Hi Everyone,

Sorry if this is a stupid question. I have looked and don't really understand what a vag-com is? Is it a lead and software which allows you to change vehicle settings? If so what sort of settings can be changed? Is it worth getting one? I am picking up a 2003 Octy vRS on Sat...

http://www.ross-tech.com/

Strictly speaking, the Vag-Com is the software which you download from ross-tech. The lead is the necessary interface between the car and your laptop. Prices and capabilities of the leads vary, but if you browse through the Diagnostics and Vag-Com forum you'll see what can be done.

There is also a map showing which Briskoda members have a Vag-Com. If there's one near you, PM them and meet up for a demo.

The stupid question is the unasked question. VAG-COM is diagnostic tool that allows you to view the trouble codes produced by the electronic computers in your car, allows you to view live data from those modules, and allows you to re-code those modules. When troubles happen, with VAG-COM you can view the codes and reasonable discriptions of the fault code. With some knowledge of the car, referencing a factory repair manual, you can effect repairs if you choose to do so.

Many professional technicians use VAG-COM through out the world.

As to what you get when you buy a system, you get an interface cable which connects between your computer and your car. You download software from the internet at the Ross-Tech website. If you buy one of Ross-Tech's dongle interfaces, you are done - you test the interface and it extracts the license into the software giving you the full features. If you go the third party route and want full features, then you have to buy a license for the software from Ross-Tech.

Hope that helped. If not, contact me at the office. I'd be glad to assist.

-Bruce-

Ross-Tech,LLC