I read on the RossTech website that 6Q0-909-605-A Airbag modules can be irrepairably damaged by trying to access them. This being the case, and if mine is one of the affected modules will it be damaged if I were to perform an auto-scan?

I haven't yet tried to access the Airbag module, and I don't want to just in case. My car is a 2003 Octavia TDi, and I don't know if the module installed is the 6Q0-909-605-A type, even though they say it's fitted in the 2000-2001 Golf/GTI/Jetta/Beetle......

Edit the autoscan.txt and remove the airbag module from the scan. Alternatively copy the one for your car and rename it Octavia 1 No Airbag.txt or something and then after you've removed the airbag module use that one.

Ross-Tech: VCDS Tour: Auto-Scan

There is a file in the VCDS directory called AUTOSCAN.TXT, which contains all of the vehicle profiles. It can be edited by simply clicking on the hyperlink above the Chassis Type selection. This will open the file in your default Text editor (like Notepad) to create a custom profile for your vehicle.

Version 409 and newer dealt with the problem. Ross-Tech identified the problem and sent information to VW - their tool caused the same problem. There was a work around that RT found and simply avoided doing the thing that could cause the problems with the air bag module.

If you remain concerned and want to be absolutely be certain, error on the side of caution and do as Stu has recommended. But know that this issue was resolved with the 409 release and all subsequent releases. That was 5 years ago.

So, if you are running current generation software - 805, there should be no issues. If you are running one of the shareware old versions, then maybe there is some concern.

You can read more on the issues page: Ross-Tech: VAG-COM: VW Issues

Another reason to buy the proper up to date software IMO

Thanks for that everyone. I am using the latest and full version of the software with a genuine RossTech HEX-USB-CAN cable I bought only last week......

Not suggesting that you weren't Railroad, sorry just realised that it could have been interpreted that way.