VCDS Lite, a free diagnostic software for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles, allows users to access and troubleshoot various vehicle systems. This user manual provides a walkthrough of the software’s interface and functionality.
Navigating the VCDS Lite Interface
Upon launching VCDS Lite, users are greeted with the main screen, featuring eight buttons: Select, Auto-Scan, Control Module Finder, OBD-II, Applications, Options, About, and Exit. Initially, only the Options and About buttons are active. To enable the remaining functionalities, users must first configure and save their settings within the Options screen.
Key Function Buttons:
- Select: Allows manual selection of specific control modules for diagnosis. This feature provides granular control over which systems to analyze.
- Auto-Scan: Automatically scans all available control modules in the vehicle, providing a comprehensive overview of potential issues.
- Control Module Finder: Assists in locating specific control modules within the vehicle’s network, particularly useful for less common or hidden modules.
- OBD-II: Provides access to standard OBD-II diagnostic functions, allowing retrieval of generic fault codes and data.
- Applications: This functionality is not available in the VCDS Lite version.
- Options: Crucial for initial setup, this section allows users to configure communication settings, interface selection, and other important parameters.
- About: Contains information about the software version, registration status, and provides access to the registration/activation process.
- Exit: Closes the VCDS Lite program.
Understanding VCDS Lite Functionality
After configuring the software in the Options menu, users can utilize the various diagnostic functions. Each button on the main screen leads to a specific set of functionalities detailed in separate sections of this online manual:
- Select Control Module: Allows manual selection of a specific control module. (Select Control Module)
- Fault Codes (DTC’s): Retrieves and displays diagnostic trouble codes stored in the selected control module, indicating specific malfunctions.(Fault Codes (DTC’s))
- Measuring Blocks: Displays real-time data streams from various sensors and actuators within the selected control module.(Measuring Blocks)
- Output Tests: Allows activation of specific actuators for diagnostic purposes, such as turning on lights or activating relays.(Output Tests)
This manual provides a comprehensive overview of each function, guiding users through the process of diagnosing and troubleshooting their vehicles. Each function offers specific capabilities for interacting with the vehicle’s systems, ranging from simple code retrieval to more advanced functions like adaptation and coding (available in the full VCDS version).
Utilizing the Online Manual
This online manual is designed for interactive navigation. Clicking on the buttons within the screenshots simulates navigating through the actual VCDS Lite software. Additionally, a manual index provides quick access to specific sections:
- Main Screen
- Select Control Module
- Open Controller Screen
- Fault Codes (DTC’s)
- Measuring Blocks
- Data Logging
- Single Reading
- Readiness
- Advanced ID
- Login
- 7-digit PIN/SKC Dialog
- Basic Settings
- Output Tests
- Coding
- Adaptation
- Security Access
- Auto Scan
- Control Module Finder
- OBD-II
- Options
- About
- Register/Activate/Transfer
Key Considerations for VCDS Lite Users
VCDS Lite is a shareware version with limitations compared to the full VCDS software. Notably, certain advanced functions are not available. Users should consult the comparison information provided in the manual to understand the differences between the two versions. This manual is specific to VCDS-Lite used with older, non-dongle Ross-Tech interfaces, and potentially compatible third-party interfaces. Users with current Ross-Tech dongle interfaces should utilize the full VCDS software and its corresponding manual. No printed version of this manual is available.
