Choosing the right OBD2 app and scanner for your Porsche is crucial for effective diagnostics and maintenance. If you’re considering the POR-II for your Porsche, especially if it’s a 2004 or newer model, it’s important to understand its limitations, particularly when using a Porsche Obd2 App.
My experience with the POR-II was less than ideal. Attracted by its advertised advanced features, I purchased it hoping for comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. However, the reality, buried deep within their documentation, is that the POR-II falls short on newer Porsche models. Specifically, it does not reset airbag lights or communicate with the ABS and airbag systems on 986 models manufactured after 2003. This was a significant issue for me as I needed to reset an airbag light on my 2004 Porsche 911 (996).
Alt text: A Porsche OBD2 app interface displaying a system scan performed by a Durametric diagnostic tool, showing detailed vehicle health information.
After considerable back-and-forth with the manufacturer’s support team, and wasting valuable time troubleshooting what they initially suggested was an ECU problem with my car, they finally confirmed the POR-II’s limitations. They pointed to the online documentation, implying I should have discovered this myself, and refused a return. The support representative stated that the POR-II’s lack of communication with ABS and airbag systems on Porsches newer than 2003 is due to it being a “proprietary system” that they “didn’t buy the rights to from Porsche.” While my direct experience is with the 986 platform, this limitation may extend to other Porsche models of similar vintage.
Disappointed with the POR-II, I opted for a Durametric diagnostic tool instead. The Durametric worked flawlessly, communicating with all systems on my 2004 Porsche without issue. In hindsight, spending the extra money on the Durametric from the outset would have saved me considerable time and frustration.
If you are in the market for a Porsche OBD2 app and compatible scanner, and own a Porsche manufactured in 2004 or later, especially a 986 or similar model, be aware of the POR-II’s limitations. While it may offer certain functionalities, its inability to access crucial systems like ABS and Airbag on newer models makes it a questionable choice. Consider investing in a more comprehensive tool like Durametric to ensure full diagnostic capabilities for your Porsche.
