OBD code reader/reset

BUDFORCE · 2 Apr 2021 at 14:14

Anyone recommend one?

Trawling through Google/Amazon seems to be a minefield.

Car is a 2013 Volvo S60, and I could do with something to reset the service reminder and reset fault codes etc.

Not looking for something full professional quality, but if it can reset faults and scan fault codes that would be great.

SKILL · 2 Apr 2021 at 16:45

I've had a couple of cheapo BT ones (gave one away), think one from eBay and the other from Amazon, both worked well enough in terms of reading codes etc... I used the 'Torque' app, on Android, which I've since paid for but can't remember what the benefits of paying are...

FluffySheep · 2 Apr 2021 at 18:45

I had a 2003 s40 some years ago and the service reset was a combination of the ignition turns and odometer button presses. Try your googlefu to solve that part of your issue. I know it doesn't solve everything but an instant and free win

FluffySheep

pastymuncher · 2 Apr 2021 at 19:06

There is a easy and free way to reset the service light. This guide is for keyless cars and this one for cars with a key. A smartphone with the free Torque lite app can read and clear fault codes in combination with a plug in module. I have a ELM327 bluetooth module which worked perfectly on my old Astra.

BUDFORCE · 2 Apr 2021 at 20:11

I need it for more than just resetting the service reminder though.

I have a service ABS/DTSC warning come up which I would like to reset in the first instance and if it comes back get more information on what is going wrong.

I had an issue with my alarm system recently which I now have managed to fix, turned out it was the bonnet sensor but all of things are easier to diagnose when you can read the fault codes.

Lots of Volvo users say you need to get VIDA software on a laptop which plugs in via the OBDII port, my laptop is very old and basically ******, something with its own software would be good.

One post suggested an icarsoft:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07FPS53NG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_C78M12D010PRR6MN8CVF

But those reviews looks suspiciously sponsored.

koooowweeee · 4 Apr 2021 at 21:05

SKILL said:
I've had a couple of cheapo BT ones (gave one away), think one from eBay and the other from Amazon, both worked well enough in terms of reading codes etc... I used the 'Torque' app, on Android, which I've since paid for but can't remember what the benefits of paying are...

Same for me. Bought 2, lost 1. Bought the pro torque.

Used it on a few cars. I can wipe codes no problems. Think it was about £6 off eBay.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ELM327-V...-/164583528011?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286
That's the same as what I have. Might find it cheap if you have a proper look

BUDFORCE · 4 Apr 2021 at 21:28

Baught a cheap £20 generic OBD II scanner my mate uses on his Honda/VW and confirmed that doesn't work on the Volvo.

It was worth a go at £20 though.

On the Volvo forums some guy PM'd me saying he can ship me the Volvo software for use on a laptop, USB to OBD connector, workshop manual, the lot, everything a dealer has £135.

Seems Volvo's won't work with generic OBDII devices (figures......), I could get it to read the engine RPM that's about it.

I can't decide whether to take this guy up (assuming it's not a scam) or just at throw in the towel and take the car to a garage.

Hate modern cars.

BUDFORCE · 6 Apr 2021 at 18:18

More updates.

Apologies this seems to becoming a monolog thread but I guess it might help people googling this.

I got in contact with the guy selling the Volvo DICE/VIDA software, you need a laptop to install the software on which must be running Windows 7 and not the home version either (..so professional etc)

I do have an old laptop but Win 7 home, so wont work, so aside putting a different version of windows or doing a virtual desktop etc...... to be honest I just gave up on that.

I went to my local garage today and spoke to them, they are going to look at the car, I asked about diagnostics and they have all the proper Volvo software, but the guy said the iCarSoft one isnt too bad, so I think I will give that a go.

Anoyingly, all this, for what I supsect is one of the wheel speed/ABS sensors which are located behind the brake discs, are easy to change and cost about £35. But its hit and hope without the diagnostics plus I am not even confindent the car would reset the fault itself without plugging the software in, which means an MOT fail even if there is no longer the problem.

Bloody Volvos...................