How do I identify what type of VAGCOM lead I have?

[Golich]

Hey folks,

Brooner and I removed the air intake hose to squirt Wyne's valve and injector cleaner into the inlet track. This resulted in the traction control light coming on in the dash and staying on despite switching the car off and leaving.

So I plugged my VAGCOM in to clear any DTC / reset, only to discover I can't communicate with the car.

I suspect my lead is too old and not compatible with the new CAN systems used in the B7 RS4. But I can't tell what the lead is as it doesn't match the pics shown on Ross-Tech's site, where it would appear all the new leads have a sticker explaining exactly what they are!

I bought my legit VAGCOM lead I think in 2003 and used it extensively on my then, B5 S4 and B5 RS4. I've not used VAGCOM on my now B7 RS4 until now.

How can I tell what the lead is? It black with no markings other than the numbers

8 and 1 on opposites sides of one face and 9 and 16 on the opposite face. The later face also has a cut out window which shows two of the many pins 16 in total.

From Ross-Tech’s site I suspect I’m going to have to upgrade to the HEX-USB+CAN.

PS I've also posted on Ross-techs site but we're looking for a quick answer.

[TopBear]

Hi Golich,

Did you buy it from Ross-Tech direct in the US, maybe its one of the VAG-COM leads from Gendan or similar which doesnt have the Ross-Tech branding.

Presume you've already checked this page out http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/old-in ... faces.html


Sounds like it must be an KEY-USB cable

[Golich]

Hey Topbear,

Thanks for the reply. I bought the lead from the then UK dealer, Cister Automotive Design. They don't apppear to be trading anymore? a google search came up with nothing. ANyway the panic is over Brooner got the DTC reset at Kwik Fit for £30 and he's ordered a new lead from Ross-Tech.

Ross-tech have got back to me but there has been some confusion over the registered name as I used my girlfiends email address to contact them. It should be sorted out soon. Unfortunately your link to their site doesn't help - never mind cheers for the reply