Someone educate me on VCDS tools/software

[jesse500]

So I am looking to buy a VCDS tool. I see there a few types, Pro and enthusiast kits, Foxwell handheld kit, and Ebay cable, and such.

I am looking to achieve to be able to scan codes, and do custom car setup. Lighting, CEL stuff, reporogram of instrument cluster & radio stuff. etc.....

Can the Foxwell do all that? Or do I need to get the full VCDS? Can I do unlimited # of VIN's? And can I also do other vehicles with OBD2 like the Foxwell, or just VAG units?

Best/cheapest place to buy from?

If you buy it from Rosstech, do they just send you a cable, then you download thier software into your computer, and you get a license to use this program in the $360 you pay them?

[14S4GWM]

Buy an original cable from Rosstech don't get a knock off. The prices don't vary at all unless you get used. Get the unlimited vin because it will have better resale value and you don't want to be limited.

You get the cable then download the software and it will set everything up when you connect the cable. Check out the link to answer all of your questions.
http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/vag-com-faq.php

You could get Carista for some good stuff and code reading for a good bit cheaper but it's nowhere near as extensive as RT
http://www.caristaapp.com/customizat...r=audi_q5_2013

Edit
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...-complete-list

[jesse500]

Buy an original cable from Rosstech don't get a knock off. The prices don't vary at all unless you get used. Get the unlimited vin because it will have better resale value and you don't want to be limited.

You get the cable then download the software and it will set everything up when you connect the cable. Check out the link to answer all of your questions.
http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/vag-com-faq.php

You could get Carista for some good stuff and code reading for a good bit cheaper but it's nowhere near as extensive as RT
http://www.caristaapp.com/customizat...r=audi_q5_2013

Edit
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...-complete-list

Seems like RT is the way to go. $350 USD. not terrible. Theres nowhere else to get this cheaper?

[14S4GWM]

Seems like RT is the way to go. $350 USD. not terrible. Theres nowhere else to get this cheaper?

Here with free shipping. Prices don't budge dude.

https://www.europaparts.com/vag-com-...ross-tech.html

[y0itzflip]

I went with eBay cable and I have no issues. 99 bucks. It's already paid for itself

[diagnosticator]

The genuine Ross-Tech VCDS interface cable costs more money for good reasons. The software is free. Only a genuine VCDS cable will do everything you want now and more in the future.