Code clearing question
 

Is 'Durametric' the only way to clear *all* Porsche codes?

Is there anything else (like something I can run down the street and buy at AutoZone) that will clear everything?

As in CEL? An OBDII reader reads CEL codes but not deeper codes like over rev. Those will reset the CEL.

Well....Airbag would be an example.

Airbag, no. only other option is a trip to the dealer.

Rats. Thanks.

Will the Durametric clear airbag codes? A byproduct of my valve spring replacement was me starting the car with the passenger seat removed. Doh. Airbag light is now on... local indy's "computer" is broke at the moment. I'm looking for an alternative to a trip to the dealer.

Yes.................

Yes, the Durametric will clear the airbag code. They have 2 versions, enthusiast and pro. Either one will work.
Diagnostic Tool for Porsche | Durametric


Stay away from the ebay/amazon clones for around $20-50, word is they can cause problems with the ECU (don't know firsthand)

Ah, nice... $287 mistake. I wonder what the dealer would charge to reset?

What else would I actually use the Durametric for? I mean, unless there is a problem? And my OBD2 reader takes care of non Porsche specific codes...

You can get lots of real time info, reset the service indicator, and more
not to be an ass, the website gives you a bunch of info on what it can do

Since you are VERY handy with a wrench, probably makes sense to get one

Besides the dealer would probably charge you an hour to do the reset and if you DIY stuff, its likely you will have other resets to do

There are cheap Chinese Durametric knock-offs that will read and reset engine and airbag codes. I bought mine for $30.

I didn't take that as being an ass. I did read the website. I saw what it comes with and what you can do with it. I just don't see myself using it if the car is running well. I was hoping someone would spell out something I missed that would make me go, ah, I never thought of that... Yes, I need one!

I'm all ears. Any links?

I just found this one...

Piwis Cable for Porsche

$51.99 with free shipping. All I need is the airbag code reset at this point. Tempting. 2-3 week delivery is making this less appealing.

A local indy (one that I have never used before) just quoted me $100-135 to reset my airbag light. Said it would be charged just like a diagnostic check and figure 45 minutes to an hour.

Sadly that is a 5 minute job.

There are lots of those on amazon and eBay. I was tempted as well, but after reading posts abou them saying they could damage the ECU, I was wary. Also they dont work on the latest version of software and probably never will. I found a real one being sold privately that had 2 vins left for $175. Even at $290, I fiigured it was worth the extra cost for the latest version, free software updates and piece of mind that it would not damage my car

I like living on the edge...

Piwis USB Car Diagnostic Scanner Cable for Porsche Vehicles | eBay

I just ordered this one for $39. I'll let everyone know how/if it works...

Hopefully that won't turn out to be the most expensive money you've ever saved. Remember, the ECU runs on smoke - if you let the smoke out it won't work anymore.

The Durametric only costs about $100 in the long run because you can sell it when you're done with two VIN's left on it for about $200. It doesn't make sense to me to buy a risky clone running outdated software for the sake of saving about $50. Especially given the time and money you have already spent repairing your car.

I had one of those clone cables and it was a piece of crap. I bought it thinking it was a real one, and I have since replaced it with a real one.

I'd avoid the knockoff Durametric tools as it essentially takes away from the work they do. Do I wish Durametric wasn't tied to 3 VINs (enthusiast version) and had more functionality like the Ross-Tech VCDS tool (for Volkswagen/Audi)? You bet. However, my Durametric has already paid for itself in data analysis and code clearing.

A basic OBD2 scanner can only handle the MIL/CEL, and related emissions codes. Durametric can also check the other systems in the car as well, including the testing functions and output data. I can say I'm happy with mine.

Thanks again all for the updates. Curious on what Aneal finds out.....