Topdon Phoenix Smart | Diagnostic Tool | Car

The Topdon Phoenix Smart is a diagnostic scanner for cars and light commercial vehicles, designed as 10.1-inch tablet on Android 10with the separateMDCI Pro-VCI. The VCI supports J2534, DoIP, CAN FD, D-PDU and RP1210and connects wirelessly via WiFi or by cable. The device performs comprehensive system diagnostics onmore than 200 vehicle brands, reads and clears fault codes, displays live data, controls components bidirectionally and performs 34 service and maintenance procedures out. When purchasing 24 months of updates included.

In addition to diagnostics, the device supports online coding and cloud-based programming: the factory software is retrieved from the server and written to the control unit, available for thirteen manufacturers: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar, Renault, Nissan, Subaru and Hyundai. The topology display displays all control modules and their interconnected bus connections in a single view, with fault status per module. Access to secured gateways and extensions for heavy commercial vehicles (HD) and electric vehicles (EV) are managed through separate licences.

Diagnostic functions:

The Topdon Phoenix Smart performs a complete system diagnosis on all available electronic control units in the vehicle. In addition to generic OBD data, the device reads manufacturer-specific data for each brand.

• Read and clear fault codes: Reads stored fault codes from all accessible control units, with description and status for each code. A full scan displays all systems in one operation; clearing can be done per module or across the entire vehicle.
• Live data: Displays current measured values as text, graph or gauge. Multiple parameters can be monitored side by side and recorded, revealing deviations that only occur under load or at a specific temperature.
• Actuator test: Controls a component directly from the control unit: pumps, valves, fans, relays and lighting. This allows you to determine whether a fault lies with the component, the wiring or the control signal.
• Topology display: Shows the control units and the buses they are connected to graphically, with communication status and number of fault codes for each module. In addition to this diagram, the same information can be displayed as a list.
• Read ECU information: Displays the part number, hardware and software version and calibration data for each control unit, necessary to verify that a module contains the correct programming.

Service and maintenance functions:

The Topdon Phoenix Smart supports 34 service and maintenance procedures. Available functions may vary by manufacturer, model and year of manufacture.

Engine and drivetrain:

• Reset service interval: Resets the counter and service reminder for the maintenance interval after an oil change or service.
• Throttle body learning:Relearns the electronic throttle valve's closed and fully open positions, allowing the control unit to recalibrate sensor readings to actual valve position. Required after cleaning or replacement.
• Injector coding:Writes the calibration code of each injector to the engine control unit. This code describes the injector's deviation from nominal output; without coding, the control unit operates with incorrect opening times.
• Crankshaft position sensor learning:Records the manufacturing tolerance of the crankshaft timing wheel, enabling the control unit to distinguish between a production deviation and an actual ignition misfire. Required after replacement of the engine control unit, crankshaft position sensor or flywheel.
• Cylinder power balance:Measures each cylinder's individual contribution to engine torque, identifying a misfiring cylinder without disassembly.
• Air-fuel ratio reset:Returns learned fuel corrections to baseline values, after which the control unit relearns based on the lambda signal.
• Automatic transmission learning:Executes the self-learning process of the automatic gearbox, restoring shift quality after servicing or oil change.
• Start-stop system configuration:Enables or disables the vehicle's automatic start-stop function.
• Cooling system bleeding:Operates the electric coolant pump to expel air from the cooling circuit after draining or replacing coolant.

Exhaust and emissions systems:

• Diesel particulate filter regeneration (DPF):Initiates forced regeneration by raising exhaust temperature to burn accumulated soot, then resets soot load and counter after filter replacement.
• Petrol particulate filter (GPF):Performs the same regeneration for the particulate filter of direct-injection petrol engines and resets the load value.
• AdBlue system reset:Resets counters and learned values of the SCR system after topping up reagent or after replacement of the dosing pump or reservoir.
• EGR valve learning:Restores end positions and learned flow values of the exhaust gas recirculation valve after cleaning or replacement.
• NOx sensor reset:Clears learned correction values from the NOx sensor, allowing the control unit to recalibrate the new sensor from baseline.

Brake system:

• Electronic parking brake (EPB):Positions the rear brake caliper pistons in service mode and returns them, necessary for replacing brake pads or discs without damaging the system.
• ABS bleeding:Operates the pump and valves in the ABS module, expelling air trapped in the control block along with brake fluid.

Steering and suspension:

• Steering angle sensor calibration (SAS):Sets the straight-ahead position of the steering wheel as the zero reference point. Without this calibration, ESP, lane-keeping assistance and power steering operate with a shifted reference.
• Air suspension calibration:Adjusts ride height and relearns height sensors after replacement of a sensor or air suspension control module.

Safety systems, tyres and driver assistance:

• Airbag module reset (SRS):Clears crash data and fault codes from the airbag control unit after replacement of seat belt pretensioners and airbags.
• Tyre pressure monitoring reset (TPMS): Resets the tyre pressure monitoring system and extinguishes the warning lamp after replacing a sensor, tyre or wheel.
• Setting tyre data: Re-registers the fitted tyre size in the control unit.
• Immobiliser adjustment: Performs basic immobiliser operations, such as learning a key and adapting the control unit to the vehicle. The scope varies by manufacturer; for key and chip work at component level, the T-Ninja Box is required.
• Adaptive cruise control learning: Registers a replaced or repaired adaptive cruise control unit with the vehicle. Physical alignment of the radar sensor is performed using the separate ADAS calibration system.

Body and comfort:

• Panoramic roof adjustment: Configures panoramic roof behaviour: locking, automatic closure in rain, memory position for sliding and tilting, and the associated ambient temperature threshold.
• Adaptive headlight adjustment (AFS): Calibrates the levelling control and cornering function of the headlights relative to ride height.
• Window control calibration: Re-learns the upper and lower positions of the windows, restoring pinch protection and comfort operation.
• Seat learning: Re-learns memory seats after the seat or adjustment module has been replaced or repaired.
• Air conditioning system reset: Re-learns the end positions of the blend and distribution valves following replacement of an actuator or control panel.

Electrical system and vehicle data:

• Battery registration (BMS): Notifies the charging system of battery replacement, including type and capacity, and resets learned ageing. Without registration, the charging regime remains calibrated to the old battery.
• Odometer adjustment: Writes the mileage to the control unit, intended for transferring the original reading after instrument cluster replacement.
• Motor angle calibration: Records the angular deviation between the position measured by the rotor position sensor of the electric drive motor and the actual position of the magnetic field. Without this correction, the inverter controls the rotating field with an angular error, resulting in torque and efficiency losses.
• High-voltage battery reading: Reads the status and fault codes of the battery pack in hybrid and electric vehicles.
• Transport mode deactivation: Removes the factory setting that limits power consumption during transport and storage whilst blocking comfort functions.
• System language change: Changes the language setting of the vehicle's central control panel.

Special functions and capabilities:

The Topdon Phoenix Smart offers additional functions for programming and coding control units and for accessing secured vehicle networks.

Coding and programming:

• Cloud-based programming: Retrieves the factory software for the selected control unit from the server and writes it to the vehicle. Supported for thirteen manufacturers: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar, Renault, Nissan, Subaru and Hyundai. An internet connection is required.
• Online coding: Modifies the coding data of a control unit via the manufacturer's server, allowing a replaced module to adopt the vehicle's equipment configuration. Available for Mercedes-Benz (SCN), BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche and Renault, amongst others.
• Offline coding: Performs coding using manually entered values, used for vehicle models where coding does not need to come from the server.
• Unlocking hidden functions: Modifies factory settings that are disabled from the factory, such as video display while driving and warning signal behaviour. Available for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Porsche, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Toyota and Honda, among others.

Secure network access:

• FCA Secure Gateway: Provides write access to the protected gateway of Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Alfa Romeo and Maserati from model year 2017 onwards. Requires separate authorisation; without approval, the device is limited to read-only access.
• Renault Secure Gateway: Unlocks the secure diagnostic port of recent Renault and Dacia models. This function only works whilst the device's update period is active.
• VAG SFD: Provides access to the SFD-protected control units of Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and Seat. This also requires separate authorisation.
• Nissan Secure Gateway: Unlocks the secure port of recent Nissan models, after which fault code clearing and bidirectional control become available again.

Vehicle identification and scan methods:

• Automatic vehicle identification: The device reads the vehicle identification number from the control unit and loads the corresponding diagnostic software based on this information.
• VIN barcode scanning: The vehicle identification number barcode is read using the tablet's camera. If this is not possible, the number can be entered manually.
• Quick scan: Provides a rapid health overview of the vehicle, showing the systems present and the locations where fault codes are stored.
• Full system scan: Scans each vehicle system individually for a complete picture.
• Targeted scan: Accesses a single manually selected control unit, used when the fault has already been narrowed down to one system.
• Ten OBD modes: The complete statutory OBD package is available, including stored and pending codes, live data, oxygen sensor tests and emissions readiness status.

Measurement and data logging:

• Snapshot at fault code: The measurement values as they were at the moment the fault code was stored are retained for later assessment.
• Display in three formats: Measurement values can be read as a number, as a graph over time, or combined in a single view.
• Recording and storage: A series of measurement values can be captured during a test drive and saved as a reference file.
• Comparison with a reference: A live measurement can be compared with a previously saved recording, making deviations from a properly functioning vehicle visible.
• Screenshot and printout: The display can be captured as a video or image and is saved with the session data.

Reporting and workshop management:

• Diagnostic report: The result of a session is recorded in a report containing vehicle data, fault codes found and actions performed. The report can be saved and shared.
• Workshop details: Business information is included in the report, allowing it to be sent to the customer as a standalone document.
• Customer management: Customer and vehicle data are retained with each diagnostic performed.
• History: Previous sessions for each vehicle are preserved, including reports, recorded measurements and associated screenshots.

Support and reference:

• Remote assistance: A technician can view the device remotely; the device number is provided for this purpose.
• Feedback to manufacturer: The last twenty test reports can be sent when a vehicle is not recognised correctly or a function is not working.
• Fault code library: OBD fault code definitions can be looked up without a vehicle connected.
• Coverage list: Available systems and functions for each make and model can be checked in advance.
• Training materials: Video guides demonstrate how a function operates on a specific model.

Device management:

• Single-step updates: Selected vehicle software and the app are updated simultaneously, directly on the tablet.
• VCI maintenance: The MDCI Pro is activated from the device and the module firmware can be restored if needed.

Optional expansion modules:

The functionality of the Topdon Phoenix Smart can be extended with various optional hardware modules and software licences. These expansions are specifically designed to add additional diagnostic capabilities.

Hardware modules and accessories:

• Phoenix Scope oscilloscope: Four-channel oscilloscope for measuring waveforms not visible in live data, such as ignition, crankshaft and camshaft signals, and injector control. View the oscilloscope.
• BTMobile ProS battery tester: Measures cold cranking current, internal resistance and battery charge state, and assesses the alternator and starter current under load. View the battery tester.
• T-Ninja Box key programmer: Programming module that enables the optional IMMO PROG function on the device: read and write transponders, read EEPROM and MCU memory, and edit engine and transmission control unit memory. View the T-Ninja Box.
• HD non-16-pin cable set: Manufacturer-specific connection cables for trucks, buses and tractors, which rarely feature the standard 16-pin OBD2 connector. View the cable set.
• ADAS calibration system: Tripod with alignment panels for calibrating camera and radar sensors of driver assistance systems following windscreen replacement, collision damage or wheel alignment. The device controls the calibration; the calibration system itself is separate equipment.
• TC001 thermal imaging camera: Reveals temperature differences, making it possible to identify a seized brake calliper, a blocked radiator core, a burnt-out heating element or an overheating control unit.

Software modules and licences:

• HD software licence: Adds diagnostic software for heavy commercial vehicles, covering truck, bus and tractor brands and systems. Valid for twelve months. View the HD licence.
• EV package: Extension for high-voltage systems in electric and hybrid vehicles, including the relevant connections for the battery pack. View the EV package.
• FCA (SGW) authorisation licence: Annual licence that unlocks the secure gateway for FCA brands. View the FCA licence.
• VAG SFD authorisation licence: Annual licence for SFD-protected control units from Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and Seat. View the VAG SFD licence.
• SGW Multi-Access bundle: Combines authorisations for FCA, Renault, the VAG group and Nissan in a single annual licence. View the bundle.
• Update licence: Extends the software licence registered to the device serial number. View the update licence.

Supported vehicle brands:

The Topdon Phoenix Smart supports more than 200 vehicle makesgrouped by region. Coverage may vary depending on model and year of manufacture.

• European:Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Citroën, Dacia, DR, Ferrari, Fiat, GAZ, Iveco, IZH, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lancia, Land Rover, Maybach, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Opel, PAZ, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Rolls Royce, Rover, Saab, Seat, SeAZ, Skoda, Smart, Sprinter, UAZ, Vauxhall, VAZ, Volkswagen, Volvo, ZAZ
• Asian:Acura, Ashok Leyland, Daewoo, Daihatsu, Force, FUSO, HINO, Honda, Hyundai, IKCO, Infiniti, Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Luxgen, Mahindra, Maruti, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Perodua, Proton, Saipa, Samsung, Ssangyong, Subaru, Suzuki, Tata, Toyota, United Pakistan, VinFast
• American:Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Holden, Jeep, Lincoln, SGM, Tesla
• Chinese:BAIC, Brilliance, BYD, Changan, Changhe, Chery, Cowin, Dongfeng, Exeed, FAW, Foton, Geely, Gonow, Great Wall Motors (GWM), Hafei, Haima, JAC, Jetour, Jinlong, JMC, Joylong, Karry, Leap, Lifan, Maxus, MG, MVM, Polarsun, Qoros, Riich, Roewe, SGMW, Shineray, Soueast, SWM, Trumpchi, Zotye, ZX Auto

Package contents:

• 1xTopdon Phoenix Smart tablet
• 1xMDCI Pro VCI module
• 1xOBD II extension cable
• 1xOBD I adapter box transfer cable
• 1xBattery clamp cable
• 1xCigarette lighter cable
• 1xUSB-C to USB-A cable
• 1xUSB-A to USB-B cable
• 10xNon-16-pin adapter connectors
• 4x5 x 20 mm fuse
• 2x6 x 30 mm fuse
• 1xPower adapter
• 1xUser manual
• 1xEnvelope with activation code
• 1xStorage case

Licence information:

The Topdon Phoenix Smart includes a software licence. The terms below apply to the licence period and its renewal.

• Includes 24 months of updates: A 24-month update licence is included with purchase, calculated from the date the device is activated.
• Annual renewal: Once the licence expires, it can be renewed using the device's serial number. View the update licence.

After the licence period expires, the device will continue to operate on the last installed software version. Vehicles added in newer software versions and online functions, including cloud-based programming and Renault gateway unlocking, will no longer be available.

Technical specifications: