Navigating the world of OBD2 scanners for high-performance vehicles like the Aston Martin Vantage can be complex, especially with newer models. Owners often seek diagnostic tools that offer comprehensive functionality beyond basic code reading. This exploration delves into an initial experience using a readily available OBD2 scanner to access and potentially service a 2019 Aston Martin Vantage.
When seeking clarity on OBD2 scanner compatibility, direct inquiries to manufacturers can sometimes yield limited results. An attempt to gain information from Foxwell regarding their Aston Martin software and its applicability to the latest Vantage generation proved less than helpful. Questions about using Mercedes-Benz software – given the technical partnerships – and comparisons between different Foxwell models (NT530, NT680 Pro, NT809) went largely unanswered. The support team primarily focused on pinpointing desired functionalities, suggesting the NT710 model, but only confirming oil reset capability. Crucially, they provided no insight into software choices (Aston Martin vs. Mercedes) for the MY19 Vantage.
Driven by a desire to find a cost-effective solution, the Autel AP200 OBD2 scanner, paired with Mercedes-Benz software, was selected for a practical test. This affordable approach aimed to determine the extent of accessible diagnostics and service functions on the Aston Martin Vantage.
Upon connecting the Autel AP200 to the vehicle, the scanner successfully read the VIN. However, it defaulted from automatically selecting a specific software version. While the Autel interface lists Aston Martin as a manufacturer option, the system initially only had Mercedes-Benz software loaded.
To proceed, manual software selection was necessary. Choosing Mercedes-Benz opened up a vast list of models. For the initial exploration, the software for a W205 AMG C 63 S Sedan was chosen somewhat arbitrarily. Remarkably, this selection allowed scanning of approximately 30 systems within the Aston Martin. Initially, no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) were found using this profile. Subsequently, experimenting with software profiles for the C63 Sedan and C63 Coupe revealed some fault codes, primarily related to convenience features like seat memory, COMAND system antenna, hard drive full (a known issue), AMG suspension, and AIRMATIC – none of which triggered any warnings on the instrument cluster.
Focusing on a practical maintenance task, the oil service reset function was tested. First attempting the reset using the C63S Sedan software resulted in an incorrect negative value for the service interval, indicating a malfunction. Further experimentation led to selecting the AMG GT Coupe software profile. This time, the oil service reset was successful, setting the interval to 365 days. Notably, unlike some other OBD2 tools, there was no option to input a specific service date, only a pre-set 365-day interval.
This initial test with the Autel AP200 and Mercedes-Benz software on a 2019 Aston Martin Vantage demonstrates promising, albeit not fully refined, capabilities. For a modest investment, oil service reset functionality was achieved. The scanner also clearly communicates with numerous vehicle subsystems beyond just the engine, including chassis, TPMS, and transmission. Further, more systematic investigation is warranted to fully map the accessible functions and diagnostic potential using different Mercedes-Benz software profiles and potentially exploring the Aston Martin software options within the Autel AP200 framework. It’s also worth noting the discovery of a single OBD port on the MY19 Vantage, differing from earlier generations with two ports, which simplifies connection for diagnostic tools.
