One been looking at getting a VCDS. But all I want is full diagnostics (all modules and freeze frame, which my non pro OBDeleven doesn't do)

 

VCDS seems a really expensive option when I don't want all the coding etc. 

 

But I can't figure out if anything else can do all VW modules and freeze frame. 

 

Any suggestions? 

 

Thanks!

AFAIK the only real options are OBDeleven and VCDS for full VAG diagnostics.

 

You could try looking on auction sites, but if the price looks too good then they will likely be a rip-off clone (best clue for VCDS clones is if they come with a CD, genuine VCDS doesn't as the SW is free to download with updates for life).

Ok that's a pity, but thanks for the info, looks like VCDS it is then!

Note, I'm not an expert in diagnostics, scan tools, auto-electrics, computer programming, mechanics, VWs or anything whatsoever.

 

How much is really expensive?

 

There are scan tools from the usual names that cover VW models with freeze frame obviously you want the scan tool to be cover VW and your model and year and you want the program for your model and year to be fully up to date for your model and year of VW (and for the scan tool battery if applicable and car 12v battery not to be in a too low state of charge) for accurate reporting.  If you go for something that is hardwired plug'd to diagnostic port rather than Bluetooth (saves worrying about tool battery charge tool) that often keep the price lower) and if you want to stand outside for bi directional you may be able to get a longer lead (well to the front of the vehicle anyway) for bi-directional activations.

 

These can come with included "lifetime" updates and have the advantage of covering more than VWs - beware the same units for non-UK markets can be lowered priced but subscription updates so watch out when buying.  I've no idea what's offered s/h and what's transferred or not on contract to subsequent owners.

 

There's a very wide choice out there and performance features are increasing whilst real prices drop each year.

 

All scan tools have their good and bad points, if you're willing to put up with it's (to me) hideous legacy presentation and learn it's protracted legacy operation then VCDS does seem best if you only need it for VWs.

 

If want only VW then VCDS 3 vin would be £222 from UK distributor (3 Vin means you can use it fully on only three vehicles but will still allow you to do simple fault codes reads unlimited , you may think that's expensive, but I would point out main dealer will charge ~£120 to fault code read, then for every half hour on from that, about the same.

 

Independent garages will vary in price, but probably a minimum  of ~£40-60 as a "labour" charge.  They have brand wide diagnostics and will likely to need subscription based systems depending on how deep they will do investigations which can ultimately get quite complicated to fault find. 

 

I have had VCDS for over 15 years, since 2019 upgraded to newest Hex V2 to deal with my current car, software updates are free once purchased so no subscription, its a powerful tool with ability to code modules measure live data from every sensor in the car. 

 

Its worth the investment