Of course, Vida/dice with a proper laptop is your best option.

BUT, the iCarSoft Volvo/Saab Specific scan tool is the best OBDII scanner that you can buy. It can do some mild data logging and can pinpoint ABS faults, clear SRS warnings, etc. It usually costs about $90-100 on Amazon. I actually bought mine for $90 through Walmart's website for the (local) hassle-free return if it didn't work as described. But it has been the most useful tool I have owned and is easily stored in the glove box. While Volvo and Saab specific, some of their models can also read/clear basic OBDII codes on other brand vehicles as well.

I also bought the iCarSoft Porsche handheld, which has not disappointed yet. It's one of the only devices that allows you reset certain parameters in Porsches that only dealer subscription software can access. So further proof that iCarSoft knows how to make a proper OBDII scan tool.

 

I personally use Hyper Tough (HT200) from Walmart, (scanner is actually autels but branded differently) they JUST released the app to operate for 32 bit arch and upon using their app HT200 you get one free download of any make and it kinda goes in depth. I cam show screenshots or something if you'd like, but you can clear and reset codes, read live data, mode 6, all the good stuff... Not Volvo specific but still pretty decent for being around $55-$56 after tax here in Texas

 

A suitable scanner varies from each person, I recommend you to read a guide: https://www.obdadvisor.com/#Best_OBDII_Diagnostic_Tools_Review and decide which one to go with.

 

A suitable scanner varies from each person, I recommend you to read a guide: OBD2 Scanners Reviews and More - OBD Advisor and decide which one to go with.

I know that this is an old thread, but I am looking for a better scanner. I checked out this website and its list of best scanners is questionable. I had bought the Autophix scanner that is supposed to be Volvo specific, but it's 100% untrue. It's a generic scanner and for marketing purposes there is a claim that it has features for use with a Volvo--it just doesn't. Someone working in my home was kind enough to steal it and I replaced it with a Zephyr that is better, (was less expensive,) but it doesn't have the things I am looking for: namely the emergency brake reset capability. But I see that there are scanner companies making claims that their products are make specific, but they often aren't. The first article I read on this advisor site featured the Autophix as rated 9.5, but putting the scanner in Volvo-mode is like pulling a router plug out of the wall and expecting to see what's online. Then I looked at the unhappy reviews on Amazon for the ICar i906 and same kind of thing. The company claims its product is Volvo-specific, but it isn't. Some very disappointing operators out in the world. I'm going to continue to search for a better quality scanner that can reset the emergency brake on my Volvo.

 

I am using the Car Scanner ELM OBD2 app on an Android smartphone (or iPhone). This app shows cca. 130-150 Volvo-specific parameters in modern Volvos (much less in the newest SPA cars, though). Great for monitoring the car when driving (engine, transmission, battery, oil level in VEA engine, etc.)...

 

A lot of the scanners you guys recommended here are just basic OBD2 scanners. For example, @Peter1234 Car Scanner is just an ELM327 adapter. All it can do is read and clear check engine light and view live data that is accessible via the engine control module. This can be done with any ELM327 bluetooth adapter and torque app.
Volvos have gotten very sophisticated these days, and the scanners you mention here can't help you with abs, airbag, transmission, and other systems.

You would need a multi-system scanner to really diagnose a Volvo. There is a good article that covers the pros and cons of various Volvo multi-system scanners.

 

A lot of the scanners you guys recommended here are just basic OBD2 scanners. For example, @Peter1234 Car Scanner is just an ELM327 adapter. All it can do is read and clear check engine light and view live data that is accessible via the engine control module. This can be done with any ELM327 bluetooth adapter and torque app.
Volvos have gotten very sophisticated these days, and the scanners you mention here can't help you with abs, airbag, transmission, and other systems.

You would need a multi-system scanner to really diagnose a Volvo. There is a good article that covers the pros and cons of various Volvo multi-system scanners. Take a look at this article and you make the call.

https://www.youcanic.com/guide/7-volvo-obd2-scanners

Thanks for the great article. I am looking at the TopDon, i noticed they have several options. I was wondering if anyone has experience with these scanners. Is it worth the extra $$ for the more expensive models?.

 

Thanks for sharing. I have the Icarsoft Vol II and VIDA. VIDA has a lot more capability but is a little finicky to use. For easy stuff I use the Icarsoft. I can get all my stuff done with the Icarsoft and VIDA is still loading, lol.

 

As mentioned some of the scanners here are basic obd2 readers that only get into the engine control unit.

The iCarsoft I have used so far but is too basic and doesn't cover other makes.

Just got the YOUCANIC UCAN-II full system scanner and so far I love it. It can get into all the control units and read, clear and show live data from any of them. This video shows what it can do on Volvo plus I can use it my other cars.

 

I also recommend VIDA 2014D - if it can read your vehicle. New SPA-platform requires expensive online subscription, so these hand-held tools for $150-$400 mentioned above will come in handy.

Car Scanner Elm Obd2 app reads quite a few sensors for being a free app, definitely more than Torque. Can be useful just for viewing live data on iOS or Android.

EDIT: Car Scanner ELM OBD2 got new profiles for Volvo SPA and CMA platform.

 

For Volvo, you need VIDA laptop with a DiCE cable to play with that stuff. Or VDASH or similar.

I have an Autel MX808 that I use for a lot of stuff. Also now have a VIDA laptop, which I have been learning to use.

For quick diagnostics, BMS reset, or releasing the electronic parking brake, I find the Autel faster and more user friendly. Plus, I can use it on my nextdoor rent-a-kid's Toyota, or my neighbor's Honda, etc.

 

It seems that all these scanners available for under $200 work on late Volvo models. 2017 is the latest they are compatible with. But what about 2018 and newer?

 

If it helps, we put together a resource article on this very topic with the help of the community - What is the Best Volvo OBD2 Scanner for the DIY Mechanic?

 

I have the blue driver although it's not big directional it does read CEL, ABS, chassis and transmission ot will also read codes for the air bags. It can reset codes I have used it for three different problems on my S80 T6 evap leak, misfire, and transmission fluid pressure sensor. But I have used it on other cars as well Chevy, Ford, Honda, Acura, Doge, Volkswagen, Subaru. I have been able to fix everything it listed as an issue so far you can also update the app with the repair made for the specific problem and list a link to the replacement part which is pretty neat. I took a screen shot of the live data shot at the bottom it let's you view 4 things from a list and you can see it as am overplayed graph or individual and it has the option to see it as a dial.

 

Nice. How much?

 

AUTOPHIX 6110


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

I just got an iCarsoft CR Pro, I needed it for my 2012 Volvo S60, but it will read about 30 other makes/models. I have only used it once to read the ABS to find out which ABS/wheel speed sensor needed replaced (right front). I had no problem using it for this application. I found a new CR Pro on ebay for 188.00 + Shipping. I figured it would have cost more than that to bring the Volvo to have the dealer tell me which one I needed.

 

I have an Icarsoft VOL 2.0 that resets the EPB. I've had it for a few years now - I think it's been superceded by the VOL 3.0 that I see on Amazon for $151.

 

Hey! Thanks for your recommendation. It's funny, I think I've figured out how to avoid bad products on Amazon: I immediately read any of the worst reviews and I start working my way up to the positive reviews. I also like to plug key words into the question/review search ( I use that on Ebay feedback too.) So, starting from the worst reviews, and working my way up, I discovered that the 3.0 is probably the scanner for me. Sounds like a bunch of Volvo SPA owners were unhappy with the scanner, but those with P3s were satisfied with the scanner function. It would be so much better for consumers if these companies would make an attempt to be helpful in solving the issues the consumers are trying to address. Instead, sales volume is more important than establishing brand loyalty. Comment after comment in reviews of scanners with people being lied to in the event they managed to get to a human in the seller company. They are told to update the software, but it never, and I mean never helps. But it does allow more sales to pass the return window. Ugh. Thinking about this makes me realize that the Autophix scanner that I had most likely worked with P2 Volvos, lol. ( I hope the guy who took it can't use it for Volvo specific codes either, Ha!)
Again, thanks for the recommendation. The quest is over. Judgement has been meted out.

 

I've never had reason to plug it into my SPA car and now will have to give it a shot to see if it does anything. I originally got it for P2 and P3 cars.

 

I have the blue driver one from Amazon and it works great.

 

Did they change that one so that you have to pay monthly to have all the features? If you do pay additional, what does that give you that you feel is worth it?

 

I had a Good Innova - I Believe it was 5510 It did many , many Test on V50 & Ford . .

I Looking Again as I OSD Tool got Lifted - during 1 of Many Trips back & Forth to Florida @ 2:am
I was little slow getting My Wallet out & Cold Pumps as Legs were little Stiff etc.
I swear I heard Door Shut . .
On My Car I Turned to see - there were 2 Next to Their Car & they were Opening & Shutting Doors on Their Ride ..
" That was Their Cover "
Turns Out _They Quietly Opened Passenger Door as I was Fussing by Pump - Dam Thieves are Quick Man -
3-4 sec. Window in Car Gone . . Took it right Out of Glove Box . . so ( Lock It Now ) in 1 sec. when I get Out . .

It served well I Believe it was 3150D , so now Looking at 5610 as it does More Live Monitor Items @ Once - like -
Fuel Pressure , ITA Temp , Mis-Fires , Fuel Trim -OR- ABS , Line Pressure , % of Use or
Trans Temp , Shift Points , RPM , - No Fee's, No Subscription - or
One could get Model with RS after Number which is for " Referred Service Fixes " which is Faster & Checked By
Support . . for those slightly less Experienced . .

 

OK Thanks

I Bought : Innova -5610 this is Why

INNOVA 5610

 

OK Thanks

I Bought : Innova -5610 this is Why

INNOVA 5610

That's interesting. First, the choice to wax the tips of his mustache, jk. It is apparent that the Zurich scanner that I bought from Harbor Freight (which can't do many of the functions that the Innova 5610 can,) has parts in common. The buttons are the same, kind of crazy.

 

One could Actually get By with ~ Innova 1000 & cell Phone App . .

Also Tablet :
Innova SDS43 - SDS " Inspector - OE-Level " ~ is less Money & Does more then 5610 Pro . . But I Picked up 1 I Bought as Refurbished , so way Cheaper . . is All ..

It also Does TPMS on Most Volvo Past 2014 . . Honda's VW etc.

 

I just purchased the icarsoft V2.0 to help me find a failed parking sensor. While not having g any experience with an OBD scanner, I was able to find the PAM tests. And, the scanner is reporting 100.39 inches on all eight sensors. Does that sound correct? Am I even in the right ballpark?

 

Ask someone to walk around the car to trigger the sensors. Or place something near the bumper. And try to read the DTC error codes in memory.

255 cm (100.39 inches) is normal reading with nothing in front of the sensor. I get the same result with a phone app (in Platform-3 Volvo connection profiles, not in SPA):

https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/car-scanner-works-with-carplay.683832/?post_id=8269354#post-8269354

 

Well, at this point I’m out of ideas. I made an appointment with the local Volvo dealer, so we will see. That’s after I called 4 or 5 independent shops to see if they could help by scanning for errors. They either said no or call the dealer.