Inexpensive OBD2 scanner can't recognise error codes

So on the assumption that my 2000 A2 was compliant with OBD2 diagnostics, I bought one of the cheap handheld scanners from eBay, albeit one with apparently good reviews (MaxiScan MS309).

The results have not been very useful.

The Engine Warning Light is on, but doesn't affect the running of the car. The scanner picked up one code, but could not read the code (said the module had nothing stored), could not erase the code, and on another section suggested the MIL indicator (which I assume is the Engine Warning Light) was off.

Have I got the wrong scanner? Is there something (inexpensive) that will read the codes on the A2 properly?

I use a cheap (£6) cable from ebay and the VAGCOM lite software free on the net, reads all the codes and resets the engine MIL and many other modules.
It will NOT do adaptation for that you need the 'full fat' VAGCOM and that weights in at £300 +

Very happy with my £6 solution, but you do need a laptop running an old version of windows, ideally XP, but certainly nothing 64 bit

Cheers,

intresting.. witch cable. just any obd2 - usb ?

Unfortunately that link does not go to any diagnostic Cables

Look for one which specifically says VagCom or VCDS and pick a cable which can connect to your laptop (usually USB)

OBD2 is the international standard for emissions related engine diagnostics and does not guarantee it will work on the more specialised systems like central convenience or aircon etc on VAG cars

Cheers Spike