VCDS, the leading diagnostic software for VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) vehicles, requires specific drivers to function correctly on Windows XP. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing VCDS drivers on your Windows XP system.
While VCDS typically installs drivers automatically, manual installation may be necessary if the automatic process fails. This guide addresses such scenarios, ensuring your VCDS interface communicates seamlessly with your computer.
Installing VCDS Drivers on Windows XP
Before proceeding, ensure you have downloaded and installed the VCDS software on your PC. You can download the latest version from the official Ross-Tech website.
Step 1: Connect Your Interface
Connect your Ross-Tech USB interface to your computer’s USB port. You don’t need to connect it to a car at this point. A “New Hardware Found” notification should appear in the taskbar.
Step 2: Troubleshooting Missing Notification
If the notification doesn’t appear, manually locate the interface in Device Manager:
- Right-click “My Computer” and select “Manage”.
- Navigate to “Device Manager”.
- Look for the interface under “Universal Serial Bus controllers” or “Other devices”.
- Right-click the interface and select “Update Driver”. Then proceed to Step 4.
Step 3: Initiate Driver Installation
The “New Hardware Found Wizard” will guide you through the process. Select “Install from a list or specific location (Advanced)” and click “Next”.
Step 4: Specify Driver Location
- Choose “Search for the best driver in these locations”.
- Check “Include this location in the search”.
- Click “Browse” and locate the VCDS installation folder (usually
C:Ross-TechVCDS). - Click “OK”.
Step 5: Confirm Driver Selection
The wizard should locate the correct driver. Click “Next” to continue.
Step 6: Administrator Privileges and Driver Signing
If you encounter a message stating “This hardware will not be installed,” ensure you are logged in as an administrator. If the issue persists, adjust driver signing settings:
- Go to “Start” -> “Settings” -> “Control Panel” -> “System” -> “Hardware” -> “Driver Signing”.
- Select “Warn” and choose “Prompt me each time to choose an action.”
- Repeat the driver installation from Step 3.
Step 7: Driver Warning
A warning dialog may appear indicating the driver is not officially certified by Microsoft. Click “Continue Anyway” to proceed. Note that if your Windows Security settings are undefined, you may need to set them to “warn”.
Step 8: Completing Installation
Click “Finish” to complete the driver installation.
Step 9: Testing the Installation
Launch VCDS and click “Options”. Select “USB” in the “Select COM Port” box. Click “Test”. A successful test should display a result similar to this:
Click “OK” and then “Save”.
Step 10: Final Verification
Connect your interface to a car and run VCDS to confirm everything is working correctly.
Need Help?
If you experience any issues during the installation process, review the previous steps carefully. If problems persist, contact Ross-Tech for support while you are at your PC and connected to your vehicle. Having this information readily available will expedite troubleshooting.
