Scan Tool Advice for 2016 Jaguar XJ (3.0 AWD)

Hi everyone,

New to Jaguar ownership and looking for some advice. I have a 2016 Jaguar XJ 3.0 AWD and would like to pick up a decent scan tool that can go deeper than just OBD2 basics.

Ideally I’d like something that can read codes from systems like ABS, air suspension, transmission, etc. I’ve looked at tools like iCarsoft, Foxwell, and Launch, but I’m not sure which ones actually support most of the Jaguar-specific modules.

Also curious if any of the Bluetooth dongles (like Carista or OBDeleven) are worth it for this car, or if they’re too limited.

Would really appreciate any recommendations from folks who’ve used these tools with the XJ. Trying to avoid trial-and-error if possible.

Thanks!

 

Your best option is a dedicated laptop running SDD which is the dealer software, these can be purchased from Ebay and some include after-sales support if you need further updates.

 

I've stayed away from the SDDs that can be purchased on E-bay, etc. because it seems, to me, like there's more than enough rope to hang yourself on those - and they're clunky, cumbersome and not super easier to deal with - from what I've read and I understand it.

I'm personally running a Foxwell NT710 and I love it. I can pretty much do every thing but program ALL the modules. Air suspension, diagnostics, code reading, live data etc for a unit that was like... $300. I cannot complain. The ONE time I wished I had the SDD is when my suspension module crapped the bed. Jaguar told me a new module SHOULDN'T need programmed but it did and the Foxwell couldn't program that one. To be fair, neither could a friends $4,000 SnapOn device.

So, my vote - Foxwell. It's what I've owned and over the last 2 years I've done a LOT of work on my car. Only needed the SDD or dealer level programming once.

 

I agree to avoid eBay. SDD can be downloaded directly from JLR, and the patch to use it is readily available online for free. It's pretty straightforward to install assuming you already have a laptop, so the only cost is the Mongoose cable that can be had for <$30.

 

To me the best choice if you don’t want to use SDD is the Autel AP200.

It makes more than a standard Obdii reader (reset battery management system, service light, brake pads, etc) but no ropes to hang yourself.

 

Morning do you have the links on JLR to get the SSD and The Mongoose cable

 

I use an iCarSoft LR 3.0. Not that expensive and it has a very wide range of features that I think will meet what you are after.

 

I have 2 XJs, a X-Type and S-Type. I do use the SDD laptop model for some things but for other things I use the X-Tool D7. There are some downfalls with it but there are with all of them. Overall it's my go to mostly. My next one will probably be a higher end TopDon model. As far as the Bluetooth dongle models, it totally depends. I have one that connects to the torque app on my phone that I use for quick diagnosis and it works pretty well. It's convenient for real-time monitoring as well. However, the biggest biggest downfall with the Bluetooth dongles is that it's easy to lose the dongle.

 

I bought the icarsoft 2 years ago does the job and seems well built. I am very interested though in learning about SSD / mongoose cable so add me to the list of proven safe link desirers!

 

I second this 100%. This has been all I need to diagnose what’s wrong and complete basic service. I augment with a BlueDriver OBDII scanner with phone app for real time trend monitoring of temps and fuel trim.

 

Looks like we lost our time answering: this is one of those threads initiated by a newby who never bothers to come back… not even to say thank you… 😏