Sometimes too much information can be overwhelming. With posts like this, I read comments that say "there is plenty on the net", but that's the problem. Too much to get a simple Newbie answer - What is this stuff and what do I need to buy?

I have an Autel MP808 OBD reader, but it does not let me do things like turn off the auto door locks, and I clearly have some heat soak malfunctions that are not throwing off error codes. In my search for electronic diagnosis and change parameter software, I have come across an alphabet soup of tools, but as a newbie it's really hard to understand what it means, what it does, and what I need to buy to let me DIY for a Freelander 2 on a remote island in the south Pacific where there are no readily available experts.

> It seems there is something called a VNCI JLR DoIP diagnostic scanner, which I presume does what my Autel does.
> Then there is something called SDD/Pathfinder/CCF tools/SEEDKEY SDD software. Does this go on a windows laptop?
> After that special support TOPix online account for JLR coding/programming

At places like AliExpress there is VNCI FOR JLR DOIP for Jaguar for Land Rover Diagnostic Scanner with SDD V165 Pathfinder V374 256G SSD Software (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006991857296.html)

I also read posts about Foxwell OBD readers, but some say what I already have MP808 is as good or better.

What is on offer that I should buy?

SDD is the Land Rover system. It stands for Symptom Driven Diagnostics, and it requires a laptop plus a lead. I think it covers vehicles from 2006 onwards, and will do everything you want it to, if it can be done. That said, it’s not the easiest of tools to use, and can get daunting with the vast range of functions. If you are serious about diy on your FL, and are fairly savvy, then go with this, IMO.

You can buy it pre-installed on a second hand laptop, with a cable ready to go, from various sellers online.

I bought a ‘standard’ icarsoft scanner for my F1 but soon sent it back as it didn’t connect to some ECU’s. I then bought the PScan tool, which in my view is the best available for an F1 (only). PScan is built by a guy on this forum.

I have SDD for my F2. There is a thread on SDD on here.