VMware instead of Lexia, diagbox etc

[Paul1098]

Just wondered if there was software that emulated Lexia, diagbox etc maybe by using VMware rather than buying a clone unit?

I have a 2010 Relay 3 van that I'd like to be able to do simple diagnostics on.

I've used BMW diagnostics software on wifes car and have various ODBI cables to USB and ethernet for different models and also ELM bluetooth so wondered if I could utilize one of these setups?

[GiveMeABreak]

Hi and welcome.

I'm not sure you are understanding what's what - VMware is just that - a VM environment to run software.

Diagbox is the proprietary software used by PSA for all their marques. It encompasses the older PP2000 and Lexia software for older vehicles and will launch the correct version or Diagbox itself for newer vehicles based on your specific vehicle and the build date. It can't be emulated, but can be run in a VM if necessary - although not recommended because of the communications issues which can complicate the process on top of a fiddly install process as it is.

As to the hardware. I think you are referring to the VCI which is the link between the laptop containing the software and the diagnostic port of the vehicle. The software is designed to work with the specific VCI (or its clone). Those other hardware units you mentioned won't work with the software.

One other thing - the commercial range of PSA Vans often require an extra add-on module (S1279) that works with the VCI to read some of the systems as they have hybrid systems from Fiat and Ford.

[Amigoo33]

Can you please elaborate on

"often require an extra add-on module (S1279) that works with the VCI to read some of the systems as they have hybrid systems from Fiat and Ford."

Are there any commercial vans that do not require? What it depends on? Does scanning without s1279 allow to connect to some modules but with s1279 to all modules? Thanks

[GiveMeABreak]

Hi

The S1279 Module is an inline box and cable that goes between the VCI and the OBD port. It allows the VCI to be able to talk to certain ECUs on specific commercial PSA vehicles that are co-made / designed with Fiat and Ford for example. Your relay is a Ford Puma engine and these vehicles may have and Engine ECU that needs this interface to be able to talk to the standard PSA VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface).

Examples are:

Peugeot Bipper
Peugeot Boxer III
Peugeot Boxer III minibus
Citroen Nemo
Citroen Jumper III
Citroen Jumper III minibus

Note: the Jumper is badged as the Relay in the UK

It largely depends on the model and engine - as some use PSA engines and others use Ford or Fiat engines.

Also some of the Head Units / Telematics units are Fiat based, so no guarantees - it depends on the vehicle.

[Amigoo33]

Right. So the best way to know is to try diagbox first and if needed get a s1279 module. No straight short way around it to know exactly. Thank you very much!

[GiveMeABreak]

Yes, because these can be a bit of a hotch potch of tech. The PSA engines will typically be used on other non-commercial vehicles within PSA and therefore the same engine ECUs and can talk to Diagbox / Lexia quite happily. But if you have a Ford or Fiat engine and their specific Engine ECUs you may find some problems talking to them.

Not only that but the ABS systems and other ECUs - so trial and error. the S1279 modules are not too expensive, so only get one if you need it.