VCDS-Mobile on a Galaxy Note

VCDS-Mobile with iPhone 4

HEX-NET Getting Started

Ross-Tech DeMystifies VW/Audi Diagnostics

VCDS-Mobile

VCDS-Mobile is diagnostic software that uses the HEX-NET moduleVCDS Mobile includes a web server in the interface and can be used with any device that has WiFi and a modern web browser.

VCDS-Mobile has two modes of operation, Stand-Alone and Cloud-Connected.

In Stand-Alone mode, VCDS-Mobile can do Auto-Scans, read and clear fault codes, look at measuring values, and log data. 

In Cloud-Connected mode it can communicate with the VCDS-Cloud server (and it's associated with an account on the server), to gain additional functionality and is able to do Adaptations, Basic Settings, Coding, Login/Security-Access, and so on.   

On control modules that use the latest UDS/ODX protocol, it's not possible to interpret fault codes or show any meaningful measuring value data without a 'data dictionary' file specific to the control module in question. VCDS-Mobile will download these from the Cloud server on an as-needed basis. Once it has downloaded the data for a specific module, that data will be cached (stored on-board) and will remain available even when VCDS-Mobile does not have a connection to the Cloud server.  The best way to ensure that VCDS-Mobile has the data available for the control modules in your car(s) is to do a complete Auto-Scan on any car(s) that you will be using VCDS-Mobile on, then manually check for updates.

Function Chart

The chart below shows the functions currently supported by VCDS and VCDS-Mobile software as compared to the factory scan tools. Keep in mind that not all controllers in all cars will support all functions so please refer to the Factory Repair Manual for each vehicle to determine what should be supported. Also some functions (such as Advanced Measuring Values) may only work with supporting documentation which may not be exist for some modules at the present time. Some UDS functions require supporting documentation for VCDS-Mobile that requires a cloud connection at least once. Click on each of the links in the chart for more information including known limitations. 

Both the VCDS and VCDS-Mobile are included with the VCDS® Professional Kit (HEX-NET).

"Planned" = We plan to add this function but it is not currently available. 
"TBD" = To Be Determined, since we are still evaluating the incorporation of this function

All DTCs are decoded

VAG-COM's extensive database of over 9200 codes provides helpful descriptions without the need for you to look up the code. Each fault gives the code number as well as a phrase to describe the code.

VAG-COM tells you how many fault codes have been found and displays each of them. The 5-digit or 7-digit number is a standardized VAG fault code, which can be searched in the Factory Repair Manuals.

The text is a description of the part and failure mode. The letter and number combination in parentheses is the DIN Component Identifier. This is followed by elaborators describing the condition of the fault.

The second line contains the P-code, or generic OBD-II code (if it exists, there are thousands of VAG codes without generic OBD-II equivalents).

Full Access to All Systems

The VAG-COM is not limited to emissions-related systems, it provides access to all systems and groups them logically.

Live Data and Graphing (VAG-Scope)

Watch live data from all modules. Log the data of later playback and analysis or graph it live. Date can also be show in a 'gauge' format.

Adaptations

The Adaptation function allows you to alter certain values and/or settings in control modules which support it, including the new LONG ADAPTATION.

Use the [Up] and [Dn] buttons next to Channel Number to scroll through all 99 possible channels, or manually enter a channel number and click [Read].

If a channel exists, VAG-COM will show you the Stored Value. If a channel does not exist, the Stored Value will show as "N/A".

Other data the controller may or may not send will be decoded and shown in the four display fields at the top of the screen.

Once you have reached a channel of interest, use the [Up] and [Dn] buttons next to New Value to incrementally change and test the value. Or directly enter a New Value and click [Test]. This will tell the controller to temporarily use the new value so you can evaluate it's effects.

When you are satisfied with the effect of a New Value, you can store it in the Controller permanently by clicking [Save].

Basic Settings

This screen is presented when a Control Module is in Basic Settings Mode. Common uses for the Basic Settings function include:
* calibrate the Throttle Body
* calibrate Kick-Down
* calibrate Air Suspension's Ride Height
* adjust Self-Leveling Headlamps
* change Rear Brake Pads
* bleed ABS Hydraulic Unit
* many more...

Basic Settings Mode is very similar to Measuring Blocks, and the contents of each display group is the same. The difference between the functions is that the Control Module may try to perform various calibrations while in Basic Settings mode.

On Controllers using KWP-2000, there is now an [ON/OFF/Next] button that allows you to initiate and exit Basic Settings while still being able to see the values in the measuring groups.

Output Tests

Using the Output Test feature of the VAG-COM you can test individual systems or components by activating the component manually.

Output Tests under KWP-2000 includes simultaneous measuring data when available from the control module in question.

Code Modules

Code replacement modules and select options using VAG-COM's Recode Module function.  VAG-COM lets you perform the LONG CODING and coding of SLAVE MODULES.

Programming

The VAG-COM does not perform programming functions.

KEY PROGRAMMING
If you have 'secret code' you can perform key programming functions with VAG-COM.
If you do not have the 'secret code' then you must send the vehicle to the dealer. This is a limitation imposed by the manufacturer.

7-digit PIN/SKC Entry

The 7-digit PIN/SKC (Secret Key Code) dialog is used for Key Matching and Immobilizer 3 Adaptation.

You must provide the following information:
* 7-digit SKC that the dealer generated for your exact Immobilizer ID Number.
* Date on which the 7-digit SKC was GENERATED BY THE DEALER.
* Workshop Code (WSC) for the dealer that generated the SKC.
* Importer Number for the dealer that generated the SKC.

KEY PROGRAMMING
If you have 'secret code' you can perform key programming functions with VAG-COM.
If you do not have the 'secret code' then you must send the vehicle to the dealer. This is a limitation imposed by the manufacturer.

TDI Timing Checker

This plug-in allows you to check the injection timing setting on a TDI engine. This should be done after changing the timing belt.

This plug-in reports the timing on the graph in real-time, so you don't need to have your manual sitting on your lap at the same time. The application also gives you a comment in the "result" field, that will tell you if all the conditions are fulfilled to check the timing (some people don't realize you need to have the engine running, for instance...) and if your timing is within specs or not.

Tech Tip Stories

Volkswagen/Audi Control Module Coding De-Mystified - Motor Age Magazine, June 2009
"People often struggle to determine the coding when replacing a control module in a VW or Audi vehicle." This Tech-Tip explains the use of the Production Codes label (PR Codes).

VW/Audi Throttle Body Alignment - Motor Magazine, September 2008
This Tech-Tip explains how to perform the process known as Throttle Body Alignment (TBA).

Diagnosing a VW/Audi MAF Failure - Motor Age Magazine, June 2008

Avoid Damaging Read Calipers - Motor Magazine, April 2008
"As of 2004, some VW/Audi models have Electronic Parking Brakes"
This Tech-Tip explains how to open and close rear calipers on models with Electronic Parking Brakes

VW/Audi Airbag Module Coding - Motor Magazine, April 2007
"Whenever the airbags in a VW or Audi have deployed, crash data is stored in the airbag controller and cannot be cleared.... the airbag controller must be replaced."