VAG-COM

Phil W

Phil W

Phil W

Soldato
Joined
19 Oct 2002
Posts
9,974
Location
Jupiter
Hi Guys,

Looking for the VAG boys here. What are the benefits of purchasing VAG-COM? Is it a tool you will be likely to use a lot, or infrequently?

I've done some light reading up on it but it leaves me a little confused as to what you can actually do with it. Is its main job to read fault codes?

Some forums say you need to buy the genuine Ross-Tech? one (£260 odd new) and others say just use the *cough* pirate *cough* copies. Not too happy about using pirate software on the car so that would be a no no...

Just looking to those out there who have it to fill me in with a bit of info :)

Thx xx
 
A visit to the dealer now and then to get fault codes read will be charged at a stupid price per hour. If you use it just twice it has probably paid for itself!

We can't talk about pirate software on here I am afraid :p.
 
On the full version of the software you can reset service indicators and set various functions such as window closure, auto locking, etc (as well as reading fault codes of course).
 
Theres no end of little things you can change. Ive been looking at buying a Fabia VRs next so took a look at VAG-COM you can change things like alarm beep, central locking on key fob only operating front doors, enable/disable/change tear wipering, change the weight of the steering.
 
Purchasing VAG-COM? Little point, however VCDS (it's replacement), since buying it, I've used licensed only features loads of times since purchasing.
 
I have it and use it a lot, from clearing fault codes to opening/resetting the calipers on the e-handbrake when replacing pads. Also used it to code in OE retro fit cruise control and RNS-510 sat nav and tow-bar when I installed them :)

Its handy, but unless your are mechanically minded it wont get much use, if however you want to add OE kit and code it to work it will save a fortune.
 
I've got a MK1 Octy vRS so I think I am more limited to what I can change in comparison to a MK2 for example.

I've been told I can buy the cable and use the free software to unlock the cruise control on mine however I will need to install an additional loom to the ECU!
 
I think that's the case with the Mk4 Golf too, for whatever reason most of the rest of the range were essentially 'pre wired' for the cruise control but the 1.8T engines weren't and you need to add an additional loom to the ECU that isn't needed on the other engines in the range.

That said, I don't think it's a particularly complicated job, just a bit of extra hassle.
 
Phil W said:
I've got a MK1 Octy vRS so I think I am more limited to what I can change in comparison to a MK2 for example.

I've been told I can buy the cable and use the free software to unlock the cruise control on mine however I will need to install an additional loom to the ECU!
Click to expand...

I had to install the loom in my VW, its not too bad so long as you dont disturb the steering angle sensor when removing the air bag to change the stalks over. The worst bit i found was the anti-tamper cover over the ECU in the engin bay, held on with shear bolts that you cant get to so they cant be drilled out!
 
VCDS-lite is the ***** alternative. $99 dollars and you get quite a few features. Combined with ebay lead, job done.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom