OBD reader.

[LeCheese]

OBDLink mx+ is the way to go if you want guaranteed best performance, however obviously comes at a slight premium.

In terms of apps, the best for GCs are AlfaOBD and JScan. I'd recommend checking out both, on their websites and examples on Youtube, and seeing what suits you best. OBDLink also has their own generic app which seems reasonable for basic sensor and code readings.

AlfaOBD is more functional and you can do more with in terms of adjusting different parameters (e.g. Quadralift heights, tyre size), however is also a bit less user-friendly and potentially riskier (in terms of mucking things up and not having an 'undo' button) if getting into more 'advanced' features. Also, as said, is only available on Android and Windows.

JScan has a much friendlier interface, and is available on iPhone, but comes at the cost of some functionality (e.g. can read DPF %, but can't manually initiate a DPF burn).

In terms of purely code reading I believe that they are similar with what they can identify and give you specifics on, but potentially AlfaOBD has a very slight edge from what I've heard.

[PeteCds]

As an alternative to AlfaOBD on Android, I use the OBDLink app on iOS. Initially, I did purchase a cheap Android phone to use AlfaOBD, but with OBDLink I'm yet to need it. Have been able to clear codes, but its primary use is to monitor key stats on longer trips. Couple of screen shots attached (during and straight after a regen). I use the MX+ dongle as others have mentioned.

[desertman]

I have an older ELM327 and the software for this is crappy. So I got the AlphaOBD trail software and am struggling to get it to work. It connects to the vehicle but then asks me for vehicle related information which it then does not recognise.

Does this mean I need a AlphaOBDlink MX+ dongle? And what's the difference between it and my el cheapo ELM 327?

I'm confused and need some expert input.

Cheers,

DM

[tazwegion]

The ToolPRO OBD2/EOBD scanner I got from Supercheap does a good job scanning the 96 XJ, obviously not all details are provided (XJ ECMs are pretty rudimentary) but being able to check all of our vehicles with one device is reassuring (and versatile) ��


The OBDlink MX interface and Android tablet option sure looks good, I would be more inclined if I had a spare (old) Android tablet I wouldn't lose any sleep over if it got dropped/damaged/messed up.

[LeCheese]

Originally Posted by desertman

I have an older ELM327 and the software for this is crappy. So I got the AlphaOBD trail software and am struggling to get it to work. It connects to the vehicle but then asks me for vehicle related information which it then does not recognise.

Does this mean I need a AlphaOBDlink MX+ dongle? And what's the difference between it and my el cheapo ELM 327?

I'm confused and need some expert input.

Cheers,

DM

Have a look at AlphaOBD's website - they list the compatible dongles

[john_char]

Originally Posted by PeteCds

As an alternative to AlfaOBD on Android, I use the OBDLink app on iOS. Initially, I did purchase a cheap Android phone to use AlfaOBD, but with OBDLink I'm yet to need it. Have been able to clear codes, but its primary use is to monitor key stats on longer trips. Couple of screen shots attached (during and straight after a regen). I use the MX+ dongle as others have mentioned.

Hey Pete. Care to share how you set up the PIDs?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[drover]

I have an ELM27 ebay job bought years back and so far works well with Alfa, as they say some of the Ebay jobs work well some don't, that applies to most software using a dongle....

Is it the Control Unit selection that is failing ??? I use the Eco Diesel 2013, some functions won't work with the Demo version......and you do need the engine running or at least ignition on.

Just one of the reasons why I have never bothered with Apple gear it wouldn't allow me to use software that I wanted or add certain hardware...