ANCEL VD700 review: A Powerful OBD2 Scanner for VAG Vehicles

    ANCEL VD700 review: A Powerful OBD2 Scanner for VAG Vehicles

    If you’re an Audi owner looking for a VAG scanner,  the ANCEL VD700 is easily one of the best VAG diagnostic tool you can get today.

    After a week of hands-on testing, I’m convinced it’s the most powerful and user-friendly VAG scan tool I’ve used so far.

    A Full Toolkit for VAG Vehicles

    The ANCEL VD700 is purposebuilt for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda vehicles. While generic OBDII auto scanners only read basic engine codes and emissions data, the ANCEL VD700 dives deep into VAG-specific systems.

    It covers 11 Service/Maintenance functions, including Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration, Battery Registration, and Injector Adjustment.

    During testing, I tried out various diagnostic functions across different systems:

    • · Engine Diagnostics: Reads fault codes and displays real-time engine data.
    • · Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Pointed clearly to a wheel speed sensor-related fault, greatly narrowing down the root cause.
    • · Airbags/Supplemental Restraint System (SRS): Detects airbagrelated issues and verifies system readiness.
    • · Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Checks stability-control faults and evaluates sensor performance. 
    • · Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Scans TPMS faults and reports sensor status.

    The scanner not only read the engine fault codes but also displayed live data from sensors, switches, and actuators, giving me a realtime picture of how the car was operating.

    An ABS warning popped up, and the VD700 didn’t just read the fault code but traced the fault straight to a failed wheel speed sensor. It’s a perfect example of how the scanner saves time, avoids guesswork, and keeps you from replacing parts that aren’t broken.

    This level of detail saves both time and money, especially for those who prefer DIY fixes over costly trips to the mechanic.

    Related Reading: Ancel VD500: The Best Scanner for VW Group of Cars

    VD700 All Systems Diagnostics and OBDII Versatility

    Although it’s built specifically for Volkswagen Group (VAG) vehicles, the ANCEL VD700 also supports standard OBDII diagnostics for non-VAG cars. Its capabilities can be clearly divided as follows:

    Full-System Diagnostics for VAG Vehicles (VW / Audi / Skoda / Seat)

    For supported VAG vehicles, the VD700 provides all-systems diagnostics, including but not limited to:

    1. Engine System

    2. Automatic Transmission

    3. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

    4. SRS (Airbag System)

    5. ESP / ESC (Electronic Stability Program)

    6. TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

    7. HVAC / Air Conditioning System

    8. Steering System

    9. Instrument Cluster

    10. Central Electronics

    11. Battery Management System (BMS)

    These functions allow users to read and clear fault codes, view live data, and access system-specific diagnostics across major VAG control modules.

    Standard OBDII Functions for Non-VAG Vehicles

    On non-VAG vehicles, the ANCEL VD700 works as a full-featured diagnostic scan tool, supporting all six OBDII modes:

    1. Read and Clear Engine & Emission-Related Fault Codes

    2. Live Data Stream

    3. Freeze Frame Data

    4. I/M Readiness Status

    5. Vehicle Information

    6. EVAP System Test

    I tested it on a friend’s Toyota to pull and clear engine codes, check I/M readiness, and run an EVAP System Test, and it handled these OBDII functions smoothly and reliably.

    VD700 Practical Value in Real-World Use

    The Freeze Frame Data and live data stream features capture key parameters at the exact moment a fault occurs, making it much easier to understand when and under what conditions a problem happened. This is especially valuable for diagnosing intermittent or hard-to-reproduce issues that don’t always trigger obvious symptoms.

    While the VD700’s full multi-system diagnostics are exclusive to VAG vehicles, its solid OBDII performance on non-VAG cars still makes it a versatile tool to keep in the garage—particularly for users who own or work on vehicles from multiple brands.

    It's one of those details that sets this tool apart from more basic scanner for cars.

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    VD700 Special Functions That Add Value

    What truly elevates the ANCEL VD700  are its advanced service functions.

    • · Throttle Learning:  Recalibrates the throttle body after cleaning or repairs.
    • · EPB Brake Pad Replacement: Enables safe servicing of electronic parking brakes.
    • · Battery Registration: Ensures the vehicle correctly recognizes and manages a new battery.
    • · Injector Quantity Adjustment: Finetunes diesel injector performance for smoother operation
    • · DPF Regeneration:  Restores diesel particulate filter efficiency and maintains engine performance.

    I used the Battery Registration feature after swapping out my Audi A4’s battery, and the scanner handled it without any fuss. If you skip this step, the charging system can misread the new battery, which is a pretty common reason for random electrical issues.

    Lifetime Free Updates

    As automotive technology evolves, having a tool that keeps up with new car models and features is essential.

    One of the most appealing aspects of the ANCEL VD700 is its Lifetime Free Update Service. The free updates ensure your investment remains relevant for years to come, saving you from having to buy a new scanner every few years.

    When I connected the VD700 Audi VAG scanner to my PC for its latest update, the process was straightforward and quick. It’s reassuring to know that I’ll always have access to the latest diagnostic capabilities without paying extra.

    Real Performance

    During my week of testing, the ANCEL VD700 performed flawlessly.

    Whether I was reading live data or clearing fault codes, it was quick, accurate, and easy to navigate.

    The compact design and intuitive interface make it user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

    Here’s what stood out most during my experience:

    • Read Codes and Live Data: The live data streams are clear and detailed, making it easy to diagnose issues in real time.

    • Special Features: Functions like DPF Regeneration and Steering Angle Learning are rare in scanners at this price point.

    • Update Support: The free updates keep the tool future-proof and capable of handling new car models as they come out.

    A Tool That Stands Out

    After testing the ANCEL VD700 extensively, I can confidently say it’s one of the most comprehensive and reliable diagnostic tools for VAG vehicles.

    By combinng advanced features, versatility, and lifetime updates, it becomes a standout option for car owners and enthusiasts alike.

    Whether you’re troubleshooting a pesky warning light or performing routine maintenance, the VD700 OBDII scanner for Audi delivers exceptional value.

    If you’re a VAG owner looking for a diagnostic tool that does it all, this might just be the best one you’ll ever use!

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    1 thought on “ANCEL VD700 review: A Powerful OBD2 Scanner for VAG Vehicles

    t4s-avatar
    John Munns

    I need to know why the I/M Readiness for Since last cleared and This Drive cycle do not match as the Last cleared and drive cycle are the same. My drive cycle shows only 2 of 9 Ok. Since Last DTC cleared show all cleared. Trying to get smog check, will they go by the Last cleared or This Drive Cycle?

    Also My VD 700 says EVAP not supported. Is this an error that might be fixed with an Update? Can I do the update on Apple Mac Pro Laptop?
    Thanks for your consideration and swift response.

    John M

    January 5, 2026 at 08:45am

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