On the cost-effectiveness of a proper VAG-COM - objective data only please
06-17-2008, 12:02 PM
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On the cost-effectiveness of a proper VAG-COM - objective data only please
I am considering a Ross-Tech VAG-COM package and am hoping to conduct a little informal survey here. (I don't want to take up too much space - so a few words will suffice if you decide to respond.) I am interested in whether by relying on your trusty VAG-COM you were able to solve a problem which you otherwise would not have been able to solve. In other words, if you could have figured it out without the VAG-COM then it doesn't count. I'm trying to guage the cost-effectiveness of owning one, as opposed to the enjoyment, for example. If this seems like a newby question, well...it is. (Note that I did not post this thread to the VAG-COM forum precisely because I would like information only from A8/S8 owners). Thanks a bunch.
06-17-2008, 12:09 PM
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If you are a DIYer you must have it - or at least a nearby buddy who has it.
Pay particular attention to Paul W, Tozo, Doug B almost invariably asking for codes when someone enters a plea for help. Hell, even if you ar not a DIYer you could avoid costly shams at the wrench by knoing the possible/likely cause of your problem via the codes and this invaluable community.
My $0.02
Mark
My $0.02
Mark
06-17-2008, 12:28 PM
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I have the Demo version and a cable and its done me pretty well...I also have VWTOOL
which is basically a freeware version of VAG-COM. If you arent a huge DIY-er this would be the way to go but if really want to delve into some issues, that would be a good investment. email me if you want VWTOOL. I think i still have an email with it attached. with these tools I can recode my tranny, check OBDII codes and clear them and even reset my service reminders. If you want to log and save stuff...buy VAGCOM.
06-17-2008, 01:14 PM
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Well worth the $$
if you have any doubt, spend $20 to buy an Autonostics cable with serial port and use the free version of VAGCOM or VWTOOL. The non-RossTech cables can be a little flaky and frustrating.
If you like the product then pony up the $$ and upgrade to the real thing.
I can't imagine working on my cars without a tool like this, though I HAVE gotten by with the freeware version of each program....so far. All that will end when I eventually start working on newer Audis.
If you like the product then pony up the $$ and upgrade to the real thing.
I can't imagine working on my cars without a tool like this, though I HAVE gotten by with the freeware version of each program....so far. All that will end when I eventually start working on newer Audis.
06-17-2008, 01:46 PM
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If I go the route of playing with some freeware first then which dongle/connector should I buy?
There are piles of them on ebay, but I have heard that is not a good route to take.
06-17-2008, 02:33 PM
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I have this one and it works good.
If free ware doesn't cut it find someone w/ the full version or there are other ways...<ul><li><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/USB-Vag-Com-Cable-Interface-Scanner-VW-Audi-VagCom-OBD2_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ43989QQihZ024QQite mZ370061538125QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW">http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/USB-Vag-Com-Cable-Interface-Sca
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06-18-2008, 05:34 AM
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It's all relative: next time you have an Engine Light On, what would you do?
Take to a trusted mechanic and have them diagnose at no-cost? If you have on, then you can do without VAG-COM. If you don't, and the only options are a fee-per-car-hookup, then it's worth the $ up-front.