Which VW/Audi Scan Tool Should You Buy? VCDS or OBDeleven 

I know you have more questions.. "How do I XYZ with either scanner" Post it as a reply here and I will do my best! There is a LOT to deal with here. LOL

I know this is a year old video, but talk about how helpful and descriptive is. Thank for your time. This is awesome to work on my vw tig.

Thank you for the in-depth explanation of both devices.

I bought VCDS and don’t regret it at all. The wealth of information you get has been invaluable over the course of owning my MK5 GTI.

I have the VCDS HEX NET and the Obd eleven Pro. I own a 2002 VW Golf TDI. The obd eleven did not even detect an engine so I could not even clear or check engine codes. The VCDS works but takes some time to get use to the interface and is slow but it works and for me that's what matters.

I have the older VcDS dongle 2013 to older vw/audi models. Its awesome no issues very helpful when troubleshooting codes, etc.

Man I'm not even into VWs but love how well you present all this info and VW guys are crazy lucky to have ya

Dude this is the video I needed! Love it man, I got Vcds but got really confused when using it for the first time. VERY helpful video!

great content as always man, you answered my quesiton about how the software is acquired, ive been wanting a scan tool for a while now !

Excellent video! The SFD info was very helpful

Thanks Charles, this answered a lot of my questions being new to VAG.

I went with the VCDS because we used one at work. We had a B8 Passat from Germany with prototype software in the brake and engine controllers. Not everything worked (Ross Tech was yelling at our 'tuner'), but it fixed what we needed to fix that regular scan tools couldn't. So I went with it when I got my 7.5 Golf R. Also, I can learn new German words when I use it.

I have a Ross-Tech VCDS Micro-Can interface that I bought for our 2016 Golf R. When I picked my my SQ5 I had to decide to either upgrade the Micro-CAN interface or go with ODBEleven. I figured I'd give out a try with the OBDEleven. It's a fine tool for regular maintenance and occasional coding changes but if you are doing much deeper diagnostic work or looking for something that is more of a "shop tool" than Ross-Tech is the way to go.

After having both, obdeleven is good for glovebox, full system scanning, and very light duty stuff (you won't learn much about coding or anything with obdeleven). VCDS is heavy duty, you can do everything possible on vcds, all of its features will work almost every time, it's super consistent, very detailed, way more support. Vcds is preferred, more consistent, works better in my opinion (only on computer). Obdeleven has a fat superior wireless/app performance, is much more portable, but isn't as consistent and not nearly as in depth. In a perfect world you would have VCDS for majority of stuff, obdeleven for on the go and possibly do quick little adaptations like brake assist on mk6 r (though obdeleven adaptations don't show you what it's doing so if it messes up you have no clue what it changed and how to change it back).

Great video Thanks! Very informative

Thank you very much for making this video and I very much admire your ability to describe and inform in clear professional terms in what seems to be an edit free video, truly amazing 👍👍👍

I have been using both Ross Tech VCDS and OBDeleven Pro for about five years with my 2007 Audi TT Roadster and my 2015 Tiguan. Both systems have their merits, however there are some key differences that users should be aware of - 1.) Adaptations and Basic Settings - VCDS is the hands-down, "go to" system for fault codes, full diagnostics, and running Adaptations and Basic setting and code changes. There's simply nothing VCDS can't do when it comes to OBD diagnostics. Unfortunately, OBDeleven doesn't have all the Basic Settings/Adaptations so to me that a big deal in terms of price vs value. For example, while OBDeleven can read the Roof Flap fault codes of a Audi TT Roadster, it can't run the Adaption needed when the roof flap servo is replaced. VCDS can do both. 2.) Internet vs Stand Alone - The OBDeleven App is easy and convenient to use on a smartphone but if you don't have a cellular or internet connection, it won't work. Period. This may be an issue for those who live in areas where cellular/internet access may not be reliable or who may end up in remote areas. VCDS on the other hand, connects directly to the vehicle via a laptop (PC). Internet access is not required at all. 3.) Customer Support - Ross Tech has a ton of customer support including a Wiki with a massive list of DTCs and their Forum if you need help with a problem. Consider that Uwe Ross started VCDS back in 1999 and OBDeleven only came to the market about 6-years ago. OBDeleven has a Forum too, but it's pretty clear they're just a software company (VoltasIT) and not an automotive diagnostic company like VCDS since it's generally the Forum members, not the VoltasIT/OBDeleven team, providing specific VAG vehicle model advice. This is one reason why you will find dozens of VCDS how-to videos and almost none from VoltasIT/OBDeleven and why so many OBDeleven users have to run Google searches to figure out how to use it and what faults codes actually mean. Again, Ross Tech offers all this. 4.) Long Code Tweaking - One of the most popular features of both systems is being able to get into the VAG software and change factory settings. VCDS only provides the ability to make long code changes which can be a bit intimidating if you don't know what you're doing. OBDeleven on the other hand, offers One Touch Apps which make this very easy to do. It will cost you a certain number of credits, but if the App doesn't work, there's no charge. Just remember not all vehicles have the same features; a 2005 Golf will not have the same software features as a 2015 Golf. Bottom line - do your homework and figure out what works best for your needs. Don't let price sway you, but don't spend more than you really need to either.

I was trying to figure out what one to get and this helped me decide to get both for my needs because I'm doing everything from personal to shop type use so I'm going with both and let either system work for the situations that fits that vehicle ty for the information

Great video. Thanks for sharing!

The video I needed well done 😍

I have a Vag-com (VCDS) cable that I bought twenty years ago when they first came out. It is the serial model. I bought it to analyze my 92 Corrado SLC and got the special cable that converts the OBD connector to two wires that connect to ports under the shift housing. I can't count the number of VWs and Audis I have used my Vag-com on over the years. It was made before Ross Tech thought of imposing a vehicle limit. I still use it, even just today on our mk7 Alltrack, but I previously had to get a serial to USB converter so I could use a modern notebook rather than an old PC with a serial port. I have been driving VWs since 1973 and I divide them into two periods - before Vag-com and after Vag-com. Everything became so much easier after we got a tool that told us what was wrong with of VWs. This video by the Humble Mechanic has made one thing clear - that the security being imposed by mk8 VWs means VW is trying to turn the clock back to the bad pre Vag-com era. But I'm not going back! So this video taught me the newest VW I will be buying is a mk7.

This is why I'm Subscribed. Thanks Bro.

Thank you Charlie for this video!

I bought the next gen OBDeleven shortly after it came out, and it's fantastic for doing the little tweaks and minor services. I got lucky with lifetime pro membership. I also like that it's not VIN locked, so I can use it to do tweaks to all my friends' cars too. The credit system is pretty nice for the more in depth tweaks so you don't have to read through all the German menus, but for the most part, I use long coding helper and adaptation. Plus, it's tiny, so I always have it in the glovebox! If only I could stop forgetting the damn thing when I trade in cars lmao

Great video. Well done!

Great video dude!

OBDEleven has more than paid itself back for me. Saved me money with services, fitting cruise control, fitting a trunk lid from a newer model (due to corrosion) and coding in LED plate lights, adding a rain/light sensor, diagnosing a corroded ABS sensor wire (with appropriate wiring diagrams). I've also done countless tweaks to about 7 different VW group cars without issues, people just need to keep in mind that the "apps" inside OBDEleven are created by other users, typically VCDS tweaks can easily be translated to OBDEleven long coding or adaption though. I've had absolutely no reason to consider getting VCDS, OBDEleven pro has given me the same tools.

Excellent explanation!

Ive been waited this video for 3 years

notification squad, happy easter!🔥🔥🔥

Bought the OBD11 long time ago just so that I can keep on eye on my timing chain stretch on my Mk6 GTI. Also use it for other goodies really useful plus I get to store it in my car so whenever I need it, it’s there.

Charles this is an amazing video as always:) thank you so much for being so awesome❤️

Thanks for the video. I am a keen DIYer and get what I need with OBDeleven. If it is not up to the job, neither am I or my garage.

Thanks for the info! I think you just sold me on the OBD-eleven. I bought a micro-CAN VCDS 13 years ago for my MKV GTI and got plenty of use out of it (3 cars) but now it doesn’t work with my new Jetta and whatever is going to replace my MK7 Sportwagen. Who knows what the future will bring, and if the latest VCDS interface will be working 3 cars from now. I also dread digging out a very old Mac with boot camp just for VCDS. I get that the devs need to make a living and it seems like a good solution for the DIY: pay for what you use, rather than a big upfront cost that might not be useful on your next car.

This is beauty. Great info.

Great review i been using the obdeleven for a while now and was lucky to get the next gen Pro license version before they start charging you for it so dosnt cost me anything.its the perfect tool to leave in the glovebox and will do everything you will need it to do

Picked up an Obdeleven was getting some p2414 and p2237 codes related to my B1S1 o2 sensor on my Mk7 GTI. Works quite well however don’t like how the built in apps don’t specifically show what they’re changing. Might have to get the pro and use long coding to make any adaptations I want.

excellent informative video. I used to have an OBDeleven when I got my first golf, an mk7. It worked fine, but there's definitely something to be said for the reliability and consistency of a wired PC based system like VCDS (which I now use for my mk7.5). Personally I prefer VCDS. I've worked as a bmw/Porsche mechanic and have been spoiled by full fledged professional testers (autologic for BMW/Mini and PIWIS III on a laptop for Porsche), so maybe that biases me towards the fuller-featured low-BS PC-based solution here. I wouldn't want to do any actual diagnostic work via my phone, though. If I just had it to read codes and do absolutely nothing else, obdeleven makes a lot of sense.

Luckily I bought the OBD pro before they started the subscription nonsense. Does everything I need. 👍

vcds fits perfect for me. i'ts more geeky, not so easy to use but you have more freedom to do what you want at your car. I also have an old A3 8p, old laptop and a cheap vcds and it's great

I have both, I use the obdeleven to unlock features as it's quick and easy, but use vcds for diagnostics, however, Vcds is very mentally taxing in terms of usability as you need to know how to do it. Conversely, obdeleven is a case of just hit the button

I just bought obd11 and it is a newer technology but it has a huge potential. Especially working on wireless android tablets. That is by far more convenient. Im a mobile mechanic and i work on alot of different cars but when i come to a vw the obd11 is legit. I just connect my phone and get the info i need.

Grabbed the last gen Android only OBD11 for $50. For the casual car guy like me who just wants a scan tool for personal use and to not bother learning all the coding, works perfectly for me.

I’ve used OBDEleven since early 2015 or so, and it wasn’t released publicly, or should I say in bulk. I had to wait over a month to receive it from its country of origin. I’m grandfathered into the lifetime Pro subscription. It has advanced a lot since it’s release. When I’m working on cars, I use OBDEleven more than VCDS for basic stuff like pulling codes and simple coding and basic settings and what not. It’s rare that I need VCDS to come out honestly. I currently have a B5.5 Passat GLS 4Motion Manual, a 12 GLI, and a B8 Passat SEL Premuim. OBDEleven works on all perfectly. I’m extremely content with it and for basic enthusiasts, or people who are light to mid range mechanics on VWs. It’s a great back up and inexpensive option in my opinion. Excellent video Charles. ✌️

I personally have had mixed experience with scan tools. For my car I first borrowed Carly from a friend. Its nice, but just dont go beyond viewing and deleting faults. Coding is a nightmare and yes, there is a backup function, but the coding options either just work, dont work or in the worst case change stuff that shouldnt be changed. I know some people who managed to brick modules, not cool. Since a year I regularly use VCDS Hex-V2 for my A4 B8 2.0TDI and it works great. Reliable, relatively fast, and very detailed. VCDS saved some days for me, since I can do almost EVERYTHING an Audi dealer could with their scan tools. Just great. Yes, a bit old looking, but as long as it works and doesnt mess up anything its the clear winner for me because I'd rather pay 300$ more for a capable scan tool (for VAG) than spending alot more on bricked modules etc.. OBD11 is also good, I just personally like VCDS more as it has more special functions OBD11 doesnt have (and you have to have internet connection wich is a no go for me). But for the normal end user OBD11 is a great cheaper option. AutoAid is something a friend bought for himself to diagnose cars outside the range of VAG for cheap. On paper it's great, but when you start digging deeper you find more and more stuff that either doesnt work or has no description. Often, selective tests are not available and when you select auto testing, the program will show you that its testing something, but doesnt show you what its testing. Also, special functions are very limited with VAG cars and fault codes are often not translated correctly. For example, I had a fault in the rear right door module and VCDS said "Rear right door illumination" while AutoAid said "Camshaft/Crankshaft correlation". And it has to be online always like OBD11.

Great video Charles, I know your a busy man what are the differences between the ultimate version and pro version there's a huge difference in cost . Love the new shop extension build 👌

I'm a vcds man. I keep a surface pro 4 in the boot of the car with the vcds for whenever I need it. The surface pro was a cheap refurb for around £100. It handles vcds like a charm. I can't lie though the obdeleven and the likes (Carly) look good. But I'm just not keen on the subscription model.

I'm glad I got in for obdeleven back when PRO was lifetime

I bought the the OBDELEVEN and noticed it works way better on android phone! I hope they worked those bugs out because I have Apple phone. Eventually want to buy vcds because it’s the best out there!!

you are a legend

I bought a £55 vcds (new) and yes I do know it's a knock off, but it works perfectly and is fully functional, I opened it to have a look and it is so well made, it is so precisely made, I was very surprised at how well it was built....

Thankfully I have older Audis and the unlimited VIN cable before they started the VIN counting.

I have the BluDriver ODBII reader works great. 2012 Golf MK6

If you speak to the chaps over at OBD Eleven, please tell them their app is not disability friendly to us red-green colour blind people. I can never tell what modules are faulty and which aren't. A nice tick and cross symbol would be helpful! Or something similar. I did report it once, but they didn't do anything about it and it's not like I'm unique, there are about 10% of us out there!! :)

I got obdeleven it's great for mk5 and newer but I have not ever been able to even pull engine faults from a mk4 or my b4 Passat. I definitely need to get ross tech at some point.

Heads up!. I have both and both have limited functionality for the pre 2017 VW Crafter which is a VW/Mercedes frankenstein.

Used VCDS to diagnose a roof position sensor in 2006 Audi A4 cab… via graphs function, there was an odd spike (downwards) every 5 ish times. Not a mechanic, but really simply as i just looked all sensors based on fault code and open/closed a few times. Epic

I keep my obd11 classic on the glovebox as im down to only one vw car, i bought mine after your first video

I've got a lifetime PRO license, that was a good deal. The Pro package for 25€ a year really turns it down... Most of us only need it maybe 3 times a year for a scan or a service reset. And I've only needed to code once, after I installed a new steering rack... The other time was when I changed a turbo and wanted some live data to compare. It's sad OBD11 is going this way...

I own both Vagcom the wired version and OBD11. Love the ease of OBD11 and the ability to connect to my phone. I'm also glad that I'm grandfathered into the pro version.

Nice video! Very informative! Now do an Autel Maxsysis vs the ODIS VAG 6154😉

Thank you bro , please keep us updated sir , and can y teach us about little of programming

I think vcds is most definitely the way to go because I manual swapped a 2000 Jetta and was able to change some values in the ecu to essentially make it think it's manual and it passes smog in California of all states

While you were messing in OBD11, I saw Wheel loose detection. I think this is pretty cool. I wonder how it works, Charles.

I find my Bluedriver Bluetooth scanner great for my GTI. Cheap, provides live data and excellent troubleshooting for codes. Easy to use. $110 Can.

When I bought my B9 I immediately bought OBDeleven Ultimate on sale. Couldn't beat the price but I always felt like I was missing out compared to VCDS. Now I realize the price is because of the subscription. No way I'd do it again. Whenever the question comes up on forums or club groups, I tell people to go straight for VCDS and be done with it. I tried datalogging with OBDEleven and finding the sensors and creating a datalog is a huge pain in the butt and takes forever. It works, I can look at sensors, change my rear brakes and do some coding...but the money I invested in it would have been better spent elsewhere.

Just wanted to say thanks for this (and your other videos). I just ordered the ODBEleven as I don't want to get into the nitty-gritty of long coding to do simple things. I have my Accessport as well with my tunes (EQT) that also reads errors/code. But I don't think you can do things like what ODBEleven, plus I don't have a Laptop (Several PC's but no laptop..lol). Edit: Also, a buddy of mine was down in GA for the volks fest and met you. Next year I'll definitely have to go down. :)

I've run ODIS with am independent repair license and service my own shop as well as some other local shops. For average day to day Obdeleven and autel do just fine.

Looking forward to the notion of CP override. Pipe dream I'm sure but it would be nice.

I can confirm that unlimited Hex-v2 is possible, I have one. You need to pay for the license upgrade (169usd IIRC)

I'm using ODBeleven for several years now and in my eyes for DIY it is nearly perfect. But one thing should be mentioned: ODBeleven needs to connect to the internet to work. This might not be an issue in the US, but here Germany (as everyone knows we are always a little bit or a little bit more behind the rest of the world) it can be a problem. When your car breaks down in the middle of German nowhere, you might not be able to diagnose the problem because you have no mobile internet reception. Of course at home in your garage where you're connected to the WiFi this not a problem.

Glad I got grandfathered into the OBD11 pro. No monthly fee.

Just bought a VW and went straight to VCDS. OBDeleven sounded great, but the whole pay yearly for pro and changes take credits just annoys me. Sure OBDeleven is wayyyy more user friendly, but VCDS goes more in-depth with the info. I will take the time to learn VCDS and come out ahead in the end.

Great video!

Thanks mate

Firstly, love your work man! ... OK, MK4 Golf, GTI/1.8T conversion... '99/'00 Body (+internals, cluster, Custom Control Module/CCM etc), with '02 1.8T AGU Engine (+brakes, subframe, ECU/ECM, etc)... 1. For a car this old, is there any point in getting anything newer (OBDeleven) than the old cheap "ebay" VCDS cable/VCDS Lite etc.? 2. Side project, wiring in an upgraded CCM (with remotes)... How can I add "windows up/down with remote press" with any of these systems (incl. old ebay cable)? (you used to have to buy a separate 'one trick pony' OBD plugin). 3. On that CCM upgrade, I'll probably have to program new remotes/chips... will any of these systems make that any easier? Or can that be done with an 'old' cheap ebay cable? Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance! Good vibes sent from Australia!

HOT TOPIC and Great video not just for the pross but very informative for DIY community. So many comments in just a week time since release of this video. Soon I will need to change brake pads on Audi 2014 and I am debating between taking it to dealer or investing in VCDS or OBD11. Is there any detailed video that you would recommend? Thanks.

When you have VW you didn’t have to think much, cause you have a great vehicle and you love it so you must be wanted something great too for it. It’s just my simple opinion Greetings from me user VW Golf MK6 in Indonesia 🇮🇩👋

I didn't realize they had VIN Limited versions of VCDS now... glad I have an older cable that is already unlimited! I don't work on a lot of cars but over the years of just buying/selling vehicles that would have made things significantly more expensive for me.

VCDS all day everyday. Obd 11, even it’s made in my home country, it’s suitable for home users rather than garages or mechanics using on a daily basis.

I have the hex cable unlimited vins and for me is very good

I'm interested in your thoughts on Carly. I came from BMWs and used it a lot on those and have been using it on my S3 for the past two years instead of buying a whole new system. It has it's limitations for sure though.

Which tool suits best for a Steering Angle Sensor Calibration on a VW ? And also looking forward for a detailed video on what all can be done inside ABS & Steering assist using both theese tools.

I want to put the golf r / atlas digital screen gauge cluster in my 19 gti witch tool would work for that ? Great channel btw solid no nonsensical b.s I love it .

Don't know if this has been said, but I got my OBDEleven with a lifetime on the pro plan. Might have been a holiday deal or something but it is/ was a possibility.

i have the 3 vin vcds i use for my A4, i also have the older version of obdeleven, but didnt really like it as when i was trying to veiw live data it would show the value for a second or two but then say n/a. i really like vcds.

You can graph in Obdeleven as well

Charles, How about having a look at the Foxwell NT530? There isn't a lot of information out there on it but i'd like to see your take on this non subscription, Multi module, Bi-directional, multi car tool with the VAG software loaded. Looks interesting for an affordable DIY tool.

Would be great if you did a series about VCDS. I bought a 2000 jetta tdi and need to code a key to the car and also read the fuel timing for example. Things like adaptation I dont understand completely. I want to be able to do as much of the maintenance and the repair myself. I dont think the Obd11 for example can do anything with the key coding. Love your channel. I never would have gotten a jetta without seeing you work on them.

That's a great insight into both VCDS and ODBeleven, just wish I'd seen it before buying my ODB device. I have an Audi A6 C7 3.0 TDI Quattro with no ignition, I believe the it's something to do with the steering lock module, although steering lock still unlocks. If I were to get a replacement steering lock module can I use either VCDS or ODB eleven to program the module to work. Or could I take a backup before replacing the module then reload that. Thanks in advance Dyfnant UK.

Sooo glad I got obdeleven before subscriptions became a thing, since I have lifetime pro as well lol

$200 for VCDS? Sold. Appreciate the videos dude. Don't stop doing them please haha. PS thanks for making me jelly showing off the MK8R

Brilliant...

I have the 1st Gen/Android OBD11, with Pro, dongle since 2018, so lifetime. It was more basic then but since has improved year on year. Just to point out the android version of the app has more functionality than the iPhone version, so that's worth bearing that in mind, depending on your phone and really it's the Android version you should use to compare. Some say too that the 1st Gen dongle is better than Next Gen dongle, in reliability, though it is slower to connect; but I have not used the Next Gen dongle to vouch for this. Scan speed is the same once connected, I believe, and ultimately limited by the age of the car's technology. I have very little experience with VCDS but I have not found anything OBD11 can't reasonably do on my, admittedly older 2006 Audi A4, and has saved me a ton on visits to a mechanic for simple things that would still cost plenty. Adaptions too, such as DRLs, acoustic lock and long life service intervals to fixed, to name a few were worth the cost of entry alone, for me. I actually do leave the dongle on my OBDII port, except when it goes to service; it uses no juice unlike the cheap ones and where I am the car's unlikely to get nicked too; very convenient to scan. Sometimes I can put the phone on the dash and scan and clear while still driving, such as with the intermittent brake light switch that throws an ABS light on. A cheap part to replace but clearing it keeps it clear long enough not to have bothered. My B7 A4 S-Line Avant is so basic too, it didn't even come with a trip computer, so no bulb out warnings in the DIS; a quick scan weekly with OBD11 will tell me which if any bulb is out - useful for those you miss such as the number plate bulbs. I must say I never use the apps and don't see them as a major plus to me. Coding/adaptions is pretty easy and more or less universal between the two, with some digging; I often use the Ross-Tech website to research codes etc. and they translate well to OBD11. I would say the SFD unlock for newer VAG cars is a pretty huge plus over VCDS too. If I was in the trade I would definitely have and feel the need for both, outside of official VAG diagnostic software/hardware. OBD11 is officially sanctioned by VAG too, not sure about VCDS. For the average home mechanic having to heave an old laptop into the street (I think VCDS still needs) with it's dying battery is a massive inconvenience too.

I enjoyed your post. Thanks for sharing. Quick question; which one of these two will let me reset the service interval on my 2014 Audi A5?

HEX FTW CHARLES !! LOVE FROM ROMANIA!

Which would you recommend for TDI emissions diagnostic? 14 Passat specifically. Great video, thanks

Vcds needs to step up there game with that SFD

Since i cant afford ODIS i'm a Ross-Tech fan. I'm sure Ross-Tech will get the SFD figured out soon and have an update to the software.

Link for the battery charger is messed up or incomplete. Love the video !