So I'd thought I'd share a little review with everyone of a diagnostic tool I recently got and started using. It's as the title suggests, a Foxwell NT500, a full specification can be found here;
http://www.foxwelltech.com/product/item-125.html
WhyMost enthusiasts like to carry out work or modifications on their own driveway, and pretty much all cars post 1992 have had the ability for computer diagnostics to be carried out. These days, almost all faults can be detected via a fault code scan but also may service reminders and warning lights require something that can "talk" to the ECU to clear/diagnose such things. It makes sense then that an average enthusiast tool kit includes some sore of diagnostic tool.
Reason I chose this one personally is that it is not only a generic ODB2 reader, but a VAG specific one which allows you access to all the modules for better diagnostics and fault clearing. It's very comprehensive in the amount of cars it caters specifically for, and it's LCD screen is very clear to read with not only fault numbers but plain language descriptions of faults too.
SourcingI personally went on eBay to get mine, cost me £120 which isn't cheaper when you compare it to other generic ODB2 readers which can be as little as £25 but it's half the price of VCDS almost. The drawback of course is the reduced functionality but if you have no intention of coding in new equipment but still want an almost dealer level of diagnostic kit, this ticks the boxes nicely.
FittingPlug and play. For many people, the connecting port for your car is in the driver's foot well.
Other versionsAs mentioned, VCDS is top dog and I'm not going to suggest for a minute it's better overall than this. On the flip side, if all you want is basic fault code reading and clearing you can get more generic readers at half the price, but you'll loose many additional features and specific VAG compatibility.
Plus PointsEasy to use
VAG specific and ODB2 generic (i.e. pretty much all cars since 1992)
Small and easily carried about, no need for carrying a laptop about
Half the cost of VCDS
Minus PointsSaving faults and later calling them up isn't as easy as VCDS
No coding of new equipment
Twice the cost of generic readers
SummaryIf you're a home mechanic, this is seriously worth considering if, like me, you need access to your VAG car's ECU but don't want to spend the £250 needed for VCDS or have the need to code in new equipment. It's straight forward and easy to operate, accessing all modules of VAG cars and clearing all faults while resetting all service indicators too.
The instructions are clear to follow with pictures for every step. Updating the software is easy too, especially if using a laptop with an SD card reader as you plug the tool's card into your computer, run the software, update, unplug and go.
