Hey guys,

Can you use a generic OBDII scanner to check codes and clear them? I have the Bentley DIY manual and was wondering if the codes that come up on the OBDII will be similar to the ones that come up on the VAG COM - so that i can match it to what's in the book.

Any help would be appreciated.

2000 A6 4.2L

 

Yes. All CEL codes will be read and cleared by a generic code reader. VAGcom allows to look at additional code such as ABS, comfort module and etc.

 

Thanks for the reply. I tried a Craftsman OBD II reader but as soon as i plug it in, it says "does not detect a connection". The ignition is on and the reader starts trying to establish the protocol but then it doesn't detect the computer. Does anyone have a craftsman (from sears) OBDII that they had similar issues with?

 

I have a Matco pocket scanner that I picked up off the truck for cheap, it reads the codes weither the ignition is on or not, but it will not clear them, and if there is more than one present or current it will not allow for viewing them all, other than that cant speak on crapsman

 

Did you check and see if the reader works on another car?

 

good idea. let me try that.

 

I have/had an Actron Scan tool and it works like a champ, scan, clearing codes, etc...

 

I have an Innova 3130 that reads the codes on my A6 but failed when I tried to clear them. I'll have to check it on my wife's Mercury.