Scan tool for Subaru and Audi

[Yankee Wrencher]

Which diagnostic scan tools should I consider for performing scheduled maintenance on my late-model Subaru and Audi?

I understand a scan tool can be useful for monitoring transmission-fluid temperature and other measured values during fluid-level procedures. Both vehicles also have electronic parking brakes, so a scan tool could be useful for putting the EPB into service mode and resetting it when replacing the rear brake pads.

I'd also like the ability to perform adaptations or relearns, such as for an electronically controlled throttle body.

I'm not looking for a tool just to read and clear trouble codes. I'm interested in something that will be useful for DIY maintenance and service procedures on both vehicles (again, specific to Subaru and Audi).

 

[cvairwerks]

Audi/VAG/Porsche, the standard is VCDS, unless you have direct access to the factory software.

 

[cbracer]

The Subaru diag tools are few and far between. My cheap "BlueDriver" is apparently not bi-directional or something and if I scan my Subaru with it the airbag light turns on! It also creates a bunch of CAN based communication errors so I would not recommend BlueDriver for Subaru's. A search on the outback forum I did earlier lead to this; which is likely what I may end up with:

"Look into the Otofix D1 Lite. This scanner is around $300 and is made by Autel which is a well established company in the OBD2 scanner industry."

 

[Outlier]

Another vote for VCDS but it does require a laptop with a Windows OS to work.

I also have heard good things about OBDeleven which works through a dongle controlled by your phone but I have no personal experience with it.

I believe you are going to be ultimately looking for two tools; one for the Audi and another for the Subaru.

 

[Yankee Wrencher]

The Subaru diag tools are few and far between. My cheap "BlueDriver" is apparently not bi-directional or something and if I scan my Subaru with it the airbag light turns on! It also creates a bunch of CAN based communication errors so I would not recommend BlueDriver for Subaru's. A search on the outback forum I did earlier lead to this; which is likely what I may end up with:

"Look into the Otofix D1 Lite. This scanner is around $300 and is made by Autel which is a well established company in the OBD2 scanner industry."

The Autel brand comes up frequently in recommendations.

Launch as a brand also gets much praise. The X431 CRP919E BT or CRP919X BT models in particular.

The quest is just beginning.

Thanks for the input, cbracer.

 

[Yankee Wrencher]

Another vote for VCDS but it does require a laptop with a Windows OS to work.

I also have heard good things about OBDeleven which works through a dongle controlled by your phone but I have no personal experience with it.

I believe you are going to be ultimately looking for two tools; one for the Audi and another for the Subaru.

Thanks for your input, Outlier.

 

[hbabler]

When looking at cheap bidirectional scanners be careful. Unlike my old snap on scanner many of them stop allowing you to use advanced features when the subscription runs out.
I recently purchased a top don X800 BT and I am very happy with it. The best part is it has lifetime updates for free.
It’s basically a small android tablet with a wireless dongle. It does most everything I need it to, it’s bidirectional and will do a lot of special services including CVT relearn (great for Subarus) and battery resets etc. We have VW’s, Subaru, Kia, and GM in the family fleet.

Good luck with your hunt!

 

[Chipm]

Which diagnostic scan tools should I consider for performing scheduled maintenance on my late-model Subaru and Audi?

I understand a scan tool can be useful for monitoring transmission-fluid temperature and other measured values during fluid-level procedures. Both vehicles also have electronic parking brakes, so a scan tool could be useful for putting the EPB into service mode and resetting it when replacing the rear brake pads.

I'd also like the ability to perform adaptations or relearns, such as for an electronically controlled throttle body.

I'm not looking for a tool just to read and clear trouble codes. I'm interested in something that will be useful for DIY maintenance and service procedures on both vehicles (again, specific to Subaru and Audi).

Any decent bidirectional tool will do that. When my Autel was in for service I bought the cheapest Icon and it works fine for everything you describe.

 

[afinepoint]

My xTool D7W worked well with my 2016 Audi. I changed rear pads and rotors which required retraction of the EPB. The dealership wanted $2500+ for the job.

Write xTool regarding the Subaru. They respond to email. However if any manufacturer says it will work with a car ensure you validate that. I was told the XTool works with our Lexus. Not fully. However it more than paid for itself with the Audi brake job. Extensive troubleshooting suggestions from xTool didn't help.

Also the comment that "any decent bi directional tool will do that" is wrong. These tools are Makes and Models specific. None do it all. Some work within group of years. The fact that it works on a 2020 Make X model Y in no way ensure it will work on a 2021 same make and model or 2020 Make X model Y different trim.

You also must look carefully to ensure it works with the Volkswagen group. Many don't. I know. I looked at several before purchasing the xTool.