Porsche OBD II Scanner Tools

When owning a Porsche, it is just a matter of time before you will need the use of a good OBD II Diagnostic Scanner Tool. The scanner will allow you to read and clear trouble codes any time you encounter a “check engine light” or CEL error.

Check Engine Light (CEL) Errors

If you encounter a CEL error, take the time to read the error code as soon as possible. The check engine light alerts you whenever there is a problem with one of the components or systems in your Porsche Boxster.

Porsche OBD II Scanner - CEL Error
Boxstertips – CEL Error

However, if you encounter a “flashing CEL” error, pull over, stop the car at once (turn the engine off) and arrange to have your car towed.

With a flashing CEL, you can read the error code with an OBD II scanner tool with the key in the “ACC” location but do not start or run your engine.

Porsche OBD II Scanner - Check Engine Light
Check Engine Light

Is it safe to drive your Porsche Boxster with the CEL Warning On?

If you experience a CEL error, you need to get the CEL code read ASAP. Many drivers carry an OBD II scanner tool in their Boxster. You need to watch the code and be prepared to stop your Boxster if the CEL warning commences flashing. Never drive your Boxster with a flashing CEL. If your Boxster has a flashing CEL you need to turn off the engine and have the Boxster towed for service.

If the CEL light is on and your Boxster appears to be driving normally with no difference in performance, you need to read the CEL code with an OBD II reader tool. Once you obtain the code you can then make an informed decision on whether to drive the Boxster.

It is very common for the incorrect closing of the gas cap to cause a CEL error. This can happen out of haste or unfamiliarity with using the Porsche gas cap. When fueling your Boxster, you need to turn the gas cap until it clicks over 2-5 times to ensure that the gas cap has a good (and thorough) seal.

If your CEL error is related to the EVAP system, you should reset the CEL code, check the gas cap for proper closure and drive your Boxster to determine if the CEL error is a persistent problem (reoccurs).

Porsche Diagnostic OBD II Scanner Tool

You will need the use of a Porsche-specific OBD II tool to reset any OBD “check engine light” CEL warnings. An OBD II scanner will identify any fault codes and clear them.

The OBD II scanner tool is your first step in diagnosing any issues with your car. This tool will pay for itself the 2nd time you use it.

Porsche OBD II Scanner - Oil Service CEL
Oil Service CEL

You will also require this tool to reset the Oil Change light when it occurs and to reset OBD oil mileage each time you do an oil change.

If you are a Porsche Club member, and we highly recommend it, you can make use of the club for advice. Porsche Club members can be asked for local advice on getting their CEL codes read and cleared. Other Porsche Club members are often happy to help and are ready with advice.

Boxstertips - Join PCA
Boxstertips – Join PCA

Porsche Boxster OBD II Port Location

The OBD II port location is located under the dashboard, beneath the left of the steering wheel column.

Boxstertips - Porsche Boxster OBD II Port Location
Boxstertips – Porsche Boxster OBD II Port Location

1. Porsche Integrated Workshop Information System (PIWIS)

The primary diagnostic scanner tool for the Porsche Boxster is the Porsche PIWIS. We refer it to as the “Porsche Hammer”. The Porsche PIWIS is the most powerful diagnostic tool for all Porsche vehicles.

Porsche OBD II Scanner - PIWIS - "The Hammer"
Boxstertips – Porsche Boxster OBD II Reader – PIWIS Workstation

The Porsche PIWIS is used at Porsche dealerships for diagnosis, troubleshooting, and programming. It is not a practical purchase, it is very expensive and has a very steep learning curve. The PIWIS is available on a long-term lease from Porsche for $12,000 USD per year.

2. Durametric Diagnostic Tool for Porsche

Another tool is the Durametric Diagnostic Tool for Porsche. It is a great tool for Porsche mechanics. The Durametric Diagnostic Software is an alternative to the Porsche PIWIS dealer scanner.

The Durametric Diagnostic Tool for Porsche provides in-depth troubleshooting and has great model coverage. There are multiple license options, including a single-car license that is locked to the VIN.

Unfortunately, the Durametric Diagnostic Tool for Porsche costs several hundred dollars and requires a laptop to run.

Durametric has an Enthusiast Kit starting at $287 USD that supports up to 3 cars and is locked by the VIN of each car. This is the best tool and assures full compatibility with your Porsche. Their support is exceptional.

You can buy the Durametric Scanner here (directly from Durametric.)

Ben has an excellent overview on the Durametric OBD II Tool

3. iCarsoft POR-II Porsche OBD-II Scanner Tool Multi-systems ABS SRS

The iCarsoft POR-II Porsche OBD-II Scanner Tool  has an excellent following on multiple Porsche forums. Please take the time to do your own research. We have not tested this unit, but it is very popular with many forum members.

The iCarsoft POR-II Porsche OBD-II Scanner Tool is an excellent low-cost tool (for what it does) and it will read all of your codes and even reset the oil change warning.

Sale
iCarsoft Auto Diagnostic Scanner V2.0
  • Scanner V2.0 with obd services
  • Do the scanning for engine
  • Support OBDII/EOBD Ten Modes of Operation
iCarsoft POR-II Porsche OBD-II Scanner Tool in Action

4. FOXWELL NT510 Elite Scan Tool for Porsche

FOXWELL NT510 fit for Porsche OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool Full System Code Reader with Bi-Directional Control All Service Reset Oil EPB SAS ESP Crankshaft Relearn Battery Registration Air Suspension
  • [Upgraded Hardware and Sofware] - FOXWELL is constantly committed to provide high-performance products and a friendly shopping experience to our customers. We're thrilled to let our customers know that we've upgraded the hardware and software of the NT510 Series. The new hardware has fixed the problems of getting stuck and having black and white screens. The software now includes more functions and car models which has boosted functionality and vehicle coverage.
  • [Professional Diagnostic Tool] - Searching for a pro diagnostic scanner specifically for Porsche vehicles? The FOXWELL NT510 Elite is your perfect solution! Compatible with a wide range of Porsche models including Cayenne, Boxster, Cayman, 911, Panamera, Carrera GT, GT3, GT2, Macan, and more, it lets you diagnose issues before heading to the dealership, saving you time and money. This scanner delivers delealership-level diagnostics right in your garage. Warm Tips: This item is only compatible with Porsche vehicles compliant OBD2 protocols, if you need for other brand vehicle, please contact us with serial number or purchase the correspond with your needs.
  • [All Maintenance Services, Your Car Deserve to Own] - It is a professional diagnostic scan tool fit for Porsche, offering reset, relearn, match, adaptation, and calibration services. It handles ABS bleeding, battery registration, oil light reset, idle speed adjustment, traction/throttle body adjustment, A/C, CBS, alarm activation, crankshaft sensor relearn, EPB, throttle body relearn, air suspension, injector coding, head lamp calibration, seat, and more. Note: Special functions depend on the vehicle's actual condition. Please provide the VIN via QA or email for a compatibility check.
  • [Comprehensive Bi-Directional Control] - The FOXWELL NT510 Elite bi-directional scan tool allows you to send commands directly to your vehicle's ECU to perform active tests on components like doors, windows, mirrors, locks, lights, headlamps, wipers, sunroofs, fuel injector pumps, and more, ensuring everything is working correctly and identifying potential issues quickly. Tips: Please feel free to contact us if you encounter any problems during use.
  • [All System Diagnosis with Auto VIN Scan] - Auto read VIN and automatically scan all available electronic control modules to quickly identify faults. Ideal for car owners, mechanics, shops, or garages, this code reader provides an easy and affordable solution for diagnosing issues with body, chassis, engine, ABS, airbag, transmission, powertrain, 4WD, HVAC, headlamps, audio, fuel, and more. Features include reading and clearing fault codes, turning off warning lights, displaying live data in text and graph formats, and retrieving frame freeze data. NOTE: Please feel free to contact us if you encounter any problems during use!
  • [Full OBD Test for All OBDII Vehicles] - The car scanner code reader NT510 Elite fits for porsche features the complete 10 functions of OBDII test with Live PCM Data Stream in graphics formats, Read/Clear DTCs and do s-mog check, I/M readiness and O-2 sensor tests, read freeze frame data, EVAP system test, retrieves vehicle info, Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL), Real time battery voltage and more. Note: Only OBDII Function support all brand vehicle which compliant obd2 protocols.
  • [Do More for You] - FOXWELL NT510 Elite fits for Porsche has ability to graph, record, replay live data streams with 2 PIDs graphing and numerous live PIDs in text. AutoVIN service automatically retrieves vehicle VIN, making car diagnostics easier. Friendly design and Easy to use. Playback and data print. Lifetime free software update. Moreover, if you have another vehicle make need to be tested, instead of buying another scanner, just pay $60-$80 to add one more on your NT510 Elite, more information and question just contact us for best solution.
FOXWELL NT301 CASE OBD2 Scanner Professional Enhanced OBDII Diagnostic Box
  • 📌OBD Scanner Protection Case---The small carrying case is specially designed for HANDHELD-SIZED automotive obd ii scanners, not limited to NT301, NT510 Elite, NT201 Foxwell diagnostic tool, Foxwell BT100 Battery Tester, Wifi Endoscope. Inner Size: 7.9*5.5*2.4inch. Just a Case, scanner is NOT INCLUDED.
  • 📌Made-To-Measure---Tailor engineered to snugly hold the FOXWELL NT301. An interior pocket carries all necessary cables in one convenient location.
  • 📌Environmentally Friendly Material---EVA rubber and plastic products has a good buffer, earthquake, heat, moisture, chemical corrosion resistance, and non-toxic, non-absorbent. Polyester Fibre has oil resistance, particularly high and abrasion resistance. With those new environmentally friendly material, the carrying case protect your scanner against daily wear and tear.
  • 📌A Smarter Way To Carry and Store---With this protection carrying case, you can prevent your scanner from being damaged whether you place it in a trunk, toolbox, or garage.
  • 📌More Accessories to Hold---The box also got a interlayer for accessories such as extension cables. It is an accessory and necessity for car tools, electrical tools, home tools,etc.

Other Amazon Porsche OBD II Scanner Tools

Check with the Brand manufacturer to ensure the year make and model of Porsche are supported.

Also, be sure to check out our “Best Of” Series:

Our “Best of” series covers the best of batteries, battery chargers, wipers, car covers, books, and many more items.

Join us on Facebook

Join Boxstertips.com on Facebook today and become a part of the most vibrant Porsche Boxster community on the web. Share your passion, gain valuable knowledge, and immerse yourself in the world of one of the most beloved sports cars ever created.

When Boxsters Dream -Join Our Facebook Group
When Boxsters Dream -Join Our Facebook Group
Boxstertips - Buy & Sell Facebook Group
Boxstertips – Buy & Sell Facebook Group

Other Articles of Interest

Boxstertips - What Tools Do You Need for a Porsche Boxster
What Tools Do You Need for a Porsche Boxster
Boxstertips - Best Battery Charger for Porsche Boxster
Best Battery Charger for Porsche Boxster
Boxstertips - 13 Convertible Tips for Porsche Boxsters
13 Convertible Tips for Porsche Boxsters

Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API