Scan tool software etc

[Nakrz]

G'day,
I'm about to upgrade my laptop to a MacBook. but before I do, I would like to get some sort of scan tool arrangement that will work on it. I tinker on all makes of cars but obviously I own a VW and would like to be able to play with that also.
my knowledge as far as computers and scan tools is basic, but I'm a fast learner. I don't want to spend millions, but am after some real un bias opinions on which way I go.
any help is appreciated!
Cheers

[h100vw]

G'day,
I'm about to upgrade my laptop to a MacBook. but before I do, I would like to get some sort of scan tool arrangement that will work on it. I tinker on all makes of cars but obviously I own a VW and would like to be able to play with that also.
my knowledge as far as computers and scan tools is basic, but I'm a fast learner. I don't want to spend millions, but am after some real un bias opinions on which way I go.
any help is appreciated!
Cheers

Cheap windows laptop and a VCDS cable for VW group stuff. For any other manufacturers, I have no idea. There's loads of generic scan tools, but I don't think many would come up well against VCDS on VWs.

Gavin

[Martin]

Autel make a range of ODBII scanners - the cheaper ones are scanners only with limited module coverage

The higher end units ($330) cover all modules and can clear codes
Autel MD802 Maxidiag Elite ENG AT ABS SRS 4 System Diagnostic Obdii CAN DS Model | eBay

But VCDS is a step above that again - can configure a lot of stuff/options

[Umai Naa!!]

If you're getting the Autel MD802, get the ALL SYSTEMS one.

[stefcio007]

I run Windows XP in a virtual environment with Ross-Tech VCDS with a $10 cable I bought off eBay. Does the job for me. I only use it for diagnostics though and clearing codes.

[The_Hawk]

The eBay cable works on an old version of VCDS and is OK up to the MK3, anything newer and it becomes far more limited.

If all you want to do is read and clear codes some of the cheaper options will do that and some basics like resetting service reminders.

But nothing beats a genuine Ross Tech cable (except maybe the VW VASS units... but as I understand it VCDS is still better for most things ). It's expensive and chances are after the initial play with settings you wont use it very often (but when you want it, it's magic). Most people are better off checking one of the threads in the VCDS section and getting someone who already has one to make any changes they need as a one off.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com/forums/f153/

I run VCDS on my Mac in a Windows XP VM and it's never missed a beat. I use Parallels but Virtual Box may work just as well (never tried). Mind you, but the time you buy Parallels and Windows you could probably buy a cheap old laptop (or a new one) just for VCDS:

https://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers-tablets/laptops/hp/hp-stream-11-r007tu-11-6-laptop/842537/

(Apparently it works just fine Under Windows 10).

[stefcio007]

Parallels is excellent and I use it for Windows specific engineering design apps (Altium Designer needs proper GPU support).
Honestly overkill for something like this.

My VCDS Windows XP setup is in VirtualBox, no issues and works well. Best of all, VirtualBox is free.

[Umai Naa!!]

Only downside to VAS-PC is the fact that the copies of it, and the Bluetooth dongle, rarely work reliably. Been there, done it. Wasted too much money on it.

Unfortunately, legit install discs and genuine dongles, are very hard to come by, for obvious reasons. It's a lot better than VCDS, just for its diagnostic capabilities alone. When mated to the oscilloscope, its a very powerful piece of kit.

[stefcio007]

+1 for staying away from the Bluetooth dongles