Understanding VCDS Versions: A Comprehensive Guide

Vcds Versions are crucial for automotive diagnostics, coding, and adaptations on Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) vehicles. Choosing the right VCDS version ensures compatibility, unlocks advanced features, and optimizes your diagnostic workflow. At CARDIAGTECH.NET, we offer comprehensive support and tools to help you navigate the world of VCDS, empowering you to maintain and repair vehicles with confidence. Unlock your vehicles full potential with our cutting-edge solutions, supported by advanced coding capabilities and expert guidance.

1. Introduction to VCDS Versions

VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) is a powerful diagnostic tool used extensively for Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, and SEAT vehicles. Understanding the different VCDS versions is essential for automotive technicians and enthusiasts alike. Each version brings updates, new features, and improved compatibility with newer car models. The team at CARDIAGTECH.NET has the best tools and expertise to help you navigate the choices of VCDS versions and find the one that suits your specific needs.

1.1 What is VCDS?

VCDS is a software application combined with a hardware interface that allows users to communicate with the control modules in VAG vehicles. This enables diagnostics, coding, adaptations, and more. Ross-Tech, the developer of VCDS, continually updates the software to support new models and technologies.

1.2 Why are VCDS Versions Important?

Different VCDS versions offer varying levels of support for vehicle models and control modules. Newer versions typically include updated databases, enhanced features, and bug fixes, ensuring smoother and more reliable diagnostics. Staying current with VCDS versions is crucial for accessing the latest functionalities and maintaining compatibility with a wide range of vehicles.

2. Key VCDS Versions and Their Features

Here’s a detailed look at significant VCDS releases, highlighting their features and improvements:

2.1 Release 24.5 (Published 31 Mar. 2024)

Info pending. Stay tuned for updates on this latest release.

2.2 Release 23.11 (Published 31 Oct. 2023)

Support: New and upcoming models.
Improvement: Revised DoIP support.
Improvement: Revised Basic Setting for ASAM/UDS (parameter transfer).
Improvement: Revised Activation/deactivation of transport mode (MY 2020+).
Improvement: Revised Query of history data for current models.
Improvement: Revised Representation of control unit data in the engine network (e.g., V10 TDI).
Improvement: Revised Translation and error messages.
Improvement: Updated Plugin/Wizard for Coding (LCode).
ECU Documentation: Expanded/updated (DS346).
Bug Fix: Corrected Auto-scan generation on some vehicles.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.3 Release 23.3 (Published 28 Feb. 2023)

Support: New and upcoming models.
Improvement: Corrected Basic Setting/Output Tests (ASAM/UDS).
Improvement: Added checking of user input for Basic Settings (ASAM/UDS).
Improvement: Numerous corrections for DoIP communication.
Improvement: Corrections to multiple engine controller communication (address 31/KWP 2000).
Improvement: Expanded Parameter area for access authorization.
Improvement: OBD-2 Mode 10 renamed to Mode 0A.
Improvement: Updated plugin/wizard for coding (LCode 2.0.21.0).
Improvement: Revised Configuration and update program (VCIConfig 2.301) for HEX-NET & HEX-V2.
ECU Documentation: Expanded/updated (DS346).
New Codeblock: For HEX-NET/HEX-V2 (CB V0.4623) with comm improvements.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.4 Release 22.9 (Published 31 Aug. 2022)

Support: New and upcoming models.
Improvement: TDI-Graph support for additional marine engines.
Improvement: Numerous other fixes and stability improvements.
ECU Documentation: Expanded/updated (DS341).
New Codeblock: For HEX-NET/HEX-V2 (CB V0.4623) with comm improvements.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.5 Release 22.3 (Published 28 Feb. 2022)

New: Added support for Windows 11.
New: Native support for ARM64-Processors on Windows 10 & 11.
New: Support for additional Models & Control Modules.
New: Benchmark Function for Processor & Interface Communication (VCDS > Applications).
New: Enhanced OBD-2 PIDs and Mode 9.
Improvement: Enhanced Sample Rate for Advances Meas. Values for TP 2.0 & UDS.
Improvement: Implemented Fully synchronized Data Protocol.
Improvement: Enhanced VIN Detection.
Improvement: Enhanced Menu Structure for Meas. Blocks & Advanced Meas. Values.
Improvement: Numerous further Improvements and Corrections.
Control Module Documentation: Enhanced/updated (DS336).
New Codeblock: For HEX-NET/HEX-V2 (CB V0.4613) with comm improvements.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.6 Release 21.9 (Published 31 Aug. 2021)

New: Added SFD Support (Vehicle Diagnostic Protection) (Offline Tokens only).
New: Support for additional Models & Control Modules.
New: Enhanced OBD-2 PIDs and Mode 9.
Improvement: Enhanced Stability for HEX-NET WiFi Communication.
Improvement: Enhanced Support for MEB-Platform Models.
Improvement: Enhanced DoIP Support.
Improvement: Enhanced Coding for Gateway Installation List incl. Direct Entry/Coding.
Improvement: Enhanced OBD-2 Functionality.
Improvement: Added Special Handling for Basic Settings on VW Lupo 3L Transmission (KWP 1281).
Improvement: Added Special Handling for VW Crafter (2E) Engine Control Modules.
Improvement: Added Special Handling for Audi A6/S6/RS6 (4G) Sound System.
Improvement: Updated Special Handling for 2.5l V6 TDI (VEP).
Improvement: Updated Interface Configuration and Update Tool for HEX-NET & HEX-V2 (VCIConfig).
Improvement: Updated Plugin Version of Long Coding Assist (LCode).
Improvement: Numerous further Improvements and Corrections.
Control Module Documentation: Enhanced/updated (DS333).
New Codeblock: For HEX-NET/HEX-V2 (CB V0.4555) with comm improvements.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.7 Release 21.3 (Published 28 Feb. 2021)

New: Support for additional Models & Control Modules.
Improvement: Updated Support for MEB-Platform Models.
Improvement: Added New Data Types for UDS/ODX.
Improvement: Updated Plugin Version of Long Coding Assist (LCode).
Improvement: Numerous further Improvements and Corrections.
Control Module Documentation: Enhanced/updated (DS 325).
New Codeblock: For HEX-NET/HEX-V2 (CB V0.4543) with new addresses and comm improvements.
Note: This version is no longer supported; update to the current version.

2.8 Release 20.12 (Published 1. December 2020)

Preliminary support for Mk.8 and MEB (ID.x) cars.
Improved support for MY 2021 cars.
Expanded Auto-Scan screen with optional brand-selection.
Totally new version of LCode (but old version still available as LCode-Classic).
New ASAM dataset (DS322).
New VCIConfig (2.252).

2.9 Release 20.4 (Published 1. April 2020)

Preliminary support for MY 2021 cars.
Support for HN2 (second-gen HEX-NET) interfaces.
Support for DoIP protocol (HN2 interfaces only)
New ASAM dataset (DS317).
New VCIConfig (2.251).
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.10 Release 19.6 (Published 31 May 2019)

Preliminary support for MY 2020 cars.
Adds “Whole Vehicle” choice to Channel Map dialog.
Ability to save and restore “Raw Hex” Adaptation Channel Maps.
Support for manual diagnostic mode changes.
Revised (much faster) Installation List retrieval .
Updated and new SRI texts for UDS reset.
Added additional checks to prevent inadvertent VIN registrations
Added additional feedback for UDS Adaptation read errors.
Added TDI Timing Checker support for certain marine engines.
Expanded Diagnostic Firewall checks
Completely revised and revamped ASAM/ODX Data (DS 307)
Over 4000 new fault code texts
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.11 Release 18.9 (Published 30 September 2018)

Support for model year 2019 cars.
Added a search box to the Chassis Selection function on the Auto-Scan screen.
Support for new 16-bit “5-baud” control module addresses.
Automatic Re-read of SRI channels after performing an SRI.
Improved session time-out detection.
Fixed startup delay when running on a PC with an active network connection but no internet access.
Allow for an arbitrary number of “zones” for flash counters in Advanced ID.
Fix for some late-model, southern-hemisphere cars that still require ECU access via K-Line.
Warn when user attempts to “Reset all Adaptations” in UDS basic settings and adaptation.
Improved automation of Transport Mode switching for UDS gateways.
Added VCIConfig to the system menu of main screen.
Added the ability for a user to override automatic platform detection via MyAutoScan.txt.
Enhanced debug output for UDS Adaptation.
Support for “Recommended” (as well as Required) interface firmware levels.
Added “Pick-A-ROD” Capabilities when no ROD file is found.
Revised VIN persistence logic to prevent incorrect VINs from appearing in reports when moving from one car to another.
Detects state of Diagnostic Firewall and prompts user to open hood on vehicles where this is required.
Added Optical Bus Diagnostics for many UDS Gateways.
Added secondary display for single adaptation channels where primary description is “No Display”.
New ASAM dataset (DS296).
New VCIConfig (2.244).
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.12 Release 18.1/18.2 (Published 25 January 2018)

Added the ability to make OBD-II PID maps.
Improved Chassis Detection for 3C VW46/VW48.
Removed Debug File size limitations.
New version (2.42) of VCIConfig with update channel switching.
Additional info for many fault codes from UDS control modules.
New ASAM dataset (DS287).
New protocol option for HEX-NET and HEX-V2 interfaces.
Made graphing and logging available simultaneously.
New versions of NEtech’s VCDSScan toolbox and LCode utilities.
More than a dozen new UDS addresses.
New and improved label files.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.13 Release 17.8 (Published 30 July 2017)

Preliminary support for 2018 model cars.
Retrieval of Battery History Data, interpreted via NEtech’s excellent VCDSScan toolbox add-on.
Preliminary support for new SY-chassis VW Crafter vans.
Ability to split Grouped UDS requests in Advanced Measuring Values.
Added LT3 Crafter support when using HEX-NET or HEX-V2 interfaces.
Support for “Experimental” long-coding data (requires HEX-NET or HEX-V2 interface).
New ASAM data and Label files.
Numerous other small fixes and enhancements. For details, see the 17.x Beta pages.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.14 Release 17.1 (Published 6 January 2017)

Improved support for 2017 model cars.
Full support for new HEX-V2 Interfaces
Support for native (vs. Java-based) HEX-NET/HEX-V2 Configuration utility.
Shows VINs used and customer registration data on About Screen (HN/HV2 only)
Enforces registration after 15 uses for HN and HV2 interfaces.
New control module mapping capabilities (HN/HV2 only).
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.15 Release 16.8 (Published 1 August 2016)

Support for MLB2 platform cars (HEX-NET interface recommended)
Support for 2016 and early 2017 model cars
Greatly expanded the amount of DTC Freeze-Frame data displayed
Improvements in Advanced Measuring Value Selection Window
Display of factory identifiers instead of arbitrary location numbers
Support for Six-Digit security access codes
HEX-NET Turbo and other speed optimizations
Optimized low-level timing routines and CPU core affinity
Major firmware enhancements for HEX+CAN and Micro-CAN interfaces
Improved UDS mapping speed and reliability when subchannels are present; progress indicators.
Fixes SRI reset in newer Crafter instruments.
New ASAM data and Label Files
Many other small fixes and improvements introduced in Beta versions 16.3-16.7.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.16 Release 15.7 (Published 31 July 2015)

Support for Windows Power Saving Functionality
Search for Advanced Meas. Values
Search for Adaptation Channels (UDS only)
Compatibility with the latest VAG Models
Long Coding Assist (LCode) updated
Special Functions for VW Touareg (7P) EPB
Windows 10 Compatibility
Revised and expanded Label Files. Thanks to Sebastian and customers who send us control module maps.
Many other small fixes and improvements, as well as everything which was introduced in Beta Versions 15.2 – 15.6
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.17 Release 14.10 (Published 31 October 2014)

Support for our new HEX-NET interfaces, both via USB and WiFi.
Support for newer 2014 and early 2015 models.
Revised and expanded ROD (ODX) data set and UDS control module addresses.
Shows mileage in Auto-Scans on cars using UDS instrument clusters.
Shows realistic dates in freeze-frame data even on cars that don’t know the actual date.
New version of LCode. Thanks to Niels in Denmark!.
Revised and expanded Label Files. Thanks to Sebastian and customers who send us control module maps.
Many other small fixes and improvements, as well as everything which was introduced in Beta Versions 14.2 – 14.9
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.18 Release 12.12 (Posted 13 Sept. 2013)

Includes support for 2013 and early 2014 models, including those based on the VW MQB chassis (“Mk.7” derived cars).
Supports a number of new UDS control module addresses.
Revised Advanced Measuring Values screen that replaces the “Specifications” column with balloon help items when the user clicks the actual value (provided of course that “Specification” data is available for that value). The old-school Measuring Blocks screen has worked like that for a long time and in many cases “Specification” that fits fine in a balloon didn’t fit in the space previously allocated to it in Advanced Measuring Values.
New “Clear All Selections” function in Advanced Measuring Values.
Support for larger, more meaningful chassis descriptions in the Auto-Scan chassis selection list.
Revised ODX and expanded ROD (ODX) data set.
New version of LCode. Thanks to Niels in Denmark!.
Revised and expanded Label Files. Thanks to Sebastian!
Many other small fixes and improvements, as well as everything which was introduced in Beta Versions 12.10.0 – 12.10.2
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.19 Release 11.11 (Posted 11 Nov. 2011)

Includes partial support for VW Crafter vans. Communications with all control modules; functions supported: Control Module ID and Advanced ID, Fault Codes (Read and Clear), Supported Codes, Security Access, and Adaptation. Other functions such as Measuring Values, Output Tests, and Basic Settings will be added in future versions.
New, more universal Airbag Coding Assistant.
New “Upload Debug/Log File” function in Applications Dialog
Completely revised and expanded ROD (ODX) Data.
New USB Drivers. Now compatible with the latest PCs which use Fresco Logic USB3 chipsets.
Re-factored DTC routines which interpret DTC data, including enhanced interpretation of status byte for DTCs in UDS modules.
New area to display additional info for Basic Settings.
Added data types 0B, 0D, 0F to Generic OBD-II Mode 9.
New version of LCode. Thanks to Niels in Denmark!.
Revised and expanded Label Files. Thanks to Sebastian!
Many other small fixes and improvements, as well as everything which was introduced in Beta Versions 11.2 – 11.10.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.20 Release 10.6 (Posted 30 June 2010)

Supports Basic Settings on control modules using the new UDS/ODX/ASAM protocol.
Adds new UDS addresses and updated ODX data for 2011 models.
Support for new addresses in latest cars.
Improved Readiness Screens with additional info.
Full 64-bit support on systems which can use it.
New CODES file, now with over 14,000 fault code and measuring value texts.
Updated Label files; improved documentation for new and existing models.
Includes everything introduced in Beta versions versions 912, 10.3, and 10.4.
Support for Subsystems (“Slave Modules”) in UDS/ODX
Support for Audi A1 (8X Chassis)
Improved display of fault codes on UDS/ODX modules
Improved support for 2011 Jetta (chassis code AJ)
Improved support for vehicle identification in those instances where a VIN is not available.
Support for new Gateways installed in many PQ25 and PQ35 models since 08.11.2010
Label File Name and additional Information now shown in Control Module Identification
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.21 Release 908 (Posted 30 August 2009)

Supports Measuring Values, Output Tests, and Adaptations on control modules using the new UDS/ODX/ASAM protocol.
Adds new UDS addresses and updated ODX data for 2010 models.
Includes support for TP1.6 protocol which is required for the 6J Ibiza and speeds up access on many modules in other models.
The Select Control Module screen now shows “Installed Modules” rather than “Common Modules” if the car being worked on is new enough to have a proper CAN Gateway.
Modified SRI Screen to show more info and force user to select a job before proceeding.
Adds drop-box function selection in Basic Settings and Adaptation.
Reads Mileage stored in many EDC16 ECUs.
New CODES file, now with over 13,000 fault code and measuring value texts.
New USB drivers for enhanced PC compatibility and stability.
New firmware for HEX interfaces required for compatibility with 6J Ibiza
Updated Label files; better documentation for new and existing models.
Too many other improvements to list here. For details see the Beta 812, 904, and 907 pages.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.22 Release 805 (Posted 29 May 2008)

New Product Name: VAG-COM is now VCDS®.
Full support for control modules using the new “Service 22” identification methods.
Support for control modules using the new UDS/ODX/ASAM protocol. The following functions are supported: Control Module ID (including Advanced ID), Coding, Security Access, and Fault Codes.
New Session Log capabilities.
Support for Generic OBD-II Mode 10.
Support for vehicles with dual ECUs, or example the RS4 and W12 engines. Both ECUs are accessible simultaneously via address 31 for Basic Settings such as TBA.
Revised Adaptation screen to support the much longer Long Adaptations now appearing in some control modules.
Revised Advanced ID screen for increased flexibility handling the various data items appearing in the latest control modules.
New internal Gateway Coding Assistant (required for Audi B8 platform cars).
Adds support for latest new model cars such as Audi Q5, Passat CC, new Skoda Superb,VW Sirocco and Passat CC.
Much improved documentation (Label Files) for many older cars.
For more details, see ourBeta 711 and Beta 804 pages.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.23 Release 704 (Posted 5 April 2007)

Fully compatible with Windows Vista
Automatic Updates
New Service Reminder function
Support for Guided Readiness Scripts.
Optical Bus Diagnosis
Battery Coding Assistant
Ability to save and retrieve Advanced Measuring Block configurations
Enhanced compatibility with latest model cars.
New universal Installer with USB driver pre-installation.
For more details, see our Beta 702 page.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.24 Release 607 (Posted 14 July 2006)

New Advanced Measuring Blocks function
Freeze Frame Data shown in-line with Fault Codes and in Auto-Scan
Fault codes now indicate whether a MIL is on.
Automatic Detection of installed modules (CAN cars only) in Auto Scan.
Auto-Scan includes Hardware Part Numbers on those modules where it’s available separately.
New Supported Codes function.
New EDC15+ Mileage function (odometer reality-check).
New Acceleration Measurement function (performance calculator)
Regular and Long Coding screens combined into one.
New VAG-Scope version 1.9 compatible with Advanced Measuring Blocks.
New TDI-Graph version 1.4 compatible with V6 TDIs.
Updated Label Files
Generic OBD-II now includes Info Types 08 and 0A in Mode 9.
New more informative Installer.
Support for new Micro-CAN interfaces.
Numerous other fixes and enhancements introduced in Beta 606.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.25 Release 512 (Posted 24 December 2005)

Supports Selective Output Tests
Supports Coding of Slave Modules
Adds control module mapping functions.
Support/integration of Long Coding Helper applications such as Niels Ezerman’s excellent LCode.exe (included with this distribution of VAG-COM):
Revised Options Screen with parameters grouped more logically.
Supports alphanumeric Long Adaptations
Revised and expanded Label Files to document many more systems. As usual, big thanks and lots of credit are owed to Sebastian and Michael.
Revised and expanded CODES file. Now over 9000 codes — completely up to date.
Numerous other fixes and enhancements introduced in Beta Versions 505, 506, and 510.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.26 Release 504 (Posted 05 April 2005)

Compatible with all the latest car models, engines, & transmissions.
Revised and expanded Label Files to document many more systems. A big thanks and lots of credit are owed to Sebastian and Michael.
Revised and expanded CODES file for improved clarity and new codes for 2006 models.
Incorporates all new features including generic OBD-II functionality introduced in Beta 500.x.
Adds generic OBD-II capabilities
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to the current version.

2.27 Release 409 (Posted 03 October 2004)

Clear All DTCs functions
Support for Transport Mode ON/OFF for Golf-5 Platform and Audi A8(4E) chassis cars.
Fixed incompatibility with older Sharan (7M platform) 09 modules.
CODES file enhanced with texts for 2005 models.
Ability to decode Readiness bits for modern TDI engines
Support for selectable window sizes for higher-resolution laptops.
New Label File redirection methods
New Version 1.7 VAG-Scope
New Version 1.3E of TDI-Graph
SAVE CODES button on Fault Codes Screen.
This version is no longer supported. Customers using “dongle” type interfaces should update to the current version of VCDS. Customers using obsolete “dumb” or third-party interfaces should update to VCDS-Lite.

2.28 Release 404 (Posted 29 April 2004)

Support for HEX+CAN interfaces and all 2005 Model VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda passenger vehicles including those requiring a direct CAN connection for diagnostics with an appropriate CAN-capable interface.
Includes all additional enhancements introduced in Beta versions 401.2, 402.3, and 403.1.
Adds support for the KEY-COM and KEY-USB Interfaces.
Adds enhanced labels for Measuring Blocks, Adaptation Channels, and Recode screens
Adds suggested coding values for Airbag controllers.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to a newer version.

2.29 Release 311 (Posted 16 November 2003)

Support for all 2004 Model VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda passenger vehicles using the K-Line for diagnostics.
“Turbo” mode in Measuring Blocks for ME7 and EDC16 ECUs using KWP-2000 protocol for diagnostics. Up to 34 samples per second. Requires HEX-COM or HEX-USB interface.
Enhanced keyboard support throughout VAG-COM
Browse function when opening Log files.
Ability to Log Measuring Block Group 000.
New “Tabbed” Select Control Module Interface with buttons for all control module addresses currently supported by the VAS-5051/5052.
Enhanced Measuring Block formulas. Adds support for a number of new data-types, and fixes all known bugs in formulas. All formulas have been verified against our VAS-5052 with latest software.
Adds Freeze Frame data for Fault Codes on control modules using the KWP-2000 protocols.
Adds Advanced ID function for control modules using the KWP-2000 Protocols.
Assorted Bug Fixes.
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to a newer version.
Adds Support for the HEX-USB Interface, including updated USB Drivers compatible with both the TWIN-USB and the HEX-USB.
Completely rewritten KWP-2000 routines. Compatible with numerous new control modules found in Touareg, Phaeton and others including EDC-16 and MED-9.
Adds Output Test (03), Adaptation (10) and Access Authorization (16) for control modules using KWP-2000.
This version is no longer supported. Customers using “dongle” type interfaces should update to the current version of VCDS. Customers using obsolete “dumb” or third-party interfaces should update to VCDS-Lite.

2.30 Release 303 (Posted 24 March 2003)

Adds the long awaited Auto-Scan (“00 Scan”) feature.
Adds support for the TDI Timing Checker “Plug-In”
Tremendously expanded and completely revised CODES file. Now over 7000 codes, including codes for new models like the Touareg, Phaeton, NB Cabrio, etc.
Includes new version (1.3a) of VAG-Scope which supports graphing of 10 fields found in Group 000.
Numerous small enhancements
Fixes for some “glitches” in HEX-COM and TWIN-USB support.
Adds support for new HEX-COM and TWIN-USB interfaces.
Adds support for VAG-Scope graphing “Plug-In”
This version is no longer supported. Users should update to a newer version.

2.31 Release 208 (Posted 12 August 2002)

Adds [Basic Settings