klumpy

Hi, new to the forum scene but thank god for everybody's help! We've had our '03 A4 Avant for two weeks now and have already been through the no-heat heater core back-flush issue; the reprogramming of both our key fobs for dead battery (it really does work to keep using you fob several times until the car finally remembers your remote); rear hatch water leak (now know to check for plugged sun-roof drains) etc. What I'd like to know is, if I was to purchase the VAG-COMM software, is it better to buy the cable and full software package from Ross-Tech, or buy a third party cable and then buy the VCDS Lite from Ross-Tech? I already have an OBD reader but I think the VAG-COMM wouldn't be long paying for itself considering $100/hr shop time. The re-programming side of VCDS would be great, but would I use it after that if I have an OBD reader?
Any recommendations would be much appreciated!

B5S42.7

Buy the Actual cable, you do not need to get the program after. The cable comes with the program and works with whatever PC you plug it into. If you get the third party cable and buy VCDS lite, you can ONLY install it onto one PC, thats it. That and the cable does not do alot of things. It gives you minimal control. If you can afford it, and are fairly savy with computers and like doing a few things yourself, get the real deal. Concept1.com has them fairly cheap here in Canada, or maybe a local shop near you will have them to sell as well. Best tool in my box. Its probably saved me 1000$ in diag. fees alone. Plus, you can upgrade if you want to in the future, send ross-tech back the cable, pay the difference, and get the new cable.

An OBD reader is just that, an OBD reader. It will give you the code, and sometimes not even clear it. Vag-Com reprograms keys, lets you map actual control blocks. Also, it allows real time diag. testing of controlers. Vag-Com is not just an OBD tool, its a must have tool for anyone who either can fix the small things themself, or wants to rebuild the car.

bangoman

I have the Ross Tech cable but there is a cheaper alternative to consider. Here's a guide written by one of the members here (sakimano): http://audirevolution.net/forum/index.php?topic=340.0

PhinX404

I have the ecutool.com one he lists there and works great from day one.