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Anyone used VAWS?

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Hi Folks,

 

Looks like my rear drive isn't working, Suspect Haldex pump. Looking at ordering icarsoft v2 VAWS as it looks like its can communicate with the pump. I have had a look through the diagnostic section but can't find anyone who has used it for this purpose. Has anyone actually used icarsoft v2 for this purpose successfully or can recommend an alternative. Need to order something asap to confirm then find someone local to replace/service the pump. Thanks in advance.

If you just want to look at the error codes then there are cheaper alternatives, primarily the ones which use a wireless ODBII adaptor working with an Android/iOS app.  I'm an Android user so what follows is all Android - you'd have to research iOS options yourself, or take recommendations from someone who knows.

 

Most often recommended for Android seems to be Carista, the makers of which also offer a bluetooth ODBII adaptor which is guaranteed to work (some of the third party ones don't implement the full ODBII protocol suite so can miss some error codes).  Carista can also change some settings not accessible through the Maxidot e.g. setting the Maxidot speed display to mph, needle sweep on ignition on etc.  However, Carista is charged on a subscription basis so if you just want it for occasional use then it may work out pricey.

 

I spotted the error code on my Yeti using Torque Pro, which is a one-off cost, and a third party ODBII adaptor bought through Amazon that claimed to have full protocol coverage - but to make sure I tested it with an app called ELM327 Identifier which runs a series of tests through an ODBII adaptor so you can verify its coverage of the protocol options.

 

Both the above diagnostic apps, and most others that are good, also allow you to clear an error code.  Obviously, if the fault is persistent then the error code will reappear sooner or later.  When my Haldex failed I was seeing the error All-wheel-drive system: 00448 - Haldex Clutch Pump (V181) in Torque Pro.  IIRC that's an intermittent startup check error which says that the Haldex clutch pump is showing as open circuit, when in fact it's just gummed up with carp due to the filter not having been changed.  The Haldex won't work when that error is found.  I cleared the error using the app and the Haldex operated again, but the error reappeared fairly quickly and I ended up getting the pump replaced and the Haldex serviced properly (which I now do every time it's due - which means taking it to an independent garage, since my local dealer refuses to believe that anything beyond the VAG-mandated service actions are required).

 

Other apps, and other approaches, are available but in your place I'd be inclined to save the big bucks for the work that may need to be done to make the Haldex healthy again.

  • Author

Many thanks ejstubbs for your lengthy and informative reply. I have had a look at torque pro and will give it some more consideration. I have 70k on the car and inclined to get a replacement pump and filter kit. The oil only was replaced 6 years ago so I'm assuming it's well gummed up. Interestingly as many others have stated there is no warning that your haldex may have failed and have no rear drive. The Icarsoft v2 can access the awd system and is around £120. Its a very capable unit and the reason for looking at it is because I sold a Range Rover vogue 08 as it wouldn't fit in our drive with 2 other cars after recently downsizing. Being a wonderful yet temperamental vehicle the forums I am still on swear by the iCarsoft without going to dealer level. Thank you again, I shall endeavour to report back my experience of getting the issue resolved and restoring rear drive.

The service interval was at 4 years and some said 40,000 miles, that changed to 3 years and some said 30,000 miles. Basically issues if left for 6 years can pretty well be expected. 

Edited by e-Roottoot

I have  a pre fl 4x4 machine, had similar probs with a main dealership and an independant here a la frog both denied a replaceable filter in an Haldex 4 unit,  I tried arguing the toss but they know better than anyone else here, so after 68k miles and 7 years did it myself, the filter was not bad at all and the oil murky but, as far as I can tell, no probs with the system as of today,

I take the car down onto an adjacent beach when the tides out of course and give it some stick when starting from rest. Always evidence of all wheel traction, so I'm pleased!!

  • Author

Thanks for the replies and input guys, I think the safest option is a new pump, oil and filter. Should be good for a while then. Having only bought it a few months back it could have been like this for years!

You haven't said what age your car is, or what generation of Haldex you have. That might be prudent to determine before lashing out on a new gen4 pump & filter only to find out you have a gen5.

59 minutes ago, Frenchtone said:

  I tried arguing the toss but they know better than anyone else here,

 

Aint that the truth!!!

I would remove and clean the pump and replace the oil and filter, perhaps it's the filter that is blocked.

  • Author
2 hours ago, Rustynuts said:

You haven't said what age your car is, or what generation of Haldex you have. That might be prudent to determine before lashing out on a new gen4 pump & filter only to find out you have a gen5.

Hi, I'm a bit new to this, thought it said in the profile, It's a my 12 170 4x4 Elegance, Deffo generation 4 Haldex, had a look at it.  Cheers

  • Author
1 hour ago, Urrell said:

I would remove and clean the pump and replace the oil and filter, perhaps it's the filter that is blocked.

Hi, I'm hoping to reclaim the costs from the warranty if I do it myself or have my local trusted garage do it. For the sake of an extra £100 I can have a new pump. Any squabbling from the warranty company and I'll certainly start by cleaning pump and replacing oil and filter. Will update. Cheers.

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