The cable somehow extracts a license to the software which enables full access to the software. The license is built into the Ross-tech cables so can be easily moved from one laptop to another. The cable will cost you between US$249-349 depending on the version you want. In order to clear codes and change functions in the vehicle, the VAG-COM software can be activated in one of 2 ways. In basic form it can only read error codes for you.Ī dongle adapter is needed to connect your laptop/computer to your VW. You will need to download the VAG-COM software. The software is downloadable and a cable can be bought from Ross-tech as they deliver internationally.

It is also used to tweak settings and enable features deactivated for certain markets. With an appropriate cable it can be utilised to examine any VAG group cars ECU for diagnostics and maintenance procedures. It basically combines the diagnostic abilities of a number of dealer only electronic gizzmos and puts their power into the hands of owners and enthusiasts. VAG-COM is an independently written PC application that Ross Uwe originally wrote as a tool to check out his own car and be a useful tool to the enthusiast community. Dealers use the VAS 505x devices which are explained in the thread linked. Many thanks goes to the author of Waks Wide Web as ALOT was borrowed from it.Ī common misconception of VAG-COM is that it is a VAG group product used by dealers to do 'something' with the cars ECU.

What is vcds