VCDS FAQ's

[Olly_K]

Page 1: General Pre-Purchase Questions

• 1.1 Will VAG-COM work with my car?
• 1.2 Will VAG-COM work even if my car is "chipped"?
• 1.3 What functions are included in the current release?
• 1.4 What are the computer requirements?
• 1.5 What if my Laptop doesn't have a Serial Port?
• 1.6 What if the PC I wish to use with VAG-COM doesn't have Internet access?
• 1.7 Can I use VAG-COM on a desk-top computer?
• 1.8 Will there be a Mac or Linux version?
• 1.9 Will there be a Windows-CE/PocketPC or Palm-OS version?
• 1.10 What's the difference between VAG-COM and an OBD-II Scan-Tool?
• 1.11 Can I use VAG-COM to roll back my electronic odometer?
• 1.12 Can I use VAG-COM to "Flash" the Chip in my ECU?
• 1.13 Is there anything else I need to make full use of VAG-COM?

Page 2: New User Questions

• 2.1 How do I Register/Activate my software?
• 2.2 What's the difference between the Shareware and fully registered?
• 2.3 Is Product Support included in the price?
• 2.4 Why can't I get VAG-COM to communicate at all?
• 2.5 VAG-COM communicates, but it's "flaky"
• 2.6 Why does my dash BEEP when I access my ABS controller?
• 2.7 Are there any Fault Codes that can and should be ignored?
• 2.8 Are there any known Bugs/Problems/Issues?
• 2.9 What's the Work Shop Code?
• 2.10 What's with those DEBUG files?

Page 3: Interface & Activation questions

• 3.1 Do I need an Interface Adapter?
• 3.2 Can I use one I already have?
• 3.3 Can I buy one someplace else?
• 3.4 Can I build my own?
• 3.5 Why does VAG-COM require Registration/Activation?
• 3.6 What if I need to run VAG-COM on more than one PC?
• 3.7 How do I permanently move VAG-COM from one PC to another?
• 3.8 What's the De-Activate button for? Why would I want to do that?
• 3.9 Why has VAG-COM become De-Activated on its own?
• 3.10 Can I sell my VAG-COM system to someone else?

Page 4: Miscellaneous Questions

• 4.1 Why and How should I test VAG-COM prior to Activating it?
• 4.2 Can I use VAG-COM while I am driving?
• 4.3 What is "The Aftermarket Radio Problem"?
• 4.4 How do I upgrade my existing VAG-COM software to the newest version?
• 4.5 What is the purpose of the "OBD-II" button? Why would I want to press it?
• 4.6 How do I print screens or data in VAG-COM?
• 4.7 What are Label Files?
• 4.8 How can I speed up my sample rate in VAG-COM?
• 4.9 What kinds of cool stuff can I do with VAG-COM? (or "How do I ...?)
• 4.10 How do I set up my USB Interface?
• 4.11 Does Ross-Tech make diagnostic software for other makes of cars?
• 4.12 Can I use VAG-COM to retrieve my Radio Code to get it out of "SAFE" mode?
• 4.13 Does VAG-COM work with cars that require direct CAN access for diagnostics?
• 4.14 Can I use VAG-COM to make my windows roll up and down using my remote?
• 4.15 How do I obtain an SKC for Immobilizer and Key-Matching functions?

Page 5: Detailed Q&A for users of 3rd-Party & Older Ross-Tech "Dumb" Interfaces

• 5.1 How do I permanently move VAG-COM from one PC to another?
• 5.2 What's the De-Activate button for? Why would I want to do that?
• 5.3 Why has VAG-COM become De-Activated on its own?