Having recently ordered a Renault-COM Bluetooth diagnostic tool, I was keen to share my experience after putting it to the test. Delivery was swift, arriving in just 5 days, which was a promising start.
Initially, connecting the Renault-COM Bluetooth dongle to my laptop proved a little temperamental. It took a couple of attempts for my Windows 10 laptop to establish a stable connection. However, this could easily be attributed to my laptop’s Bluetooth quirks, as I haven’t encountered any connection issues since the initial setup. It’s worth noting that the Bluetooth indicator light on the device only illuminates blue once a successful connection is made with your laptop, providing a clear visual cue.
The included software comes with a crucial instruction: avoid connecting to the internet while using it. This tool requires a Windows-based laptop with Bluetooth capability and is not compatible with Android devices. I’m currently running the software on a Windows 10 Pro 32-bit system, and it functions perfectly. It’s also designed to be compatible with older Windows versions like XP, 7, and 8. Interestingly, despite running Windows 10, there was a recommendation to install it on an older Windows XP system, which I chose to disregard.
For those planning to use this Renault diagnostic tool on Windows 10, here’s a detailed installation guide based on my experience:
- Insert the provided CD and copy both files to a folder on your hard drive (the desktop is perfectly fine for convenience).
- Carefully read the ‘readme’ file for initial directives.
- Right-click on the ‘install’ file and select ‘Properties’.
- Navigate to the ‘Compatibility’ tab and click ‘Change settings for all users’.
- Check the box ‘Run this program as an administrator’.
- Check the box ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for:’ and select ‘Windows 8 SP2’ from the dropdown menu.
- Click ‘OK’ on both dialog boxes to save these settings.
- Run the installer program. If you encounter an error during installation (which shouldn’t happen if you’ve followed these steps), run the installer again and choose the ‘Repair’ option.
- Once installed, right-click on the newly created program icon and apply the same compatibility settings as described in steps 3-7.
- Launch the program and enter the two activation codes found in the ‘readme’ file into the designated fields.
With the software installed and activated, you’re ready to diagnose your Renault. The Renault-COM tool operates as a Bluetooth Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI). In your Bluetooth device list, it will appear as “Autoscan & programmer”. I can confirm that it successfully reads and, importantly, clears Renault fault codes.
It’s crucial to understand that this Renault-com Bluetooth Car Diagnostic Tool is a Chinese clone of the DEC Superscan 3 tool and utilizes a cracked version of the ASM-X software. This software hasn’t been updated since 2012, meaning it offers optimal compatibility for Renault models up to around the 2013 model year (vehicles introduced in late 2012).
The Renault-COM tool empowers users to analyze live data from various Electronic Control Units (ECUs), program systems, and read and delete fault codes. I’ve personally used it on my Laguna and Megane with success. Furthermore, I successfully used the Renault-COM Bluetooth and Superscan3 software to change the VIN on a replacement Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) module to match my car’s VIN. Previously, under Renault CAN Clip, the VIN for the EPB was incorrect, but now it’s correctly recognized. This highlights a key advantage: the Renault-COM and Superscan software can perform certain functions that are not available in Renault Clip.
In my own experience, I’ve used this tool to activate cruise control, diagnose and resolve an airbag fault, and recalibrate my EPB after a clutch replacement. The EPB recalibration was particularly convenient in a perfectly flat car park! In terms of value, the Renault-COM has already paid for itself through these uses.
Addressing a common point of curiosity regarding the Renault-Com software: the “Offline mode” notification is simply a reminder that you are not connected to the internet, which is the recommended practice while using the tool. There’s no cause for concern.
When using the software, you input your car’s details (to your desired level of detail). Once a stable Bluetooth connection is established (indicated by all lights illuminating on the dongle), it’s advisable to use the software’s “Auto detect” function (or similarly named feature). This allows the software to automatically identify the electronic control units fitted to your vehicle. Occasionally, the auto-detect might falter, requiring you to manually select your vehicle from a list of compatible devices. In most cases, you’ll find your specific model or a closely related one (e.g., Scenic listed under Megane), ensuring compatibility.
For a detailed list of compatible vehicles, a PDF document is available: renault-com-support-car-list.pdf
Summary:
What I appreciate:
- The Renault-COM package offers excellent value for money. It’s user-friendly and, when used alongside Renault Clip, likely surpasses the capabilities even of Renault dealerships in certain areas.
- Bluetooth connectivity is a significant advantage. Renault Clip software, from my understanding, does not offer Bluetooth connectivity.
- It effectively read and cleared crucial fault codes and has proven to be a cost-saving tool.
- The dongle’s capability to handle EPB functions is a major plus, as EPB issues can be complex to diagnose.
- Installation on Windows 10 was straightforward following the outlined steps.
Limitations:
- Software updates ceased in 2012, limiting its optimal compatibility to older Renault models.
- DPF regeneration initiation, a feature reportedly present in Renault Clip, is not apparent in this software (or I haven’t yet discovered it).
- Key programming and ECU firmware updates are not functionalities I can confirm or endorse.
