Vag-com - cable/software?

[arS4]

Hi there,

I'm sure it's been asked before, but maybe not in relation to the software being updated.

Anyhoo, I'd like to dip my toe into the murky waters (to me, anyway!) of Vag-com.

By, "dipping" I mean as cheaply as possible!

Is my understanding correct in that I can download a version of Vag-Com from Rosstech? If so, which version?
I would like to support Rosstech, so would prefer to buy the cable from them too - but not at the rumoured $250-odd!!!

What's the cheap option - I'm not a mechanic by any means, but moreso a nosey git who wants to learn more about his new toy


Any advice would be extremely appreciated

Thanks in advance,

Dano (b5 S4 Avant - pre-facelift)


edited to add - is this available for PPC2003 (got an Ipaq in the car)

[DavidT]

Have a surf on their website: www.ross-tech.com All the details are there. Official is best, it is the best money you will spend on your car.

[arS4]

OK - thanks.

I've downloaded the free software (all of 'em!!! )

So you buy the cable for at least £128 (according to XE.com)

Is this correct?

You'll have to excuse my ignorance - but the whole gist of Vag-com is to diagnose a problem (not actually fix it!)
Presumably I can use a 2nd-hand cable to achieve pretty much the same results albeit with an older version of the package.

I didn't want to spend that type of money (yet!)

Dan

[maxxximus]

If you just want to 'dip' then id suggest buying a cheapy dumb interface off Ebay - about 20 notes or so. You can then buy a licence off ross tech for $100 - although this can not be transfered to another PC.

Buying a second hand proper cable may take a while as they dont come along very often.

Best bet - stump up the cash and buy direct from Ross tech. If you find you dont need it then sell it on.

[arS4]

Oh yeh - hadn't thought of that

Nice one

DAn

[Dippy]

For checking DTCs and basic monitoring the "old" version of VAG-COM is fine, so I'd agree that getting a cable from e-bay is a good idea.