ECU tester/scanner/reader.

Landy Andy

Landy Andy

Joined
Apr 22, 2018
Posts
7,633
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Location
Herts.
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MH
Adria Coral lowline
Been for my MOT today in the van (Fiat Ducato) and after it passing asked the chap to plug in his tester to check all ok. He then told me I had a current fault which was the MAF sensor, and as was current, he was unable to reset it. Although I don’t have any warning lights, or driving problems with the van. Also last time away the service light appeared, which was the first time I’d ever had that, so it did cause some concern until I researched what it was. So an ecu reader would be a nice addition to the tool box.

So what ecu plug in reader do you, and are they any good on a Fiat Ducato

Thanks
Andy.
 
I have Multiecuscan its fiat specific and you can get it loaded to a variety of stuff.
I have it on my laptop but I believe it can be on many other carriers.
You will also need the correct obd plug for your model and year.
Look up the Gendan Web site they do the complete kits.
 
Phill D said:
I have Multiecuscan its fiat specific and you can get it loaded to a variety of stuff.
I have it on my laptop but I believe it can be on many other carriers.
You will also need the correct obd plug for your model and year.
Look up the Gendan Web site they do the complete kits.
Click to expand...
Thanks. I was hoping for a system that didn’t need a computer as I only have a 12 year old laptop.

Am I correct that yours needs a computer?
 
Last edited:
My laptop is at least 11 years old 🙄

I believe it can be loaded on other stuff but needs a "carrier"
It's a full works proffesional software which will do much more than you are likely to use.

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Have you a smart phone?
As well as multiecuscan (the use i totaly agree with) i use Alfaobd ( another able to read fiat specific codes and change https://www.motorhomefun.co.uk/foru...cato-including-fiat.231372/#post-4688696euro6 oil change settings) and torque pro with an android phone(samsung j6).
Alfaobd can be connected to the van using usb with the same adaptor as multiecuscan. Not all bluetooth obd2 readers are the same. beware cheap clones, more details and pickys here

www.motorhomefun.co.uk

Fault codes for Ducato including Fiat

Ive added a new resource Fault codes for Ducato including Fiat and generic compiled from a number of different sources . you may see the same code repeated with a different description. If any one has access to a fuller or definitive Ducato list please add.
www.motorhomefun.co.uk www.motorhomefun.co.uk
 
I can’t comment on non-PC tools, but can second MultiEcuscan for a Ducato. Bought it shortly after buying our van and it’s been invaluable.

I’ve a cheap eBay ODBII reader which only does the ‘main’ ECU and so wouldn’t have dealt with a single one of the issues I’ve had - which were in the ‘gearbox’ and ‘body’ ECUs. (I.e TCM and BCM)
 
A basic ELM327 OBD reader with either it's own screen or better, bluetooth to the Torque app on an Android smartphone or wifi to dash command on an I-Phone will read and reset fault codes on the engine.

The one in your link would be fine but a bit pricey because it comes with software (i presume)
Amazon product ASIN B07CP632CL is one that links to your phone and you use the free Torque app on GooglePlay store

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If only interested in generic engine codes generic BT readers are cheap if you want to check any thing else body brakes etc add or calibrate certain components you need multiecuscan or alfaobd for fiat specific stuff eg resetting oil condition monitor euro6 its a must. Its a classic spoiling ship for an happorth of tar.
 
the1andonly said:
Have you a smart phone?
As well as multiecuscan (the use i totaly agree with) i use Alfaobd ( another able to read fiat specific codes and change https://www.motorhomefun.co.uk/foru...cato-including-fiat.231372/#post-4688696euro6 oil change settings) and torque pro with an android phone(samsung j6).
Alfaobd can be connected to the van using usb with the same adaptor as multiecuscan. Not all bluetooth obd2 readers are the same. beware cheap clones, more details and pickys here

www.motorhomefun.co.uk

Fault codes for Ducato including Fiat

Ive added a new resource Fault codes for Ducato including Fiat and generic compiled from a number of different sources . you may see the same code repeated with a different description. If any one has access to a fuller or definitive Ducato list please add.
www.motorhomefun.co.uk www.motorhomefun.co.uk
Click to expand...
Yes I’ve iPhone and iPad.

Don’t even know if laptop still works or not.
 
I believe iphones need at least bt4 or a wifi dongle (no cheap £10 adaptors) . I use a obdlink sx the usb version the mx is a good option and there is an ios version of multiecuscan.
 
Interesting that you have no engine warning lights (has the bulb blown :ROFLMAO:)

Had a "problem" with MAF sensor warning although van performed impeccably. Turned out to be the fuse for the reversing lights blown!

Huh? Yep, the power source for the MAF sensor is taken from the reversing light circuit (2007 Ducato X250 130)
 
I belong to a VW Tiguan Owner's Forum and one Section is set aside for Members who have bought Diagnostic Kit [and understand how to use it, which rules me out!]; the Section also has a location map so that Forum Members can contact their nearest Member who would be willing to offer a Diagnostic Check for the ubiquitous Beer Tokens. Is this something that would be worth replicating?

Steve

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marchie said:
I belong to a VW Tiguan Owner's Forum and one Section is set aside for Members who have bought Diagnostic Kit [and understand how to use it, which rules me out!]; the Section also has a location map so that Forum Members can contact their nearest Member who would be willing to offer a Diagnostic Check for the ubiquitous Beer Tokens. Is this something that would be worth replicating?

Steve
Click to expand...
and understand how to use it, which rules me out!] me as well.
there is also such a section on the Fiat Forum.
The guidance after hooking up is the most important aspect, this of course could be done remotely.
I can be a keyboard jockey but the brains trust is also required for more than simple tasks. Is that a yes?
edit no beer tokens required, tea drunk here.
 
Landy Andy said:
Been for my MOT today in the van (Fiat Ducato) and after it passing asked the chap to plug in his tester to check all ok. He then told me I had a current fault which was the MAF sensor, and as was current, he was unable to reset it. Although I don’t have any warning lights, or driving problems with the van. Also last time away the service light appeared, which was the first time I’d ever had that, so it did cause some concern until I researched what it was. So an ecu reader would be a nice addition to the tool box.

So what ecu plug in reader do you, and are they any good on a Fiat Ducato

Thanks
Andy.
Click to expand...
Hi Andy, go to euro car parts, cheap old reader less than £20, l got one and used it on our 2005 fiat Ducato swift moho
 
the1andonly said:
If only interested in generic engine codes generic BT readers are cheap if you want to check any thing else body brakes etc add or calibrate certain components you need multiecuscan or alfaobd for fiat specific stuff eg resetting oil condition monitor euro6 its a must. Its a classic spoiling ship for an happorth of tar.
Click to expand...


Slightly hijacking the original - can I ask did you have to get the licensed version of multiecuscan. I just tried the free version over bluetooth and it is communicating but telling me I need the registered version. Looking at their site I would have thought the free version would scan the engine component at least. Ironically I I drove Alfas for years and had the licence to Alfaobd somewhere at one stage!!

TIA


OK edit update. Did more research and all the modules in red on the multiecuscan site are not available for the ducato 290. Licensed version it must be!!

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Last edited:
Insider said:
Slightly hijacking the original - can I ask did you have to get the licensed version of multiecuscan. I just tried the free version over bluetooth and it is communicating but telling me I need the registered version. Looking at their site I would have thought the free version would scan the engine component at least. Ironically I I drove Alfas for years and had the licence to Alfaobd somewhere at one stage!!

TIA
Click to expand...
The free version only gives very limited access. So to do anything worthwhile you need a license.
The license access is lifetime but you only get upgrades for a year.
So if there us a change in model after a year then it will be like having access in the free version for that model.
However you still have full access to the software for the older models.

Hope that makes sense.
 
TerryL said:
Interesting that you have no engine warning lights (has the bulb blown :ROFLMAO:)

Had a "problem" with MAF sensor warning although van performed impeccably. Turned out to be the fuse for the reversing lights blown!

Huh? Yep, the power source for the MAF sensor is taken from the reversing light circuit (2007 Ducato X250 130)
Click to expand...
Did you get a warning light with your MAF “problem”?

New MAF arrived today, so will fit tomorrow.
 
This is the best value effective obd scanner I have used. I've had several cheap ebay scanners and for the most part they are useless.
I purchased this one a few months ago and was impressed with its functionality, It scans and reads every part of my x290 and readily resets faults.
It's great value at the moment and comes with one free license included in the price but you can add extra vehicles for a one off fee of I think £17.
This unit is small and unobtrusive and is permanently plugged in to my OBD port giving a permanent read out if required through the app on my infotainment head unit.
For the occasional DIYer this is a must.
Infract for any fiat ducato owner it is a must saves a lot of heartache when the inevitable air bag bug strikes.;)

Search Result: Autel MaxiAP AP200

www.autelsale.co.uk www.autelsale.co.uk
 
Landy Andy said:
Gendan have recommended this one for Bluetooth.

Any thoughts, because I know nothing about this witchcraft.

https://www.gendan.co.uk/product_OBDLINKMX.html
Click to expand...
I have a MultiEcuscan (never used) which, IF you understand computers (I don't) is supposed to be the bee's knees but I spoke to Grant at Gendan and he recommended for, my 2007 Fiat X250, the, handheld (no computer needed) Foxwell NT530.
I have used this a number of times and it's far more user friendly and covers everything I need.

Trust Gendan, especially Grant, they are, in my experience, honest, reliable and VERY customer friendly!
 
Landy Andy said:
Been for my MOT today in the van (Fiat Ducato) and after it passing asked the chap to plug in his tester to check all ok. He then told me I had a current fault which was the MAF sensor, and as was current, he was unable to reset it. Although I don’t have any warning lights, or driving problems with the van. Also last time away the service light appeared, which was the first time I’d ever had that, so it did cause some concern until I researched what it was. So an ecu reader would be a nice addition to the tool box.

So what ecu plug in reader do you, and are they any good on a Fiat Ducato

Thanks
Andy.
Click to expand...
Buy an older MH and some spanners (y)

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Slight off specific topic..

Gendan says that many manufacturers including fiat since late 2017 have put an electronic lock in place on certain models to prevent all but main dealer access to obd2 functions.

Of course stuff will soon be available to override this.
 
Landy Andy said:
Been for my MOT today in the van (Fiat Ducato) and after it passing asked the chap to plug in his tester to check all ok. He then told me I had a current fault which was the MAF sensor, and as was current, he was unable to reset it. Although I don’t have any warning lights, or driving problems with the van. Also last time away the service light appeared, which was the first time I’d ever had that, so it did cause some concern until I researched what it was. So an ecu reader would be a nice addition to the tool box.

So what ecu plug in reader do you, and are they any good on a Fiat Ducato

Thanks
Andy.
Click to expand...
I have a cheap bluetooth adapter that plugs into the OBD port and an app on my (Android) phone TorqueOBD. I always have my phone with me on a trip and the adapter is light and tiny. You could even leave it plugged into the port.
 
RobbieBobby said:
I have a cheap bluetooth adapter that plugs into the OBD port and an app on my (Android) phone TorqueOBD. I always have my phone with me on a trip and the adapter is light and tiny. You could even leave it plugged into the port.
Click to expand...
I have a perugia boxer base vehicle 2011 although similar to Fiat after finding several code readers didn't work I phoned a company I found on Internet who supplied the reader to suit the vehicle,I was shocked at the price £22, I thought it was going to cost a lot more.
He told me the previous ones I purchased would not work because Peugeot boxers had a Ford engine.
Iit may not be the same with a Fiat but my advice would be get the reader that suits your vehicle.
 
I’ve gone for the one Gendan have recommended as I don’t know what I want, or if it will work. They are telling me it will, so if it doesn’t, I have someone to complain to. I don’t want/need anything complicated at this time. Just to know if the new fitted MAF has cleared the fault, or it still shows a fault, which could indicate other problems. Although bus drives fine, no warning lights, just a bit Smokey (black).

Thanks all the info.
 
If you look up OBD11 reader on eBay/Amazon you will see the options. Some are readers only and some you can reset fault code.

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