# VCDS Tool: Comprehensive Explanation

VCDS (Volkswagen Auto Group Scanner) is an specialized car scanning system designed and released by Ross-Tech, LLC since May 2000. Initially called VAG-COM, it’s particularly tailored for VAG vehicles, including Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Skoda, and selectively, Bentley and Lamborghini models. https://vcdstool.com/

## Main Features and Application

VCDS is a PC-compatible program suite that, when combined with a matching diagnostic lead, turns a standard PC or laptop into a powerful diagnostic system similar to many professional-grade tools. It interfaces to a vehicle’s system interface and works straight with the Electronic Control Units within the vehicle.

Unlike universal OBD-II scanners, VCDS uses detailed Volkswagen Group-specific proprietary language instructions, enabling it to access every supported vehicle systems—even in legacy models that don’t comply by standard OBD-II protocols.

## Device Choices

Ross-Tech offers several hardware interface options:

1. **V2 Cable**: A wired device created to be faster and more secure than older models. It includes a swappable USB cable and can conduct auto-scans much more rapidly than previous interfaces.

2. **Network Interface**: A wireless tool that accommodates both Wi-Fi and USB connections, enabling users to operate the tool from a smartphone, iPad, or PC. This additional functionality delivers greater versatility when diagnosing on vehicles.

## Subscription Models

VCDS is available in several license types:

– **Professional (Unlimited)**: For technicians or users who service numerous different vehicles.

– **DIY**: Restricted to 10 unique vehicle identification numbers, ideal for DIYers servicing several VAG cars.

– **Home User**: Restricted to 3 unique registration numbers, appropriate for households with just VAG vehicles.

## Capabilities and Characteristics

VCDS offers extensive scanning and coding capabilities, including:

– Reading and erasing fault codes from all vehicle systems (motor, gearbox, ABS, airbags, etc.)

– Viewing current data from vehicle sensors and creating charts of this data

– Performing basic settings, customizations, and programming modifications

– Resetting service and check-up reminders

– Adjusting brake calipers for brake service

– Running engine throttle adaptations

– Initiating diesel particulate filter manual maintenance

– Starting component function checks

Howard Pitkow evaluated in the search results explains VCDS as “the quickest diagnostic tool he owns” and “clearly quicker and more user-friendly than the Volkswagen OEM tool”.

## Vehicle Support

VCDS works with VAG vehicles produced from 1995 including modern models. With an optional retrofit interface, coverage can be increased back to vehicles from 1990. The software accommodates all vehicles with 16-pin interfaces, covering those using current vehicle bus and standardized protocols.

## Contrast to Competing Products

When compared against other VAG diagnostic tools like OBDeleven, VCDS is generally considered as more thorough and better suited for advanced troubleshooting and coding. While competing tools provide smartphone compatibility and a more user-friendly interface for non-professional users, VCDS provides superior features preferred by dealerships and dedicated enthusiasts.

According to user testimonials, VCDS is especially valuable for:

– Dealerships diagnosing numerous VAG vehicles

– DIY enthusiasts who regularly conduct maintenance exceeding routine oil changes

– Users who require detailed diagnostic information and specialized programming features

– Drivers of older (pre-2005) VAG vehicles

The system has evolved into practically critical for dedicated Volkswagen and Audi DIY enthusiasts, with countless users regarding it “some of the best acquisitions” for those servicing these vehicles.