Diagnostic computer

[Flivver250]

Which OBDII diagnostic computer would you consider the best overall device to own for engine and transmission diagnostics as well as adjusting the settings. The device would be primarily used on European and Japanese vehicles as well as some US.
Thanks. Art

 

[Jim Diesel]

We use the Bosch 3824 with truck modual and passenger car modual. You can do absolutly every adaptaion on nearly all vehicles. These kits dont come cheap, up around the $15000 AUD mark. But is one of, if not the best on the market.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I know of no settings that can be "adjusted" via OBD-II, except maybe adjusting vehicle speed for different tire sizes.

Professionally, nothing beats the SnapOn tools. Their are several models and I can not tell you the differences. BIG $,$$$ with all the options ! You can save money by buying used, but you will likely have to update the software.


I have been researching this topic on and off for the past couple of years and have come to the conclusion that the best "bang for the buck" is the Actron CP9680. Actron is owned by Bosch. The vast majority of the EU powertrain controls are designed/manufactured Bosch, so I consider that a big plus. This model also covers ABS and SRS on most vehicles. It also does real time data and record /playback.

The biggest negative is, even though the software can be updated, it has not and only officially covers vehicles through 2013MY.

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

I have a VW one that lets you adjust blinker brightness, window behavior, EGR request, all kinds of stuff, but My go to is the ELM237 $13 Bluetooth and the Torque app.
No reprogramming, but its sufficient for so much of the time, and fits easily in the sunglass pocket of the service truck.