Are all the Vag-coms the same or do they make specific ones for different models? I have a 2002 S4 thanks in advance!

 

if you put in vin number the website will tell you which one works. Just bough mine today for a 2001 Audi TT Roadster and 2009 Q7.

 

Cool thanks how about the cheap ebay ones?

 

comes down to the software. The official Ross-Tech cable will work with the full version of VCDS (the software). The Ross-Tech cable is pricey. You don't need one of the bells and whistles shop kits, just the cable. The cable is "programmed" to allow the software to recognize it is an "official" cable.

the ebay cables do work, sometimes. Ross-Tech offers a version of the software called VCDS-Lite for use with the non-official cables. The lite version of the software does have limitations, and you will not get any technical support if you have issues getting your car/cable to connect with the software. I'm not certain what the limitations of the lite version are because I have the official cable. If your ebay cable does work with the lite software, Ross-Tech offers the option of purchasing a license for the full version of the software, to work with you unofficial cable.

some people have purchased the ebay cables only to find that no matter what they do, they can't get the car to communicate with the computer. some people have had great success with the ebay cable and the lite version of the software. most dedicated DIY folks, or long term owners will eventually get the official cable/full software at some point.

bottom line, if you have the means to get the official version, do it

 

I bought a cable on amazon for $15. You can buy VCDS-Lite for $99 and that will do pretty much everything you would need to do on your car. I have 2001.5 S4 and it works great for me, and saved me a good chunk of change. Also, read up a bit on the site and it will tell you which version fits your car. Good luck! feel free to PM me if you have any questions or need any more help.

 

bought my cable from jhm. Check out the link. it'll help clear up the differences in the free and paid for software. It will also set you up with all the other software you'll need.

http://jhmotorsports.com/shop/catalo...0edf708ugr7273

you may want to check this out first!!
http://www.socals4.com/repair/

 

Thanks for all the tips guys!

 

Whats the vagcom website? Havent found it

 

Ross-Tech Store: VCDS

This site will hlep you determine which one you need.