If you’re working on a Volkswagen Group vehicle (VW, Audi, SEAT, Skoda), especially models like the Golf 8 or Octavia A8, choosing the right diagnostic tool is critical. This guide compares seven popular tools based on SFD support, mobile compatibility, and MQB Evo readiness.
1. OBDeleven
- SFD Support: ✅ Yes (automatic unlock with PRO/ULTIMATE)
- Mobile App: ✅ Android & iOS
- MQB Evo: ✅ Fully supported
- Details: Great for both beginners and enthusiasts. Offers advanced diagnostics, long coding, adaptations, and One-Click Apps.
2. Carly
- SFD Support: ❌ Not available
- Mobile App: ✅ Android & iOS
- MQB Evo: ⚠️ Limited support
- Details: Best for casual users who want basic diagnostics and service resets across multiple brands. Lacks advanced VW coding.
3. Carista
- SFD Support: ⚠️ Partial – for select 2020+ VW Group cars
- Mobile App: ✅ Android & iOS
- MQB Evo: ⚠️ Partially supported
- Details: Very easy to use with limited coding options. Requires EVO adapter and subscription.
4. VCDS (VAG-COM)
- SFD Support: ❌ Not available
- Mobile App: ⚠️ Limited – browser-based access via HEX-NET
- MQB Evo: ⚠️ Only usable after external SFD unlock
- Details: Highly detailed diagnostics and long coding. Ideal for professionals with older vehicles. Requires Windows or HEX-NET.
5. VAG CAN Pro
- SFD Support: ⚠️ Partial – only with ODIS credentials
- Mobile App: ❌ No
- MQB Evo: ✅ Supported
- Details: Designed for experienced users doing advanced ECU flashings and EEPROM access.
6. ODIS
- SFD Support: ✅ Yes (with GeKo dealer login)
- Mobile App: ❌ No – Windows-only
- MQB Evo: ✅ Fully supported
- Details: OEM-grade software used by VW dealers. Offers full online coding, ECU replacement, and more — but complex to set up.
7. VC Tool
- SFD Support: ✅ Yes – including Porsche Security Lock (SFD2)
- Mobile App: ❌ No – PC-based only
- MQB Evo: ✅ Yes
- Details: Ideal for retrofitting and advanced users. SFD tokens sold separately. Supports various interfaces (VAS, J2534, DoIP).
🔍 Comparison Table
| Tool | SFD Support | Mobile App | MQB Evo Support | Beginner Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OBDeleven | ✅ Yes | ✅ Android & iOS | ✅ Full | ✅ Yes |
| Carly | ❌ No | ✅ Android & iOS | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes |
| Carista | ✅ Yes | ✅ Android & iOS | ⚠️ Partial | ✅ Yes |
| VCDS | ❌ No | ⚠️ Limited (HEX-NET) | ⚠️ Needs SFD unlock | ❌ No |
| VAG CAN Pro | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| ODIS | ✅ Yes (GeKo) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| VC Tool | ✅ Yes (paid tokens) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an all-in-one, user-friendly solution with full SFD support and mobile compatibility, OBDeleven is a top choice.
For professional workshops, ODIS, Vag Can Pro or VC Tool offer deeper integration and more powerful capabilities — but require more setup and technical knowledge.