7 Best OBD-II scanners for VW/Audi/Skoda/Seat
I have tested a lot of OBD2 scanners for VAG as these cars are the most popular in my country. It is hard to pick only one since some of them are good for diagnosing issues, some for coding, and some come with subscriptions but I crafted the best pick table where everyone can find one that suits you the best!
Affiliate Disclosure: iamcarhacker.com is an Amazon and other affiliate programs Associate. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Full Affiliate disclosure.
Quick Recommendations
OBDeleven
The OBDeleven adapter is the easiest tool for VAG coding, adaptations, and live data. It’s smartphone-based and allows one-tap customizations like needle sweep, mirror folding, or DRL tweaks. Ideal for both beginners and advanced users.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
Mucar 892BT
The Mucar 892BT is great for VAG cars thanks to its long coding helper similar to OBDeleven or VCDS, yet it also works across all major brands. It’s a full-system bi-directional scanner with ECU coding, service resets, and free lifetime updates.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
VCDS (clone)
The VCDS clone from AliExpress remains a powerful PC-based tool for coding, adaptations, and long coding. It offers deep access to all VAG modules and is perfect for users who prefer laptop-based diagnostics.
Soloscan VAG
The Soloscan VAG by Kingbolen is a budget-friendly choice offering ECU coding, service resets, and component testing. Great for beginners who want a dedicated VAG-only scanner without spending much. Free lifetime updates included.
XTool D8s
The XTool D8S is perfect for advanced users working on VAG and other brands. It features topology mapping, 42+ service resets, and supports key programming and odometer calibration. Great for diagnosing complex faults with dealer-level depth.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
Launch Creader VAG
The Launch Creader VAG is a compact handheld scanner for VAG group vehicles. It supports full-system fault reading, service resets, and basic coding. A solid choice if you prefer a simple wired tool.
Mucar BT200 Max
The Mucar BT200 Max is the best budget pick — offering full-system diagnostics, bi-directional tests, and service resets for most car brands. It also connects to apps like Carista, allowing VAG coding and customization features.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
My insights after testing 100+ OBD2 tools
I’ve tested literally hundreds of OBD2 scanners, so let me tell you why I find these the best value for money.
Best VAG OBD2 scanners comparison
| Scanner | Best For | VAG Coding / Adaptations | Bi-Directional Tests | Works on All Brands | Updates | Platform / Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mucar 892BT | Fastest all-round tool with coding | ✅ Long coding helper (like OBDeleven/VCDS) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ Lifetime | Android tablet / Bluetooth | ??? |
| Mucar BT200 Max | Budget tool + app flexibility | ✅ via Carista / apps | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ Lifetime | Smartphone + Bluetooth | ?? |
| XTool D8S | Advanced users & workshops | ✅ ECU coding | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ Lifetime | Android tablet / wired | ??? |
| OBDeleven (Next-Gen / Pro) | Easy smartphone VAG coding | ✅ One-tap coding & adaptations | ✅ | ❌ VAG only | ⚠️ Subscription optional | Smartphone + Bluetooth | ?? |
| VCDS (Clone) | Laptop-based VAG diagnostics | ✅ Long coding & adaptations | ✅ | ❌ VAG only | ❌ Manual updates | Windows laptop / USB | ? |
| Launch Creader VAG | Simple handheld use | ✅ Basic coding | ✅ | ❌ VAG only | ✅ Lifetime | Handheld / wired | ?? |
| Kingbolen Soloscan VAG | Beginners on a tight budget | ✅ Basic ECU coding | ✅ | ❌ VAG only | ✅ Lifetime | Handheld / wired | ? |
✅ Legend:
? = Budget ?? = Mid-range ??? = Professional
✅ = Fully supported ⚠️ = Partially supported ❌ = Not supported
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q: What is SFD protection and which scanner can unlock it?
A: SFD (Security Function Definition) is Volkswagen Group’s newer security system used on modern VW, Audi, Škoda, and SEAT models. It blocks long coding, adaptations, and many control-unit changes until the scanner requests online authorization from VAG servers. Without SFD unlock, you can read data but you cannot code anything. OBDeleven can unlock SFD1 protection. For SFD2 (2023/2024+) so far we don’t have aftermarket option.
Testing best VW/Audi scanners
Learn to use VAG Coding
Learn to use adaptations, codings, long coding with any VAG OBD-II scanner with my FREE PDF (Download HERE)
Hello I have a 2000 Audi S6 avant wagon 4.2 v8. I’d like to know what is the process or scanner to use to code my clocksrping ,ie (cablereel) . I replaced the old one for a NEW unit I purchased from the local dealership. I was told it needs to be coded please help thank you in advance.
I did it for newer car by copying coding value from steering wheel module (16) and when I replaced it coding changed so I copy old value.
(I used VCDS)
Vcds is really expensive in my country, and obdeleven seems to have gotten more expensive and no longer offer lifetime long coding. Is there any other device that doesn’t need a subscription to long code for vw?
You can get not OEM cable on Aliexpress for about $30, they even help you install it if you need. Or I also use Mucar V07 but that was 320€ when I bought it on discount and it has 3 years free update but you don’t have to renew and it has long coding for VAG. (+ works on all brands)
Hi, I have a Skoda citigo and am trying to reach the ABS/brakes module to find the cause of an intermittent “ABS+Traction control warning”. I have a generic ELM327 that seems to only come back with OBD, ECU,TCU codes. Should I be going for the other OBD adapters or is it just software related ? I only need the trouble codes from the control units at the moment.
Yes for ABS bi-directional scanner is better. You can get OBDeleven free or xTool A30 or KIngbolen Ediag Elite those are fairly cheap and will do the job.
Hi,
Is Hex-V2 bidirectional? and what feature use that
yes it means it can activate components like door locks, lights, engine fan, etc… Depends which tests are stored in your car because every model comes with different set of tests