Erm, what is VAG COM?

[Faxo]

Seen it mentioned loads, but never really understood what it is? Has a search on here and theres lots of info as to problems etc but nothing that says exactly what it is?

From what i can make out, is it some computer software and a lead to plug into your OBD? What can these things do - im not after a full break down just my mate at work has a Snap-On scanner that ive used to turn airbag lights and EML off on VAG cars, so is the VAG COM just the same as that?

 

[andycupra]

VAG COM is a diagnostic system to read fault codes, but also can be used for data logging and changing of some of the cars features and settings...
or to quote their website:
'VAG-COM is a PC / Laptop based tool capable of reading fault codes, clearing fault codes, displaying live data, resetting learnt values, resetting service lights and displays, programming ECUs... In fact vagcom has virtually the same diagnostic capabilities as the dealers tool.'

see www.vagcom.co.uk
and
http://www.ilexa.co.uk/content/category/2/4/17/

or of course ross-tech websites

 

[traumapat]

you can log various engine sensors, so its more than a fault reader as you can see whats happening as you drive. You can adjust various parimeters too such as idle speed

Buy youre right, its engine diagnostic software basically

 

[Doey1978]

Just seen this dos the liquid gauge do the same sort of thing ??

 

[truCido]

Just seen this dos the liquid gauge do the same sort of thing ??

yeah it plugs in via the obdii port like vag-com does

 

[james walker]

liquid is nowhere near as advanced as vagcom though... liquid will read some data, but doesnt log anything.

 

[BeartheBruce]

If I may, VAG-COM is a factory level diagnostic tool for VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda/Bentley Continental/Spyker cars - all VAG based and equipped cars. Our tool operates on a standard PC. An interface cable is provided to connect from the DLC (diagnostic connector) to the PC. The program runs under Windows 98, 2000.XP, Vista and now Windows 7. VCDS will allow the user to access all diagnostic capable electronic systems from 1990 to 2010 model cars. With the tool, not only can you view and clear fault codes, but you can access live data, recode modules, and perform bi-directional testing. This is a tool which factory techs can perform the same kind of diagnostic testing they perform with a factory tool yet the tool is simple enough that enthusiasts can learn the tool quickly and be effecting their own repairs on their cars.

While this feels like I have written a commercial, the OP seemed to indicate that nothing like exists on the forum. I find that hard to believe but, I hope this helps the OP to understand what VAG-COM, now known as VCDS, is.