I urgently need to get the VAGcom going (duh! you will say).

What hardware/software do I need (links to sources, please)?

Is the Vag-Com Cable for version 409 the right/best one for my car?
What is the correct link for the correct software?
What is the link for the installation instructions?

My car:
1998 Audi A4 B5 1.8T quattro

Computer:
Dell Laptops, Windows7

 

Helps to know what kind of cable you are using. Genuine Ross-Tech or some type of ebay cheapie.

Either way the software can be downloaded for free HERE. Should be rather self explanatory from there.

 

"Cheapie Ebay". I assumed it is (just) a cable/connector (similar to HDMI; don't let anyone tell you that the "monstermillionripoff" they offer for $50 is ANY different in performance than the $5 one).

I found this old forum reply from back when I bought the adapter:

"Check it out in E-Bay Dude. The ones in Blue Trapizoidal 16Pin Socket would work for A4 / B5 Platforms.

Check out this link in ebay - http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/VAG-C...spagenameZWDVW

I use this cable on 2001 A4/2.8Q. Works pretty cool. Also the USB Drivers and compatible Ross-Tech 3.XXX software would be provided in the CD

Cheers,
Ravi."

That's what I have.

VAG-COM USB OBD2 KKL 409.1 VW Audi Diagnostic Cable
Item Id:
370140276325
End time:
Feb-04-09 02:46:40 PST

Will it work? Software for Windows 7?

 

Below is the message I see when running 'options'. Is it supposed to be that way?

 

Alternatively (I read that without a license, a lot of the functions are NOT accessible. And since I need the VAG.com for tuning, I may need a full licensed version anyway: I would like buy a licensed software with USB adapter for 1998 Audi A4 1.8T. PM with offers!

 

If you have a cable you can by the license for 100 bucks and have all the functions
(re coding, clear/read codes ad log).
I take it you have the serial port one? I was told that the usb adpater may corrupt/no work properly b/c of differnt raate at which info collected or something like that????

 

The 2 adapters I have are USB. Anyone interested can have them for $10 plus shipping, so $14 shipped.

I received the Ross-Tech yesterday. Downloaded and installed the software/driver. Plugged the cable into the computer (windows 7). So far, everything as planned (don't have the car here to confirm full function, but sure looks like it. $250 is shame, though.

 

Just got my Cheepie-Ebay scanner and am using the Vag-Com Lite that came with it on a cd. I was wondering if anyone could help me get a license as i'd like to be able to access some of the features in the adaptation menu. Currently i can only access numbers 1-9.

Any advice???

Thanks,
Tyler

 

If I remember right: just pay the $95 for the license on the Rosstech website.
I couldn't get my cheepo ebay (2 actually) not to work with my computer; ended up buying the 'real' thing from Rosstech ($230 or so with license), which worked right out of the box without issues ever since.

 

Just register the software. (click on the 'about' button). It might take a day to get your registration code. They'll email you a file, and just save the file into your vagcom directory. It's good stuff.