1. Introduction
The VIDENT V301 is a professional all-system OBD2 scanner designed for Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, and Seat vehicles, as well as other OBD2 compliant cars. It provides comprehensive diagnostic functions, including reading and clearing trouble codes, viewing live data, and performing various special functions. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your V301 scanner.
2. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of the VIDENT V301 scanner.

Figure 2.1: VIDENT V301 OBD2 Scanner. This image shows the front of the VIDENT V301 scanner, highlighting its display screen and control buttons.

Figure 2.2: Tool Descriptions. This diagram labels the various parts of the V301 scanner, including the OBDII cable, LCD display, LED indicators (Yellow, Green, Red), and control keys (UP, DOWN, ESC, OK, I/M Hotkey).
Key Components:
- OBDII Cable: Provides communication with the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).
- LCD Display: Shows menus, test results, and operation tips.
- LED Indicators:
- Yellow LED: Indicates a pending diagnostic trouble code (DTC) or that some vehicle emission monitors have not yet run their diagnostic testing.
- Green LED: Indicates the engine system is operating normally, with all monitors active and performing their diagnostic testing, and no DTCs found.
- Red LED: Indicates there are problems in one or more of the vehicle's systems, and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is on.
- Control Keys:
- UP/DOWN Keys: Navigate through menus and selections.
- ESC Key: Cancels an action or returns to the previous screen/level.
- OK Key: Confirms an action or moves to the next level.
- I/M Hotkey: Provides quick access to the I/M Readiness function for checking emissions readiness and drive cycle verification.
3. Setup
The VIDENT V301 is designed for ease of use with a plug-and-play setup.
- Locate the Vehicle's DLC: The Data Link Connector (DLC) is typically located under the dashboard on the driver's side. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual if you cannot locate it.
- Connect the Scanner: Plug the V301's OBDII cable into the vehicle's DLC. Ensure a secure connection.
- Power On: The scanner will power on automatically once connected to the vehicle's 8-18V power supply.
- Language Selection: Upon first use or after a reset, you may be prompted to select your preferred language. Navigate using the UP/DOWN keys and confirm with the OK key. The scanner supports English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Dutch, and Swedish.

Figure 3.1: Easy-Use Design. This image demonstrates plugging the V301 scanner into a vehicle's OBD-II port, highlighting its long cable and clear interface.
4. Operating Instructions
Once powered on, the V301 will display the main menu. Use the UP/DOWN keys to navigate and OK to select.
4.1. Reading and Clearing Codes
This function allows you to retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and clear them, which turns off the Check Engine Light (MIL).
- From the main menu, select "Diagnostic Menu".
- Choose "Read Codes" to view current, pending, and historic codes. The scanner provides on-screen definitions for thousands of codes.
- To clear codes, select "Erase Codes". Confirm the action when prompted. This will turn off the Check Engine Light and reset monitors.

Figure 4.1: Read and Erase Codes. This image illustrates the V301's ability to display diagnostic codes and clear them, showing a dashboard with a check engine light before and after clearing.
4.2. I/M Readiness
The I/M Readiness function checks the status of the vehicle's emission-related monitoring systems. This is crucial for emissions testing.
- Press the dedicated "I/M" hotkey on the scanner or select "I/M Readiness" from the Diagnostic Menu.
- The screen will display the status of various monitors (e.g., Misfire, Fuel System, O2 Sensor). A green checkmark indicates completion, while a red 'X' indicates an incomplete or failed test.

Figure 4.2: I/M Hotkey Function. This image shows the I/M Readiness screen, indicating the status of various emission monitors with checkmarks and crosses, and explaining the quick check feature.
4.3. Live Data Stream
View real-time data from the engine sensors, which is ideal for monitoring intermittent faults and diagnosing performance issues.
- Select "Live Data" from the Diagnostic Menu.
- You can view data in text format or graph it for easier analysis.
4.4. Freeze Frame Data
When a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) occurs, the vehicle's computer records a snapshot of sensor values at that moment. This is called Freeze Frame Data.
- Select "View Freeze Frame" from the Diagnostic Menu to access this data.
5. Special Functions
The VIDENT V301 offers 8 special functions for specific vehicle maintenance tasks.
- Oil Reset: Resets the oil service light after an oil change.
- EPB (Electronic Parking Brake): Deactivates and reactivates the brake control system, assists with brake fluid control, opens and closes brake pads, and sets brakes after disc or pad replacement.
- BRT (Battery Replacement): Allows you to validate a new battery, clear fault codes from the dashboard, and display current battery parameters.
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter): Performs DPF regeneration, DPF component replacement teach-in, and DPF teach-in after replacing the engine control unit.
- TBA/TPS (Throttle Body Alignment/Throttle Position Sensor): Relearns the throttle body position.
- SAS (Steering Angle Sensor): Performs calibration of the Steering Angle Sensor.
- Anti-theft Code Read: Reads anti-theft codes (specific to certain models).
- Airbag Reset: Resets airbag crash data (specific to certain models).
Note: The availability and specific procedures for these functions may vary depending on the vehicle's make, model, and year. Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions before performing any special function.
6. Vehicle Coverage
The VIDENT V301 is specifically designed to work with most VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) vehicles from 1996 and newer, in addition to standard OBD2 compliant vehicles.

Figure 6.1: Vehicle Coverage. This image lists the extensive vehicle coverage for VAG group cars, including Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bentley, Bugatti, and Lamborghini models.
Supported Brands and Models (VAG Group):
- Volkswagen: Lamando, Golf, Santana, NF, Scirocco, Jetta, Lavida, Beetle, EOS, Bora, Rabbit, Sagitar, Vento, Touran, New Beetle, Convertible, Caddy, Passat, CC, Magotan, Phaeton, Tiguan, Beetle, Voyage, Saveiro, Polo, Sharan, Touareg, Kombi.
- Audi: A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Cabriolet, Q3, Q5, Q7, R8, TT.
- Skoda: Citigo, Fabia, Octavia, Rapid, Roomster, Superb, Yeti.
- Seat: Leon, Toledo, Exeo, Leon, Altea, Arosa, Ibiza, Corodoba, Alhambra, Inca, Mii.
- Bentley: Arnage, Azure, Brooklands, Continental Flying Spur, Continental GT, Mulsanne.
- Bugatti: Veyron.
- Lamborghini: Aventador, Gallardo, Huracan.
7. Multilingual Support
The VIDENT V301 offers a multilingual menu for user convenience.

Figure 7.1: Multilingual Menu Options. This image displays the various language options available on the V301 scanner, including English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Dutch, and Swedish.
Supported languages include: English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Dutch, and Swedish. You can change the language setting in the "System Setup" menu.
8. Maintenance and Updates
To ensure optimal performance and access to the latest vehicle data and functions, it is recommended to keep your VIDENT V301 scanner updated.
8.1. Software Updates
The VIDENT V301 offers lifetime free online updates. To update the software:
- Visit the official VIDENT website (refer to the product packaging or VIDENT's official support page for the exact URL).
- Download the update client software to your computer (compatible with Windows XP operating system).
- Connect the V301 scanner to your computer using the provided USB cable.
- Follow the on-screen instructions in the update client to download and install the latest software version onto your scanner.
8.2. Care and Storage
- Keep the scanner clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid exposing the scanner to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Store the scanner in a dry, safe place when not in use.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the unit, as this will void the warranty.
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VIDENT V301 scanner, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Scanner does not power on. |
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| Communication error with vehicle. |
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| Screen freezes or unit is unresponsive. |
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If the problem persists, please contact VIDENT customer support for further assistance.
10. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.4" TFT color display |
| Working Temperature | 0 ~ 60°C (32 ~ 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -20 ~ 70°C (-4 ~ 158°F) |
| Power Supply | 8-18V vehicle power |
| Dimensions (L*W*H) | 125 x 80 x 24 mm (4.92 x 3.15 x 0.94 inches) |
| Weight | 0.35 kg (0.77 lbs) |
| Supported Protocols | J1850-PWM, J1850-VPW, ISO9141, KWP2000 (ISO 14230), CAN (ISO 11898) |
| Operating System (for updates) | Windows XP |

Figure 10.1: VIDENT V301 Dimensions. This image provides a visual representation of the scanner's physical dimensions in both centimeters and inches.
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official VIDENT website. Lifetime free online updates are provided for this device.
For customer service inquiries, you may also refer to the seller's contact information on the platform where the product was purchased.