Supports cars which require a direct CAN connection
Supports Diagnostic Over IP (DOIP) connection
(Blue 'HN2' interfaces)
Field Upgradeable Firmware in Interface
"Turbo" Mode for Measuring Blocks on newer KWP-2000 ECUs
'2x2' adaptor lead for pre-1996 VW & Audi included
(in Plus / Power bundles)
Adaptor lead for VW LT van included
(in Power Bundle)
(in Plus Bundle)
3 metre USB extension lead included
(in Plus / Power bundles)
20cm OBD-II Extensiom cable included
(in Plus Bundle)
Hard plastic carry case included
(except 'no case' version)
Frequently asked questions
Our most frequently asked questions about VCDS are answered below:
Will it work on MacOS / Linux / iOS / Android?
No, the VCDS desktop program is Windows software, for Windows 10 or newer.
If you wish to use another device consider the HEX-NET® interfaces.
The HEX-NET can be used wirelessly through the VCDS-Mobile® software with any modern Wi-Fi enabled computer,
tablet or smartphone.
VCDS-Mobile does not offer the complete functionality of the Windows VCDS application though. You will also still
require access to a Windows PC to register your interface.
What happened to the HEX-USB / Micro-CAN interfaces?
The HEX-USB interface had been in use by Ross-Tech since 2004, updating to support new vehicles and protocols via
firmware updates. In 2016 Audi introduced some new systems which for the first time Ross-Tech were unable to support
with the hardware in that cable. The new generation HEX-NET and HEX-V2® interfaces are able to support these
models and are firmware upgradeable to support future changes.
Why are the new cables VIN limited?
Ross-Tech have always wanted to offer the same level of coverage to home users and garage owners alike, but don't think
it's fair for a home user working on one car in their spare time to have to pay the same as a garage who are using the product
every day on customer cars and making money from its use. The advent of cars offering their VIN (chassis number) electronically
has given them a way of tailoring the cost to the way the product is used. Uwe from Ross-Tech has explained it more fully in the
VIN limit FAQ here.
What is restricted by VIN limits?
You can still run an Auto Scan, read & clear fault codes and view live sensor data from as many cars as you like.
(If you directly connect to a control module (e.g. Select > 01. Engine), or use the 'Clear All DTCs' function, VCDS will ask
if you wish to store the VIN, but selecting Cancel will still allow the connection to continue).
It is only when you try to use any more advanced functions that VCDS will ask if you wish to store the car's VIN (and it will
always ask you first, before using one of your VIN allocations).
Again, for more details see the VIN limit FAQ
here.
What happens if I need more VINs?
When you store a VIN it is added permanently and cannot be removed. You can however upgrade your interface's license from
3-VIN to 10-VIN and from 10-VIN to unlimited.
The upgrades are £169 each (including VAT) and are available here.
What about SFD?
Some 2020 or newer models have VW's 'SFD' diagnostic firewall, which prevents coding and adaptation changes unless you can
authenticate with VAG's servers. Ross-Tech are currently working on adding SFD unlocking into a future release of VCDS.
See our dedicated Help article for more details.
Can I upgrade my HEX-USB+CAN to a new generation interface?
If you have registered your HEX-USB+CAN interface with Ross-Tech and are "in good standing" with them, Ross-Tech do offer upgrade
paths to the HEX-V2 unlimited or HEX-NET unlimited packages,
which we can usually offer on their behalf.
This is only available on interfaces assembled by Ross-Tech in the USA (some resellers build their own interfaces under
license and are not eligible for the upgrade scheme).
If you would like to upgrade your interface, please contact us, with the serial number (HCxxxxxx) of your interface.
Software updates
As with previous Ross-Tech products, software updates are free for the life of the cable with HEX-V2 interfaces.
However, the HEX-V2 interface may only be used a limited number of times before you must register it (for free) with Ross-Tech.
A "use" is a connection to any control module, so you may need to register it after running your first Auto-Scan.
To register your interface simply follow the instructions in this video from Ross-Tech:
The VCDS software installed on your PC will automatically inform you when software updates are available, and will offer to install the update itself.
You will also need to update the "firmware" of the interface cable though - this is the operating software stored inside the interface itself.
Ross-Tech recommend checking for firmware updates at least once a month, and after any VCDS software update.
To check for firmware updates, follow the instructions in this video:
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