which code scanner?

I am in the market for a good 996 diagnostic scan tool. What would you guys recommend? I would like one that resets the CEL along with trouble codes, after I repair the fault without me having to disconnect the battery. Disconnecting the battery puts all monitors out of commission until the drive cycles are complete for each monitor. Right now I am once again driving like crazy trying to set the evap system into the READY mode. Thanks in advance.

Besides Durametric, I have a OBDII handheld scanner I got from AutoZone for like $49. Scans codes, tells you the codes, and erases any codes. Super simple and easy. Takes about 1 minute from the time I plug it in to find any codes and clear them. I leave it in the door pocket for quick checks while on the road. I've also used it on many other cars/trucks.

I think I must have the same scan tool as DBJoe. Just about any scan tool can read codes and clear the CEL. However, clearing codes will cause all the monitor activities to reset as well; you can't reset just one code. While any tool will report the code, none of them will tell you what the issue is. Except Durametric or other Porsche-specific device. As an example, I had a P1341. All it told me was the code number and some gibberish about being a manufacturer specific code. Of course, Google tells you anything about 1341 that you'd want to know. Additionally, a generic reader will just report on the OBDII codes. A PIWIS or Durametric can also report on airbag codes, antilock brake codes, seatbelt codes, ad nauseum, as well as reset a maintenance light after an oil change. All in addition to showing real-time engine operating parameters like cam deviation.

I have a $29 bluetooth scanner and use TORQUE app on my Android phone. Also have the Durametric.

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My Actron unit has been superb. Bought it back shortly after I bought a '96 Mustang GT. '96 was the 1st year for OBD2. Paid around $200 for the Actron back then. 4 line LCD display. Read codes. Read pending codes. Clear codes. Read freeze frame data. Check readiness monitor. View data. Log data (about 60 seconds' worth.) Supported triggering some sensor tests. $200 is a bit of money but the Actron unit has paid for itself many times over. I have used it with my Mustang, Camaro, Boxster, VW Golf TDi, GTO, and Turbo. I have used it with my Dad's Crown Vic and cars of friends and co-workers. The extra features like being able to run sensor tests has proven useful too. The Actron and its ilk does not support communicating with anything other than the OBD2 system (DME). No airbag controller communication. No security module communication. Etc. For more than just OBD2 communication the Durametric is it unless you can locate a PST2 (Porsche System Tester 2) setup. But I believe these will ony "talk" to the older models, the 986/996 cars. And they can be rather expensive to buy. For the use with the older models and the 987/997 and newer models you need a PIWIS. The genunie Porsche version is probably out of your price range. There are "Chinese" versions one of which a tech used when I had my 2003 996 Turbo in to an indy shop for O2 sensor replacement. The former Porsche tech told me the unit worked pretty good -- as a former Porche tech he was very familiar with the Porsche PIWIS -- but I didn't bother to ask what brand it was.

+1 on the Actron. I have the Pocket Scanner Plus which was about $90. Hurdi - If you're trying to get the last monitor into ready status for an inspection, check with your state. Most states allow 1 or 2 monitors to be not ready and still pass emissions testing. I just went through that with my Volkswagen. I cleared a code and couldn't get the last monitor into ready status. Finally I went to the inspection station and told them. They said for my year (2004) I could have one monitor not ready. For cars MY 2000 and earlier, 2 not-ready monitors are allowed.

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^This is the best combo for diagnostic purposes because you can mount your cell phone on the windshield and monitor all the sensor reading in real-time. Emission readiness, evap readiness, fuel trims, coolant temp and what not. If you use an iphone, you get the wifi version scanner and use the OBD fusion app.

Details for Ahsai's recommendation I found to share with other iPhone guys: OBD Fusion - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/obd-...650684932?mt=8 https://www.obdsoftware.net/software/obdfusion Bluedriver odb2 seems to be the premium choice. Amazon Amazon Any other iPhone based suggestions?

Regarding this, is a Durametric any use for the 996.1, I keep seeing posts suggesting it's garbage for early cars?? Anyone with experience of this, as I'm thinking of investing in one.

I use the OBD Fusion app ($9.99 on iOS) and the LELink Bluetooth reader LELink Bluetooth reader ($35 on Amazon). It won't give me the fault code leading to my ABS warning light being on, but it appropriately diagnosed a O2 sensor fault.

The big missing link for Durmetric+ M96 is "Actual Values". Yes you can read them .But where is the list of what those Actual Values should be? The M96 OBD manual is out of print and no clones are available(that I could find) .So you have to beg the experts here to interpret your Actual Values. The same limitation applies to the OBD2 scanners we are discussing here. Without knowing what the Actual Values should be , it is difficult to use the tool effectively.

Ok guys I made my decision. I already have a cheapo OBD 11 scanner which is good but does not clear codes or CEL after repair. I decided to go for a small device which plugs into my dash connection. It's an OBD wi fi device which shows fault codes when they happen and is compatible with my iPhone. I bought an app for my iPhone where I can see live data as I drive, on readiness of my monitors and after I repair them can cancel out CEL and the codes. That's really all I need for now. Thanks again for all your input. The plug in and iPhone holder arrive on Monday. Total cost just over $30....

does torque app (free version) show readiness codes or does the bought version?

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I don't know on that one. I have the iPhone so needed to buy 'DashCommand'..The free one of Torque only does the Android phone.

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Follow these steps so that you'll still be able to use Pandora, Waze, and other Internet-based apps while using the scanner. If you don't, the iPhone will try to access the Internet via WiFi instead of cellular. Plug the unit in and turn the key on. You don't need to start the engine. If the unit is not on (lights should be lit), turn it on via the power button. In iPhone Settings, go to Wifi and select the "V-link" WiFi network. Select "Static" and enter this info: IP Address: 192.168.0.11 Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 Router: 192.168.0.10 This will tell the iPhone not to try to get to the Internet via the V-Link network. Start the DashCommand app and click "Connect"

I went with blue driver.

I have a wifi one with Torque lite but I don't get a whole lot out of it. The only value I really want (oil temp) isn't there - even in the pro version

I have the Launch Easy Diag 2.0 Bluetooth dongle. Besides a standard generic OBD reader it comes with 2 free care manufacturers to choose from for more extensive access to different modules, as well as live access to the data streams. It is to my knowledge also the only non-pro OBD tool which can read the oil temperature! Yes it does

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No way!! I'm interested ill have to check it out Would be good to see the interface/live data values, I have a PIWIS so I really only need an OBD unit for oil temp/live data

Here a screenshot I took some months ago. I verified it with Durametric Unfortunately it is a OBD reader style interface. So nothing to compare with the Torque app. And it is not possible to show the values coming from different modules at the same time.

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Thanks for sharing does it let you add coolant temperature to that same screen? Looks decent

engine temperature = coolant temperature further from my head under the DME data stream rpm supply voltage intake air temperature ambient air temperature engine temp oil temp throttle (0-100%) there are some 5-6 streams more to access.

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Ah got it, makes sense, was thinking what's engine temperature? Just didn't click haha

I picked this one up for $10.99 on Amazon. PRODIAG Mini Bluetooth OBD2 OBDII EOBD Scanner Its low profile so I often just leave it plugged in. Combined with the Torque app, its an incredibly affordable way to monitor numerous engine functions in real time as well as read and clear OBD codes. For the money, it is a bargain of a tool.

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I use Durametric with a 996.1 I wouldn't say its garbage. It has all the features I'd think you would need; full fault code reading, checking overrevs, monitoring actual values real-time, performing device activations, etc. My only complaint is that it's extraordinarily buggy and unstable. Sometimes I have to open the software or plug/unplug the cable like 10 times before it starts working, and the software crashes pretty routinely during use. I've experienced this on 2 different laptops so I don't think it's the computer's fault.

I recently bought the foxwell scanner NT510 off of ebay for $150 and it resets air bag and maintenance codes on the 997. Its specific for porsche. It even gave me over rev data. Has a whole lot of options that I might never use. I believe it works with the 996 also? Just something to look into if you don't want o spend few hundred on a duramatric.

Yup, Foxwell NT510 works on my 996.1 and 996.2. It was a useful purchase for ~$150. Mine paid for itself the first time I used it - resetting the airbag light myself instead of at a dealer paid for the scanner.

Foxwell NT510 also works on the 986 Boxster.$200 on Amazon. https://rennlist.com/forums/porsche-...r-up-date.html http://www.uobdii.com/service/diagno...ter-11791.html You Tube

I have the Professional Version of Durametric. I was disappointed in the limited coding for the 996. I also have an old Snap-on Solus Pro, but don’t have the Porsche key. I recently bought a newer Snap-on Ethos Pro. it doesn’t require key, can do everything the Durametric can do(except for reading over-revs) and works for most Domestic, Asian, and European cars. I think I’ll keep the Durametric for PPIs, but the Snap-on will be my goto scanner.

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Do you get coolant and oil temps both? I have an iPhone and would have to get the WiFi version ( Amazon Amazon ), which indicates it can work with both Android and iOS. For iOS, I�ll have to check that it will work with Fusion.

Does the Foxwell scanner NT510 give you rev history? I am in process of buying a 996 and it would be great to know how far the engine has been pushed. Thanks.

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From what I've read only the Durametric and PIWIS can read over rev data

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Thanks!

Durametric on it's way...

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I use Durametric with a '99 C4 (Motronic 7.2) - Make sure you're using the latest/current update. It should work as soon as it boots up - some of the real time monitoring stuff has caused crashes on mine but never ten times, and I've always gotten it to work. All activations work properly. Since I reset my DME I haven't had any problems and 0 crashes.

Edit: This is in response to the question about the foxwell nt-510. The durametric definitely shows overrevs. This video says it does show overrevs. https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...-software.html But it is on a 997. I tried it on my 996 and I do not see any way to get the overrev info.

I�ve used Durametric on my 996.1 and was able to get overrev info.

Murphyslaw - I clarified my post. I was answering the question about whether the foxwell unit shows overrevs.

Just dropping in here - I'm not a 911 owner (yet, I keep being tempted though.. 996's seem to be the performance bargain at the moment).. I found this thread searching for "DashCommand" - and the search revealed that there are numerous threads all over Rennlist on scanners - and no central repository for them. I'm thinking of asking management to add a "DIY - Diagnostics" forum - and a lot of these threads could be copied over. Anyway - I found this thread of interest - and in the interests of cross-pollination of knowledge - would suggest reading: https://rennlist.com/forums/cayenne-...ble-again.html - that's sorta become the "go to" Porsche scan tool in the Cayenne forum. There was mention of another Launch tool in this thread - the iCarScan is much the same, uses the same sort of Launch software (Launch is a big-*** Chinese company that makes tools and software to scan almost any OBD-II vehicle at the manufacturer's level.) I've been quite satisfied with iCarScan - I own a Durametric which I haven't plugged in since I bought the iCarScan about 2 years ago. What I don't know about iCarScan is the capabilities it has with other Porsche models. If there is anyone in the NJ shore area with a 996 who might be willing to stop by some afternoon - we could hook it up and find out what it would do for the 996. Just PM me if you're interested. FWIW - I have no interest in the company making the device except as a user who has been generally satisfied. Support isn't awful - especially since it's coming from China. 24-hour turnaround is the norm apparently, and usually, it's 12 hours that I've experienced, which taking into account the difference in time zones (11 or 12 hours from the east coast) seems quite reasonable. If you have an interest - feel free to contact me. If not - please ignore this message as I slink quietly from your forum.

I broke down and purchased the durametric pro a few days ago. I am real curious about over-revs and cam deviations.

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I also have the iCarScan, but recently had issues when I completed the software upgrade. I kept getting a communication error between my iPad/iPhone and the tool.

I just purchased the TONWON OBDII Bluetooth Scan Tool ELM327 and OBD Fusion (iPhone). I�ll try it out and post my experiences here. I�m really mostly looking for coolant and oil temps. EDIT: I just received this today and tested it. I am getting coolant temps but not oil temps. But otherwise seems to work quite well.

guys - here is an OBD blog that appears to host nearly every possible diagnostic tester out there: obd Here is a link is specific to the Foxwell NT510 for Porsche, which also denotes compatibility for each Porsche model/year (many model/year questions asked here are answered): Foxwell Compatibility/Functions I was sifting through this data while trying to hone in on which tool to acquire. Seems the Foxwell NT510 nets solid results for a fair price at ~$150 Does anyone know if spending the extra $100 for the NT520 Pro is worth while? The 520 price bumps up to the Durametric cost. I saw one review where a Rennlister abandoned his Durametric for a Foxwell. Anyway, it seems for all but the dedicated mechanic or racer, the 510 should suffice. Thoughts?

I just bought the NT520 and it's a great unit for the price ($160). It came pre-installed with the Porsche software. While I can't speak for any other model Porsche, it works great for my 955 (06 Cayenne S). I can activate and test things such as head lights, secondary air pump, radiator fans,....etc. It does have coding capability and clear Maintenance Interval warning lights. It does live data and much more. I only had it for 1 day, so I haven't had a chance to go into the coding feature yet. I was torn between the Durametric, IcarScan, and the Foxwell. I had been reading and did lots of research for the past few months and had decided to go with the Foxwell due to its standalone capability. I do not want to use an additional device to run the diagnostic (just imagine what those devices will look like after a few days working on the engine the run diagnostic). The durametric, you have to use a laptop. The IcarScan, you'll have to use a Android or iOS device to run. The Foxwell does pretty much all the functions that the other 2 can do and it is a standalone unit. From what I gather, not all features will be supported on all models. Please do some readings and research and get the one that works best for your model.

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The price for the NT520 is only $10 more than the NT510. I just bought one for $160.

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The link to the OBD Blog link is very helpful because when you need help with your Durametric you are limited to asking here or other P-car forums. Direct requests to Durametric for help with malfunctions with their tool get no response according to comments on Rennlist. .

I just bought this unit for my Android phone. hopefully I will get much help from it. https://www.ebay.com/itm/323336326601

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That will give you generic functionality but nothing Porsche-specific. They're good to have for reading and clearing basic codes but not for deeper diagnostics. It looks like the Foxwell nt-520 won't activate the ABS system. Durametric does and it can become necessary if you get air in the brake lines or desire to fully flush the brake fluid.

I ended up getting this, so far so good. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FP88Z3B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FP88Z3B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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Does does it read transmission fluid temp? Todd Annapolis MD

I bought a Foxwell NT530. It arrived this afternoon. Took 10 minutes to setup an account and register the device. It arrived with a note saying it had the the latest Porsche data installed. For grins and giggles, I double checked. Went to my Cayenne and cleared the oil change service reminder. First time using it and I was done in less than 5 minutes.

Has anyone used Autoenginuity ? I'm about to tackle my first engine rebuild with a friend who used to own his own shop and now works from home/travels.... I believe it is a professional grade software for mechanics and fleet management. It can read over revs, codes and clear codes. Not sure what else but my friend is confident in it and the site shows Porsche capabilities.

For those that have the blue driver Bluetooth obd2 scanner, does it allow you to reset airbag and abs on Porsches? It doesn�t list Porsche as a brand for its �enhanced� diagnostics. I�d like to be able to reset the airbag warning light on my 993 if I�m going to invest in an obd2 scanner tool. Thanks.

At least on the 996 the airbag is a deeper dive. My $99 aultel scanner will do the abs but not the airbag. I had to swing by a friends shop with a snap on scanner to clear it. Took less then 5min.

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I was worried that may be the case. It looks like the Foxwell NT530 can do it. It�s just more expensive. Anyone else comment on the airbag reset?

I have the NT530 and the airbag reset option is listed in the menu structure. My light isn't on, so I can't verify whether it actually works or not. I was disappointed that it doesn't access the over-rev and camshaft deviation reports for the 996, as it seems to it for the 997. It's possible to see those values "live", but not the stored values.

Does this device have a name? Where did you find it? Thanks!

Foxwell. But this Thread is out of date now.There are so many newer ,more capable scanners available. Should be updated to compare say Durametric and Launch,Autel etc. The little dongles work well for simple codes with your phone.

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Do you know which iPhone apps work with those dongles? I�ve been using the Carista app for many years on Mercedes, Audi, BMW, etc for simple code reading. I only recently realized it doesn�t work for Porsche.

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On other vehicles, I use Torque Pro with a vehicle specific PID list downloaded to app. This was on android only. Without the extra vehicle specific pids, just basic info will be displayed. With a good pid list everything can be seen. Many developer groups make/list these pids for android Torque Pro for many different vehicles. For ios with wifi dongle only, iirr,,, OBD Fusion with the additional Porsche PIDs is the way to go. Not sure who has a nice current Torque Pro PIDs set for our 996.? For the guys that know this pid/android type of stuff, sure there is even a pid for oil temp. Anyone know where to find a Porsche pid list/download...?

- bump to the front what recent code readers / scanners are working for you guys ? I think I want one with ABS capabilty

I've owned a 991.1 for a few years and I've been frustrated with the options available for diagnostics and coding options. Durametric works but the UX feels stuck in 2005. Carly doesn't go deep enough for Porsche. PIWIS is professional-grade. Curious what others are doing - especially for things like disabling the active spoiler for an aero kit, Sport Chrono activation/retrofit, TPMS coding. Are you doing it yourself, paying a shop every time, or just living without it? One thing I've been thinking about - would a mobile app specifically built for Porsche (not a generic OBD tool) actually solve this? Something focused, safe to use, with a clean UI. Or is the problem deeper than the interface?

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I use a ~$75 PIWIS clone. https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...only-75-a.html I also own a Professional Durametric & a couple of Snap-on scanners/scopes. The PIWIS can do things the Durametric & Snap-on can't and vice versa. Unfortunately for multiple cars I need a bunch of different tools.

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Does/Can the $75 PWIS system reset the steering angle (sensor)? The Durametric (which I have) says it does/can, but it doesn�t work�

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Yes it can.

I went down a rabbit hole on this - the $75 PWIS system is sold out and now $106-ish. The problem with the AliExpress link is they buried the version number and other nonsense in the item title. I don't care about the price increase but would like to find the current incantation of this device. There are so many imposter devices available.

Since several people had issues with connectors breaking off I ordered two so I have a spare. Glad I did so I don't have to try to find a replacement on AliExpress. Their search feature stinks! If you search for Porsche PIWIS, it will give you anything with Porsche in the title, not anything with both words only. Also you can't filter out what you don't want using -Honda so that any listing with ALL of the manufacturers listed don't get added to your search. I wonder if an AI assistant might be able to search and do the leg work for you instead.