The Laptop OBD2 Guide for People Who Want More Than Fault Codes
Published: February 28, 2024 · Last updated: August 25, 2026
Working on one brand? Dealer software: VCDS, ISTA, Techstream. Deepest access, locked to that make.
Chip tuning your ECU (DTC delete, EGR/DPF delete, remaps, stage tunes)? You need a dedicated ECU programmer, not dealer software. → Best ECU tuning programmers
Working on other units (cluster, airbag, radio, and similar chip-level jobs)? Different category of programmer again. → Best Chip & unit programmers
Just want one scanner for diagnostics, coding and resets across brands? Skip the laptop. → Best bidirectional scanners
I earn from qualifying purchases and sometimes get tools for free (full disclosure). It never affects my scoring.
Find the laptop OBD2 tool for your brand
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Bi-Directional Scan tools (+mobile)
I’m interested in using an old laptop as a tool for a 2012 porsche I’m buying.
I want to be sure that:
1. its running properly and no major issues.
2. diagnose future problems (which are inevitable) so I can fix them.
Hi, check out Durametric for Porsche.
Hello, i have Audi S3 1.8T Apy Engine code ,04/1999 producted car. I was thinking of buying veepeak obd scanner or something like that but im not sure my car has obd2 protocols because in europe cars as i know it camed after 2001 year. If i buy deplhi ds150e, can i check everything and is it compatible with my car ? please help me if you have any idea
Hello for Audi S3 I recommend OBDeleven or VCDS
Which software do you recommend for Toyota/Lexus?
Techstream: https://iamcarhacker.com/lexus-toyota-techstream/
Hello for Nissan what software u suggest
Launch Creader Elite for Nissan is very good and have free updates.
What is the Best software and tool for BMW?
I would just get Launch Creader Elite for BMW
What program for Acura
I don’t know sorry, we don’t have Acura here.
Acura is Honda software
Gg
Hi, What is the Best software and tool for hyundai ?
Hello here are few options, my recommendation is Launch: https://amzn.to/4fD2oYn
Is there a type for Hyundai that I can connect to the laptop? And thank you for your help.
Maybe this but I don’t have any experience so ask seller first about support for your model
https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dn2BWTb
Sir bets for nissan full service and you have to suscribed
Here are some options: https://iamcarhacker.com/best-obd-ii-scanners-for-nissan-infiniti/
Hello, what’s is best software and tool for chervolet malibu hybrid?
I would get one of those 2 foxwell scanners:
https://iamcarhacker.com/best-obd-ii-scanners-for-general-motors-chevrolet-gmc-buick-cadillac/
Hi,
I have VCDS (for VW) but there are some things I cannot do with it, like coding replacement modules, but I think ODIS could do that. Is that true, and if so, what other functions can ODIS do that VCDS cannot?
Thx in advance
It can but for these you need to have geko login (around $30 per 1 hour) everytime you use it. Other ODIS functions are similiar to VCDS it just feels little different. But you can see topology module map which is not in vcds
I have a 2020 Kia Telluride lx I want to use my surface pad pro windows and create a UI interface for my car using obd2 link
I have a 2006 Mazda 6 mps. Which software do you recommend?
Thank you.
Forscan
What would you recommend for a ford f150 2017, chrysler town and country 2010
For laptop don’t know any…but one of these would work:
https://iamcarhacker.com/best-obd2-scanners/
Hi Juraj,
Thanks for all the great information on OBD2. It’s a great help.
I saw in previous remarks that for BMW Launch Creader Elite for BMW is best.
I also have a Saab (2004). Is there one device recommended to be used for both of them?
Intended use is reading detailed error code, possibly tweak general setting. No engine mapping or that kind of technical stuff is required.
Thanks in advance.
I doubt there will be any settings to change on 2004 and for basic engine diagnostics it will work even on BMW Launch creader.
Hi Juraj,
What’s the best software for Mercedes Benz
Hi, Xentry clone from Aliexpress
Hi, I am looking to work on a 2024 Jeep grand Cherokee. Is there anything you would recommend for that?
Hi any of scan tools here: https://iamcarhacker.com/best-bi-directional-obd2-scanners/
What you recommend for subaru legacy 2008?
One of these: https://iamcarhacker.com/best-bi-directional-obd2-scanners/
I hope you can help I have a 2013 Iveco Daily van 35s18v 3.0ltr diesel 180hp what scanner will work ,I cant find anything .
Marc
2023 model not 2013
Hello, could you please update the links for the Delphi DS150e? 🙂
Sure, updated. Thanks for notice.
what it the best tool for loggin cars in general?
I use Mucar892BT