As the name suggests, an Audi scan tool is a scanner that is made to scan the various systems of an Audi. These include the engine, transmission, SRS, ABS, etc.
These scan tools may also be called a VW scan tool since Audi is owned by the Volkswagen Group. VW and Audi vehicles fall under the larger group commonly referred to as VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) vehicles. You will find many such scanners on the market but it’s important to pick the right one since they differ in terms of features and usability.
Best Audi/VW scan tools reviews
| Product Name | Product Image | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| TOAD Pro |  | 9.6/10 |
| Ancel VD500 |  | 9.5/10 |
| Carista |  | 9/10 |
| FIXD |  | 8/10 |
| Autophix 7610 |  | 8/10 |
Let’s look at some of the best Audi and VW scan tools and see why we chose these scanners to make the table above.
TOAD Pro Diagnostic Software – Best option to fix CEL or tune your car’s ECU
To be clear, TOAD Pro can’t access the ABS or SRS systems on your Audi/VW. However, when it comes to the engine and transmission, this scanning software is more powerful than any other tool on this list!
Features
Monitor real-time data: Engine Temperature, O2 Value, RPM, Speedometer, LAC Value, Battery Voltage, Ignition Angle, etc.
Read/clear 15,000 fault code definitions (generic and manufacturer-specific codes for engine/transmission)
Modes $06 and $08 – these 2 modes can be hard-to-find in this price range
ECU Chip Tuning, Correction, Remapping – these are special functions that make TOAD Pro stand out from the rest. You can use these to reduce your gas mileage or increase HP by tuning the engine’s torque, RPM, gear change, fuel injection, etc.
Vehicle coverage
TOAD Pro supports all European vehicles that are newer than 2001 (gasoline) or 2004 (diesel). So, as long as your Audi/VW was manufactured after these dates, this software will work on your car!
Verdict
TOAD Pro is a comprehensive diagnostic software tool suitable for both hobbyists and professional mechanics. It’s one of the few options that allow you to tune your engine, in addition to running scans and reading data.
Pros
- Both diagnoses and tunes engines
- Excellent tech support with step-by-step repair advice
- Offers advanced diagnostics of SRS and ABS systems for some vehicles
- Can re-map ECU (14,000 map files included)
- User-configurable parameters for sensor data
- Actuator Function lets you take active control of engine components (Bidirectional control/Active testing)
Cons
- Only works on Windows systems
Ancel VD500 OBD2 diagnostic scanner for Audi / VW
Next, we have a corded device on the list. Such scan tools can sometimes be a little difficult to use, but not this Ancel VD500 OBD2 diagnostic scanner. Furthermore, the Ancel VD500 scan tool can work on almost all systems.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: It offers basic functions like VIN, DTC, reading and erasing code, and turning off the light.
System diagnosis: This Audi / VW scan tool can diagnose the engine, SAS, transmission, and ABS.
Special functions: Some advanced features it offers include oil reset, brake pad, throttle position, TPMS, ESP, Battery, EPB Replace Brakepads, and ESP.
Vehicle coverage
This OBD2 diagnostic tool is made to diagnose 12V 16-pin vehicles including Audi, VW, Skoda and SEAT.
Verdict
The Ancel VD500 Audi / Volkswagen OBD2 diagnostic scanner is among the best Audi / VW scan tools since it offers pretty much everything you would expect from a unit this size and should be able to do pretty much everything you will need.
Pros
- You can choose from two languages – German and English
- Free lifetime upgrades
- Lets you check the battery
- Performs quick functions
- Offers reliable results
- The definitions are correct and useful
- Can scan almost all systems
Cons
- It can be a little complicated to upgrade
- May not work well until upgraded
- Some functions may not work on all models
Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter scan tool for Audi / VW
The Carista OBD2 Bluetooth adapter is unlike other scanners since it’s more about getting your hands on the app and less about using this OBD2 scan tool. It is ideal for mechanics, professionals, and DIYers as well. This Bluetooth OBD2 scanner for Audi / VW provides all the necessary functionalities that are required to diagnose a car and find problems.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: The scan tool offers only basic OBDII / OBD2 diagnostic functions. You will be able to check and reset the check engine light. Other than this, you will be able to check if your vehicle is ready for emission tests
System diagnosis: You will be able to test the engine, airbag, and ABS.
Special functions: You will be able to perform EPB retraction, service reset, ECU, and Launch control counter on an Audi / VW. There are some other advanced options like the TPMS function but it isn’t supported on Audi / VW.
Other than this, it even offers some customization options that may only be suitable for pros.
Vehicle coverage
You can use this scanner to perform most functions on an OBDII / OBD2 compliant Audis and VW group vehicles. Other supported brands include Toyota, Scion, Mini, Lexus, Infiniti, BMW, and Nissan.
You can also use the Carista adapter with a number of partner apps like Torque but it’s best used with Carista’s own app.
Verdict
The Carista OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for Audi / VW is great for pros and experienced DIYers. They will be able to fully take advantage of all the functions that this advanced adapter has to offer.
Pros
- Supports a wide variety of models
- Very easy to use
- The scan tool is very compact
- Supports various third-party apps
- Provides accurate results
- Excellent custom support
- Let’s you customize your vehicle
Cons
- Can be expensive in the long run
- Some functions are very complicated
- Not all features work on all models
FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter scan tool for Audi / VW
The FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for Audi VW is quite unique as it can do a lot. the FIXD scanner is one of the the most suitable options for users who own multiple cars and want to be able to perform simple diagnostics.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: The FIXD Audi/VW scan tool supports several OBD2 protocols including J1850 PWM, ISO15765, ISO14230-4, ISO9141-2, and J1850 VPW. The DTC feature is pretty good with over 7,000 definitions. Supported parameters include throttle position air intake temp, mass air flow, fuel level, EVAP, fuel trim, fuel pressure, coolant temp, etc.
System diagnosis: The FIXD OBD2 scanner and app allow you to find out what the check engine light means, how serious it is, and suggests possible fixes before going to the repair shop. You can even clear the check engine light once the issue has been resolved.
Special functions: Monitor the health of your vehicle in real time. See O2 sensor voltage, vehicle speed, fuel trims, & more on your phone, for a fraction of the cost of an expensive OBD scanner.
Another cool feature of the FIXD Bluetooth adapter is that it also tracks maintenance and wear items and automatically notifies you when your car is due for service.
Vehicle coverage
The best part about this Audi / Volkswagen code reader is that it supports almost all OBDII / OBD2 compliant brands including Audi, VW, Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, BMW, Porsche, Subaru, Nissan, Cadillac, Lexus, and more. The app is compatible with all major OS such as Android, iOS, and Windows.
Verdict
The FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for Audi / VW is a great option for users who own multiple cars and want to be able to perform simple diagnostics.
Pros
- Includes free FIXD app
- Code definitions are simple and easy to understand
- Strong Bluetooth connection
- Works on all operating systems
- Supports a large number of vehicles
- Very easy to use
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Does not support hybrid vehicles
- Comes with no instructions
- Does not support electric vehicles
Autophix 7610 OBD2 diagnostic scanner tool for Audi / VW
The next scanner on our Audi/VW diagnostic tool list is the Autophix 7610 OBD2 scanner for Audi / VW that is pretty durable.
Features
OBDII /OBD2 functions: The Autophix 7610 offers all functions including data stream, read and clear codes, IM readiness, O2 test, on-board monitoring, VIN, Evap, DTC andfreeze frame data.
System diagnosis: It can access most major systems including the engine, ABS, SRS, and transmission.
Special functions: These include oil reset, EBP, throttle learning, diesel engine, tire pressure reset, injector adaptation, and steering angle learning.
Vehicle coverage
The Autophix 7610 OBD2 scanner is made to diagnose 12V 16pin vehicles for VW, Audi, SEAT, Skoda, etc. It comes with lifetime free updates.
Verdict
The Autophix 7610 OBD2 diagnostic tool for VW/Audi is suitable for both DIYers and mechanics.
Pros
- Shows accurate definitions
- Excellent build quality and very durable
- Lifetime free updates
- May not work well unless upgraded
- Available in about a dozen languages
- The screen can be customized
Cons
- Some features don’t work on some models
- Cannot upgrade on a Mac
Ancel BD320 OBD2 diagnostic scanner tool for Audi / VW
The Ancel BD320 OBD2 diagnostic scan tool for VW/Audi is ideal for mechanics, professionals, and DIYers as well. It provides all the necessary functionalities that are required to diagnose a car and find problems in your VW or Audi.
What makes the Ancel BD320 unique is that it has 2 connection types, being both wired and Bluetooth connection types – not a commonly found feature in many scanners.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: This Ancel BD320 OBD2 scanner offers a bunch of useful features including check engine fault, read and clear codes, data stream reading, freeze frame data, I/M readiness, O2 sensor test, battery testing, vehicle performance testing, vehicle information, Auto VIN, and more.
System diagnosis: It supports full-system diagnostics as well as Oil reset (Inspection Due reset), throttle matching (EPB Reset), and brake pad replacement (ETC reset).
Special functions: The Ancel BD320 can clear the annoying “Service Due” and “Inspection Due” messages that appear every 10k miles in VW and Audi vehicles. It can also help with electronic parking brake activation/deactivation, retracting electronic parking brake calipers, brake pad and rear brake rotor replacement, throttle matching, and adjusting throttle openings for improved engine efficiency and power output.
Vehicle coverage
This OBD2 scanner supports Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bentley, Lamborghini, and other VW series (VAG) vehicles for full-system diagnostics
Verdict
The Ancel BD320 OBD2 scan tool for VW and Audi vehicles is made for DIYers and everyday users.
Pros
- LCD is easy to read
- Includes free Ancel app
- Can retrieve both generic and manufacturer specific codes
- Shows data in a graphical format hence it is easy to comprehend
- The built-in DTC library is incredibly reliable
- Live data helps to identify problems
- The scanner is very durable
Cons
- Ancel app is slightly outdated (though it still works fine)
- Does tend to drain battery if left plugged in to OBD2 so have to remember to unplug it
OBDeleven OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter scan tool for Audi / VW
Here’s a scan tool from a brand that’s fast becoming the go-to option for pros and DIYers. The OBDeleven OBD2 Bluetooth adapter (Pro Edition) is a lightweight and compact, but still very capable device.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: You will be able to check and clear codes with this unit. In addition to this, the system offers live data that can help gauge results.
System diagnosis: With the OBDeleven adapter, you will be able to scan you car, and identify issues in the engine, transmission, ABS systems and clear fault codes.
Special functions: The OBDeleven Bluetooth adapter for VW / Audi offers a number of special features and you will be able to do almost anything you wish to your car, however, be aware that you will likely have to pay extra for these functions, and these extra amounts can add up quickly.
Vehicle coverage
OBDeleven supports all OBDII compliant Audi and VW models.
Moreover, there are regular updates released by the company, which are available for free.
Verdict
The OBDeleven OBD2 Bluetooth adapter (Pro Pack) scan tool for VW and Audi is a very powerful and capable tool which has a lot of useful features. However, be aware that some of the special features available will cost extra through in-app purchases.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Lightweight and compact
- The app is free (excluding in-app purchases)
- Forms quick and strong connections
- The tool is very durable
- Provides quick results
- One-Click-App makes it suitable for all kinds of users and functions (although certain one-click apps may cost extra)
Cons
- Limited features are available for free – in-app purchases required for all special features
- After a feature is enabled, you will have to pay again to deactivate it in some cases – can be highly infuriating and very expensive
- Customer support could’ve been better
Ancel VD700 OBD2 diagnostic scanner for Audi / VW (VAG Vehicles)
No best Audi/VW scan tool list would be complete without the Ancel VD700. We have picked this one since it is tailor made for Audi / VW. The Ancel VD700 OBD2 scan tool for Audi / VW is ideal for mechanics, professionals, and DIYers as well. It provides with all the necessary functionalities that are required to diagnose a car and find problems.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: The Ancel VD700 offers all OBDII / OBD2 functions including data stream, read and clear codes, IM readiness, O2 test, on-board monitoring, VIN, Evap, DTC, freeze frame data.
System diagnosis: It can access all major systems including the engine, transmission, ABS, SAS, SRS, ESP, TPMS, immobilizer and battery system.
Special functions: Some of the advanced features performed by the machine include injector learning, DPF reset, battery registration, oil reset, steering angle, TPMS reset, brake pad reset, and throttle position.
Vehicle coverage
The Ancel VD700 OBD2 scanner works on all OBDII / OBD2 compliant vehicles including light trucks and 12V cars and is specifically optimized for VAG vehicles (VW, Audi, Skoda, SEAT etc).
Verdict
The Ancel VD700 OBD2 scanner for VW / Audi (VAG) vehicles works like a charm and is among the best VW/ Audi scan tools. This Audi/VW OBD2 scanner is suitable for both pros and everyday inexperienced car owners.
Pros
- Identify vehicles thanks to the auto VIN feature
- Updates are free for lifetime
- The placement of buttons is pretty good
- Updates are easy to install
- Excellent customer support
- Very easy to use
- Rubber covering makes it very durable
Cons
- Doesn’t support electric vehicles
- Not all systems work on all cars
- Some functions may be complicated for inexperienced users
Foxwell NT510 Elite OBD2 scan tool for VW / Audi (VAG vehicles)
There are few companies as popular and reliable as Foxwell. It’s known for catering to all kinds of users and has produced tools for specific manufacturers. The Foxwell NT510 Elite scan tool for VW / Audi (VAG vehicles) supports all the latest models.
Features
OBDII / OBD2 functions: The Foxwell NT510 Elite offers all functions including data stream, read and clear codes, IM readiness, O2 test, on-board monitoring, VIN, Evap, DTC, freeze frame data.
System diagnosis: You will be able to check various symptoms including the engine, transmission, ABS, TPS, SRS (Airbag), SAS, TPMS and BMS systems.
Special functions: The Foxwell NT510 Elite offers more than 30 advanced reset functions for VW and Audi vehciles.
Another notable feature is bi-directional control (active testing) which allows you to activate and test certain electronic systems in the car directly from the scanner itself, without having to manually test the item yourself. This is a very impressive feature usually reserved for more expensive and advanced scan tools.
Vehicle coverage
The Foxwell NT510 Elite is compatible with all Audi and VW models that are OBD2 compliant.
Verdict
The Foxwell NT510 Elite scanner for VAG vehicles (VW/Audi/Skoda, SEAT etc.) is a great tool for any car owner, but we think it’s more suited to more experienced DIYers and mechanics or those who have a lot of knowledge on vehicles since some advanced features may be quite complicated for new users.
Pros
- Supports all the latest VW / Audi models
- Works on all functions
- The 2.8” TFT screen makes it easy to read
- Excellent customer support
- Very easy to use
- Bidirectional control (active testing) functionality
- Automatically recognized vehicles
Cons
- Control module coding works on selected brands
- Quite expensive (but worth it!)
iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 OBD2 diagnostic scan tool for Audi / VW
iCarsoft is known for producing futuristic scanners that support a bunch of vehicles and this iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 OBD2 scan tool for VW / Audi vehicles is no different. The iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 provides accurate results.
Features
OBDII /OBD2 functions: The iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 scan tool offers all functions including data stream, read and clear codes, IM readiness, O2 test, on-board monitoring, VIN, Evap, DTC, freeze frame data.
System diagnosis: It can access most major systems including the engine, ABS, SRS, and transmission.
Special functions: The iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 is capable of a number of impressive special functions including controlling the service interval reset, battery registration, oil light service reset, throttle body adjustment, ,suspension calibration, headlamp adjustment, freeze frame, O2 sensor test, and EVAP system testing.
Vehicle coverage
The iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 for VW and Audi supports almost all OBDII / OBD 2 compliant Audi and VW models but works best for 2005 models onwards for the VAG vehicle manufacturers including Skoda, VW, and SEAT and Audi.
The unit comes with lifetime free upgrades, so you will not have to worry about it not working anytime soon.
Verdict
The iCarsoft VAWS V3.0 OBD2 diagnostic scan tool for Audi and VW is a great choice for DIYers.
Pros
- Updates are free for a lifetime
- Can access all systems
- Gives you access to all OBDII / OBD2 functions
- The screen is big and easy to read
- Provides accurate results
- Comes with a free carry case
Cons
- Difficult to update
- Customer and technical assistance not the greatest – response times very slow
Recommendation: Top 3 Audi/VW scan tools
Our number 1 pick for an Audi / VW scanner is undoubtedly the TOAD Pro diagnostic software paired with an appropriate ELM327 connector. This will give you the most functionality and features and the most bang for your buck by far.
Next is the Ancel VD500 OBD2 scan tool as it offers lots of basic and advanced functions. Not only that, this scan tool provides lifetime free software updates.
For anyone who has limited budget but still want a great VAG (VW / Audi / Skoda / SEAT etc.) scan tool, the Carista OBD2 Bluetooth adapter is an excellent choice. It works on both Android & iOS platforms.
Finally, the FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth adapter is an easy-to-use device which will surely meet all of your demands for an Audi/VW scan tool.
Final thoughts
These were some of the best VAG (VW / Audi / Skoda / SEAT etc.) scanners available on the market today. We hope this article will help you narrow down the best VW / Audi scanner for your requirements.