The short answer
VCDS and OBDeleven are the go-to tools for coding and unlocking hidden features on VAG cars. The iCarsoft VAWS V2.0 doesn't code, but it handles servicing (electronic parking brake, battery, DPF, oil) with no phone, no laptop and no fees. If your aim is to look after the car, go for the VAWS V2.0. If you want to customise it, VCDS or OBDeleven.
On Golf, Leon, Octavia or A3 forums, the same two names always come up. Each one has its own way of working and its own way of charging, and it is worth knowing before you spend the money.
VCDS: the VAG workshop classic
VCDS is Windows software from the American company Ross-Tech, used with its own cable or interface. It only works with the Volkswagen group, but it goes very deep: coding, adaptations, measuring blocks, data logging and almost everything the dealer tool does day to day.
- For: very comprehensive, lots of documentation and a huge community.
- Against: you need a laptop in the car, the genuine interface isn't cheap and the hobbyist versions are limited to a set number of VINs. There are also plenty of clone cables around that cause problems.
OBDeleven: your phone as a diagnostic tool
OBDeleven is a Bluetooth adapter that stays in the OBD2 port, plus a phone app. It started out for the VAG group and has been adding other makes. Its strong point is the "One-Click Apps": unlocking hidden features with a tap, such as puddle lights or the oil temperature display.
- For: convenient, quick to learn and very good for customising.
- Against: the advanced functions come with a paid plan, and you depend on your phone and your account. For straightforward servicing there are simpler options.
iCarsoft VAWS V2.0: servicing in a handheld tool
The VAWS V2.0 is a button-operated tool with a 4-inch screen and a cable. It reads every control unit on VW, Audi, SEAT and Skoda from 1996 onwards, VW vans included, and has 9 service functions:
- Electronic parking brake in workshop mode, for changing rear pads.
- New battery registration.
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration.
- Oil and inspection service reset.
- Injector coding, steering angle, ABS bleeding, throttle and TPMS.
It costs €194.95, updates free for life and needs no phone, computer or internet connection to work. Plug it in, it reads the VIN and you are ready.
What it doesn't do, so you know up front: it has no active tests and doesn't code control units. It is not for unlocking hidden features.
The three head to head
| VCDS | OBDeleven | VAWS V2.0 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What you need | A Windows laptop and its interface | A phone and its adapter | Nothing else |
| Makes | VAG group | VAG and others, depending on version | VAG group |
| Read and clear faults | Yes | Yes | Yes, every control unit |
| Servicing | Yes | Yes, depending on plan | Yes, 9 functions |
| Coding and hidden features | Yes | Yes, depending on plan | No |
| Payment | Licensed interface | Adapter and plan | Once, with free updates |
What to choose for the job you want to do
Changing the rear pads at home
On a VAG car with an electronic parking brake you can't wind the callipers back by hand: you have to put it into workshop mode. The VAWS V2.0 does it in two minutes. We explain how in how to release the electronic parking brake.
Fitting a new battery
It needs registering so the alternator charges it properly and Start & Stop doesn't play up. We explain it in how to register a new battery.
A TDI warning you about the particulate filter
With the VAWS V2.0 you can run a forced regeneration. Read the faults first, though: if the DPF is clogging because of a sensor or the EGR, regenerating won't fix anything. More in how to regenerate the DPF.
Unlocking hidden features or retrofitting
This is where VCDS and OBDeleven win. If you also want active tests and coding on other makes, take a look at the CR Max.
What about the VAWS V1.0?
The VAWS V1.0 reads the same cars and costs €134.95, but only does the oil reset and steering angle. If your car has an electronic parking brake or a DPF, the V2.0 is worth the extra. We compare them in V1.0 vs V2.0.
Many owners use two. A handheld tool for servicing and fault finding, always ready in the boot, and OBDeleven or VCDS for customising. They don't get in each other's way.
