VAG COM question

[zhaniaudi]

I'm convinced I need a VAG COM but I'm not sure what it is (having never used one or know anyone who has). Is purchasing a cable that connects my car to a laptop with appropriate software sufficient, or do I need a hand held unit like this one? I'm looking to get more info on the TPMS system (currently showing an error) plus also tweak some settings (eg annoying door open chime etc).

[PetrolDave]

VAGCOM changed its name to VCDS many years ago - but many people still, wrongly, call it VAGCOM.

VCDS is a cable that you buy (from Ross Tech or a distributor) and comes with free software updates and support for "life" - I've had my cable for over 10 years and the software has been hugely updated in that time. All it needs is a Windows PC; either a laptop or Surface with a USB port.

Fort a B7 you need a cable that supports CAN and dual K-line, such as a HEX-USB+CAN.