OBD reader ??

DaveNP · Sep 16, 2023

Firstly apologies as this topic has probably been done to death a few times on the forum but searching brings up every reference to an OBD reader including phrases like 'check the OBD codes with a reader'.

My daughter now owns our 60 plate C'EED and has just got back from a holiday in Cornwall (300 miles each way plus running around down there) and unfortunately the Engine Management Light came on just before they got home, the car now seems to be in 'limp mode' with no throttle response. cue the phone call to dad

So this set me thinking it may be time I invested in an OBD code reader, but which one? Does anyone have any recommendations for something which will work with the 60 plate C'EED, our 68 plate Stonic, my son's 65 plate Mazda2, and anything else we might have in future? Whilst I don't mind spending a bit for a good tool I'm at the stage in life where I'm leaving more and more tasks to the garage so it doesn't need to be the most expensive all singing and dancing version, rather something that will allow us to check (and clear) the codes to know what's going on before we spend a fortune at the garage.

Thanks

DancingDad · Sep 17, 2023

Any cheap OBD reader will read OBD codes and clear codes.
But that is all they will do and codes alone do not give a full picture.
NExt level are OBD readers that will read live data.... that gives a chance of working out why a code is on or why a motor will not start.
An ELM 327 Dongle and one of the free (or very cheap) apps can satisfy this, I am a fan of Torque Pro for android but there are probably others.
Shouldn't be paying more then 20 notes in total

But... OBD readers will only read OBD codes...which are basically emission related codes from the engine ECU.
They will not help with all the other modules/computers in a modern car, things like ABS or brakes
More comprehensive diagnostic kit gets more expensive.
Probably the one I know that seems to cover most functions at best price is the Autel Maxi AP 200 dongle (the white one) Currently on offer from Autel UK at around 50 notes
Drawback is that you only get one free make of car with it.... so your two KIAs would be fine but if something happened with the Mazda, you would need to pay about 20 notes on a years licence for the Mazda add on.

After that, 100 or so notes for entry level kit from the likes of Icarsoft or Launch

DaveNP · Sep 18, 2023

Thanks for your thoughts. For the moment I've managed to borrow a reader from my neighbour (Streetwize SWOBD4 as available at ECP) which showed a problem with the Throttle Actuator, cleared the codes and they came back almost instantly so I've left her to get in touch with the local dealership to see what they will charge.
The idea of the dongle with its better range of functions does appeal so I'll have to do that research into the available apps.

OBD reader ??

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