vag-com info

[nath20vt]

hi everyone just downloaded the vagcom software from ross-tech, i have already got a basic code reading program but obv having a vw want the real thing, now its saying when i attach it to my car something about a serial number getting attached or something? also i thought the vag-com data was like £200+ or have i just downloaded a simpler free version? hope some1 can shed some light on this for me.

[tedvarrick]

Yes it is £200+, the software is free, but the rosstech software will only work with their rosstech ob2 lead which is £200+ to buy..

If you have a cheap ebay lead then i think you can get vcds lite http://www.ross-tech.com/vcds-lite/download/index.html

Taken from the ross tech site
 Can I use an Interface adapter that came with another software package?

 The full (non-Lite) version of VCDS is not compatible with 3rd party interfaces at all, even in shareware mode and vehicles that use CAN-Bus diagnostics require a Genuine Ross-Tech CAN-capable Interface. To use the full (non-Lite) version of VCDS, you need to use a genuine KEY- or HEX-, or Micro- series Interface purchased directly from Ross-Tech or from one of our authorized resellers.

If you have an older car which does not require a direct CAN connection for diagnostics (typically cars made before about 2005) you may be able to use VCDS-Lite with a "dumb" ISO-9141 (K-Line) interface. Ross-Tech has not sold interfaces like that since early 2004.   In the late 1990's and early 2000's, there were a number of software packages sold which included interface adapters which are compatible with VCDS-Lite.  If you can get VCDS-Lite working with one of these, we'd be happy to have you register the software with us for $99.  We will then provide support for the functionality of the software -- but not for connection problems.   

Most generic "OBD-II" adapters will not work and ones that use ELM chips will definitely not work.    If you have some interface adapter of unknown origins, there's generally no harm in trying it, but please keep in mind that Ross-Tech is also not in a position to provide start-up support if you're using any interface adapter that you didn't buy from us or one of our authorized resellers.

[nath20vt]

ahh right i get it now i thought it was the software you had to pay for, will have to get myself a vag-com lead then when it comes to payday cheers mate

[tedvarrick]

Well you can download and use their lite software with your 3rd party lead and that will give you a limited version of vag com until you get your new lead..

Although the vag com is dear it pays for itself when your a vw owner forever.

And on looking at other cars nothing beats vw's

I like bmw's but there big money should things go wrong, and as we know it's bad enough when ours break but at least they aren't super dear.

And the engine bays aren't too cramped mk4's aren't

[nath20vt]

i no mate this is my first vw and tbh i dont think id have anythin else now apart from vag, plus my sisters got a mk6 tsi my mates got a leon cupra R my other mates got a seat ibiza fr and my other mates got a skodia fabia vrs so it should come in handy in the future, as i said earlier iv got a basic one and i can turn eml and stuff off and read some data like intake temp mass air flow reading ect but just want to be able to do everything and learn as im going along and will be able to help a few local lads of here if they ever needed it

[JimBR]

Start charging.. with VAG reliability you'll be in profit in no time 

[shaft69]

I got cracked ross-tech £60 does everything just can't update it, version i use about 1yr old. But only use it for my own car at moment.

[jamie1989]

How do we get a cracked version? I would love this!

[nath20vt]

would also like to no about this cracked version? is it a different software and you use a cheap lead? or is it same software and a vagcom sort of lead?