What's a good value windows scan tool?

[DRNewcomb]

I've been watching some videos on modern auto diagnostics (vs. what I learned in the '60s) and it seems that you really need a real-time scan tool. One that will monitor readings as you make changes. For instance. If you have a MAP error code, you hook up and watch the voltage/pressure change on the MAP sensor as you accelerate and decelerate the engine. If it performs properly, changing the MAP sensor probably won't help. You need to look elsewhere.

I see a lot of automotive scan tools ranging from a $10 BlueTooth plug to some costing over $2K. I'm curious if there is a decent tool that runs on a Windows laptop, works well with Volvo cars and doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

I just want to be able to fix the things I can before I take it to the shop.

[Ozark Lee]

Since you have an 02 then VIDA and DICE would be a decent choice for you but it won't do anything that isn't a '99 or newer Volvo. VIDA with a DICE interface does system scanning for all of the major systems on your Volvo including Climate Control, ABS, SRS, etc. It also does engine and transmission codes and it has real time monitoring of engine parameters.

The typical price of DICE clone with a bootleg copy of VIDA is in the $100.00 to $150.00 range.

For something more generic there are several on the market but most of them are set up for smart phone applications. The one I hear a lot about is Torque but I think it has issues with accurate code reading on some models.

...Lee

[DRNewcomb]

So, the VIDA + DICE is a sort of Volvo-specific tool. I suppose you get a choice of either being generic and limited in what can be diagnosed or vendor-specific and able to do more things. The problem is that we currently have a Volvo, a Mercedes and a VW.

[Ozark Lee]

You are correct. VIDA and DICE won't do a thing for your Mercedes or your VW. Each manufacturer has come up with their own proprietary subsystem diagnostic program and interface. I suppose it keeps their dealer service department busy.

That said, and I suppose going back to your original question, the engine related systems must meet the OBD-II standards so any of the computer based systems should work. The only rub is that most manufacturers have error codes that go beyond the OBD-II standards and they get lumped into a "brand specific" category. The more expensive software packages have better databases to sort those out based on the make and model of the car but usually a Google search of "Pxxxx Volvo" will get you to the correct interpretation of the non standard code.

...Lee

[abscate]

So, the VIDA + DICE is a sort of Volvo-specific tool. I suppose you get a choice of either being generic and limited in what can be diagnosed or vendor-specific and able to do more things. The problem is that we currently have a Volvo, a Mercedes and a VW.

I just picked up an AUTEL 802 cheap, its usually about 250 USD on amazon, but it reads and clears a lot of codes on our fleet of Volvo VW and BMW.

I just cleared an SRS on the Beetle , for instance.

It reads out the Volvo specific error codes including my ECC codes on my 1999, too.