VCDS 16.8, a powerful diagnostic tool for VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) vehicles, can sometimes encounter issues, particularly with the auto-scan function. This article outlines a successful troubleshooting process for resolving auto-scan failures with VCDS 16.8, ultimately leading to a solution involving a software update to version 17.1.1.
Initially, standard troubleshooting steps were undertaken. These included uninstalling the VCDS software, manually deleting residual files and drivers, and then reinstalling a fresh copy of VCDS 16.8.4 downloaded directly from the Ross-Tech website. Despite these efforts, the auto-scan function continued to fail. Attempts to locate and download version 17.1.1 from the Ross-Tech website proved unsuccessful at this stage.
Consultation with the cable supplier, Gendan, suggested a potential firmware update for the diagnostic cable itself. However, VCDS consistently failed to recognize the need for a firmware update, repeatedly displaying a “time out” error message when attempting to “check for update.”
After numerous restarts of the VCDS software, the program finally recognized an available update to version 17.1.1. This update was installed over the existing 16.8.4 installation. Critically, this software update resolved the auto-scan issue. However, the firmware update for the cable remained problematic, continuing to produce “time out” errors.
In conclusion, while the initial attempts to resolve the VCDS 16.8 auto-scan issue through reinstallation and driver updates were unsuccessful, updating the VCDS software to version 17.1.1 proved to be the solution. The cable firmware update issue persisted, but the core problem of auto-scan failure was successfully addressed by upgrading the VCDS software.
