Aftermarket VAG COM Cable help?

[mpv314]

I bought an aftermarket VAG COM cable to see if it would work before I go and drop $350 on a genuine Ross-Tech cable, and continue to get the error code saying "Port Status: OK, Interface: Not Found". There isn't much trouble shooting for this, is there anything I can do to make the cable work? I bought it to change the settings of my new bi-xenon HID's. This is the wire, I have the latest version of the VAG COM software installed. Others have had success with the cable working just fine. If there is a solution, please let me know ASAP. I've tried searching for solutions. Thanks

This is the wire:

[funky_snowman]

you're going to have trouble getting answers on this topic in this forum. the most productive thing you'll hear is to buy the unreasonably overpriced rosstech product, which isn't the answer you are looking for. search elsewhere.

[yeoj112689]

you're going to have trouble getting answers on this topic in this forum. the most productive thing you'll hear is to buy the TESTED AND RESEARCHED PRICED rosstech product, which isn't the answer you are looking for. search elsewhere.

The reason for the price is they spend time and money making the program and if they sold it for the same price as the cheap off brand cables that you find on ebay (that do not work most of the time) then they wouldn't make any money. You are paying for the software, cable, and time put into the cable as well as the support!

If you do not buy the cable you should not expect support.

[funky_snowman]

They can certainly charge what they want, but if you honestly think that their R & D for a cable and outdated software client costs $350 per sale, then you're an easy target. I have no idea why people in this forum support and protect them as fervently as they do, considering the lack of substantial product development over the years on Rosstech's part (which is arguably part of the "support" that you are claiming should be one of the main selling points).

[waiapasi2006]

Did your cable come with any software cd?
Maybe it isn't compatible with the newest software,try an older version. If not,just get ride of it and get a genuine one.

[p0isin]

The cable will not work with the genuine Ross tech vcds program. The reason why it came with a CD is that you have to install the cracked software which doesn't check if you have a legit cable or not.

The genuine program can erase the software on your eBay cable so even if you use the cracked VCDS program after your cable might already be broken. Either way, good luck.

[ed@mtl]

There's couple of things that you have to make sure. Set the laptop clock to at least May. If you have a virus program, disable it. Also, disable the internet connection. Then install the software from the CD that's provided. Never upgrade the software!!!!

Once done, plug in the cable to the car and laptop. Start the car and then open the software. If it doesn't work the first time, try to unplug and plug the cable.

As others mention, if you upgrade the software or try to use the Ross Tech one. The cable is finish. You have to use the one that's on the CD.

[100Daily]

That is awesome the real software bricks the knockoff cables. Uwe Ross is a VAG enthusiast who "cracked the code" of our beloved cars, and then made a business out of his discovery. Each time a new model comes out, he updates it. He has motivation to make money, so he works hard to develop this for our platform. I think we all agree that is great and capitalist.

Now if everyone goes out and buys the hacked Chinese crap, Uwe makes no money but some copy cat Chinese make their pennies on the dollar. Other developers take note. Then when the next "Uwe" comes around with the next great idea, they won't want to do it because they saw all the short sided penny pinching thieving Audi jerks just rip it off. So anyone stealing Uwe's work is basically hurting the long term development of potential future products for our platform.

Finally Rosstech has great lifetime service I have used several times, he even responds to emails on Sundays. Try that from the Chinese or Indians... I strongly urge people to just do the right thing in this case.

[fly300kts]

^^x2 period

Phil

[pkny]

Is this cable that popular that ebay knock offs sellers would go out of their way just to design, make, market and ship a fake cable? If that were true, maybe its time to reduce the price to a reasonable $200 and/or have a limited support cable for $100 to $150. Ebay does close auctions that sell fake cables.
This all depends on how much time and effort ross tech values their efforts, but profits would increased with higher sales especially in our community.

If you also look at it from this point of view: People who buy audi's brand new have factory warranties and are less likely to their own repairs. Not saying that can't, but they value their time and would rather pay someone else to do it then save a couple hundred bucks. Their incomes are usually high enough that it is worth it. Not everyone has the time, tools and location to do car repairs. There are always exception, those folks are not the norm.

Whats my point? Ross tech cables are marketed to folks who buy these cars used with moderate income. We dont mind saving some cash over time because we either love tinkering with cars and/or love the idea of saving money. From experience, a lot of folks browsing the B5, B6 and B7 forums and on vortex would buy a fake cable then find someone with a real cable to check for codes. Willing to bet these very same folks would buy the cable for $100 to $150 from the beginning.

Just stating my opinion since i can justify a $150 purchase for a non used cabe.

[kegobeer]

I think if you want to just clear codes, buy a $30 code reader that clears codes. If you want to tweak settings, use data logging, basically be an enthusiast, then you should spend the money on the real deal. Shit, you buy a car that requires 91 octane gas or better - it shouldn't surprise you that the cool tech stuff costs more than crap you can buy for a Corolla.

[ed@mtl]

I think if you want to just clear codes, buy a $30 code reader that clears codes. If you want to tweak settings, use data logging, basically be an enthusiast, then you should spend the money on the real deal. Shit, you buy a car that requires 91 octane gas or better - it shouldn't surprise you that the cool tech stuff costs more than crap you can buy for a Corolla.

But if your gonna spend $30 for the code reader. What's stopping someone from spending the same amount for a copy cable which can do much more. Just saying?

[mpv314]

Well I figured out the problem with my aftermarket VAG COM cable. It came with a disc that I was suppose to install before using the software. Since I must have dropped the disc, not even knowing it was in the packaging, and then cracking the disc, it was useless. I tried using it with the VAG COM software, which in turn without the disc fries the cable. So, my cable is fried, PAINFULLY buying a genuine and OVERPRICED Ross Tech cable to be over nighted so I can get my headlights working the way they should be. Hopefully I get my money's worth in the future, but as of now, this transaction is an expense I do not think is worth it, but is my only option.

Onto the debate, Ross Tech does not have any competition that is compatible with the VAG COM software (that is designed by Volkswagen Audi Group if I'm correct). Having said that, sure we'll see eBay chinese knock-offs that work half the time, but there should also be some real competition. Look at all the other parts for our cars. How many exhausts are there? How many ECU flashing companies? Wheels? Intakes? There are so many options with different prices at competitive levels. This cable and software probably cost less than $20 to make, and is being sold for $350. If there were competition that worked, prices would be lower. I give them credit for making a great product, I just wish there was more competition to make prices go lower and such.

[M0E7]

That is awesome the real software bricks the knockoff cables. Uwe Ross is a VAG enthusiast who "cracked the code" of our beloved cars, and then made a business out of his discovery. Each time a new model comes out, he updates it. He has motivation to make money, so he works hard to develop this for our platform. I think we all agree that is great and capitalist.

This.

There is an obvious market that other vendors have chosen not to pursue over the years, for one reason or another. Rather than complain about the price, this is a good opportunity for an aspiring entrepreneur to put up a comparable product.

[100Daily]

It's good you bought the cable. It burns a bit, but I have used mine countless times and helped a ton of people along the way.

A copy of Adobe Master Suite for example costs about $1 to produce, or less if you get a digital copy but they still charge you $1000 for it. It's not what you get per se, it's software. it's what it costs that company to cover its operating expenses and make a profit. Plus it's a one time sale for them, but they give free updates forever. I bought my cable years ago but they still support it.

Your Karma is good so now that you have the right cable, plus you don't have to hack your computer, and now you can be the hero and help others in your shoes for years to come.

[ed@mtl]

That is awesome the real software bricks the knockoff cables. Uwe Ross is a VAG enthusiast who "cracked the code" of our beloved cars, and then made a business out of his discovery. Each time a new model comes out, he updates it. He has motivation to make money, so he works hard to develop this for our platform. I think we all agree that is great and capitalist.

Now if everyone goes out and buys the hacked Chinese crap, Uwe makes no money but some copy cat Chinese make their pennies on the dollar. Other developers take note. Then when the next "Uwe" comes around with the next great idea, they won't want to do it because they saw all the short sided penny pinching thieving Audi jerks just rip it off. So anyone stealing Uwe's work is basically hurting the long term development of potential future products for our platform.

Finally Rosstech has great lifetime service I have used several times, he even responds to emails on Sundays. Try that from the Chinese or Indians... I strongly urge people to just do the right thing in this case.

So therefore, Uwe copy/crack VAG software and then someone copy/crack Uwe one.

[yeoj112689]

Apparently we have a bunch of cheap asses.

Buy the off brand cable if you want but again, do not expect support from someone you are ripping off.

[funky_snowman]

I don't think anyone is asking for support from rosstech. They might, however, be asking for support or guidance from an unaffiliated forum, which is perfectly reasonable.

Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

[p0isin]

I don't think anyone is asking for support from rosstech. They might, however, be asking for support or guidance from an unaffiliated forum, which is perfectly reasonable.

This. Although I personally own the genuine Ross-Tech cable and would recommend to others that they purchase it I still try to offer assistance with the generic version if possible. Some of those cables aren't too bad and hold up for a while but others break immediately. It's a crap shoot.

[bengone1]

Well I figured out the problem with my aftermarket VAG COM cable. It came with a disc that I was suppose to install before using the software. Since I must have dropped the disc, not even knowing it was in the packaging, and then cracking the disc, it was useless. I tried using it with the VAG COM software, which in turn without the disc fries the cable. So, my cable is fried, PAINFULLY buying a genuine and OVERPRICED Ross Tech cable to be over nighted so I can get my headlights working the way they should be. Hopefully I get my money's worth in the future, but as of now, this transaction is an expense I do not think is worth it, but is my only option.

Onto the debate, Ross Tech does not have any competition that is compatible with the VAG COM software (that is designed by Volkswagen Audi Group if I'm correct). Having said that, sure we'll see eBay chinese knock-offs that work half the time, but there should also be some real competition. Look at all the other parts for our cars. How many exhausts are there? How many ECU flashing companies? Wheels? Intakes? There are so many options with different prices at competitive levels. This cable and software probably cost less than $20 to make, and is being sold for $350. If there were competition that worked, prices would be lower. I give them credit for making a great product, I just wish there was more competition to make prices go lower and such.

$350 is cheap for what the software can do, and the warranty they offer. News flash: it isn't about the hardware. The reason there is no competition, is because no one can do it cheaper without stealing Ross-Tech's work. BMW, Mercedes, Porsche etc do not have this level of test equipment available for under $1000 (shop hacked as well). If you only get it to clear codes and make headlights work to you it may seem over priced. Is it Ross-Techs fault you don't know how to use it? Why would they put more R&D into a lower grade product when they exceed similar product capabilities at a fraction of the price. The cable pays for itself 100x over IF you know how to use it. It blows my mind how many people will buy upgrade the turbo, IC etc but not log a car to make sure it is running right.

Why not pay someone with a legitimate VCDS a few bucks to do what you need?

[waiapasi2006]

Wow

[ed@mtl]

The cable pays for itself 100x over IF you know how to use it.

If someone knows how to use it to its full potential, I personally agree with you. Get the legit one. But they're gonna just use it for codes and so on. Not too sure if one is willing to spend $300+.

[Hugh@EuropaParts]

Just in case anyone is interested in the legit version...





If you own an Audi or VW you need a powerful tool that will help keep your vehicle on the road. Ross-Tech's VCDS helps diagnose real problems instead of swapping out costly parts. With features found only on dealer level factory tools, VCDS surpasses the performance of aftermarket diagnostic tools and rivals factory tools for a fraction of the cost. Always know exactly how your vehicle is running instead of paying someone else to diagnose the problems, usually leaving you with a huge repair bill.

With Ross-Tech's VCDS you can:

• Gain full access to all systems in cars from 1990 through the current model year
• Scan for and clear DTC's with 13,000 fault codes decoded into plain text
• Alter settings normally accessible only to dealerships
• Code replacement modules and select options
• View and log live date and much more!

EuropaParts.com is an official distributor of Ross-Tech's VAG-COM Diagnostic Systems for Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, and Skoda vehicles. We ship worldwide!


We have all Ross-Tech products in stock... CLICK HERE to view our entire Ross-Tech catalog which includes;

• Diagnostic Tools
• Professional Kits
• Extension Cables
• Adapters

VAG-COM Diagnostic Tool with HEX-USB+CAN Interface

Essential for any Audi / Volkswagen owner, this VAG-COM cable and software will allow you to perform the same advanced computer diagnostics as your Authorized dealer. In addition, you will be able to perform various country-specific modifications to your car (removing seat belt chime, enabling gauge test/needle sweep, enabling lap timer, operating windows and sunroof with remote, and much more).

• Works with all diagnostic-capable Audi / Volkswagen cars from 1990 through the current model year.
• Acts as a "dongle" - activation for the full-function version of VCDS software is built-in!
• Use VCDS software on any suitable PC with an available USB port - no activation codes required.
• Bi-Color (red/green) status/activity LED.
• 12-month guarantee against defects.
• Visit Ross-Tech's HEX-USB+CAN technical page for more information.

FREE insured ground shipping within the 48 contiguous United States. Inexpensive next day and international shipping is available at checkout.

Turn your PC into a powerful diagnostic tool!

VAG-COM Diagnostic Tool with Micro-CAN Interface

This Micro-CAN cable is a low-cost interface is compatible only with the Audi A3 (8P chassis), Audi TT MK2 (8J chassis), and VW Golf MkV-based cars sold in the North American market. See Ross-Tech's Micro-CAN technical page for a list of compatible models.

• Acts as a "dongle". No "Software Activation" required! When used with this interface, VAG-COM is always fully-functional on any PC that meets our requirements.
• USB connector plugs into most modern laptops! (USB 1.1 or 2.0)
• Bi-Color (red/green) status/activity LED
• 12 month guarantee against defects
• For more details and a list of supported models, see Ross-Tech's Micro-CAN technical page.

VAG-COM Mods

Your Audi has a few secrets that can be activated with this tool. For example,

• Removing Seatbelt Chime
• Enabling Gauge Test/Needle Sweep
• Enabling Lap Timer
• Operating Windows and Sunroof with Remote
• And much more...

VAG-COM Diagnostic System (Professional Kit, USB Interface)

Everything a busy shop needs to turn a PC into powerful diagnostic tools for VW, Audi, Seat, or Skoda automobiles. This VAG-COM Professional Kit gives the technician a handy carrying case with all the items needed including:

• One (1) x HEX-USB+CAN Professional Interfaces
• One (1) x Extension cables
• VAS 5051/2 "2x2" Adapter for Older Cars
• VCDS Software on CD-ROM
• A Full Color Printed Manual
• Live Telephone Technical Support for One Year!

VAG-COM Diagnostic System (2-Tech Professional Kit, USB Interface)

Everything a busy shop needs to turn two PC's into powerful diagnostic tools for VW, Audi, Seat, or Skoda automobiles. This 2-Tech Professional Kit gives the technician a handy carrying case with all the items needed including:

• Two (2) x HEX-USB+CAN Professional Interfaces
• Two (2) x Extension cables
• VAS 5051/2 "2x2" Adapter for Older Cars
• VCDS Software on CD-ROM
• A Full Color Printed Manual
• Live Telephone Technical Support for One Year!

For the shop that specializes in VW/Audi work, this Pro kit equips 2 techs and 2 computers!

VAG-COM Diagnostic System (Ultra Professional Kit, USB Interface)

This VCDS Ultra Professional Kit is a turn-key factory-level diagnostic system for cars made by the VW/Audi group. VCDS software running on the included Netbook PC provides full support for vehicles from 1990 through the current model year. VCDS will access all diagnostic capable control modules with the ability to read and clear fault codes, adapt modules, perform basic settings, and read/log/graph live data.

Ross-Tech offers these small powerful, full featured Netbook computers with a 10 inch LCD display, a 160Gbyte or larger rotating hard disk drive, and wireless connectivity for 802.11b/g/n networks.

Free updates of the VCDS software are available via the Internet to keep the tool current.

The VCDS Ultra Pro-Kit gives independent shops the ability to perform diagnostics at a level comparable to factory equipped dealerships at a price/performance ratio unmatched by any other product on the market. Let VCDS help put money in your pocket!

Ross-Tech will provide a Netbook PC from a major manufacturer such as ASUS, Dell or Samsung. The exact model of PC will be dependent upon availability at the time of order.

• Netbook PC running Windows 7
• VCDS pre-installed, ready to run
• OpenOffice Spreadsheet by Sun pre-installed
• Recovery flash drive
• HEX-USB+CAN Professional Interface
• VAS 5051 2x2 adapter for pre-1995 model years
• 16' USB extension cable
• VCDS manual
• Netbook PC manuals
• Power adapter for the Netbook PC
• Full manufacturer's warranty for the Netbook PC
• Carrying/Storage case
• Live Telephone Technical Support for One Year!

VAS 5051/2 "2x2" Adapter for Older Cars

This adapter connects between the 2x2 port in older vehicles (pre-OBDII; pre-1996) to the OBDII connector used for current generation diagnostic tools. Use this adapter in conjunction with the VAG-COM cable to run diagnostics on older Audi and VW's.

VAG-COM USB 2.0 Active Extension Cable (16 feet, 5 meters)


This VAG-COM USB 2.0 Active Extension Cable is used to extend the reach of a Ross-Tech USB Interface from the computer to the vehicle. It connects between the USB port on the computer to the USB plug on the interface. The length of this cable is 16 feet or 5 meters.

It is constructed of high quality signal cable and active repeater electronics which boost the USB signal for maximum reliability and performance over extended distances.

Up to two (2) of these cables can be plugged together to extend the reach of a Ross-Tech interface to a maximum of 38 feet (12m). Ross-Tech has tested and certified this length of extension. Lengths beyond 38 feet on the USB cables are neither recommended nor supported.

Please Note: these are the only USB extension cables Ross-Tech will support at this time. They have tested them extensively and found them to perform to their standards.

[JAG836]

How long is the HEX-USB+CAN interface cable? Long enough to reach a laptop sitting in the passenger seat?

Just in case anyone is interested in the legit version...





If you own an Audi or VW you need a powerful tool that will help keep your vehicle on the road. Ross-Tech's VCDS helps diagnose real problems instead of swapping out costly parts. With features found only on dealer level factory tools, VCDS surpasses the performance of aftermarket diagnostic tools and rivals factory tools for a fraction of the cost. Always know exactly how your vehicle is running instead of paying someone else to diagnose the problems, usually leaving you with a huge repair bill.

With Ross-Tech's VCDS you can:

• Gain full access to all systems in cars from 1990 through the current model year
• Scan for and clear DTC's with 13,000 fault codes decoded into plain text
• Alter settings normally accessible only to dealerships
• Code replacement modules and select options
• View and log live date and much more!

VAG-COM Diagnostic Tool with HEX-USB+CAN Interface

Essential for any Audi / Volkswagen owner, this VAG-COM cable and software will allow you to perform the same advanced computer diagnostics as your Authorized dealer. In addition, you will be able to perform various country-specific modifications to your car (removing seat belt chime, enabling gauge test/needle sweep, enabling lap timer, operating windows and sunroof with remote, and much more).

• Works with all diagnostic-capable Audi / Volkswagen cars from 1990 through the current model year.
• Acts as a "dongle" - activation for the full-function version of VCDS software is built-in!
• Use VCDS software on any suitable PC with an available USB port - no activation codes required.
• Bi-Color (red/green) status/activity LED.
• 12-month guarantee against defects.
• Visit Ross-Tech's HEX-USB+CAN technical page for more information.

FREE insured ground shipping within the 48 contiguous United States. Inexpensive next day and international shipping is available at checkout.

Turn your PC into a powerful diagnostic tool!

[100Daily]

How long is the HEX-USB+CAN interface cable? Long enough to reach a laptop sitting in the passenger seat?

Easily

[JAG836]

Cool, thanks!

Easily

[konarider94]

I have a chinese cable. I am using it with an older version of the software v10.6.4 and it works great. I doubt it "fried" your cable. Usb is only capable of 5 volts.

[Kubus]

There's a chip on board the fake cable that is not updateable and when you run the update instead of doing the update as it should it breaks the chip and the cable can no longer be used. Sucks but its the way Ross-Tech is preventing piracy of their stuff. Good on them.

My legit cable has saved my ass and the ass of many of my friends who I've helped with it. If you plan on staying in the Euro scene either get one or make friends with someone who has one :)

[konarider94]

Idk my fake cable works just fine. I just dont try to update it to the new version

[/dev/null]

Is $350 REALLY going to break us (especially when weve spent tens of thousands on the car)? I just found this thread - about an hour after ordering the cable from Europaparts (hey, Im in PA and dont want to pay the sales tax, so doing business wiht a legit reseller who sells the legit cable, well thats a no-brainer) and the called me within TWO MINUTES of placing the order to advise me on their stock... Talk about customer service.

When is the last time some Cheneese knock-off joint called you?

[yeoj112689]

This thread should be shut down. If anyone wants support buy the proper cable and stop being a cheap ass. If I (a college student making less than amazing pay) can find a way to get it than you should be able too also. I know times can be rough but stop being such a cheap fuck and buy the cable if you want help.

If you want to buy the fake one fine! but do not expect help because if you worked hard on a product just to have someone make a cheap off brand using your software then you would be just as pissed.

[p0isin]

The Chinese cable may work fine forever or they may break after one try or even right in the middle of reprogramming (ask me how I know). Just buy the real deal and call it a day, it's 100% worth it I'd never go back to Chinese crap after getting the real cable.

[wildcat333]

I'm disappointed in this thread.
OP just wanted help. Worse trolling than noobs asking about spyder headlights.

[p0isin]

That's not true. I don't think everyone here was trolling..... There were a few ppl actually trying to help op

[Kubus]

That's why I suggested Audi friends. Here in Montreal we have a FB page and we all chat and help each other out.

That cable is done though. You can't fix it. You have to remove the chip. Buy a tool to flash chips. Re-solder it. More trouble than it's worth. And usually beyond the skill level of most people.

Cheapest option: Make friends with Audi/VW people
Quickest option: Indy shop
Most permanent option: Buy legit cable and make friends along the way

[mpv314]

I ended up buying the genuine Ross-Tech cable from europaparts. I'm glad I made the investment, I still cringe with the fact that I had to spend $350. To be honest, I know its an investment, however I still stand by that this simple wire and license to the software is definitely marked up a lot higher than it should be. If the cable was more affordable, people (or a lot less of them) would be wasting money on the cheap shitty chinese versions. The only reason I bought the chinese knock-off version was because I heard it worked with the things I was trying to accomplish. It did work for someone I talked to, mine simply didn't. However, I'm glad I have it now, and I'm glad I can help people in the area in the future. I'm sure it'll come in handy in the future, just money I didn't want to spend right now. I remember back when I first got the car I ran into a guy with a 25th Anniversary S4, tricked the fuck out that I was mesmerized by. He told me "If there is one thing you should never do with cars like ours, its cut corners. Do it once, do it right." and he drove that beast off. I still stand by it and this was a perfect example of a slap in the face from that advice.

[funky_snowman]

That guy sounds super cool.

Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

[waiapasi2006]

True Story.

[B72011]

Shut down? Why? Because its not something your into? I got an idea....move on. Good thing the forum allows for a free expression of ideas. How about we shut down the thread because Ross Tech went in and broke open Audi's proprietary code. Look at all the hard work Audi did to create the system. How many millions have they lost because enthusiasts are able to work on their own cars! Hahahah I kid of course, but your logic is asinine.

This thread should be shut down. If anyone wants support buy the proper cable and stop being a cheap ass. If I (a college student making less than amazing pay) can find a way to get it than you should be able too also. I know times can be rough but stop being such a cheap fuck and buy the cable if you want help.

If you want to buy the fake one fine! but do not expect help because if you worked hard on a product just to have someone make a cheap off brand using your software then you would be just as pissed.

[betyouaint]

I have the same cable and it only works with a very specific version of VCDS, the one on the CD that came with it. Even then, it doesn't always work and you may have to stop the process in Windows task manager turn the ignition off and on before re-launching VCDS. If you persist with various permutations of this procedure then it should eventually work. If you want something that works flawlessly every single time then getting the full kit from Ross-Tech is your best bet. There's a reason these Chinese versions are so cheap but unfortunately, it's the best that some folk can afford. You pays your money and takes your choice.

I've been seeing reference to an Android app (Torque) and a Bluetooth OBDII cable, which is another cheap alternative. I'm not sure how well it works and even if it works much at all on the Audis...?