OBDII ?

[Banzai]

I found a socket in the rear ash tray. Is this OBDII or some other protocol? My car is a 1999 A4 B5 1.8 non turbo.

 

[aragorn]

its OBD with a vag specific protocol.

You need a VAG specific diagnostic tool like VCDS

 

[Bradderz_1988]

Yes it the diagnostic port to scan for faults etc

 

[Banzai]

Are the readers readily available like the ELM devices on fleabay or is it just better to go to a garage? I dont have anything wrong at the moment, but just like to be prepared.

 

[ScottD3]

the bluetooth ELM units will work but mainly used for basic data logging.
Its best to get a VCDS cable.

 

[aragorn]

yeh, cheap ebay vcds cable is a good starting point, lets you do basic stuff and lets you get a handle on the software etc.