VCDS - Dummy's Guide?

Hi there,

Yes you need the cable I bought mine from Ilexa.com which comes with the software but best to download the latest version from the web. The cable has some sort of dongle in to register to laptop and software as there are plenty of fakes on eBay - quite why you'd risk a fake on such an expensive item as a car I've no idea.

We were all beginners once but it's pretty straight forward. Some basic safeguards are to always save your scans and set the software to log any changes made. It's certainly a handy thing to have I've used mine this morning to reset fault codes after removing the air bag. Have a look at the Ross-tech.com I'm sure they have all sorts of documentation and example tutorial coding videos that you can watch.

If you have mates with VAG group cars you could maybe split the costs and buy it jointly.

Lots of information within this thread.

You will need a VCDS Cable and then the VCDS program or someone with them. Check out the RossTech site for more information. If you don't fancy paying out approx £250 to £280 for the cable then you can always see if someone would be up for sorting you out: VCDS MAP. Also check on the VCDS sub forum, a couple of members are able to supply the cable at good prices.

All of what you listed can be completed without issue and are reversible just always make notes of your changes. The VCDS program has a change log and a method of recording all your settings as .CSV files. Unless messing with Engine, Brakes, Transmission etc etc you should not have any warranty issues.

If you are in or around London I am more than willing to help out

Ignition1 said:

I've had a good read through most of it all. Looks straight forward. Was quite surprised at the price of the cable - but then I guess it's not just a dumb cable.

@Rob2k68 Thanks - I'll take a look at the Ilexa website now.

@DJAlix - I'm based in Watford so can reach most places around London easily By any chance do you do VCDS mods (for a price of course)?

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A VCDS cable does seem to cost a bit but there are no further on-costs, and the cable is smart with firmware built in to it. Money well spent to be honest as after activating things like TPMS and dipping mirror etc, things that a dealer would have charged approx £150 for, you are on your way to covering off the cost. It's a lot more than just a modding application also as you can diagnose faults etc

Am not far from Watford. Am in North London right next to the A406 in Muswell Hill. Buy me a beer or a coffee and you can have all the mods you want

Check out the document I have liked in my signature. This will give you an idea of whats possible.

If you're close to DJAlix that's got to be your best bet he's a VCDS wizard !!!

Rob2k68 said:

If you're close to DJAlix that's got to be your best bet he's a VCDS wizard !!!

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He's also a top man having spent a couple of hours with him, his laptop & VCDS cable last Saturday