttle.
Other diagnostics for the VAG Group
Other manufacturers who develop specialised diagnostics for the VAG Group include DevCom or iCarsoft.